Do you remember the original Lexus IS F? Lexus took an ordinary compact luxury sedan, stuffed a 5.0-liter V-8 under the hood, added flared bumpers and stacked exhaust tips, and unleashed it on the world. That car launched a whole host of V-8-powered F models, including the RC F and GS F.
Seventeen years later, the F’s performance name still lingers – sort of – in the strange name IS500 F Sport performance. But if recent reports are to be believed, Lexus F models as we know them may be facing extinction.
In an interview with Australia DrivingThe F badge represents just “one expression” of performance within the Lexus lineup, said Takashi Watanabe, global president of Lexus. What does that mean exactly? Watanabe explained:
“As we move into the future, we will be moving towards SDVs, which are software-defined vehicles. This will also add a new element to this whole thing… The button you saw on the steering wheel represents a possible development forward, as F-Mode is expressed through software, but we are still touching on the sportiness of the brand.
Photo by: Lexus
While Watanabe stopped short of suggesting that F cars will disappear entirely from the Lexus lineup, the writing appears to be on the wall. Recent Lexus models feature an “F-Mode” button on the steering wheel, which is meant to capture the spirit of the F Performance badge, but without the hardware to go with it.
When asked directly whether Lexus F models will continue in the future, Watanabe said Driving“We don’t have a specific type of product plan or anything like that, where we’ll say that either way.”
However, there is some good news: Toyota and Lexus already have a car New V-8 engine In development. This powertrain is expected to appear in the automaker’s upcoming sports car — which we’re calling “LFR“Toyota may also adapt the new V-8 engine to more conventional vehicles, such as SUVs.
Unfortunately, none of Lexus’ recent concepts or models carry the “F” badge. For example, the latest Lexus Sport concept shows no obvious connection to the brand’s performance division. However, there is hope that Lexus can keep the F name alive. For now, we have to wait and see what the future holds.
