Lexus IS-F Fantasy Fades With Family in Tow

2008 Lexus IS-F

model as tested $64,278

Test Drove 9/9/08 – 9/16/08
reviewed by Lori Hindman

While driving the IS-F, the super-fast version of Lexus’ midsize sedan, I imagined a cartoon angel and devil riding on each shoulder. The IS-F tempted me to no end with a massive 417-horsepower engine that growls with a deep, muted rumble that hints at unearthly power. It gave me shivers.

In one ear, the devil whispered, “Go on, punch it. You know you want to. C’mon!” While the angel reminded me, “Um, there are kids in back. YOUR kids.” The one time I found an empty stretch of twisty road and gave in to temptation, it took about half an hour for my heart to slow down. I still have goose bumps. This car is seriously wicked, and the devil on my shoulder loved nearly every minute of it.

Everything about the IS-F is geared for speedy driving. Those evil geniuses at Lexus took the skeleton of the IS sedan and filled it to the brim with, um, evilness. We’re talking an eight-speed transmission; massive brakes; big, fat, sticky tires; a specially designed aerodynamic body; and a rock-hard suspension package that takes no prisoners. It’s awesome—well, it’s awesome on a racetrack. It’s less awesome in a grocery store parking lot or navigating L.A.’s notorious freeways. And here’s where my shoulder angel pipes up and reality kicks in. I’m not a racecar driver, nor am I living in a James Bond movie. I’m a mommy with “Star Wars” action figures nestled among the crumbs on the car’s floor. As much fun as the fantasy is, in reality, the IS-F isn’t the car for me.

IT’S THE LITTLE THINGS THAT COUNT
Storage compartments (Puny, Fair, Ample, Galore): Fair
Cargo/trunk space (Puny, Fair, Ample, Galore): Ample

SENSE AND STYLE
Family friendly (Not Really, Fair, Great, Excellent): Fair
Fun factor (None, Some, Good Times, Groove on): Groove on

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