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2008 Lexus IS F

IS F
The 2008 IS F is based on the rear- wheel-drive Lexus IS, which was designed from the outset for performance with its stiff structure and double-wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension systems. The IS F engine is mated to Lexus' first 8-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 transmission performs with outstanding smoothness, and the torque converter allows for enhanced launch capability.

The unique 8-speed 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 gear changes within a tenth of a second. Downshifts are accompanied by automated and precise throttle blips to match engine rpm to vehicle speed.

LS 600h L
The 2008 Lexus LS 600h L is the first car to combine a V-8 gasoline engine with an electric motor for improved gas mileage and robust acceleration. The LS 600h L differs little from the LS 460 in its exterior appearance. Aside from the model badge on the trunk lid, the word HYBRID appears on the trim near the bottom of the rear doors. Special to the hybrid is a power-flow diagram on the dashboard's central LCD screen.

Even nicer, the basics are repeated in color graphics between the speedometer and tachometer. The car's hybrid nature eliminates none of the model's gee-whiz features, the most awe-inspiring of which is a self-parking system that relies on the car's rearview camera. The LS is the first vehicle in the world to mate an electric drive system to a V-8 engine, in this case a new 5.0-liter. The system as a whole generates more than 430 horsepower, according to Lexus.

LX 570
Replacing the Lexus LX 470 full-size SUV is the 8-seat 2008 LX 570. It's the most refined and feature-packed model yet, as you might expect, but holds no big surprises. Lexus markets the truck as the ultimate combination of comfort and utility. The LX 570 resembles the LX 470 it replaces, with a nose that mimics the current line of sedans. The LX is large enough that even its standard 20-inch alloy wheels look small. It is 4 inches longer and almost an inch wider than the previous generation. Lexus says the 4 inches of greater length from bumper to bumper adds the same amount to the cabin. In terms of legroom, inches make a big difference.

2008 Lexus LX 570

The many standard features include touch-screen navigation with real-time traffic information and a premium stereo with XM Satellite Radio. The LX 570 is named after its 5.7-liter V-8 engine, which adds more than 100 horsepower to this model for a total of 381 hp. The transmission is a new 6-speed, which adds 2,000 pounds of towing capacity for a total of 8,500 pounds.
Lexus