New 2010 Lexus IS F Invoice And Features Review

The 2010 Lexus IS F is based on the regular IS entry-level luxury sport sedan, but is loaded with performance-oriented upgrades such as a fire-breathing V8 engine, stiffer suspension tuning, larger brakes and premium corner-gripping tires. The result is a vehicle with scorching power and sports-car handling that still features the relatively quiet and upscale cabin expected in a Lexus.

While there's lots to like about the Lexus IS F, it should be noted that some may find its very hard suspension calibrations could use some tweaking, as its performance-biased tuning can cause some bone-jarring driving experiences. That said, with its downright thrilling driving dynamics, the IS F is a great start for Lexus in the high-performance sport sedan segment.

And new for the 2010 model year, the IS-F gets still more standard features with the additions of a limited slip differential, Bluetooth audio, Lexus' new Safety Connect telematics, satellite radio and iPod integration.

Trims, Standard Features And Options:

The 2010 Lexus IS-F is a very well-equipped high-performance luxury sport sedan offered in a single trim level. Its standard features include full power accessories, a sunroof, 10-way power front seats, leather upholstery, driver and front passenger seat memory functions, keyless entry and ignition, dual-zone automatic climate control, auto-dimming mirrors, heated front sport seats, adaptive xenon headlights, 19 inch alloy wheels, performance tires, Brembo brakes and a 13-speaker stereo system with a 6-disc CD changer, iPod integration, Bluetooth audio, satellite radio and an auxiliary audio jack.

Available optional features include a hard-drive-based navigation system with a back-up camera, adaptive cruise control, park assist and a 14-speaker Mark Levinson surround-sound system (only available with the navigation system). Those who opt for the navigation system also get a one-year subscription to Lexus' Enform, which provides an on-call travel adviser who can provide such help as the nearest gas station or movie theater and can then send that information directly to the navigation system.

Engines, Powertrain And Gas Mileage:

Powering the rear-wheel drive 2010 IS-F is a 5.0-liter V8 engine that's good for a hefty 416 horsepower and 371 pound-feet of torque. It's paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission with a paddle-shift manual mode (a straight manual transmission is not available).

The IS F has proven to be among the truly elite in performance testing, rocketing from a standstill to 60 mph in just 4.8 seconds. Obviously not engineered for fuel efficiency, its EPA-estimated gas mileage is still far from dreadful, standing at 16 mpg city and 23 mpg on the highway.

Safety:

Standard safety equipment on the 2010 Lexus IS-F includes traction control, stability control, antilock brakes (ABS) with brake assist, front-seat side airbags, front seat knee airbags and full-length side curtain airbags. The IS F also comes with a one-year free subscription to Safety Connect, which provides collision notification, an "SOS" emergency help button and stolen vehicle location. In addition, a pre-collision system that's coupled with adaptive radar cruise control is an available option and automatically adjusts seatbelt tension and braking force when an imminent collision is detected.

The IS F had not been crash tested at the time of this writing. However, its IS 350 cousin earned four out of five stars for driver and front passenger protection in frontal impacts and rear side impacts. It received a perfect five stars for front side impact protection.

Interior:

The 2010 IS F's interior is sleek and attractive with top-quality materials. Its controls and gauges are easy to see and user-friendly, while the sound insulation is excellent ... in fact, surprising so for such a vehicle. Seating is comfortable and supportive all around, however, the aerodynamic contours of its design may cause some headroom and rear-seat legroom issues for taller occupants.

What makes the IS F different from the other IS models is its sharp blue-hue ambient lighting, sport seats, aluminum trim accents and a two-passenger backseat instead of three.

Drive:

The 2010 Lexus IS-F shines its brightest with its engaging and impressive road manners. In addition to its robust acceleration, the steering is precise and responsive while its grip is capable and confident when cornering.

It would be nice to have a traditional manual transmission option, but the 8-speed automatic is up to the task due to its super-fast upshift and rev-matched downshift abilities. The very stiff suspension is also outstanding for track performance and is bound to attract true driving enthusiasts.

That said, driving on public roads is a bit more challenging. Used for everyday driving, the IS-F's very hard suspension can take a toll on occupants. And with so many gears, the transmission seems to be constantly seeking the right ratio. Overall, however, drivers who value high levels of dynamic athleticism will likely be more than satisfied.

Update: Weak Economy Leads To Lower IS F Prices:

Auto sales have been weak for months, evidence of a continuing poor economy and an especially weak car buying trend.

Lexus dealers have recently made some progress in offsetting at least some of the market weakness through strong incentives and easier-to-get discounts. The bottom line? The current combination of a soft market along with intense dealer competition has created the perfect opportunity for nailing down some great deals.

Car dealers will "wheel and deal" bigtime right now if you know how to push their buttons.

How To Buy A New IS F At The Best Price: Before listing MSRP and invoice prices for the 2010 Lexus IS F, here's the best way to get the lowest price, especially given the current slow car market.

Prices:

2010 Lexus IS F:

Base, RWD: list price: $58,460, invoice price: $52,612

Other Models Of Possible Interest:

2010 Lexus IS 250 Information
2010 Lexus RX 350 Review
Audi A4 2011 Information
2010 Lincoln Town Car Review
2011 Honda Pilot Overview
2010 Cadillac Escalade Information
2010 Land Rover LR2 Review
2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee Info
2010 Nissan Cube Overview
2010 Volkswagen Passat Information
New 2011 Subaru Outback
2010 Mazda CX-9 Features And Price Review
Used Lexus ES 350, 330 And 300
Used Lexus RX 350, 330 And 400h

Additional Models Of Possible Interest:

Review: 2010 Lexus GS 460
New 2010 Lexus ES 350 Review
2010 Lexus GS 350 Overview
2010 Chrysler 300 Review
2010 Chevy Avalanche Information
Volvo C70 2011 Review
2010 Audi Q5 Overview
2010 Kia Sedona Information
Review: 2011 Ford Focus
Used Lexus GS 350
New 2010 Nissan Pathfinder Info
Used Lexus IS 250
Used Lexus RX, ES, And GS

New 2010 Lexus IS F Features and Pricing