Lexus IS F 4dr Car Review - March 2012

The electric power steering varies in response depending on speed, but the car can be nimble when needed. It isn't quite as precise or as poised as the BMW M3 but it offers a fantastically smooth ride considering the car's performance credentials.

Paired with the 8 speed automatic gearbox, the 417bhp, 5.0-litre V8 produces 372lbs-ft of torque, powering this IS from 0-62mph in 4.8 seconds. The top speed is 168mph - 13mph higher than the M3, although the Beemer is, of course, electronically limited.

At lower speeds, the V8 engine rumbles quietly but at higher revs the engine makes its presence known, producing a distinctive roar. The handling is superb and the IS F has a lower centre of gravity than the standard IS.

The V8 engine in this model means that there is a larger overhang at the front. This is nicely balanced out by a slightly longer rear. This model has a more aggressive, sporty look with a bonnet bulge, deep front bumper, larger grill and lower cooling ducts.

With 19 inch alloys and twin stacked exhausts, the IS F looks very purposeful and sporty.

Inside there is a silver carbon fibre effect finish and a whole host of gadgets including front fog lamps, multimedia pack including a 14 speaker Mark Levinson surround sound audio system, sat-nav, rear parking assist monitor, and for an extra £1020 you can have an electric tilt and slide sunroof.

Unlike the standard IS, and its rival, the BWM M3, the IS F will only seat four people. It comes with a decent 378-litre boot and there is plenty of extra storage in the cabin, such as cup holders and expandable door pockets.

If you looked up reliability in the dictionary, Lexus would be found next to it. Lexus is famous for producing incredibly reliable cars, and there is no reason to believe that the IS F will buck the trend.

Like most of the Lexuses, the IS F won 5 stars in the EuroNCAP crash tests. Some of its safety features include anti lock brakes, brake assist, electronic brakeforce distribution, traction control, vehicle stability control and ten airbags.

A Pre-crash safety system prepares the car safety systems when a crash is inevitable. In this situation, seat belts will tighten and emergency braking will be engaged. Rear parking cameras should also help to prevent any bumps and scrapes.

With CO2 emissions at a massive 270g/km, the IS F is in the highest road tax band: M. A combined fuel economy rating of 24.4mpg also means that your fuel bills will be high. However, if you're considering an IS F, then fuel economy and low tax are likely to be low on your list of priorities.

At £58,350, however, the IS F is more expensive than the BMW M3 and we'd have to say that if it was our money, it'd be going on the Beemer.