Between Lexus’ sloppiness over making new “F” performance models and the indications that Toyota will phase out its V8s, it’s understandable why some have lost confidence in Lexus and written it off as a faint, beige brand. But not all hope has to be lost, as new rumors from Japan suggest that Lexus has a trio of new F-cars arriving in time for the holidays, all of which have V8s under the hood.
Lexus will debut high-performance F-badged versions of Lexus’ rear IS and LS sedan in November, plus an LC F coupe, according to Best car. According to the report, the IS F (not the IS 500 as brands suggested) will come first. The new IS F will be powered by the 5.0-liter, naturally aspirated V8 of the RC and LC 500 coupes of the same size. In the IS F, this V8 will reportedly get its most aggressive tune yet to deliver 474 horsepower and 395 pounds of torque. The IS F’s drive wheels and transmission are not specified, but the most likely candidates are the 10-speed automatic or the eight-speed of the LC, although the one is now a dated subject.
It is understood that the flagship F cars will follow in the form of the LS F sedan and LC F coupe. Both use a new 4.0-liter, twin-turbo V8 that delivers 661 hp and 480 lb of torque. The LC F supports the extra power with a few minor chassis improvements. Best car says we will not have to wait until November to see the debut of the engine, as it will reportedly be transferred this July in an LS-derived flag transition.
There has also been increasing mention of this model over the past few years. According to Best carLexus’ new top-of-the-line crossover will cost between $ 140,000 and $ 190,000. With Lamborghini Urus trouncing power under the hood and a lower price point to get started, the L-something could become the most attractive rider in Lexus’ range – perhaps even more so than the new, Land Cruiser-based LX SUV that Best car say will drop this July. Then again, with Lexus now keeping a close eye on the off-road market, the new LX will also be something to look forward to.
[H/T Car Advice]
A tip? Send us a comment: [email protected]