Lexus F SPORT: Offering Performance at Every Level

The “F” has signified specially designed vehicles with high-output powertrains and unique development processes. It represents vehicles that followed a unique path and different standards. When the Lexus brand was first conceived, the project was internally known as “Circle F.” Lexus’ first car, the LS sedan, was known as “F1” for Flagship One.

Like the “F” heritage, the IS F and LFA also fell outside of the normal engineering and development processes. The IS F performance sedan and LFA supercar offer Lexus’ highest factory-engineered performance possible. The IS F was the first Lexus to wear the “F” marque and feature an eight-speed direct sport-shift transmission when it launched in 2008 model year. Its 5.0-liter V8 engine delivers 416 horsepower and impressive handling on both road and track.

To further differentiate itself within the IS line-up, the high performance sedan has wider fenders to fit the largest wheels and tires of any Lexus sedan. The IS F rolls on 19-inch forged aluminum BBS wheels (19x8.5 front and 19x9.5 rear) and either Bridgestone Potenza or Michelin Pilot Sport PS2 tires (225/40R19 front and 225/35R19 rear). Four vertically stacked exhaust diffusers also make the IS F visually unmistakable.

Like the IS F, much of the LFA development took place on the track. The 2012 LFA can tackle the Nürburgring Nordschleife just as easily as it does city streets with its dynamic balance and lightweight carbon fiber construction. The LFA team developed its own carbon fiber reinforced plastic processes internally for quality control. Master craftsmen or “takumi” assembled 500 units by hand for global distribution.

A compact 4.8-liter V10 engine exclusive to the LFA produces 552 horsepower and 354 lb.-ft. torque. To match the LFA’s quickness to rev, it features a Thin Film Transistor (TFT) meter cluster with a LCD needle that keeps up with the engine’s fast revs. Its remarkable exhaust note, tuned by Yamaha and inspired by Formula 1, sings with exuberance. Large diameter exhaust manifolds enhance the sound quality before it exits through the striking tri-outlet exhaust outlets.

The primary distinction for F SPORT vehicles is their factory-installed chassis. Suspension calibrations give the vehicles sharper handling and feel. These F SPORT models have aggressive exterior styling and sporty interior trim thanks to factory-installed appearance enhancements. Although each F SPORT model has distinct wheels and grilles, F SPORT packages vary according to model. The RX 350 F SPORT includes driveline enhancements for improved performance.

Credits: Oneshift News Team