Concept Cars Home
Image Left 2011 IS F
 

Image credits: © Lexus.

2012 Lexus IS F news, pictures, and information

Lexus IS F High-Performance Sedan Thrills From 0-60 MPH in 4.6 Seconds

• New Design for 19-inch Forged BBS Wheels

• Excellent Performance Characteristics Provide Driver Confidence

• Torsen® Rear Differential Helps Provide Additional Traction


Wearing the brand's 'F' marque, the Lexus IS F provides drivers a thrilling experience unparalleled in the high performance sport sedan category. Developed at Fuji Speedway and the Higashi-Fuji Technical Center in Japan, the IS F immediately merged 'Lexus' and 'performance' in the same sentence when it was introduced for the 2008 model year. Now, the IS F is not alone wearing the 'F' badge as the brand's high performance portfolio was recently enhanced by the LFA supercar.

After receiving an updated suspension last year, the 2012 IS F receives a new, stylish and wider 19-inch forged wheel design. The IS F shows its sporty attitude wîth an all-new Red leather-trim that replaces the Orange/Black combination seating and interior thémé.

Engine/Transmission/Drivetrain/Performance
The Lexus IS F is exclusively powered by a performance-tuned 5.0-liter V8 engine teamed to an eight-speed Sport Direct Shift transmission. (posted on conceptcarz.com) The IS F engine produces 416 horsepower at 6,600 rpm and 371 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 5,200 rpm. The engine's high specific output (83 hp/liter) and high operating range (6,800 rpm redline) reflect the thorough attention to detail underlying the core engineering. The resulting performance character, while quite responsive in low-speed situations, provides a rush of power at higher engine speeds.

The forged crankshaft features journals polished to a mirror finish to minimize the friction generated between the connecting rods and the crankshaft. Forged sintered iron alloy connecting rods ensure high-rpm durability. High-flow cylinder heads designed by Yamaha have a lightweight valvetrain, including forged cam lobes on hollow, chain-driven camshafts, wîth the inside of the shafts serving as oil passages. Titanium valves are operated by roller rocker arms.

Vital Stats
Engine : 5.0 L., 8-cylinder
Power: 416 hp
Torque: 371 ft-lbs

8-speed All-synchro
Innovative technologies help to maximize efficiency and reduce emissions, including the SFI D-4 fuel injection (direct-to-cylinder injection system wîth secondary port injectors) and the Electronic Throttle Control System wîth intelligence (ETCS-i). Essentially, SFI D-4 integrates two types of fuel injection: A direct-type high-pressure fuel injection system, which provides a cooling effect in the cylinders and enables the high compression ratio (11.8:1) employed to extract maximum energy from the fuel; a set of low-pressure port fuel injectors that help produce a precise burn to optimize power and efficiency under light- and medium-load conditions.


A dual air-intake system uses a primary intake passage for low and medium engine speeds. In the higher engine speed range (above 3,600 rpm), both the primary and secondary passages are opened, helping boost high-rpm power.

With the IS F 5.0-liter V8, Lexus made a leap in valve-control technology wîth the Variable Valve Timing wîth intelligence by an electric motor (VVT-iE). An electric drive motor alters the intake camshaft phasing, which made it possible to expand VVT operational range to lower engine speeds, where engine oil pressure is usually not high enough to operate conventional VVT. The exhaust camshaft uses hydraulically controlled variable valve timing.

A scavenge pump forces oil from the cylinder heads back to the oil pan, ensuring a reliable oil supply even during cornering that exceeds one g. The low-restriction dual-exhaust system terminates in distinctive stacked quad diffusers.

The world's first eight-speed Sport Direct-Shift automatic transmission combines the performance characteristics of an automated manual-type transmission wîth the smoothness and refinement of a planetary-type automatic transmission. (posted on conceptcarz.com) As a result, the driver can choose between ultra-quick manual shifts for performance driving and smooth automatic shifts when convenience is the top priority.

Eight speeds allow gear ratios that maximize torque up to the tire-grip limitations in the lower ranges while optimizing efficiency. Intuitive powertrain control optimally smoothes out off-the-line response. The driver can select Normal, Sport or Snow driving modes wîth the flip of a switch. Artificial Intelligence-SHIFT (AI-SHIFT) complements the driver's Sport switch selection by automatically adapting the shifting based on road conditions and driver input. The IS F transmission is also highly responsive to uphill/downhill driving, always selecting the best gear for power or engine braking.

The driver can shift manually using either the console shift or §teering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters. Hydraulic-control technology allows the IS F's eight-speed Sport Direct Shift transmission to perform on par wîth manual transmissions without sacrificing the smoothness of a torque-converter automatic. Paddle-shifting operation is allowed in either D or M modes, but shifts are quicker and more direct in M mode. In M mode, the transmission will hold each gear to the 6,800-rpm redline, and upshifts are executed in just one-tenth of a second. At higher engine speeds, downshifts are accompanied by automated and precise throttle blips to match engine rpm to vehicle speed.

Chassis/Body/Suspension/Tires/Brakes
The Lexus IS F is based on the robust IS platform, which was engineered from the start to allow a high dynamic envelope. The stiff body structure and the rear subframe are connected through several reinforcements. Much of the IS F development took place at racetracks around the world, including Germany's legendary Nurburgring Nordschleife, Circuit Paul Ricard in France, Japan's Fuji Speedway and the Higashi-Fuji Technical Center in Japan. Fuji Speedway is the IS F's home circuit, and the shape of its turn one inspired the F logo design.

Although using the basic double-wishbone front suspension and multi-link rear suspension configurations of the IS platform, the IS F features a multitude of track-proven modifications. The IS F sits an inch lower on its suspension than the standard IS models, which lowers the center of gravity and helps provide a quicker handling response.

Spring and damper rates are increased, and larger-diameter stabilizer bars are used. The rear-suspension control arms are specific to the IS F to optimize geometry for the 19-inch wheels. In addition, the monotube shock absorbers use a larger-diameter piston rod. As on other IS models, the sophisticated shock-absorber design utilizes multi-leaf linear control valves to help improve damping force, and rebound springs offer improved body control without degrading ride comfort.

Subframe suspension mounts are stiffer than on other IS models to help reduce sway and enhance control under acceleration and braking. The engine mounts are also stiffer for a more direct feel. Special jounce stoppers on both the front and rear suspension come into play early in the compression stroke to help reduce the sway angle when cornering and to reduce dive when braking.

The IS F features an all-new 19-inch forged-alloy wheels by BBS® wîth a distinct dark-gray finish and an asymmetrical 10-spoke design. The front wheels are 19 x 8.5J, wîth 225/40R19 tires and 19 x 9.5J in the rear, wîth 265/35R19 tires. Michelin Pilot Sport PS2 and Bridgestone Potenza tires were each developed specifically for the 170-mph track capability of the Lexus IS F. High-rigidity hub unit bearings are engineered for rigorous, high g-force track driving. The direct-type tire pressure monitor system allows two sets of tires to be registered, giving the customer the benefit of a system wîth a set of track tires or winter tires. The multi-information display indicates the tire selector switch.

A specially calibrated version of Lexus' innovative Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system helps provide superior handling dynamics and traction control. Combining input from a variety of sensors, VDIM is designed to anticipate the onset of a vehicle skid or slide and help correct the situation wîth a combination of braking, §teering and throttle control. VDIM integration provides precise management for Electric Power Steering (EPS), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), traction control (TRAC), the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist (BA), Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD), and engine torque (via the electronically controlled throttle).

During cornering, VDIM suppresses any tendency for the inside wheel to spin, transmitting more power to the outside wheel to help maintain traction and momentum. When braking on a mixed-friction surface, VDIM will direct §teering assist in the direction that will help provide greater control.

In Sport mode, VDIM allows higher dynamic thresholds before intervening and alters §teering assist to increase §teering feel. Sport mode helps provide optimal vehicle control on a track in areas where the skills of even top-level drivers are challenged. The Torsen® rear differential helps provide additional traction in spirited driving.

Brembo brakes were designed to the specifications of the Lexus engineering team. The 14.2-inch ventilated, drilled front rotors are gripped by rigid, powerful six-piston aluminum calipers, while the 13.6-inch ventilated, drilled rear rotors use two-piston calipers. Front bumper ducts adjacent to the fog lamps stream cooling air to the brakes. The brakes are finished wîth the Lexus name displayed on the calipers.

Safety/Security Features
Passive-safety technology in the IS F begins wîth a reinforced passenger compartment that helps protect the occupants wîth front-and-rear crush structures. Seatbelt pre-tensioners and force limiters are used for all seating positions.

In addition to advanced dual-stage front airbags and front seat-mounted side airbags, the Lexus Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) includes side-curtain airbags that extend from A-pillar to C-pillar, plus knee airbags for the driver and the front passenger.

The available Pre-Collision System (PCS) can help reduce collision damage. The package includes Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, which uses millimeter-wave radar to measure and maintain a pre-set distance from a vehicle traveling ahead. PCS relies on the radar sensor to detect obstacles in front of the car. The PCS computer, taking sensor inputs from vehicle speed, §teering angle and yaw rate, is designed to determine whether a collision is unavoidable. In such a situation, PCS preemptively retracts front seat belts and pre-initializes BA so that increased braking will be applied the instant the driver depresses the pedal.

Luxury/Comfort/Convenience
The IS F interior features specially shaped and trimmed seats that help position the driver comfortably and securely. The standard SmartAccess keyless entry and push-button start allow the driver to keep the access fob in a pocket or purse.

Standard amenities include 10-way power front seats; dual-zone automatic climate control, a pollen filter and smog detector; power moonroof wîth one-touch open/close and seven open-position settings; power tilt-and-telescoping §teering wheel; three-position memory function for front seats, §teering wheel and mirrors; all power windows wîth automatic up/down operation and jam protection; an auto-dimming rear-view mirror wîth HomeLink® programmable garage door opener; automated rain-sensing wipers and heated auto-dimming outside mirrors wîth integrated puddle lamps.

The air conditioning system's electrically controlled variable compressor adjusts output to demand rather than simply cycling on and off. The system can independently adjust upper and lower temperatures in response to ambient conditions or sunlight. ÚV-reducing, heat-absorbing glass is used throughout the car.

The standard Lexus Premium Audio System features a six-disc, in-dash CD changer, 13 speakers, ÚSB/iPod® connectivity, streaming audio via Bluetooth® and an integrated SirusXM Satellite Radio receiver (complimentary 90-day trial subscription included). Automatic Sound Levelizer (ASL) maintains consistent sound levels in response to varying extraneous noise levels. When connected to the ÚSB port, the iPod can be controlled through the audio system or §teering wheel controls, while information such as names for the artist, track and album is displayed on the headunit or navigation screen.

Luxury Options
The IS F offers a Mark Levinson® Premium Surround Sound Audio System. This 14-speaker audio system features discrete 5.1 multi-channel playback wîth 7.1-channel speaker architecture. Its 10 amplifier channels provide 300 watts total output at less than 0.1 percent total harmonic distortion from 20 to 20,000 Hz (THD all channels driven). The Mark Levinson system plays conventional CDs and DVDs, plus MP3/WMA-formatted CDs. DVD movies can be viewed on the available navigation system's color seven-inch touch screen when the parking brake is engaged.

The available Intuitive Park Assist (IPA) system uses ultrasonic sensors to detect objects close to the car's front and rear bumpers, alerting the driver and showing distance to objects in the multi-information display within the speedometer. When the IS F is equipped wîth the navigation system, information on detected objects is shown in greater detail on the seven-inch touch screen display.

The optional Lexus Navigation system features Voice Command casual-language voice recognition and Bluetooth phonebook download capability. The rear back-up camera, included wîth the available navigation system, automatically projects an image of what its lens can detect behind the car onto the navigation screen when the transmission is in reverse.

The IS F also offers a telematics system, Lexus Enform® wîth Safety Connect®, available by subscription. Complimentary one-year trial subscriptions are included on all purchases of new Lexus vehicles equipped wîth these features. Safety Connect is standard on all vehicles while Lexus Enform wîth Safety Connect is on all vehicles equipped wîth the optional Navigation system. The Lexus Enform and the Safety Connect response centers operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—every day of the year.

Lexus Enform vehicles are factory ready for subscriptions to a variety of innovative SiriusXM services includingNavTraffic, NavWeather, Sports, and Stocks. SiriusXM services offer complimentary 90-day trial subscriptions and require separate audio and data subscriptions.

Exterior Design
Based on the IS luxury sport sedan, the IS F is clearly differentiated when viewed from the front, rear and in profile. A trapezoid-shaped front bumper fascia, a theme that is repeated at the rear, sets off the V-shaped grille. The hood's raised center section makes room for the V8 powerplant, and the front fenders were widened to envelop the 19-inch low-profile tires. Total grille area is increased to ensure adequate cooling for the 5.0-liter V8, and both upper and lower grilles feature a special wire-mesh pattern. The lower grille is flanked by large brake cooling ducts adjacent to standard fog lamps. The front fenders wear a discrete silver, black and blue 'F' marque.

The car's wedge-like profile is accentuated by functional front fender air outlets wîth lower edges that transition into larger rocker panels and continue as a character line into the rear bumper. The rear view conveys a strong parting signature for the IS F, wîth a dramatic trapezoid shape and easily recognizable design elements.

Four vertically stacked exhaust diffusers, two per side, are integrated into the rear bumper. Above them, light-emitting diode (LED) stop and tail lamps behind clear lenses give the IS F a unique nighttime appearance. The subtle rear spoiler is one of many aerodynamic enhancements, which also include special underbody panels to optimize airflow.

Interior Design
The interior of the IS F features an exclusive design treatment highlighted by aluminized composite trim, striking two-tone upholstery, aluminum-rimmed main gauges, unique §teering-wheel treatment and other special surface treatments. The instrument panel integrates an oil-temperature gauge, voltmeter and shift-indicator lights, and the 'F' logo is discretely showcased on the §teering wheel, rear-center console and outer seat cushions. A multi-information display located within the speedometer integrates a trip computer that provides outside temperature, driving range, average fuel consumption, average fuel consumption since refueling (per tank), current fuel consumption, average speed and the F logo. The display also includes an oil-maintenance reminder and system warnings.

Warranty
All new Lexus vehicles come wîth a 48-month/50,000-mile basic limited warranty wîth roadside assistance for 48 months/unlimited miles. Powertrain and restraint system coverage is provided for 72 months/70,000 miles. Corrosion perforation protection is covered for 72 months, regardless of mileage.

Source - Lexus
Toyota's luxury division unveiled its newest sport-luxury compact sedan in 2001, the Lexus IS 300. Sharing its engine with the larger GS 300, the IS was built with rear-wheel drive and carried a 3.0-liter inline 6-cylinder engine that achieved 215 horsepower. The engine operated with VVT-i. During its first season, only a five-speed automatic transmission was offered, but it did incorporate Formula One-inspired E-Shift gear selection on the steering wheel. The wedge-shaped IS body had a semi-fastback roofline and was sharp-edged in design. It was called a ‘condensed high performance stance' by Lexus. A choice of either 16 or 17 inch wheels could be mounted on the IS 300 and front side airbags were installed along with antilock braking and traction control. Available on the vehicle was a limited-slip differential. Inspired by sport watched, a chronograph-style instrument panel was installed in the vehicle. The IS 300 was originally designed for the European market, and is promised to give ‘compelling challenge' to European sport sedans.

Though smaller than the BMW, the Lexus IS300 carried a fairly tight rear seat, though it had a high level of comfort. In Japan the Lexus IS300 was sold as the Toyota Altezza. Introduced in 1999, the IS 300 went on sale in June of 2000. Shortly afterward it appeared as the CART Championship pace car. Along with the IS 300 SportCross, a five-speed manual-transmission version was debuted. The sedan and the little-known SportCross was somewhat publicized by two racing entries in the 2001 Grand-Am Cup North American Street Stock Series. Competitive immediately, the IS scored its first pole position in its fourth race and first race win in the fifth round at Virginia internatiojnal Raceway.

In March of 2003 the IS SportDesign was introduced, basically a cosmetic package equipped with a special grille, tailpipe along with other touches. Sharing its in-line six-cylinder engine with the Supra, the Lexus IS 300 came with rear-wheel drive and an interior that was more sport than luxury. 215 horsepower was produced with the six along with 218 lb-ft of torque that used variable valve timing to broaden its torque curve. The IS 300 also had a two-stage induction system along with a two-way bymass muffler that enhanced breathing and lower noise. Excellent handling was provided by a double wishbone suspension.

When desired, the SportCross and the automatic transmission sedan featured E-Shift steering wheel-mounted shift buttons for finger-tip control over gear shifts. Basically a wagon/crossover version with the same dimensions as the sedan, the IS 300 featured a rear tailgate, a split fold-down rear seatback and fold-down front passenger seatbacks that allowed it to carry either long or odd-shaped items. A rear power outlet and a seatback table were also located in the folding passenger seat.

Wind noise was lowered due to a low 0.29 coefficient of drag, while the interior was quieted with sound-dampening asphalt sheets in the roof. Optional on sedans was a real spoiler, while the SportCross featured a unique spoiler as standard equipment. The IS300 had drill drilled aluminum pedals with rubber pads, supportive height-adjustable seats and stainless steel doorsill scuff plates. 17-inch wheels, low-profile performance-tread tires, auto-dimming side and rearview mirrors, a high-power audio system with both a cassette player and six-disc in-dash CD changer with eight speakers, and High-Intensity Discharge headlights were all standard features.

Optional on the IS300 was eight-way power driver's and passenger seats, heated front seats and a power moonroof. The interior could be outfitted with an optional leather/Alcantara trim package or a full leather-trimmed interior in either ivory or black.

The SportCross offered the Vehicle Stability Control system as an option. This was also optional on the automatic sedan. This feature was helpful in controlling traction while cornering on slippery or dry road surfaces by utilizing throttle intervention. To help limit rear-wheel slip on acceleration the VSC supplements the standard full-range traction control. Brake Assist and Electronic Brake force Distribution was featured on the four-sensor, four-channel anti-lock brake system. To determine if the driver is attempting emergency braking, brake assist is designed to figure this out, along with if the driver has not stepped firmly enough on the brake pedal to engage the ABS. The system supplements the braking power applied until pedal pressure is released.

Pretensioners and height-adjustable anchors are incorporated on the front seatbelts in the Lexus IS 300 to help avoid the forces to the upper torso in a serious frontal collision. The SRS, Supplemental Restraint Systems included dual front airbags, side curtain airbags for the driver and front passenger, and front seat-mounted side airbags. A personal security feature is the speed-sensitive and shift-linked automatic door lock/unlock system.

An optional feature on the Lexus IS 300 was the Lexus Navigation System which used a DVD for map storage. All on one disc, the DVD contains all of the U.S. and the major cities in Canada. High-speed route calculation, multi-route calculation, route preview, a dual-map screen mode and simplified highway junction graphics are functions of the Navigation System. Deployed from the dashboard, the System is easily hidden when not in use. The remote controls for the system are hidden in the center console between the front seats. A dashboard storage compartment with a spring-loaded retractable lid is featured on models not equipped with the Navigation System.

For 2004 all Lexus IS models added a standard maintenance indicator light along with automatic power door locks. In October of 2005 the second generation of IS models were introduced, the IS250 and the IS350.

By Jessica Donaldson
For more information and related vehicles, click here

Land Rover Celebrates 65 Years Of Technology And Innovation
SIXTY-FIVE YEARS OF LAND ROVER From our earliest days, the desire to create a vehicle that will tackle any terrain has made Land Rover famous around the world. Over the past 65 years, the Land Rover family has grown into the highly respected range of vehicles that are sold in record numbers today. As Land Rover continues to go from strength to strength, we thought it was time to look back at the milestones in our history that have got us here. The last 65 years have been an adventure. ...[Read more...]
2014 Corvette Stingray Starts At $51,995
The 2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray coupe will have a suggested starting retail price of $51,995, and the Corvette Stingray Convertible will start at $56,995. Both prices include a $995 destination fee but exclude tax, title, and license. 'The 2014 Corvette Stingray perfectly embodies Chevrolet's mission to deliver more than expected for our customers,' said Chris Perry, vice president, Chevrolet marketing. 'The Corvette Stingray delivers a combination of performance, design and technology t...[Read more...]
Nissan Announces U.S. Pricing For 2014 Versa Sedan
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Nissan is getting the jump on the 2014 model year with today's introduction of the 2014 Nissan Versa Sedan. Pricing for the new model year is unchanged from 2013 – including offering the lowest starting Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (M.S.R.P.*) in America** for the third consecutive year with a starting price of just $11,990 for the 2014 Nissan Versa Sedan S. The 2014 Versa Sedan is available now at Nissan dealers nationwide. As in previous years, the 2014 V...[Read more...]
Kia Motors Announces Pricing For All-New 2014 Cadenza Premium Sedan
Kia's Flagship Sedan Offers Premium Amenities at a Starting Price of $35,1001 MSRP • The most powerful and technologically advanced Kia in the U.S. market is defined by European-influenced styling and extraordinary levels of refinement and amenities
• Cadenza features class-leading interior room2 and is offered in one trim level with two available option packages
IRVINE, Calif., April 19, 2013 – Kia Motors America (KMA) is pleased to announce pricing for its most powerful and ...[Read more...]
VOLKSWAGEN CLAIMS BEST HIGHWAY FUEL EFFICIENCY, WITH SEVEN MODELS THAT ACHIEVE MORE THAN 40 MPG
• New Jetta Hybrid earns EPA fuel economy rating of up to 48 mpg; the first compact hybrid available with a turbocharged engine
Herndon, VA - With EPA estimated fuel economy ratings of 48 mpg on the highway, 42 mpg in the city, and a combined rating of 45 mpg, the Jetta Hybrid becomes the most fuel-efficient vehicle in the Volkswagen lineup and the seventh model capable of more than 40 mpg on the highway. With sales of the Jetta Hybrid beginning later this month, Volkswagen wil...[Read more...]

Arrow Right 2012 Lexus models
Lexus CT 200h
Lexus ES 350
Lexus GX 460
Lexus HS 250h
Lexus IS
Lexus IS C
Lexus LFA Nurburgring Package
Lexus LS
Lexus RX 350
Lexus RX 450h
2012 Lexus Concepts
Lexus LF-LC Blue Concept
Lexus LF-LC Concept

Similar Automakers
AudiBMW
InfinitiJaguar
Land RoverMercedes-Benz
Similarly Sized Vehicles from 2012
Acura TSX
Alfa Romeo Giulietta
Audi A4
Audi Q3
Audi Q3 jinlong yufeng
BMW M3
BMW X1
Buick Verano
Chevrolet Code 130R Concept
Chevrolet Cruze

 
Lexus: 2011-2020
Similar Automakers
Lexus History
Other models by Lexus
Manufacturer Website

Lexus
Monthly Sales FiguresVolume
April 201318,091 
March 201323,190 
February 201317,339 
January 201316,211 
December 201230,607 
November 201222,719 
October 201219,850 
September 201220,386 
August 201224,237 
July 201218,235 
June 201220,022 
May 201221,463 
(More Details)

 
CT 200h
ES
GS
GX
HS
IS
LFA
LS
LX
RX
SC

Image Left 2011 IS F
© 1998-2012. All rights reserved. The material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.