Chris Gable
Lexus has pegged the price of its tough-looking IS F at a handy $129,000.
Arguably the star of Lexus’ Sydney motor show stand – even though the gorgeous IS 250C is in the spotlight – the IS F looks every bit the Autobahn aspirant it’s cracked up to be.
Now, Lexus has announced that the car will wear a $129,000 pricetag when it hits dealerships later this month, well below the German performance sedans that are obviously in its sights.
With 311kW and 505Nm on tap from its 5.0-litre V8 – driving through the rear wheels and an eight-speed Sports Direct Shift (SPDS) that’s said to offer 0.1 second upshifts, Lexus’s new performance hero car looks good on paper, too.
Will it shake up its mainly German opposition on Aussie bitumen. Obviously, we’ll tell you if the performance meets the promise when the car is pitched into battle in coming Wheels.
The car arrives in dealerships in the next couple of weeks, and Lexus says it'll come fully equipped, with the only option being to delete the moonroof.
"The IS F will bring a strongly competitive force to the performance sedan market," says Lexus chief executive, John Roca.
"Almost 20 years ago we arrived in the luxury market and raised the bar in terms of build quality, specification and value.
"In 2008 we have targeted our performance car rivals," said Roca.
Although he doesn't name them, Roca says the IS F will compete directly with the performance flagships of other luxury marques.
He said the IS F's price will allow Lexus to establish the "F" brand, and build credibility beyond its core "luxury" vehicle market.
"IS F enters one of the most competitive categories," Mr Roca said.
"This category is all about passion and brand values. With the IS F we have the brand values - the passion comes with the first drive.
"The core Lexus values are what will set us apart from the competition.
"Lexus is extremely excited about the arrival of the IS F and the new clientele it will bring.
"Furthermore, Lexus now has a hero car that will stimulate sales of other IS models," Mr Roca said.
