Has anyone been disappointed with the IS-F?
01-09-09, 12:59 PM
#32
Lexus Fanatic
I don't own one, but reviewed one and had a fairly long test-drive. Very nice car except for two things. First, the torque all comes on with a bang between 3600-4000 RPM; there's not a whole lot below that, and, Second, the suspension on my early-production test car was virually track-grade in its stiffnesss (I understand Lexus softened it a little on later versions)...it was just too harsh on rougher roads and made the car jump up and down like a porpoise over frost heaves, although it wasn't too bad on smooth roads.
01-09-09, 02:24 PM
#33
Lexus Champion
I used to think this too. The other day I was driving my Supra and made a lazy shift into 5th that jerked the car brutally. I realized I've never had that problem with the F, even though the transmission in manual mode works just like a manual shift with the advantage it won't let you do stupid things like over-rev on clutch drop (ever accidentally shift into 1st at 40+ mph?) or lug the engine by trying to drive a gear too high for the speed you are driving. Plus, I've never been able to shift a car's manual gearbox in 100 msec. Ever. And the F does it every time without fail.
In fact, I'd say the transmission is one of the best reasons for getting the F over the competition because it gives you best of both worlds - D for those times when you want the wife to drive home, and M for those times you want very direct control.
In fact, I'd say the transmission is one of the best reasons for getting the F over the competition because it gives you best of both worlds - D for those times when you want the wife to drive home, and M for those times you want very direct control.
Great description Lobuxracer....couldn't agree more.
01-09-09, 03:13 PM
#36
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It sounds like you consider steering feel/road connectivity to be important, therefore the IS-F may not be the car for you. However, I suggest you try the M3 and C63 and then try the IS-F again. You may end up liking the IS-F's steering after trying the other two cars, or you may end up confirming that the steering feel is a big deal.
I know everyone here has a well educated opinion but driving these cars for yourself is the only way to determine which car is right for you.
I know everyone here has a well educated opinion but driving these cars for yourself is the only way to determine which car is right for you.
01-09-09, 04:08 PM
#37
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I have a friend that works for Lexus and had the opportunity to keep the F for a week, and they had the same exact feedback as the OP. It felt very Lexus like, almost too laid back and lacking feel. And then I found out that they didn't know about the sport mode.
I'd have to agree with the OP that when you don't engage sport mode, the F is extremely Lexus-like. But like other fellow F owners, I'm actually delighted that we have the choice to go from civilized to beastly at the flick of switch. The sport mode F far more responsive and sports-like. It makes me wonder why I have to switch it on manually every time I start the car!
So to the OP.... I suggest that you test drive it again with sport mode (If in fact it was off the 1st time) and post your updated comments. I don't think you'll be disappointed. Good luck!
01-09-09, 05:32 PM
#38
I went in for a test drive and had a check ready to pay cash. I was very disappointed with the car. It is tiny inside, rides like a truck, and has no low speed torque. I bought a G37 sedan and with the extra $27000 I plan to wait for next year's M50. Lexus missed the mark in all areas with the IS-F. The CTS-V is a good lesson on getting it right. The IS350 was a poor platform to start with and the -F execution made it even worse.
Steve
Steve
01-09-09, 06:05 PM
#40
That's actually the question I wanted to ask. When you tested it, did you put it in sport mode? It changes the steering assist, throttle response, and gear shift algorithm.
I have a friend that works for Lexus and had the opportunity to keep the F for a week, and they had the same exact feedback as the OP. It felt very Lexus like, almost too laid back and lacking feel. And then I found out that they didn't know about the sport mode.
I'd have to agree with the OP that when you don't engage sport mode, the F is extremely Lexus-like. But like other fellow F owners, I'm actually delighted that we have the choice to go from civilized to beastly at the flick of switch. The sport mode F far more responsive and sports-like. It makes me wonder why I have to switch it on manually every time I start the car!
So to the OP.... I suggest that you test drive it again with sport mode (If in fact it was off the 1st time) and post your updated comments. I don't think you'll be disappointed. Good luck!
I have a friend that works for Lexus and had the opportunity to keep the F for a week, and they had the same exact feedback as the OP. It felt very Lexus like, almost too laid back and lacking feel. And then I found out that they didn't know about the sport mode.
I'd have to agree with the OP that when you don't engage sport mode, the F is extremely Lexus-like. But like other fellow F owners, I'm actually delighted that we have the choice to go from civilized to beastly at the flick of switch. The sport mode F far more responsive and sports-like. It makes me wonder why I have to switch it on manually every time I start the car!
So to the OP.... I suggest that you test drive it again with sport mode (If in fact it was off the 1st time) and post your updated comments. I don't think you'll be disappointed. Good luck!
i'll go back and see how different it is...
01-09-09, 07:53 PM
#41
Lexus Fanatic
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to me, this picture says part of the problem with lexus and 'performance', and in particular LOOKING the part. this particular picture with a darker car is actually one of the most flattering I've seen, but that front wheel gap is TOTALLY UNACCEPTABLE.
i see E350's and heck even 328i's both with sport packages that have PERFECT wheel fitment.
lexus can put big wheels and skinny tires on a car, but it looks all wrong when you STILL have a big wheel gap.
hey i admit my miata has a big front wheel gap but of course it's only a 25k car, and sits low and is often driven by old farts like me so they want it a more comfy ride and not TOO low to get in and out of.
but besides wheel gap, the overall look of the is-f to me says 'boy racer' more than grown up sports car, but maybe that's subjective.
but as has been said, as a FIRST real sporty car, hat's off to lexus - it's a very good start.
01-09-09, 08:35 PM
#43
Pole Position
I don't own one, but reviewed one and had a fairly long test-drive. Very nice car except for two things. First, the torque all comes on with a bang between 3600-4000 RPM; there's not a whole lot below that, and, Second, the suspension on my early-production test car was virually track-grade in its stiffnesss (I understand Lexus softened it a little on later versions)...it was just too harsh on rougher roads and made the car jump up and down like a porpoise over frost heaves, although it wasn't too bad on smooth roads.
Take a look at a dyno taken from the MHP IS-F thread. This is a before and after but if you look lower in the RPM band there is virtually no difference. You will notice there is no spike/bang in TQ.
As to the suspension. This is the first I've heard of them softening the suspension somewhere during the production run. I have one of the first off the boat last year (delivered in Midwest) and I completely agree the suspension porpoises too much especially, as you say, on frost heaved Midwest roads. Any other road than that though it has not been a problem.
An interesting note: everyone that sits in the seats love the way the seats feel/hold them. *shrug* They are good but not great IMO.
I can't say I ever miss that. As Lobuxracer says the 8 speed is really sweet (especially with the different modes available) in either full attack or just cruising mode. But I appreciate that some people just can't get over the lack of manual. Don't agree... but appreciate it.
01-09-09, 10:42 PM
#44
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I went in for a test drive and had a check ready to pay cash. I was very disappointed with the car. It is tiny inside, rides like a truck, and has no low speed torque. I bought a G37 sedan and with the extra $27000 I plan to wait for next year's M50. Lexus missed the mark in all areas with the IS-F. The CTS-V is a good lesson on getting it right. The IS350 was a poor platform to start with and the -F execution made it even worse.
Steve
Steve
You might think Lexus missed the mark but at least they shot at the target. Infiniti doesn't have a car in this class.
EVO gave the car 5 stars, the same as the M3 and its their top rating. Top Gear in their review said it was a 4 way tie.
I'm sorry Steve but I think you missed the mark in your assessment.
Last edited by LexFather; 01-09-09 at 11:12 PM.
01-09-09, 11:04 PM
#45
Lexus Champion
I went in for a test drive and had a check ready to pay cash. I was very disappointed with the car. It is tiny inside, rides like a truck, and has no low speed torque. I bought a G37 sedan and with the extra $27000 I plan to wait for next year's M50. Lexus missed the mark in all areas with the IS-F. The CTS-V is a good lesson on getting it right. The IS350 was a poor platform to start with and the -F execution made it even worse.
Steve
Steve
To state that the F misses the mark in all areas, clearly shows that you have no understanding of a super sedan.
The CTS-V is an amazing car, but again in a totally different category. But lets wait and see how it holds up, reliability and dependability wise, before declaring it the second coming.