Lexus hotties wow Detroit
Lexus has joined the performance race with two high-powered performance models unveiled at DetroitPremium brand Lexus has thrown out a challenge to the likes of BMW's M division, AMG and Audi's RS cars with the display of two high performance models at this week's Detroit motor show.
Taking pride of place on Lexus' stand at the important North American International Auto Show were the new V8-powered 300kW IS-F and the even wilder (though not new) V10-engined Lexus supercar, the LF-A.
While the LF-A is still labelled as a concept and has been exhibited at a number of shows including Melbourne last year (see more below), the IS-F is a brand-new production model slated for late-2007/early 2008 launch worldwide.
Powered by a 5.0-litre V8 engine boasting in excess of 300kW and 475Nm of torque, the IS-F is based on the IS250 already on sale Down Under. Lexus claims the car will break 5.0sec for 0-60mph sprint
The high-performance rear-wheel drive midsizer features and a performance-tuned and paddle-shift-equipped version of Lexus' world-first eight-speed automatic transmission. Lexus says it features a new torque-converter lock-up control that delivers "direct, crisp gear change through the constant lock-up of the torque converter in second through eighth gears.
Taking care of slowing the rapid IS-F is a heavy-duty Brembo-built and Lexus-logoed braking package. Front discs are 360mm cross-drilled units gripped by six-piston aluminum calipers with the rear 345mm cross-drilled/two-piston combinations. Wheels are multi-spoke 19-inch units built to Lexus' specifications by BBS.
The IS-F also features an all-new, three-mode version of Lexus' Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system. In addition to the Normal mode, the new VDIM features a Sport mode that allows the driver great latitude to use the IS-F's prodigious performance. The third VDIM system mode is Off. Can you smell tyre smoke?
As can be seen by the photos hereabouts, the IS-F is no shrinking violet -- the car features overt body changes and a serious performance-oriented stance. At the front there's an aggressive new valance and wider front guards with the rear features unique stacked 'Siamesed' quad pipes.
Inside there are changes too with the IS-F receiving reprofiled sports seats and "unique styling with aluminized composite trim and special surface treatments." The instrument panel includes an oil-temperature gauge and shift indicator-lights, while the "F" logo is showcased on the steering wheel and rear-centre console.
Expect to see the IS-F Down Under in early 2008 -- at the latest!
The LF-A Sports Car Concept was originally shown at the 2005 Detroit Show to showcase Lexus' new design language.
Now closer to production, this new LF-A still features a front-mid mounted V10 of "less than 5.0-litre" capacity. Lexus says: "superior aerodynamics, and revised styling makes a top speed of 200 mph not only possible but probable."
An 'F' logo, indicating the vehicle's status as part of the new F range of f-f-fast Lexi now adorns the show vehicle.
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