All-new Lexus IS-F coming in 2012

Following the post regarding the all-new Lexus IS (earlier post), now it's time for some info about the new IS-F, which is expected to be launched in April 2012, according to Japanese Best Car (Super Scoop Special issue). Power should come from a 5.0L V8 engine with a power output of 423 ps and 51.5 kgm of torque. Now if that's true, then we are talking about some serious fun! Just for the record, BC claims now that the same engine will power the all-new GS-F (earlier post), but in this case, power will be up to 465 ps.

... and BC's impression of next-gen Lexus GS-F!

Last report regarding the hot GS-F suggested that power will come from a 3.5L V6 engine coupled to an electric motor (earlier post) and it should hit the market in August this year. This is earlier than expected, but considering than a new GS is underway, it makes sense. To be honest though, I am not convinced about the electric motor bit at all...

Anyway, following BC's impression of the next-gen GS (earlier post), here is an impression of the next-gen GS-F!

Lexus GS-F arriving earlier than expected - powered by V6 engine!

Back in December, it was reported that the mighty Lexus GS-F would arrive as early as 2012 (earlier post). Well, BC (which I consider it as very well informed source) claims that the GS-F will actually arrive in August 2011!

Other information revealed include that power will come from a 3.5 L V6 engine plus an electric motor, a combination which will result in a fuel efficiency of 13.0 km/L (10.15 mode). This "F" hybrid machine will be pricey though, with an estimated price tag of... ¥ 9,000,000!

A glimpse of the new Japanese models coming in 2011!!!

The latest issue of Best Car magazine has a very interesting cover showing all the important new Japanese models coming in 2011!!!

So, here is what's coming (... I am missing a couple of Nissan sedan models):

• Daihatsu's small car based on the concept e:S (earlier post)

• Honda Fit - aka Jazz - wagon (earlier post)

• Honda Freed Hybrid 

• Honda Insight (facelift with design cues from  FCX Clarity)

• Lexus CT (looks like a spicy version... a CT-F perhaps?) 

• Lexus GS-F (earlier post)

• Mazda CX-5 (Mazda's variant of the Ford Kuga)

• Nissan Tiida - aka Versa - (earlier post)

• Toyota FT-86 / Subaru 216A (related posts)
  

• Toyota Prius V (related posts)

Be aware Germans, mighty Lexus GS-F on its way!

An "F" version of Lexus' GS model is on the works and according to R&T, the GS-F will come with a 5.0L V8 engine (a V10 engine has been speculated in the past) producing 465 hp! It is estimated that it will hit 100 km/h in less than 4.5 sec. The mighty Lexus should therefore be able to challenge the Germans, BMW's M5 and MB E63 AMG.

But performance doesn't come only from a powerful engine, low weight is also crucial. Thus, Lexus aims to achieve a weight of around 1700 kg by incorporating aluminium and carbon fibre parts. The GS-F won't hit the markets any time soon, but it could make its appearance as early as 2012.

[Source: Road&Track]