More tweaks for Lexus IS-F

Lexus has given its IS-F sports sedan a few more turns of the spanner – but no more power – in the model's third update in three years.

The model-year 2012 IS-F, which is rolling off the Japanese production line now and due in Australian showrooms in October, gains new suspension dampers tuned by German specialist Sachs and wider front tyres to improve grip.

The price remains unchanged, at $126,800 plus on-road costs, as does the output of the 5.0-litre V8 (311kW and 505Nm) and 0-100km/h acceleration (4.8 seconds).

The suspension changes are designed to remove some of the low-speed flutter over bumps, and improve high-speed stability.

The rear wheels remain nine-inches wide, but the front wheels grow from eight to 8.5-inches wide.

Even though independent testing has shown the Michelin Pilot Sport tyres that are fitted to the IS-F in Europe are quicker in dry conditions, Lexus Australia will stay with Bridgestone RE050 tyres.

Lexus corporate manager Peter Evans says the Michelins available to right-hand-drive markets have a lower speed rating than they do in Europe, and that the Bridgestones are quicker in wet conditions and are more suitable for Australia.

The model-year 2012 IS-F changes also include two new colours (grey and red) as well as red leather as an option. Customers who prefer the current wheel design can select it as a no-cost option.

The IS-F has been a steady seller for Lexus since it was launched locally in November 2008; with more than 350 sold to date it accounts for 5 per cent of IS sedan sales.

The refreshed IS-F is unlikely to boost sales, rather it will enable the model to maintain its momentum as it nears the final 18 months of its lifecycle.

"The IS-F has been volume-limited since launch so it's not about increased sales, it's about improved customer satisfaction," Evans told motoring.com.au. "Some IS-F buyers are on their second or third as they want the latest and greatest."

Lexus introduced the first change to the IS-F less than 12 months after going on sale; by mid 2009 it gained a limited slip differential.

In late 2010 the model gained suspension geometry changes, daytime running lights and a new instrument cluster.

The model-year 2012 update is likely to be the last change to the IS-F before the next generation IS bows in late 2012 ahead of its arrival in showrooms in early 2013.

However, the IS-F model will likely not be replaced by an all-new version at launch, and may be delayed by six to 12 months.

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