What Edmunds.com says...
The 2009 Lexus IS-F is the black sheep of the Lexus family, with brash looks, a voracious appetite for curvy pavement and unforgiving ride quality.
Pros
Gobs of tire-smoking power, sports-car-worthy handling, relatively quiet cabin, high-quality interior.
Cons
Bone-jarring suspension, no manual transmission option, boy-racer exterior styling, tiny cabin accommodations.
What's new
The 2009 Lexus IS-F remains unchanged from the previous year except for a revised instrument panel, interior trim enhancements and minor changes to feature availability.
Editor's Rating Score
Overall
8.1/10
Either as a function of its Lexus parentage, or as the result of trying to be two cars at once, the IS-F is neither a benchmark Super-Sport Sedan (e.g. BMW M3), nor an outstanding Lexus Luxury Sedan. While the engine is a spectacle, they've made the car too-harsh riding for an everyday driver, and too-numb steering for a serious track car. Lexus has some of the ingredients for a brilliant car, but this is just a very good first effort.
Detailed Editor's Rating
8.5
out of 10
Dynamics
Brilliant, long-legged, flexible 5.0L V8 is only slightly tarnished by a transmission with one too many gears and steering feel that's more digital than analog. Handling is excellent, but the price is a brutal always-firm ride.7.5
out of 10
Comfort
Despite harsh ride comfort, the 10-way adjustable and heated F-spec front seats are exceptionally comfy. Wind and road noise are nearly nonexistent, but tires can sizzle on rough pavement. Rear seats are as tight as an IS-series car.8
out of 10
Function
Standard bi-xenon headlamps swivel for corner illumination. The high-contrast instrument panel is crisp and easy to read but the font could be larger. Optional nav system integrates several functions and is intuitive. Only the cupholders, which are the same in every IS, are subpar.8.5
out of 10
Design/Build Quality
Silly exterior styling for such a serious car. Interior design is of a high quality and it works fine, but there's nothing exceptional here. Build quality upholds Lexus reputation of being top-notch.Detailed Profile
- High Performer There's no denying that engine and quick-shifting transmission.
- Luxurious Despite the performance, there's a measure of Lexus-style Lux, as well.
- Image Enhancer For those who know what they're looking at, an IS-F carries some street cred.