Report: Lexus mulling over IS F replacement, deciding whether to use forced induction or natural aspiration, no hybrid tech

TheMotorReport of Australia was apparently able to sit down with the Lexus IS’s chief engineer, who hinted that the brand expresses desire to continue producing high-performance halo variant of the IS, known as the IS F, for the next generation. The unfortunate bit of news however is that Lexus won’t be able to use the last model’s 5.0L V8 due to stricter Euro 6 emissions requirements.

“That V8 is a little difficult to meet Euro 6,” Junichiro Furuyama told TheMotorReport, “the engine has a high performance focus, so the combustion condition is more severe than normal engines. It’s a little more difficult than making the V6 engines comply with Euro 6.”

So what would take the 5.0L monster’s place? Furuyama hinted that Lexus is considering both naturally-aspirated and turbocharged powerplants and that either or make a case for themselves.

“In my personal opinion, what is suitable for this kind of sports model is natural aspiration or turbocharged engines,” he elaborated. “For power and torque the turbocharger has a big advantage, but there is some turbo lag. Natural aspiration is one of our strong points… and is a more pure experience.”

Furuyama also pointed out one of the major challenges for the new model is deciding which type of induction should be used. He did stress that the goal is to maintain the original IS F’s “pure experience,” which would mean to continue using natural-aspiration.

One thing that Furuyama did promise, despite keeping most of his cards close, is the next-generation IS F won’t be using any of Lexus’s new hybrid technology anytime soon.

No confirmation was given about an affirmative replacement for the current IS F, though the first generation model remains in production. But TheMotorReport guesstimates that a new one—should it be approved—will reach showrooms sometime in late 2014 or early 2015.

– By: Chris Chin

Source: TheMotorReport Australia