2009 Lexus IS-F

What is an IS-F?  If you're familiar with the Lexus line-up you know about the IS 250 and 350, the smallest rear-wheel-drive models from Lexus.  The IS-F is the same basic vehicle stuffed full of 5.0-liter, 416-hp, V8 hooked up to an 8-speed automatic transmission.

There is a whole lot more to the IS-F than motor, of course.  It has been completely retuned as a performance sedan (not that the IS 350 isn't), with a firmer, almost harsh, suspension, 19" wheels and performance tires (either Bridgestone Potenzas or Michelin Pilot Sport PS2 sized 225/40R in the front and 255/35R in the rear).

I only had the IS-F for a few days, which in a way was a good thing.  I didn't have it long enough to run it out of gas or to get a ticket.  When I get behind the wheel of a rip snortin' hot rod, testosterone rules.

Lexus says the IS-F will get 23 mpg on the highway.  It might; I averaged just under 18 of mostly highway driving.  Pricewise the IS-F I drove edged over $64,000.  The base IS-F is $56,000.  It's a lot of money, but it is a lot of car.