Lexus IS500

[ff]

http://www.thecarconnection.com/inde...&article=10647

Lexus now appears ready to up the ante, and go head-to-head with the BMW M3, C-Class AMG, and Audi S/RS4 with this hot version of its IS sedan.

This prototype has all the necessary sporty cues: An aggressive front air dam that appears to take inspiration from Lexus' LF-A sports car, subtly integrated fender flares, and a deep rear bumper with uniquely stacked dual-exhaust tips. From an appearance standpoint, this high-performance Lexus looks like it can hold its own against the competition.

The most logical engine powering this beast would be the 4.6-liter V-8 introduced in the new Lexus LS460, which, if in the same state of tune, would mean 380 hp and 370 lb-ft of torque. Sources say that this engine could be tuned and tweaked for more power, but Lexus has been quite adamant that they won't get sucked into horsepower wars with their German competition.

By the looks of this prototype, though, it looks like there is now another player in the factory tuner game.

Unless they tweak the suspension pretty heavily, I don't see this as something that will compete sucessfully with the upcoming M3 in anything but drag races. But I suppose that you could always drop in new shocks, springs, and sways, ...and lose some weight, and it would be close.

[JST]

Originally Posted by ff

http://www.thecarconnection.com/inde...&article=10647





Unless they tweak the suspension pretty heavily, I don't see this as something that will compete sucessfully with the upcoming M3 in anything but drag races. But I suppose that you could always drop in new shocks, springs, and sways, ...and lose some weight, and it would be close.

I've read elsewhere (Automobile?) that it will be auto-only.

Yeah, no thanks.

[Nick M3]

Looks like they're upping the ante on the Coxster's bifurcated asshole with the new Triplicate Asshole.

[rumatt]

Originally Posted by Nick M3

Looks like they're upping the ante on the Coxster's bifurcated asshole with the new Triplicate Asshole.

[JST]

Originally Posted by Nick M3

Looks like they're upping the ante on the Coxster's bifurcated asshole with the new Triplicate Asshole.

When a car is that shitty, it needs a lot of assholes.

[blee]

Originally Posted by JST

When a car is that shitty, it needs a lot of assholes.

[ff]

Originally Posted by JST

I've read elsewhere (Automobile?) that it will be auto-only.

Yeah, no thanks.

Oh, no question. Rumors are that it may be the 8-speed auto that's expected to appear on the next LS. WTF is the point? Like someone is going to sit there during their commute, flipping through 8 gears with the paddle shifters.