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2013 Lexus GS350 F-Sport Revealed Ahead of SEMA Show Debut

Colum Wood — Tue, 25 Oct 2011 16:43:10 +0000

As promised Lexus will debut its new F-Sport GS350 model at the upcoming SEMA Show in Las Vegas. Taking the all-new 2013 GS sedan, the F-Sport package adds, um, sport, by bolting a long list of “racing-inspired” components.

Included in the package are 19-inch F-sport wheels measuring 8-inches up front and 9-inches in the rear (AWD models will be 19×8 front and rear). Also added are thicker sway bars, new bushings, and a more aggressively tuned Adaptive Variable Suspension system. Other upgrades include larger brakes with high-friction pads and rear-drive models will get a Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS) system.

Helping convey the car’s added capability is an F-Sport aero kit with new front and rear bumpers as well as a new rear lip spoiler, F-sport badging and an F-Sport grille up front. Available in Starfire Pearl, Nebula Gray Pearl and Obsidian, Lexus will also offer the F-Sport model in two exclusive colors, Riviera Red and Liquid Platinum.

Inside the car gets a unique aluminum trim and perforated black leather with aluminum pedals, plus a 16-way power sport driver’s set with improved lateral support and power side bolsters. An optional Cabernet Red leather will also be available.

No changes have been made under the hood, with the 3.5-liter V6 continuing to generate 306-hp for a 0-60 time of 5.7 seconds.

“The all-new GS 350 with F SPORT package will offer our customers more agility and a sportier appearance,” said Mark Templin, Lexus group vice president and general manager. “The racing-inspired F SPORT components were precision engineered for this vehicle, providing quality performance without compromise.”

GALLERY: 2013 Lexus GS350 F-Sport

See AutoGuide’s complete 2011 SEMA Show preview here

2013 Lexus GS350 F-Sport Revealed Early at Johannesburg Motor Show

Colum Wood — Fri, 07 Oct 2011 12:15:54 +0000

With an announced debut for the SEMA Show in November, Lexus has instead revealed the new F-Sport version of its 2013 GS350 model at the Johannesburg Motor Show in South Africa.

No official details have been provided but these snap shots were released on the Lexus of South Africa Facebook page. Modifications look subtle with a more aggressive front bumper and new wheels. We can only presume other upgrades include modifications to the suspension, brakes and exhaust, with some sporty touches inside the cabin.

Look for more details and photos from SEMA, with AutoGuide’s live coverage starting November 1st here.

GALLERY: 2013 Lexus GS350 F-Sport

2013 Lexus GS to Get Facebook Reveal

Colum Wood — Thu, 04 Aug 2011 14:15:49 +0000

Along with debuting the all-new 2013 GS luxury sedan at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, Lexus will unveil the car on its Facebook page with a live feed from the venue.

It has been reported that Lexus Facebook fans will get to see the car an half-hour ahead of the official reveal, although the specific details provided by Lexus seem rather to indicate that that time slot will be used to introduce those fans (not the car itself)… building anticipation until the vehicle is revealed.

Timing for the official unveiling is 7:15 p.m. EDT/4:15 p.m. PDT on August 18th. AutoGuide will be on hand with photos and video to follow.

The 2013 Lexus GS will be powered by a 3050-hp 3.5L V6 engine with a 0-60 mph time of 5.7 seconds. The V8 model has reportedly been discontinued, although a hybrid version will be offered. An F-Sport model is also expected with an upgraded suspension and brakes, 19-inch wheels and four-wheel steering. Additional highlights will include a massive 12.3-inch display screen on the center stack. Exterior styling will be inspired by the LF-Gh Concept (above).

GALLERY: Lexus LF-Gh Concept

Watch video of the LF-Gh Concept from its NY Auto Show debut after the jump:

Get the Flash Player to see this player.

The All-New 2012 Lexus GS350 Will Debut On August 18

Harry Lay — Fri, 22 Jul 2011 21:14:03 +0000

As Lexus’ GS enters it’s fourth generation, the car has been redesigned to be sportier and more focused on the driving experience. The GS350 is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 producing 305-hp and 274 lb-ft of torque. It has a 0-62 mph time of 5.7 seconds and on a sad note for the V8 lovers, the GS460 has been discontinued.

The GS will not be any larger than the current car and Lexus claims, the new plaform is both more rigid and lighter than before. The GS has also gotten rid of the “waterfall” center console and replaced it with a massive 12.3-inch screen that displays navigation and audio information.

A high-performance GS F-Sport model will also be available using the same 3.5-liter V6 and will feature high spring rates, a thicker anti-roll bar, firmer adaptive shocks, larger two-piece front brake rotos, four-wheel steering, a variable-ratio rack and 19-inch wheels.

The GS will debut on August 18 but Lexus wouldn’t reveal the exact on-sale date. We expect it to be in showrooms sometime in early 2012. The F-Sport model will also go on sale in early 2012 and, an all-wheel drive version of the GS350 will be available sometime around the middle of next year.

[Source: Car and Driver]

2011 Lexus IS350C F-Sport Special Edition Limited to Just 175 Units

Jason Siu — Mon, 21 Feb 2011 04:12:58 +0000

Hoping to increase its IS 350C sales, Lexus has introduced a limited edition F Sport rendition with an MSRP of $55,120. The limited edition vehicle will only be available to 175 customers, featuring a selection of F Sport performance accessories, interior badging and red stitching.

The special edition IS 350C comes in two shades, Starfire Pearl or Obsidian. The major F Sport accessory setting it apart from your run-of-the-mill IS 350C is a set of 19-inch dark graphite wheels paired with Michelin Pilot Sport rubber. The suspension has been upgraded with a set of lowering springs matched with shocks developed in cooperation with Bilstein. An upgraded sway bar set helps reduce the body roll of the convertible.

Inside, the stock seats have been accented with red trim and stitching. Lexus’ navigation package will also come standard on the F Sport Special Edition.

Official press release available after the break.

PRESS RELEASE

Lexus 2011 IS 350C F Sport Special Edition

* Only 175 Units Will Be Produced
* Features F Sport Performance Accessories
* Interior Badging and Red Stitching

TORRANCE, Calif. (February 8, 2011) – Lexus today announced the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $55,120 for the 2011 IS 350C F Sport Special Edition which will arrive at dealerships later this month. The MSRP does not include a delivery, processing and handling fee of $875.

“The F Sport Special Edition builds on the IS 350C and takes the fun of the convertible up another notch,” said Mark Templin, Lexus Division group vice president and general manager. “The racing inspired F Sport accessories on this car were precision engineered specifically for this vehicle, allowing us to provide performance without compromise.”

This 2011 IS 350C Special Edition was designed to engage driving enthusiasts with the performance and styling enhancements from the F Sport accessories line. This IS 350C, only available in two colors, Starfire Pearl or Obsidian, can be distinguished from other IS convertibles by the following F Sport equipment:

* 19-inch forged alloy wheels with dark graphite finish and Michelin Pilot Sport 225/35ZR19 tires in the front and 255/35ZR19 tires in the rear;
* Shock set developed in cooperation with Bilstein®;
* Lowering springs that reduce the ride height approximately one-inch in the front and rear resulting in a more aggressive appearance and lower center of gravity;
* Sway bar set that helps reduce body roll and provide flatter cornering;
* Bi-Xenon High Intensity Headlamps with LED Daytime Running Lights
* And exterior badging and a Special Build 2011 interior badge on the center console complete the uniqueness of this vehicle.

The IS 350C F Sport Special Edition also comes with black and red semi-aniline leather-trimmed seats with sporty red stitching. Other Special Edition standard features include heated and ventilated front seats with wood trim and Lexus Navigation. The hard disk drive (HDD) navigation system has a seven-inch VGA touch-screen, Bluetooth® phonebook download capabilities, a rear back-up camera, Voice Command casual-language voice recognition system, Lexus Enform, XM® NavTraffic, XM® NavWeather, and XM® Sports and Stocks. XM services include a complimentary 90-day trial subscription. It is also features the new telematics system Lexus Enform™ with Safety Connect™ (includes complimentary one-year trial subscription).

“The IS 350C F Sport Special Edition is a unique package of style and excitement. With only 175 units available nationwide they’ll sell out fast to customers who want power, performance and a little more fun under the sun,” said Templin.

Lexus CT200h to Get F-Sport Performance Parts

Colum Wood — Tue, 28 Sep 2010 10:26:10 +0000

For the first time ever, Lexus will offer a selection of F-Sport performance accessories for a hybrid model – the CT200h.

While it’s not designed to be a high-performance model, the CT is being billed as a driver’s hybrid; retaining the trademark Lexus ride quality while also offering a dynamic driving experience. And that’s just what a new line of F-Sport accessories for the CT are aimed at further enhancing.

As a part of a list of 17 accessories that include such mundane offerings as car covers and cargo nets, Lexus will offer a lowering spring and sway bar kit made by Toyota Racing Development (TRD). Lexus College National Manager Paul Williamsen did confirm that an upgraded brake system would not be offered, but didn’t comment on if other F-Sport accessories would be available. Items like an exhaust system are, however, unlikely due to the complex exhaust gas recirculation system used on the hybrid powerplant.

Additional accessories will include more stylish 17-inch wheels (17s are standard) as well as illuminated door sills.

Get more Lexus CT200h news and info at CT200hForums.com

Lexus Offers $300 Discount On F-Sport Parts

Derek Kreindler — Fri, 03 Sep 2010 15:51:35 +0000

Lexus is offering a special on its F-Sport lineup of parts with up to $300 available as a discount. The F Sport lineup consists of expensive bolt-on parts like intakes and mufflers, but some pieces, like the swaybar kit, will do a lot to wake up your Lexus.

The F-Sport lineup is ostensibly meant to bridge the gap between the standard Lexus products and their IS-F and LF-A sports cars. Sort of like seeing your grandpa lace up some Air Jordans and go shoot hoops. Unlike other tuner parts, the F-Sport products are warranty approved and look appropriate enough that you can arrive at a business meeting without shame or embarrassment.

Check out the coupon here

[Source: Autoblog]

2011 Lexus IS250/350 F-Sport Package Gets Updates, Optional Ultrasonic Blue Paint

Colum Wood — Tue, 20 Jul 2010 14:22:56 +0000

Let’s be honest, this might not qualify for news were it not for the gallery of photos Lexus released to help announce changes to the 2011 IS250/350 F-Sport package. Along with a long list of upgrades for the 2011 lineup, that includes the introduction of the IS350 AWD model, Lexus has released an updated F-Sport Package with light weight 18-inch wheels, suspension upgrades, tighter steering, a new front lip spoiler and a rear decklid spoiler. There’s also a dark front grille insert.

While F-Sport Accessories can be purchased individually, the F-Sport package includes special F Sport seats with microfiber inserts, as well as F-Sport badging on the steering wheel, shift knob and doorsill plates.

Plus, those who opt for the package can now also get their F-Sport model in Ultrasonic Blue!

GALLERY: 2011 Lexus IS250/350 F-Sport Package

Official release after the jump:

PRESS RELEASE

Lexus Revises and Expands IS Sport Sedan Line for 2011

• All-New IS 350 All-Wheel Drive Model

• New F Sport Package for IS 250/350 Rear-Wheel Drive Model

• Revised Front Styling and Interior Trim

Lexus is expanding choices in its popular IS sport sedan line for 2011, adding a 306-horsepower IS 350 all-wheel drive (AWD) model and offering a new F Sport Package for the IS 250/350 rear-wheel drive (RWD). Revised front and rear styling details sharpen all IS models for 2011. In addition, the IS sedans feature minor interior trim changes.

A new front grille and bumper distinguish the IS sport sedans for 2011, while at the rear, the models show a new taillamp cover and revised tailpipe design. New HID headlamps with LED daytime running lamps are standard on the IS 350 and available for the IS 250. Keeping with Lexus’ attention to detail, the 2011 IS models feature new-design standard 17-inch and optional 18-inch wheels, along with revised exterior color choices.

The IS 350 AWD model joins the IS 250 AWD, which has accounted for 30 percent (nationally) of IS 250 sales since the model’s introduction. Now, IS customers can have the traction and grip of all-wheel drive with the IS 350’s higher performance capability.

The F Sport Package available for the 2011 IS 250/350 RWD takes inspiration from the IS F ultra-performance sedan, combining special suspension and steering tuning and 18-inch wheels with distinctive design touches. Giving the IS 250/350 F Sport Package model a sporty demeanor are a front lip spoiler and rear deck spoiler, plus the 18-inch alloy wheels with a dark super-chrome finish. There is also a matching dark-chrome front grille insert, and a new Ultrasonic Blue exterior color is available in conjunction with the F Sport Package.

Inside, special F Sport heated front seats feature a special microfiber insert and leather side bolsters to provide more grip for the driver and passenger during cornering. The package also adds F Sport badging to the steering wheel, shift knob and doorsill scuff plates.

Engine/Transmission/Drivetrain/Performance
The IS 250’s 2.5-liter V6 engine delivers 204 horsepower at 6,400 RPM and 185 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 4,800 rpm. The IS 350’s 3.5-liter V6 offers a more potent 306 horsepower at 6,400 RPM and 277 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,800 rpm. The IS 350 RWD model can accelerate from zero-to-60 mph in just 5.3 seconds. Both engines employ dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i), which controls timing on both the intake and exhaust camshafts.

Aside from its larger displacement, the 3.5-liter V6 also differs in that it augments the direct fuel injection with port fuel injectors. In light- and medium-load conditions, these additional injectors help produce a precise burn, optimizing power and efficiency. A dual exhaust system reduces backpressure at higher engine speeds.

An advanced six-speed automatic transmission with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters is standard on the IS 350 models and the IS 250 AWD. The IS 250 RWD comes standard with a crisp-shifting six-speed manual transmission, with the paddle-shift automatic offered as an option.
Chassis/Body/Suspension/Tires/Brakes
The Lexus IS models provide a sporty driving experience while also offering a supple, quiet ride. The double-wishbone front suspension and multi-link rear suspension use high-strength steel and aluminum components to reduce unsprung weight. Sophisticated monotube shock-absorbers integrate multi-leaf linear control valves to optimize damping force, plus internal rebound springs for firmer body control without degrading ride comfort.

The all-wheel-drive system available for the IS 250 and IS 350 provides extra traction in diverse driving conditions. A planetary-gear center differential and a wet-type multi-disc clutch control front-to-rear power distribution. The system normally sends 70 percent of available power to the rear wheels to provide the performance advantages of a rear-drive car and will vary the torque-split ratio from 30:70 to 50:50 in response to driving conditions and driver input. The AWD system’s electronic-control strategy takes inputs such as steering and throttle angle from driver activity combined with vehicle signals from wheel speed and yaw rate sensors.

Aiding the IS models’ traction and stability is Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM). More advanced than other traction and stability systems, VDIM is designed to anticipate the onset of a vehicle skid or slide and help correct the situation with a combination of braking and throttle control. VDIM integration provides precise management for Electric Power Steering (EPS), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist (BA), Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD), and engine torque (via the electronically controlled throttle). The driver can disengage VSC via the “TRAC off” switch, which can be useful in certain situations.

The IS 350’s brake system is equipped with larger ventilated front and rear rotors and aluminum four-piston front calipers. Standard all-season performance tires are 225/45R17 in front and 245/45R17 for the rear (225/45R17 on IS 250 and IS 350 AWD). Eighteen-inch wheels are available.

Safety/Security Features

A reinforced passenger compartment helps protect the occupants with front- and rear-crush structures. Seatbelt pretensioners and force limiters are used for the front and outboard rear seats. In addition to the advanced dual-front airbags and front seat-mounted side airbags, the Lexus Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) for the IS includes side-curtain airbags that extend from A-pillar to C-pillar, and a knee airbag for both the driver and the front passenger. The front passenger airbag features two chambers, creating an indentation in the center impact area that helps to provide overall occupant protection.

The IS 250 offers optional High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps with LED daytime running lamps. IS 350 models feature standard HID headlamps with LED daytime running lamps and headlamp washers. The rear back-up camera, included with the optional navigation system, automatically projects an image of what its lens can detect behind the car onto the navigation screen when the transmission is in reverse gear. The exterior mirrors integrate turn signals.

The optional Intuitive Park Assist (IPA) system uses ultrasonic sensors to detect objects close to the car’s front and rear bumpers, helping to alert the driver and showing distance to objects in the multi-information display within the speedometer. When any IS model is also equipped with the optional navigation system, information on objects detected is shown in greater detail on that system’s seven-inch touch screen display.
Luxury/Comfort/Convenience
The Lexus IS models include a standard leather-trimmed interior with 10-way power front seats; some competitive vehicles make a leather interior optional. The numerous standard amenities in the IS models also include dual-zone automatic climate control with rear-seat vents and a pollen filter (plus a smog filter on IS 350), power moonroof with one-touch open/close and seven open-position settings, manual tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, all power windows with automatic up/down feature and jam protection, HomeLink® and an auto-dimming rear-view mirror. The AWD models in addition feature standard heated seats. The SmartAccess keyless entry and push-button-start ignition allows the driver to keep the access fob in a pocket or purse.

The standard Lexus Premium Audio System features a six-disc, in-dash CD changer, 194 watts (max.) total power, 13 speakers, iPod®/USB connectivity, Bluetooth® hands free phone and music streaming and an integrated satellite radio receiver. The Automatic Sound Levelizer (ASL) maintains consistent sound levels at varying vehicle speeds.

Luxury Options
An optional Luxury Plus Package includes wood trim, perforated leather seating trim and heated and ventilated front seats, plus three-position memory for seats, steering wheel and outside mirrors, rain-sensing wipers, power tilt and telescopic steering column and auto-dimming outside mirrors.

Like all Lexus models, the IS offers its own version of the Mark Levinson® Premium Surround Sound Audio system, which is available in conjunction with the optional DVD touch-screen navigation system. This 14-speaker audio system features discrete 5.1 multi-channel playback with 7.1-channel speaker architecture. Its 10 amplifier channels provide 300 watts total output at 0.1 percent total harmonic distortion (THD). The Mark Levinson system plays conventional CDs and DVDs, plus MP3/WMA-formatted CDs. DVD movies can be viewed on the optional navigation system’s color seven-inch touch screen when the parking brake is engaged.

The Lexus IS also offers a telematics system, Lexus Enform® with Safety Connect®, available by subscription. Complimentary one-year trial subscriptions are included on all purchases of new Lexus vehicles equipped with these features. Safety Connect is standard on all vehicles, while Lexus Enform with Safety Connect is on vehicles equipped with the optional Navigation system. The Lexus Enform and the Safety Connect response centers operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—every day of the year.

Lexus Enform vehicles are factory ready for subscriptions to a variety of innovative XM services including XM NavTraffic®, XM NavWeather™ and XM Sports and Stocks services. XM services require separate XM subscriptions. The XM Sports and Stocks service is included with an XM radio subscription. All XM services offer complimentary 90-day trial subscriptions.

Exterior Design
The Lexus IS sedans show a strong family resemblance to the Lexus GS models while establishing their own distinctively sporty identity. A notably wide stance and long wheelbase, coupled with tightly drawn bodywork, give the IS an athletic, road-hungry yet sophisticated style. Carefully shaped body contours, a subtle ducktail-curved trunk lid and “air kick” tail lamps contribute to a low 0.28 coefficient of drag (Cd).

A highly rigid body structure is the starting point for controlling noise intrusion. Strategically placed noise-suppression materials, including special window and door seals, acoustic windshield glass and asphalt sheeting, take over from there.

Interior Design
The IS models’ luxurious cabin features intelligently designed displays and controls that are easy to see and use. Bright, clear Optitron gauges and smartly integrated metallic trim, or available Bird’s-eye Maple trim, contribute to an elegant yet sporty environment. Premium interior materials and meticulous attention to detail convey the Lexus identity.

The multi-information display located within the speedometer integrates a trip computer and an oil-maintenance reminder and system warnings, all grouped in one convenient location. When equipped with the available Intuitive Park Assist (IPA), the display can show a car icon with the location and distance of objects detected near the bumpers.

F Sport Performance Accessories

Lexus offers a selection of F Sport Performance Accessories for the IS models, including performance-enhancing parts such as 19-inch forged alloy wheels, brake upgrades, suspension systems, air intake, exhaust system and more. F Sport Performance Accessories by Lexus U.S.A. are engineered by Toyota Racing Development (TRD). When installed by an authorized dealer, the accessories are covered by warranty for 12 months or for the balance of the new car warranty, whichever is greater.

Warranty
All new Lexus vehicles come with a 48-month/50,000-mile basic limited warranty with roadside assistance for 48-months/unlimited miles. Powertrain and restraint system coverage is provided for 72 months/70,000 miles. Corrosion perforation protection is covered for 72 months, regardless of mileage.

Lexus Launches F-Sport Registry

Derek Kreindler — Thu, 10 Jun 2010 18:01:17 +0000

Lexus has just launched a vehicle registry for the F-Sport product lineup, allowing owners to plot their locations on a map, and see where other F-Sport owners are hanging out.

The registry is open to owners of the IS-F, LS460 Sports, vehicles with F-Sport accessories and the LFA supercar. As of now, there are allegedly three LFA owners on the registry, but we suspect that anyone who actually owns this car wouldn’t register their public location, and would instead hang out with a super elite group of people in locations that are off limits to us common folk.

Hit the jump to read the official press release

[Source: ClubLexus]

June 1, 2010 – Torrance, CA – Are you a Lexus owner? Lexus has recently rolled out an official registry for all F-Sport owners. Whether you are an LFA, ISF, F-Sport Parts or LS460 Sport owner, you are able to make your mark on this global registry.

As a registrant, you will be able to setup your own profile to share with other fellow Lexus owners and enthusiasts. You can check out where they live and see what type of Lexus F and mods they have added to their collection. You can also register your club affiliations proudly including Club Lexus! It’s a great way to network and share ideas with fellow Lexus owners around the world, and most importantly it is free to register. So what are you waiting for? Register now! Here is some info below, including the link to register your Lexus F!

PUTTING LEXUS PERFORMANCE ON THE MAP. LITERALLY.

Welcome to the worldwide database of exhilarating Lexus performance vehicles. Here, you can register your LFA, IS F and LS 460 Sport, as well as any Lexus equipped with F Sport TM [1] [2]or aftermarket performance equipment. You can also check out other Lexus performance vehicles around the world, filtering by model or enthusiast site where they were registered.

Lexus IS350C F-Sport Special Edition Announced for 2010

Colum Wood — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 17:33:29 +0000

Lexus has just announced a new Special Edition version of the IS350C, complete with many of its F-Sport accessories. Priced from $57,500, it will be offered in only Tungsten Pearl or Obsidian. Unique to the Special Edition is a set package of F-Sport goodies including: new 19-inch forged wheels with Michelin Pilot Sport tires, upgraded front and rear brakes, lowering springs, Bilstein shocks, sway bars, a new F-Sport grille, as well as F-Sport floor mats, an F-Sport shift knob and F-Sport badging. (Model different from shown).

The package also features black leather seats with blue stitching, while standard features include heated and ventilated front seats with wood trim, Bi-Xenon HID headlamps with Adaptive Front lighting, Lexus Navigation, a rear back-up camera, Voice Command casual-language voice recognition system and Lexus Enform with Safety Connect.

Just 100 F-Sport Special Edition models will be offered, with sales beginning later this month. The car will officially debut at the New York Auto Show on March 31st.

Official release after the jump:

Lexus Introduces 2010 IS 350C F-Sport Special Edition

Only 100 Units Will Be Produced
Features F-Sport Performance Accessories and Unique Grille
Interior with Numbered Badging and Blue Contrast Stitching

TORRANCE, Calif. (March. 8, 2010) – Lexus today announced the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $57,500 for the 2010 IS 350C F-Sport Special Edition which will arrive at dealerships later this month. The MSRP does not include a delivery, processing and handling fee of $875.

“The F-Sport Special Edition builds on the IS 350C and takes the fun of the convertible up another notch,” said Mark Templin, Lexus Division group vice president and general manager. “The F-Sport accessories on this car were precision engineered specifically for this vehicle, allowing us to provide sport-tuned performance without sacrificing ride quality.”

This 2010 IS 350C Special Edition was designed to engage driving enthusiasts with the performance and styling enhancements from the F-Sport accessories line. This IS 350C, only available in two colors, Tungsten Pearl or Obsidian, can be distinguished from other IS convertibles by the following F-Sport equipment:

Newly designed 19-inch forged alloy wheels with a wheel lock set and Michelin Pilot Sport 225/35ZR19 tires in the front and 255/35ZR19 tires in the rear;
Front and rear brake upgrade for a firmer pedal feel and enhanced fade resistance;
New and unique F-Sport grille not previously available;
Shock set developed in cooperation with Bilstein^®;
Lowering springs that reduce the ride height approximately one-inch in the front and rear;
Sway bar set that helps reduce body roll and provide flatter cornering;
Embroidered floor mats with F-Sport logo;
Leather-wrapped shift knob with F-Sport logo;
And exterior badging and an individually numbered badge on the center console complete the uniqueness of this vehicle.

The IS 350C F-Sport Special Edition also comes with black leather-trimmed seats with sporty blue contrast stitching. Other Special Edition standard features include heated and ventilated front seats with wood trim; Bi-Xenon HID headlamps with Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS); headlamp washers; and Lexus Navigation. The hard disk drive (HDD) navigation system has a seven-inch VGA touch-screen, Bluetooth^® phonebook download capabilities, a rear back-up camera, Voice Command casual-language voice recognition system, Lexus Enform, XM^® NavTraffic, XM^®NavWeather, and XM^®Sports and Stocks. XM services include a complimentary 90-day trial subscription. It is also features the new telematics system Lexus Enform™ with Safety Connect™ (includes complimentary one-year trial subscription).

“The IS 350C F-Sport Special Edition is a unique package of style and excitement. With only 100 units available nationwide they’ll sell out fast to customers who want power, performance and a little more fun under the sun,” said Templin.

SEMA 2009: Lexus Tuners Build Four Custom IS350 Convertibles

Colum Wood — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 01:57:50 +0000

Last year Lexus used the SEMA Show to help promote the IS-F, but for SEMA ’09, the IS Convertible is taking the stage. Lexus shipped out three IS Cs to different shops and organizations, letting them be as creative as they liked. A fourth IS C was built by Lexus’s in-house F-sport performance division.

First up is the bright green IS C from Fox Marketing (which we’ve already covered several times over). It gets a widebody conversion, iForged wheels, a Seibon carbon fiber rear spoiler and a ProCharger supercharger to make over 400-hp.

A matte-red IS350C built by the folks at VIP Auto Salon and JTuned.com might just be the nicest looking of the IS Cs at SEMA with a carbon fiber hood and trunk spoiler. Performance mods are minimal with a Joe Z intake pipe and a header back exhaust system. There’s also a TOMS air filter and reprogrammed ECU. And finally, a set of Work Gnosis GS3 MDB wheels.

The 0-60 Magazine is another relatively simple build with a Greddy exhaust and ECU. It’s a full package though with Advan wheels and Continental tires, Brembo brakes, KW coilovers and an Ings+1 body kit to give it the right look.

Finally, Lexus’s TRD F-Sport division used in-house tuning parts that any Lexus owner can buy for his or her car. They include F-Sport 19-inch forged aluminum wheels, an F-Sport big brake upgrade, F-Sport shocks, lowering springs and sway bars. On top of these parts, there’s a Five Axis aero kit and finally a custom PPG Vibrance Orange Glow three-stage candy paint.

See AutoGuide’s live SEMA Coverage here!

GALLERY: Fox Marketing IS350C

GALLERY: VIP Autosalon and JTuned IS350C

GALLERY: 0-60 Magazine & Design Craft Fabrication IS350C

GALLERY: F-Sport by TRD IS350C

Lexus Offers 20 Percent Off F-Sport Performance Parts

Colum Wood — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 16:24:26 +0000

Lexus has just announced a special offer of 20 percent off on all F-sport accessories. The coupon is good until July 31st at participating Lexus dealerships and can be used on F-Sport goodies up to a maximum of $10,000. That’s $2,000 off!

Lexus recently expanded its line of F-Sport products to include the new Lexus IS C and GS models. Parts are also available for the IS250 and IS350 Sedan.

All F-Sport parts are manufactured by Toyota Racing Development (TRD) for Lexus. Highlights include a new exhaust system, an air intake, an F-Sport clutch and short shifter.

To upgrade your car’s overall driving dynamics there are lowering springs (which reduce ride height by one inch), a set of specially tuned Bilstein shocks, a rear chassis brace as well as larger front and rear sway bars.

for the IS, a set of 19-inch wheels not only improves the look of the car but allows for some wider 225/35/19 front and 255/35/19 rear tires. F-Sport offers a big brake upgrade with six-piston front rotors and four-piston rear calipers with 14- and 13.6-inch rotors respectively.

Other highlights in the F-Sport lineup include an aero kit, spoiler, carbon fiber engine cover and an F-Sport shift knob.

See the full list F-Sport parts (with pricing) and see our review of the IS350 F-Sport here:

http://www.autoguide.com/manufacturer/lexus/2009-lexus-is350-fsport-review-1081.html

Just take this coupon to your local Lexus retailer before July 31st and enjoy your savings!