2014 IS-F convertible spotted at Nürburgring?
07-16-12, 02:28 PM
#1
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Thread Starter
2014 IS-F convertible spotted at Nürburgring?
Apparently a 2014 ISF convertible test mule has been seen testing in Europe. This only comes EXACTLY three months after the test mule IS sedan on April 16. It looks like the ISC might debut 3 months after the sedan does, rather than a year. Maybe late 2013.
LLN
*****EDIT: Please excuse me, but it seems that LeftLaneNews' stupid image gallery won't display the spy photos I put below. Please refer to spwolf's pictures.*****
LLN
It appears as though Lexus’ long-rumored IS F Convertible will finally come to fruition. First rumored over three years ago, our spy photographers have just sent us the first-ever pictures of Lexus’ upcoming hot rod drop top.
Although largely based on the softly-sprung IS C, the IS F Convertible will receive plenty of go-fast parts from the IS F Sedan in order to ensure the car is up to the task of rivaling the BMW M3 convertible. As clear evidence of those sporting pretensions, this particular IS F was caught just before shakedown testing on Germany’s Nürburgring.
In comparison to the IS C, the IS F will receive a unique front bumper with extra air inlets. The rear bumper design isn’t quite production-spec at this point, but the IS F sedan’s quad-tailpipe setup is clearly visible. It remains unknown if this prototype’s outrageous rear wing will make production.
Like the IS F Sedan, the IS F Convertible will receive its power from Lexus’ 416 horsepower 5.0L V8. An eight-speed automatic transmission will send power to the convertible’s rear wheels.
No word on when the Lexus IS F Convertible will make production, but our money is on a 2013 market launch.
Although largely based on the softly-sprung IS C, the IS F Convertible will receive plenty of go-fast parts from the IS F Sedan in order to ensure the car is up to the task of rivaling the BMW M3 convertible. As clear evidence of those sporting pretensions, this particular IS F was caught just before shakedown testing on Germany’s Nürburgring.
In comparison to the IS C, the IS F will receive a unique front bumper with extra air inlets. The rear bumper design isn’t quite production-spec at this point, but the IS F sedan’s quad-tailpipe setup is clearly visible. It remains unknown if this prototype’s outrageous rear wing will make production.
Like the IS F Sedan, the IS F Convertible will receive its power from Lexus’ 416 horsepower 5.0L V8. An eight-speed automatic transmission will send power to the convertible’s rear wheels.
No word on when the Lexus IS F Convertible will make production, but our money is on a 2013 market launch.
Last edited by Carmaker1; 07-21-12 at 05:39 PM.
07-17-12, 12:23 AM
#2
NURBURG, Germany — The long-rumored Lexus IS F convertible has finally been spotted testing at Germany's famed Nürburgring, but it's what's under the car that is even more exciting.
Before the camoflauged 416-horsepower V8 convertible went for laps around the circuit, engineers put the IS on a lift and forgot to close the garage bay door, giving us our first look at the next-generation 2014 Lexus IS hiding beneath the convertible skin.
The key giveaway is the clearly-visible rear suspension that is all-new. Aluminum lower control arms replace the steel arms used on the current IS F, a nod to the fact that at 3,812 pounds, the current IS F sedan isn't exactly a lightweight. Separate dampers and springs replace the coil-over configuration in the existing IS. In the above photo, the lower spring perch can be seen as the bowed-out section of the lower control arm just slightly inboard of the shock. Furthermore, a new rear toe adjuster or rear-steer ball joint is evident on this mule, something that doesn't exist on the current IS F. See our suspension walkaround of the 2011 Lexus IS F or the above photo of the 2011 model for comparison.
Taking a closer look at the geometry and setup at play here, this next-generation IS's rear suspension is an adaptation of that found under the 2013 Lexus GS. Accordingly, the 2014 IS could employ adjustable damping as well as active rear steering — features that are currently optional on the larger GS sedan.
Before the camoflauged 416-horsepower V8 convertible went for laps around the circuit, engineers put the IS on a lift and forgot to close the garage bay door, giving us our first look at the next-generation 2014 Lexus IS hiding beneath the convertible skin.
The key giveaway is the clearly-visible rear suspension that is all-new. Aluminum lower control arms replace the steel arms used on the current IS F, a nod to the fact that at 3,812 pounds, the current IS F sedan isn't exactly a lightweight. Separate dampers and springs replace the coil-over configuration in the existing IS. In the above photo, the lower spring perch can be seen as the bowed-out section of the lower control arm just slightly inboard of the shock. Furthermore, a new rear toe adjuster or rear-steer ball joint is evident on this mule, something that doesn't exist on the current IS F. See our suspension walkaround of the 2011 Lexus IS F or the above photo of the 2011 model for comparison.
Taking a closer look at the geometry and setup at play here, this next-generation IS's rear suspension is an adaptation of that found under the 2013 Lexus GS. Accordingly, the 2014 IS could employ adjustable damping as well as active rear steering — features that are currently optional on the larger GS sedan.
new vs old:
07-17-12, 12:26 AM
#3
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BREAKING NEWS..!!
*Spy photos have emerged of a possible MY 2014 Lexus IS "Test Mule"..
This variant happens to be our first raw look at a Lexus IS-F Convertible Hardtop..!!! "It's Coming!!!"
Photos linked Edmunds Inside Line
See more here: Photos linked Edmunds Inside Line
Also, check out the same photos plus some more at Left Lane News
~ Joe Z
*Spy photos have emerged of a possible MY 2014 Lexus IS "Test Mule"..
This variant happens to be our first raw look at a Lexus IS-F Convertible Hardtop..!!! "It's Coming!!!"
Photos linked Edmunds Inside Line
- The disguise is good, but under the skin is the next-generation Lexus IS. | July 16, 2012 | KGP Photography
- Don't put any stock in that rear wing. It's taped on. | July 16, 2012 | KGP Photography
- The heavy use of aluminum hits you first. | July 16, 2012 | KGP Photography
See more here: Photos linked Edmunds Inside Line
Just the Facts:
2014 Lexus IS F convertible is caught testing on the Nürburgring.
GS-derived rear suspension is capable of offering rear steering.
Aluminum lower control arms replace stamped steel currently in use.
NURBURG, Germany — The long-rumored Lexus IS F convertible has finally been spotted testing at Germany's famed Nürburgring, but it's what's under the car that is even more exciting.
Before the camoflauged 416-horsepower V8 convertible went for laps around the circuit, engineers put the IS on a lift and forgot to close the garage bay door, giving us our first look at the next-generation 2014 Lexus IS hiding beneath the convertible skin.
The key giveaway is the clearly-visible rear suspension that is all-new. Aluminum lower control arms replace the steel arms used on the current IS F, a nod to the fact that at 3,812 pounds, the current IS F sedan isn't exactly a lightweight. Separate dampers and springs replace the coil-over configuration in the existing IS. In the above photo, the lower spring perch can be seen as the bowed-out section of the lower control arm just slightly inboard of the shock. Furthermore, a new rear toe adjuster or rear-steer ball joint is evident on this mule, something that doesn't exist on the current IS F. See our suspension walkaround of the 2011 Lexus IS F or the above photo of the 2011 model for comparison.
Taking a closer look at the geometry and setup at play here, this next-generation IS's rear suspension is an adaptation of that found under the 2013 Lexus GS. Accordingly, the 2014 IS could employ adjustable damping as well as active rear steering — features that are currently optional on the larger GS sedan.
Inside Line says: The suspension gives it away. Expect the 2014 Lexus IS to break cover in the next 12 months.
2014 Lexus IS F convertible is caught testing on the Nürburgring.
GS-derived rear suspension is capable of offering rear steering.
Aluminum lower control arms replace stamped steel currently in use.
NURBURG, Germany — The long-rumored Lexus IS F convertible has finally been spotted testing at Germany's famed Nürburgring, but it's what's under the car that is even more exciting.
Before the camoflauged 416-horsepower V8 convertible went for laps around the circuit, engineers put the IS on a lift and forgot to close the garage bay door, giving us our first look at the next-generation 2014 Lexus IS hiding beneath the convertible skin.
The key giveaway is the clearly-visible rear suspension that is all-new. Aluminum lower control arms replace the steel arms used on the current IS F, a nod to the fact that at 3,812 pounds, the current IS F sedan isn't exactly a lightweight. Separate dampers and springs replace the coil-over configuration in the existing IS. In the above photo, the lower spring perch can be seen as the bowed-out section of the lower control arm just slightly inboard of the shock. Furthermore, a new rear toe adjuster or rear-steer ball joint is evident on this mule, something that doesn't exist on the current IS F. See our suspension walkaround of the 2011 Lexus IS F or the above photo of the 2011 model for comparison.
Taking a closer look at the geometry and setup at play here, this next-generation IS's rear suspension is an adaptation of that found under the 2013 Lexus GS. Accordingly, the 2014 IS could employ adjustable damping as well as active rear steering — features that are currently optional on the larger GS sedan.
Inside Line says: The suspension gives it away. Expect the 2014 Lexus IS to break cover in the next 12 months.
~ Joe Z
07-17-12, 12:34 AM
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Just to be clear, the real "goodies" we get from those pictures is what's underneath the car (suspension-wise, mostly, as they look like they'll continue to use the 416 HP ISF engine).
The exterior is just current generation ISC right (with maybe a couple of "practical" modifications with the hood to fit the engine in)?
The exterior is just current generation ISC right (with maybe a couple of "practical" modifications with the hood to fit the engine in)?
07-17-12, 01:32 AM
#5
Just to be clear, the real "goodies" we get from those pictures is what's underneath the car (suspension-wise, mostly, as they look like they'll continue to use the 416 HP ISF engine).
The exterior is just current generation ISC right (with maybe a couple of "practical" modifications with the hood to fit the engine in)?
The exterior is just current generation ISC right (with maybe a couple of "practical" modifications with the hood to fit the engine in)?
07-17-12, 02:24 AM
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Just to be clear, the real "goodies" we get from those pictures is what's underneath the car (suspension-wise, mostly, as they look like they'll continue to use the 416 HP ISF engine).
The exterior is just current generation ISC right (with maybe a couple of "practical" modifications with the hood to fit the engine in)?
The exterior is just current generation ISC right (with maybe a couple of "practical" modifications with the hood to fit the engine in)?
07-17-12, 02:35 AM
#7
Instructor
Thread Starter
BREAKING NEWS..!!
*Spy photos have emerged of a possible MY 2014 Lexus IS "Test Mule"..
This variant happens to be our first raw look at a Lexus IS-F Convertible Hardtop..!!! "It's Coming!!!"
Photos linked Edmunds Inside Line
See more here: Photos linked Edmunds Inside Line
Also, check out the same photos plus some more at Left Lane News
~ Joe Z
*Spy photos have emerged of a possible MY 2014 Lexus IS "Test Mule"..
This variant happens to be our first raw look at a Lexus IS-F Convertible Hardtop..!!! "It's Coming!!!"
Photos linked Edmunds Inside Line
- The disguise is good, but under the skin is the next-generation Lexus IS. | July 16, 2012 | KGP Photography
- Don't put any stock in that rear wing. It's taped on. | July 16, 2012 | KGP Photography
- The heavy use of aluminum hits you first. | July 16, 2012 | KGP Photography
See more here: Photos linked Edmunds Inside Line
Also, check out the same photos plus some more at Left Lane News
~ Joe Z
Trending Topics
07-17-12, 05:14 AM
#8
front grille is the same as in 2012 IS-F, BUT there are large tunneled air intakes, makes me wonder what are they hiding there...
07-17-12, 06:55 AM
#9
Lexus Connoisseur
IS Convertible Sporting IS F Gear @ Nürburgring
Originally Posted by Carbuzz
Lexus IS F Convertible at the Ring
Japanese M3-fighter is being readied in open-top form. Lexus did one heck of a job turning the IS sedan into the IS F performance machine. But the four-door isn't the only version of the IS. There's also a two-door hard-top convertible, and as these spy shots reveal, the premium brand from Toyota is planning to F it all up, too.Spied undergoing testing at the Nurburgring, this IS F cabrio is identifiable by its new front bumper, wider wheel arches packing larger stock and a massive rear wing (possibly used for testing purposes only). Also, by the very fact that it's at the Nurburgring altogether.
The IS F sedan features a 5.0-liter V8 with direct injection to deliver 416 horsepower to the rear wheels for a 4.6-second sprint to 62. Expect the convertible to mimic these numbers, but with two fewer doors and one big folding roof. That is, assuming Lexus doesn't follow Mercedes' lead by fixing the roof like AMG did with the SL65 Black Series.
Originally Posted by Insideline
Just the Facts:
2014 Lexus IS F convertible is caught testing on the Nürburgring.
GS-derived rear suspension is capable of offering rear steering.
Aluminum lower control arms replace stamped steel currently in use.
NURBURG, Germany — The long-rumored Lexus IS F convertible has finally been spotted testing at Germany's famed Nürburgring, but it's what's under the car that is even more exciting.
Before the camoflauged 416-horsepower V8 convertible went for laps around the circuit, engineers put the IS on a lift and forgot to close the garage bay door, giving us our first look at the next-generation 2014 Lexus IS hiding beneath the convertible skin.
The key giveaway is the clearly-visible rear suspension that is all-new. Aluminum lower control arms replace the steel arms used on the current IS F, a nod to the fact that at 3,812 pounds, the current IS F sedan isn't exactly a lightweight. Separate dampers and springs replace the coil-over configuration in the existing IS. In the above photo, the lower spring perch can be seen as the bowed-out section of the lower control arm just slightly inboard of the shock. Furthermore, a new rear toe adjuster or rear-steer ball joint is evident on this mule, something that doesn't exist on the current IS F. See our suspension walkaround of the 2011 Lexus IS F or the above photo of the 2011 model for comparison.
Taking a closer look at the geometry and setup at play here, this next-generation IS's rear suspension is an adaptation of that found under the 2013 Lexus GS. Accordingly, the 2014 IS could employ adjustable damping as well as active rear steering — features that are currently optional on the larger GS sedan.
Inside Line says: The suspension gives it away. Expect the 2014 Lexus IS to break cover in the next 12 months.
2014 Lexus IS F convertible is caught testing on the Nürburgring.
GS-derived rear suspension is capable of offering rear steering.
Aluminum lower control arms replace stamped steel currently in use.
NURBURG, Germany — The long-rumored Lexus IS F convertible has finally been spotted testing at Germany's famed Nürburgring, but it's what's under the car that is even more exciting.
Before the camoflauged 416-horsepower V8 convertible went for laps around the circuit, engineers put the IS on a lift and forgot to close the garage bay door, giving us our first look at the next-generation 2014 Lexus IS hiding beneath the convertible skin.
The key giveaway is the clearly-visible rear suspension that is all-new. Aluminum lower control arms replace the steel arms used on the current IS F, a nod to the fact that at 3,812 pounds, the current IS F sedan isn't exactly a lightweight. Separate dampers and springs replace the coil-over configuration in the existing IS. In the above photo, the lower spring perch can be seen as the bowed-out section of the lower control arm just slightly inboard of the shock. Furthermore, a new rear toe adjuster or rear-steer ball joint is evident on this mule, something that doesn't exist on the current IS F. See our suspension walkaround of the 2011 Lexus IS F or the above photo of the 2011 model for comparison.
Taking a closer look at the geometry and setup at play here, this next-generation IS's rear suspension is an adaptation of that found under the 2013 Lexus GS. Accordingly, the 2014 IS could employ adjustable damping as well as active rear steering — features that are currently optional on the larger GS sedan.
Inside Line says: The suspension gives it away. Expect the 2014 Lexus IS to break cover in the next 12 months.
Last edited by flipside909; 07-17-12 at 07:59 AM. Reason: Please do not merge.
07-17-12, 06:58 AM
#10
Lexus Connoisseur
carbuzz:
InsideLine:
InsideLine:
Last edited by flipside909; 07-17-12 at 08:04 AM.
07-17-12, 07:28 AM
#11
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Testing inside the Nürburgring Nordschleife..!!
Lexus IS-F Convertible Revealed in Latest Spy Photos
by
Lexus has never confirmed plans to build such a car, but that now seems irrelevant as our photographers have snapped these spy photos of what clearly appears to be an IS-F Convertible.
Notably obvious on the test mule, caught lapping the Nurburgring, is an aggressive front bumper, quad exhaust pipes and some big fender flares. Powering the convertible is expected to be the very same engine found in the sedan with 416 hp generated from a 5.0-liter V8.
A new addition is a large rear spoiler, which could be a part of the final package, or just a test piece as Lexus sorts out final settings for its newest performance car.
With Lexus believed to be planning an all-new third generation IS model for 2014, expect the IS-F Convertible to arrive soon.
Enjoy,
~ Joe Z
by
Lexus has never confirmed plans to build such a car, but that now seems irrelevant as our photographers have snapped these spy photos of what clearly appears to be an IS-F Convertible.
Notably obvious on the test mule, caught lapping the Nurburgring, is an aggressive front bumper, quad exhaust pipes and some big fender flares. Powering the convertible is expected to be the very same engine found in the sedan with 416 hp generated from a 5.0-liter V8.
A new addition is a large rear spoiler, which could be a part of the final package, or just a test piece as Lexus sorts out final settings for its newest performance car.
With Lexus believed to be planning an all-new third generation IS model for 2014, expect the IS-F Convertible to arrive soon.
Enjoy,
~ Joe Z
07-17-12, 07:46 AM
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07-17-12, 10:24 PM
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The rear spoiler seems very out of place. Ok, its ugly and it sucks. Hope it doesn't make production. A nice power integrated spoiler like on LFA, SLS or older 911 would be much nicer. Also a carbon fiber roof would really set it off and save weight.
07-17-12, 10:31 PM
#15
Lexus Test Driver
I wouldn't worry about how this test mule looks... it's just a shell.. the production car will probably not look anything like this and might not even be a convertible.
