We say The IS-F is an interesting drive, but you're going to want a German performance saloon.Performance 417bhp 5.0-litre V8 has plenty of power and torque through an eight-speed autobox with paddle shifters. Sprint takes just over four seconds and top speed is a limited 170mph.Emissions 24mpg and 270g/km are respectable all things considered.Driving Accurate steering, little body roll and mountains of grip. Considering the weight of the IS-F it handles incredibly well.Feel Trade-off for great grip and feedback is a particularly stiff ride that won't feel great on UK roads. High revs means serious rawk.Space Space is limited in the rear and the boot isn't large or the most practical shape, but if you're buying an IS-F you're unlikely to be too bothered.Equipment Four bucket seats, aluminium trim, Brembo brakes, 19-inch alloys, VDIM adaptable driving dynamic system as standard on the IS-F.Price £60K is well priced considering the massive engine and very high kit levels in the IS-F. Still, do you want to spend sixty grand on a Lexus sports car? Petrol consumption and CO2 emissions are likely to have any Chancellor laughing all the way to the bank.Quality The IS-F is well bolted together - this is a Lexus after all - but don't come up to scratch to key European rivals in terms of materials, look and feel. Looks pretty frightening from the outside though.Safety Donor car the IS scored a maximum five stars in adult protection and there'll be airbags aplenty plus loads of active safety kit to stop you oversteering your IS-F into a shop window.Pros Good power and driving dynamics.Cons Stiff ride, not as practical or luxurious as competitors.Alternatives BMW M3, Mercedes C63 AMG, Vauxhall VXR8
