Lexus IS-F (XE20) 2007-2012

[Matt]

Lexus Unveils Two High-Performance Vehicles at the 2007 North American International Auto Show

01/08/2007 Detroit
January 8, 2007 - Detroit - Lexus unveiled the IS-F high-performance luxury sedan and the LF-A sports-car concept at a press conference today at the 2007 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit.
The all-new 2008 IS-F high-performance luxury sedan will deliver more than 400 horsepower from a 5.0-liter V8 engine when it goes into production. The LF-A supercar concept is equipped with a V10 engine that produces more than 500 horsepower. Together, the two exciting new cars make a dramatic statement of Lexus performance.
The IS-F and LF-A are very different vehicles, yet they share the same DNA, design philosophy, and heritage. Prominent in both vehicles, the "F" designation was first conceived nearly 20 years ago with a project internally coded "Circle-F," with the "F" standing for "flagship." This was the original code for what became the Lexus Division. The Circle-F designation further evolved into the code name Flagship One, or F1, and the first F1 concept developed into Lexus' first vehicle, the LS. Since then, the "F" code has come to signify a special vehicle program within Lexus that falls outside the normal engineering and development process.
"Lexus has long been perceived as the maker of mainstream luxury vehicles, but the unveiling of the IS-F and LF-A not only changes this perception, it also introduces a new Lexus marque," said Bob Carter, Lexus Division group vice president and general manager. "The 'F' shared by both vehicles is the signature for a new high-performance marque conceived by an engineering team that dared to turn their dream of 'a Lexus like no other' into a reality."

IS-F Performance Sedan



Much of the development of the new IS-F took place at Fuji Speedway and the Higashi-Fuji Technical Center in Japan. The IS-F is based on the proven rear-wheel-drive Lexus IS, which is equipped with a double-wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension. As well as the IS performs, Lexus engineers demanded much more of the all-new IS-F. The result is a performance tuned 5.0-liter V8 engine, topped with specially engineered heads fed by a two-stage intake system, that produces 400-plus horsepower and more than 350 ft.-lbs. of torque. The all-new IS-F is equipped with engine-oil and transmission-fluid coolers for high-speed performance and a cylinder head-scavenging oil pump for high g-force driving.
The IS-F engine is mated to the world's first eight-speed direct sport-shift transmission. A new torque-converter lock-up control was developed that allows for a direct, crisp gear change through the constant lock-up of the torque converter in second through eighth gears. In Drive mode, the IS-F transmission performs with great smoothness, and the torque converter allows for great launch ability for fast standing-start acceleration that will register a zero-to-60 time in less than 4.9 seconds.
This unique transmission also features an advanced Manual mode. A pair of paddles located within a fingertip's reach behind the steering wheel enables the driver to make ultra-fast up-shift gear changes within a tenth of a second. Downshifts are accompanied by automated and incredibly precise throttle blips to match engine RPM to vehicle speed.
The impressive acceleration achieved by the IS-F requires it be equipped with heavy-duty Brembo brakes designed to the specifications of the Lexus engineering team. Huge, 14.2-inch cross-drilled front discs are gripped by rigid, powerful six-piston aluminum calipers, while 13.6-inch rear cross-drilled discs feature two-piston calipers. High-friction brake pads are equipped on all four wheels. The brakes are finished with the Lexus name displayed on the calipers, a first for a Lexus production vehicle.
The IS-F features custom-designed 19-inch forged alloy wheels as standard. The wheels were built to Lexus specifications by BBS and are surrounded by high-performance sport tires.
The attention to performance also extends to a modified suspension that lowers the entire car by more than a half-inch when compared to the base IS, and one full inch when compared to IS models equipped with 18-inch wheels. This specially modified suspension allows for an exciting and energetic drive, whether on a race track or the streets.
The IS-F features an all-new three-mode version of Lexus' Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system. In addition to the Normal mode, the new VDIM features a Sport mode that allows the driver to push the car even further before its braking-, throttle- and steering-control systems kick in. The third VDIM system mode is Off, which allows the driver to push the IS-F to its ultimate level of handling performance.
The attention to performance is complemented by modified styling cues that differentiate the IS-F from the standard IS. Lexus engineers provided the IS-F with a dual-exhaust system and quad-tail pipes, wider front fenders, and a larger grille and rear spoiler. Both the hood and lower intake were enlarged to accommodate and cool the V8 engine.
Like the exterior, the interior of the IS-F receives unique styling with aluminized composite trim and special surface treatments. The instrument panel includes an oil-temperature gauge and shift indicator-lights, while the "F" logo is showcased on the steering wheel and rear-center console.
In addition to the usual Lexus standards of comfort and convenience, the interior of the IS-F features specially shaped and trimmed seats, which hold the driver comfortably and securely in place. The special sport seats are available in black or a unique high-contrast white and black trim.
"The intent of creating the IS-F was not to be a competitor to other performance-sport sedans," said Carter. "Rather, the goal was to create a true performance sedan in a uniquely Lexus way-one that is totally authentic with a unique interpretation of raw driving thrill at all speeds and provides a whole new definition of 'usable power.'"
The IS-F will arrive at Lexus dealerships in early 2008.

[Matt]

Lexus IS-F Preliminary Specifications

Powertrain
Engine: 5.0 Liter V8

Estimated Horsepower: More than 400

Estimated Torque: More than 350 lb.-ft.

Transmission: Eight-speed direct paddle sport shift gear box

Brakes
Large diameter cross-drilled discs
Front/Rear: 14.2 inches/13.6 inches

Opposed aluminum calipers
Front/Rear: Six piston/two piston

Wheels
Forged aluminum wheels
Front: 225/40R19 (19 x8)
Rear: 255/35R19 (19 x 9)

Performance
0-60 MPH Acceleration: Under 4.9 seconds

Fuel Economy: TBD

Emissions Rating: ULEV II

Dimensions (inches)
Overall Length: 183.5

Overall Width: 71.5

Overall Height: 55.5

Wheelbase: 107.5

[Matt]

Lexus IS-F #3

[Matt]

Lexus IS-F #4

[Matt]

Lexus IS-F #5

[Matt]

Lexus IS-F #6

[Matt]

Lexus IS-F #7

[Matt]

Lexus IS-F #8

[jinst4]

very nice. thanks man.

[hchanhle]

Is-it just me or this car looks positively cartoon-like? I think they have butchered the L-finesse design philosophy with a blunt and gaping air dam, front-fender extractor... Now the front end looks overly heavy compared to the rear end... I'm really disappointed in this design, I was expecting something much more subtle from Lexus...

[Ferrer]

Is-it just me or this car looks positively cartoon-like? I think they have butchered the L-finesse design philosophy with a blunt and gaping air dam, front-fender extractor... Now the front end looks overly heavy compared to the rear end... I'm really disappointed in this design, I was expecting something much more subtle from Lexus...

I agree completely, it's totally overdone.

EDIT And it only comes as an automatic...

[Gt1Street]

January 11, 2008 – Torrance, CA - Lexus today announced the Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the all-new 2008 IS F high-performance sport sedan. The IS F is the first production model to wear the new “F” badge and is the fastest Lexus production car ever built. The 2008 IS F launches onto the market carrying a base MSRP of $56,000.

The 2008 Lexus IS F is exclusively powered by a performance-tuned 5.0-liter V8 engine producing 416 horsepower at 6,600 rpm and 371 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 5,200 rpm. With the implementation of a dual air intake system, high-flow cylinder heads with titanium intake valves designed by Yamaha, Variable Valve Timing with intelligence and Electrically controlled intake cam (VVT-iE) and other technological advancements, the engine outputs 83.2 hp per liter allowing the IS F to accelerate from 0 to 60 in a blistering 4.6 seconds and achieve a maximum track speed of 170 mph.

The IS F 5.0-liter engine is mated to the world's first eight-speed Sport Direct-Shift automatic transmission with a quick and direct special lock up clutch and a control system that enables ultra-quick manual upshifts (0.1 seconds) and blips the throttle for precision downshifts. The driver can shift manually using either the console shifter or steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters when driving in either Drive mode (D) or Manual mode (M). The new transmission blends the performance characteristics of an automated manual-type transmission with the smoothness and refinement of a planetary-type automatic transmission, allowing the driver to choose between ultra-quick manual shifts for spirited performance driving and smooth automatic shifts when convenience and comfort are the top priorities.

Tested and tuned on some of the world's most challenging racetracks including Nurburgring Nordschleife and Fuji Speedway, the IS F has been designed for ultimate performance. Although using the basic double-wishbone front suspension and multi-link rear suspension configurations of the standard IS platform, the IS F benefits from a multitude of track-proven modifications that include increased spring and damper rates as well as larger-diameter stabilizer bars. The IS F also sits an inch lower and features suspension bushings and a calibrated Electric Power Steering (EPS) system tuned for a more direct feel.
In addition to the finely tuned suspension, a specially calibrated version of the advanced Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system is equipped to provide superior handling dynamics and traction control. The IS F is also outfitted with a heavy-duty Brembo® brake system designed to the specifications of the Lexus engineering team. The 14.2-inch ventilated, drilled front rotors are gripped by rigid, powerful six-piston aluminum calipers, while the 13.6-inch ventilated, drilled rear rotors use two-piston calipers.

With new and distinctive high-performance design features, the IS F is set apart from standard Lexus models. The IS F exterior styling has a muscular stance with front fascia, hood, fenders, underbody and rear spoiler all shaped to optimize airflow management and give the IS F a signature look. Unique “F” badges composed of silver, blue and black are located on both front fenders followed by a third badge on the trunk lid. Four exhaust diffusers, stacked two per side in a vertical arrangement, are integrated into the rear bumper and leave a lasting sporty impression. The IS F continues to differentiate itself from its siblings with its 19-inch forged-alloy wheels produced by BBS® that feature a distinct dark-gray finish.

Standard amenities include heated, leather-trimmed 10-way power front sport seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, a pollen filter and smog detector; power moonroof with one-touch open/close and seven open-position settings; power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel; three-position memory function for front seats, steering wheel and mirrors; all power windows with automatic up/down operation with jam protection; an auto-dimming rear-view mirror with HomeLink® programmable garage door opener, SmartAccess keyless entry and push-button start, Lexus Premium Audio System with six-disc in-dash CD changer, automated rain-sensing wipers and heated auto-dimming outside mirrors with integrated puddle lamps. Options include a DVD Navigational System with backup camera, 14-speaker Mark Levinson® Surround Sound Audio System, Intuitive Park Assist, Pre-Collision System, and headlamp washers.

MSRP does not include a delivery, processing and handling fee of $765.

[Gt1Street]

Irresistible Force Creates Moveable Object
10/24/2007
What is it that's said about the irresistible force?

Anyone encountering an engineer named Yukihiko Yaguchi might just find out first hand, for he's an irresistible force that's created a highly movable object.

Yaguchi is a very convincing, compelling guy, but he's also quiet and self effacing. Once he gets hold of you, you not only can't help but like him, you can't help but want to help him accomplish whatever it is that he's up to.

Plenty of people have learned that lesson, and there's solid evidence to support it. The evidence sits on four fat, sticky tires. It's called the Lexus IS F.

In order to understand the IS F and its genesis, the first thing that you have to understand is that Yaguchi is an enthusiast, a performance hard case who loves to drive fine, responsive equipment.

For the 30 years he's been at Toyota, he's wanted to build a car he wanted to drive, a car he'd love to own. During his tenure at Lexus, Yaguchi has worked on the first and second iterations of the Lexus LS luxury sedan, the turbocharged Toyota Supra and the first Lexus GS sport sedan. But none of those cars, however excellent, scratched his peculiar performance itch.

For the past 15 years, he's been thinking in terms of nothing less than an all-wheel-drive supercar with huge horsepower, racetrack-inspired handling and enormous stopping power.

What he had in mind was a take-no-prisoners premium sport sedan that would offer comfort, sophistication and performance to equal or beat the best of the class from Europe.

Finally, he got tired of waiting. He decided that he'd just go ahead and figure out a way to build it.

Yaguchi was ideally placed to ramrod such a project, as he was working at TMC's Lexus Center in the Brand Strategy department in preparation for the Lexus brand to expand globally.

Lexus is of course a well-organized company with carefully proscribed procedures for getting things done. But Yaguchi, the irresistible force, turned procedure on its head.
To begin with, in Lexus' careful way, it's not the engineers who make the decisions to design and develop a vehicle. It's the Product Planning Department. The experts there want to be sure that there's actually a market for a proposed vehicle, and that the finished product will fill the needs of that market.

So instead of the Product Planning people going to Yaguchi and saying something like, "Look, Yaguchi-san, we think that the market is ready for a high-performance sport sedan," it was the other way around. Yaguchi pitched his concept to Product Planning. Incredibly, after much convincing, he received Product Planning's approval to proceed.

But just because the project got the green light from Product Planning, that didn't mean that it had resources and budget allocated to it. It didn't. But that wasn't enough to derail Yaguchi. He developed the IF S when he wasn't busy with his Brand Strategy responsibilities, working informally, on the side, beginning in 2004.

In other words, in the best tradition of the factory-based hotrod, Yaguchi recruited his own special "Skunk Works," an under-the-radar operation populated by a team of speed-crazy rogue engineers who, working in their spare time between their regular assignments, developed their own vision for a Lexus performance vehicle.

Most chief engineers, when they are tasked to develop a new Lexus model, typically have between 1,500 and 2,000 people on their development teams. That didn't happen here. Instead, Yaguchi had between 100 and 300 people at any given time on the IS F development team. He designed and built the IS F with a team that was a fraction of the size of the usual engineering and development staffs.

Working outside the confines of Lexus' usual carefully planned corporate program, Yaguchi cherry-picked the very best people, folks he thought might want to have a hand in creating this special car. Because it wasn't possible to get them assigned full-time to his team, he convinced them to contribute their ideas and skills in their spare time, when they weren't working on their regular projects.

This approach didn't just apply to individuals. Yaguchi worked his wiles on whole departments. For example, a corporate subsidiary called Toyota Technocraft, among many of its special projects, builds packages for police cars and also builds the aero kits used on some Toyota models. Yaguchi reasoned that Toyota Technocraft would be perfect to help with the many specialized modifications of the standard Lexus IS that this car would require.

He pitched the idea to the division's leadership, and they went for it. The result is an engineering marvel with special aerodynamics, an 8-speed Sport Direct Shift transmission with paddle shifters and its own special performance profile, Brembo disc brakes that feature huge, 14.2-inch cross-drilled discs and six pistons per caliper up front, 19-inch wheels and a specially tuned suspension system. Indeed, Technocraft's participation in the IS F project marks the first time the division has worked on the design of an entire production car.

But Yaguchi's determination didn't end there. He went so far, in fact, as to take his requests for help outside the company's confines. He knew that the IS F was going to require a really spectacular engine. So he went to Yamaha, which has a history of making engine components for Toyota and Lexus. He didn't go to just anyone, he asked his old friend Mr. Kimura, who worked on Yamaha's Formula One engine program and then general manager of the aftermarket project division, to help out. As a result of that request, Yamaha did most of the development on the IS F's DOHC 5.0L V8, making sure to pack it with more than 416 horsepower, enough to blast the IS F to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds.

Eventually, none of this was done in secret. So well known did the project become, and so legendary was Yaguchi's persuasiveness, that the whole experience came to be known as Yaguchi-Go. In Japanese, today "go" is a suffix referring to a car, but originally it characterized a ship, the equivalent of a vessel making its unstoppable way forward. So this was Yaguchi and his project cutting a swath, and leaving a wake, through Toyota and Lexus. In this way, "Yaguchi-go" constitutes recognition of his leadership of, and ownership of, the IS F project.

To be certain they got the IS F exactly right, Yaguchi and his team tested the IS F at racetracks that count, at tracks that have challenge and heritage. Those test tracks include the legendary Nurburgring Nordschleife, in Germany's Eiffel Mountains; Circuit Paul Ricard, in the South of France; Circuit Zolder, in Belgium; Laguna Seca Raceway, in California; and Fuji Speedway, in Japan.

In fact, Fuji Speedway is the IS F's home circuit and its many turns the inspiration for the F-logo design.

In fact, by the time testing was concluded, there'd never been a Toyota or a Lexus production car that had been so heavily tested at race tracks all around the world.

The result of all this, of course, will be available to the public beginning in early 2008. And that means that Yaguchi can stop thinking about exactly the car he'd most like to drive. He can actually begin driving it….and so can every other enthusiast.

[Gt1Street]

Lexus Introduces 2008 High-Performance IS F Sport Sedan
10/24/2007
October 23, 2007 – Torrance, CA - The 2008 Lexus IS F high-performance sedan is the first production model to wear the brand's new "F" marque. Based on the robust IS sport sedan platform, the 2008 IS F will deliver 416 horsepower from a specially engineered 5.0-liter V8 engine and will accelerate from zero-to-60 mph in 4.6 seconds when it arrives at Lexus dealerships in early 2008.

In addition to the exclusive V8, the 2008 IS F's performance credentials include racetrack-developed suspension and braking, and a specially calibrated version of the advanced Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system. Much of the IS F development took place at racetracks around the world including Germany's legendary Nurburgring Nordschleife, Circuit Paul Ricard in France, Japan's Fuji Speedway and the Higashi-Fuji Technical Center in Japan. In fact, Fuji Speedway is the IS F's home circuit, and the shape of turn one was the inspiration for the F-logo design.

The 2008 Lexus IS F will make an unmistakable design statement as it launches the brand's F performance marque. The IS F applies a distinctive new high-performance layer on the brand's L-finesse design language, with themes and design features that set the F model noticeably apart from standard Lexus models. Likewise, the interior will feature exclusive performance-influenced luxury appointments befitting the brand.

The "F" originates from the "Circle-F" internal code for what became the Lexus Division nearly 20 years ago. Since then, the "F" code has signified special Lexus vehicle programs that fall outside the normal engineering and development process.

"With Lexus solidly established as a luxury leader, it was time to expand the brand's scope by offering unique high-performance models, and the IS F is the first," said Dave Nordstrom, Lexus vice president of marketing. "Lexus did not design the IS F as a direct competitor to any specific models, but as a true performance sedan in a distinctly Lexus way. The IS F is totally authentic with a unique interpretation of driving excitement at all speeds and provides a new definition of ‘usable power.'"

The Look of Performance
Based on the IS luxury sport sedan, the IS F is clearly differentiated when viewed from the front, rear or in profile. A trapezoid-shaped front bumper fascia, a theme that is repeated at the rear, sets off the V-shape grille. The hood has a raised center section to make room for the V8 powerplant, and the front fenders were widened to envelop the 19-inch low-profile tires.

Both upper and lower grilles use a special wire-mesh pattern, and total grille area is increased to ensure adequate cooling for the 5.0-liter V8. The lower grille is flanked by large brake cooling ducts adjacent to standard fog lamps. Standard bi-xenon HID headlights include the Lexus Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS), which helps to illuminate curves at night.

The IS F's wedge-like profile is accentuated by functional front fender air outlets with lower edges that transition into larger rocker panels and continue as a character line into the rear bumper. The front fenders wear a discrete silver, black and blue "F" marque.

The rear view conveys a strong parting signature for the IS F, with a dramatic trapezoid shape and easily recognizable design elements. Four exhaust diffusers, two per side in a vertical arrangement, are integrated into the rear bumper. Above them, light-emitting diode (LED) stop and tail lamps behind clear lenses give the IS F a unique nighttime appearance. Attention to design detail extends down to the white LED license plate lamps. The subtle rear spoiler is one of many aerodynamic enhancements, which also include special underbody panels to optimize airflow.

Contributing to both design and performance, 19-inch forged-alloy wheels produced by BBS® feature a distinct dark-gray finish and an asymmetrical 10-spoke design.

IS F Engine, from the Bottom Up
The 2008 Lexus IS F is exclusively powered by a performance-tuned 5.0-liter V8 engine producing 416 horsepower at 6,600 rpm and 371 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 5,200 rpm. Although based on the 4.6-liter V8 used in the Lexus LS and GS, the V8 in the IS F was specially engineered for higher power output, high-performance driving and durability. This new engine's high specific output (83.2 hp/liter) and high operating range (6,800 RPM redline) reflect the thorough attention to detail underlying the core engineering.

The IS F V8 introduces new technology and features that are exclusive to this version of the engine. Some of these include a dual air intake system, engine-oil and transmission-fluid coolers for high-speed performance and a cylinder-head scavenge oil pump. The scavenge pump forces oil from the cylinder heads back to the oil pan, ensuring a reliable oil supply even during cornering that exceeds one g.

The IS F 5.0-liter V8 is based on a die cast aluminum cylinder block with steel liners. Ribs positioned on the block's outer wall provide high rigidity. The crankshaft is forged, with high-frequency hardening to the fillet area, and uses a double torsional damper. Crankshaft journals are polished to a mirror finish to minimize the friction generated between the connecting rods and the crankshaft, and forged sintered iron alloy connecting rods ensure high-rpm durability.

Pistons use two-piece oil rings for low friction, and the skirt area is resin-coated to reduce noise and vibration. The timing-sensor rotor is attached at the rear of the crankshaft, which experiences less vibration than the front.

Innovative Breathing
High-flow cylinder heads designed by Yamaha have a lightweight valvetrain, contributing to the IS F V8's high-rpm capability. The horsepower peak arrives at 6,600 rpm (just 200 rpm before redline), and the torque peak at 5,200 rpm. The resulting performance character, while quite responsive in low-speed situations, provides a rush of power at higher engine speeds. Carefully chosen ratios for the 8-Speed Sport Direct Shift transmission help ensure responsiveness at all vehicle speeds.

The IS F V8 engine employs innovative new technologies to maximize efficiency and reduce emissions, including the SFI D-4 (direct-to-cylinder injection system with secondary port injectors) fuel injection and the Electronic Throttle Control System with intelligence (ETCS-i). Essentially, SFI D-4 integrates two types of fuel injection: A direct-type high-pressure fuel injection system, which provides a cooling effect in the cylinders and enables the high compression ratio (11.8:1) employed to extract maximum energy from the fuel; and a set of low-pressure port fuel injectors that help produce a precise burn to optimize power and efficiency under light- and medium-load conditions.

A dual air-intake system uses a primary intake passage for low and medium engine speeds. In the higher engine speed range (above 3,600 rpm), both the primary and secondary passages are opened, helping boost high-rpm power. Both intake passages share a common high-efficiency, low-restriction air filter.

Lexus optimized the intake system down to the smallest details. For example, the throttle valve shaft has been tapered down from 10 mm to 7 mm diameter in the center to expand the intake air passage. The intake manifold uses a simple plenum design with equal-length runners.

High-Precision, High-RPM Valve Control
With a strong bottom end to help ensure durability, the top end of the IS F V8 could be engineered for high-rpm capability. The aluminum cylinder heads made for the IS F by Yamaha feature integrated cam journals. The four composite camshafts use net-sinter forged cam lobes on hollow shafts, with the inside of the shafts serving as oil passages.

Titanium intake valves operated by roller rocker arms with needle bearings and fixed fulcrums contribute to a low-inertia valve train. High-flow intake ports were specially designed for the IS F engine, with a cross-section area optimized to improve intake-pulsation efficiency and increase air-intake volume.

With the IS F 5.0-liter V8, Lexus has made a leap in valve-control technology with the new Variable Valve Timing with intelligence and Electrically controlled intake cam (VVT-iE). The exhaust camshaft uses hydraulically controlled variable valve timing.

Variable valve timing systems typically use engine oil pressure to operate cam-phasing mechanisms. In the IS F, using an electric drive motor to alter the intake camshaft phasing made it possible to expand VVT operational range to lower engine speeds, where engine oil pressure is usually not high enough to operate conventional VVT. An electric motor, with electronic control unit and a reducer, is mounted to the front of each intake camshaft.

Dual single-row independent primary timing chains drive the intake camshafts, which drive the exhaust camshafts via smaller secondary chains. Reinforcement ribs inside the timing-chain cover reduce timing chain noise, and integrating the water pump, oil pump and scavenge oil pump into the timing chain cover reduces weight.

The IS F V8's compact pent-roof combustion chamber positions the long-reach sparkplug nearly in the center. The plugs use an iridium-tipped center electrode and a platinum-tipped side electrode. A water jacket between the exhaust port and plug thread ensures optimal cooling around the plugs. Four knock sensors in the engine's valley reduce the possibility of detonation.

[KonaGreen]

Woah...
I agree with hchanhle, they most certainly could've been a bit more subtle than that. The hood look huge too, not as graceful as the 6cyl model. And yes, I do realize that there is a V8 under there.