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The idea of the small supersedan is nothing new, but as of late we’ve been seeing lots of contenders throwing their hats into the ring. It is generally accepted that BMW started it all with the M3 back in the 1980s, quickly followed by the Mercedes-Benz with the 190E 2.3-16. Audi played too with its own unique twist in the form of the AWD rally-inspired S2 (or, some might argue, some of the hotter Ur-Quattro models that preceded it). For quite some time, this space was the domain of the Germans, and each successive generation of Teutonic supersedan kept getting faster, better handling, and more desirable.

There’s just something about the idea of small supersedan that’s just so compelling to a car enthusiast who lives in the real world. Sure, we’d all love to motor around in a Ferrari all day long, but c’mon, how practical is that? Those don’t have a backseat, don’t have room for groceries, and are moody and diva-like in terms of their willingness to operate reliably on a day-to-day basis. A small supersedan, on the other hand, can haul passengers and cargo with ease, and its small size makes it nimble and agile as a true performance car should be. And the latest generation of supersedans possess performance to rival most exotic sports cars. Pretty compelling, huh?
Apparently, the Toyota and GM agree because they’ve shown up to the party with their own supersedans. Cadillac’s CTS-V is already in its second generation and is an awe-inspiring beast. And now, Lexus has its own small supersedan as well, the IS-F.
The IS-F is, as you’d expect, derived from the standard IS that we reviewed earlier. You’ll remember that we loved it, deeming it the equal of the benchmark BMW 3-Series in terms of its handling prowess and responsiveness. As such, it’s a great base from which to build a take-no-prisoners supersedan.
And boy, does it work. The IS-F represents a really thorough approach to building a supersedan (after all, this is from the brand that’s all about pursuing perfection, right?). It’s so much more than a big engine strapped to a compact bodyshell. Sure, it’s got that in the form of a 416HP 5.0L V8, but that’s just the beginning.
Here’s a sampling of the IS-F’s changes. New front sheetmetal. Lowered and stiffened suspension. Brembo brakes. Eight-speed transmission with lightning-fast shifts. Even stability control that can be fully shut off for tail-out antics (usually a big no-no for Toyota and Lexus vehicles due to liability concerns). All of this adds up to visceral and engaging experience we’re just not used to from Lexus.
Oh sure, it will loaf about effortlessly around town. Below about 3,800 rpm, the V8 is ultra-quiet and refined, much like any other Lexus. And despite the lowered suspension and 19-inch wheels, the ride quality is still reasonably comfortable and well-damped. And of course, the interior boasts first-class materials, fit, and finish (I absolutely loved the white leather seats, in particular). Let ‘er rip, though, and it’s a whole different story. The refined engine note turns into an intoxicating bark as the revs climb past 4,000 rpm. The smooth transmission starts banging off ultra-fast upshifts (and even rev-matches downshifts when you’re slowing down for turns). Hurl it into a corner and the car responds with ultra-responsive steering and mind-bending grip. Drive the car with enthusiasm and it truly becomes a different car. This is truly one of those cars with a split personality.
To me, this is what separates the IS-F from the established German competition. The BMW M3 is fantastically engaging but can feel cranky when asked to perform the mundane day-to-day slog. The raving mad Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG feels similarly frustrated when stuck in traffic. The IS-F, however, does the usual Lexus trick day after day, coddling its occupants in royal comfort. That is, until the road opens up. Then, when the driver asks it to, all hell breaks loose. That, my friends, is what being a true dual-purpose supersedan is all about.