2007 Detroit Auto Show: 2008 Lexus IS-F

Lexus finally joins the high-performance luxury car fray today with the introduction of the 2008 Lexus IS-F. The car is based on a regular IS sedan but is beefed up significantly with a 5.0-liter V-8 engine that pumps out over 400 hp and 350 pounds-feet of torque, paired to the same eight-speed transmission found in Lexus’ LS 460 flagship sedan. The new car will hit 60 mph in less than 4.9 seconds.

The styling has also gotten the high-performance treatment, most noticeably on the side, where there’s a huge scoop behind the front wheels. The front and rear get more bodywork than before, and paired with the car’s larger wheels and lower stance it makes an aggressive statement. We also love the off arrangement of the quad tailpipes. For Lexus’ first leap into the ultra-performance arena, there doesn’t seem to be much missing. We are bummed that we won't see one on the road until early 2008.