Lexus Planning Seven New F Sport Models For 2012

Following on from the successful launch of the IS 350 and IS 250 F Sport, as well as the CT 200h F Sport, Lexus Australia is now gearing up to launch a total of seven new F Sport models in 2012.

First off the ranks will likely be the new GS 350 F Sport, which made its global debut at the Johannesburg motor show earlier this month and is set to make a local appearance at Flemington on Oaks Day in early November.

F Sport variants of the RX SUV are also planned, while the LS limousine and even the gargantuan LX 570 SUV may receive their own F Sport variants.

An even harder-core version of the IS F sports sedan could be waiting in the wings too, and may be based on the IS F Circuit Club Sports model that's available in some overseas markets (below).

F Sport variants currently account for 48 percent of V6-powered IS sales, and 30 percent of CT 200h sales. According to Lexus, Australia has recorded some of the highest take-up figures of F Sport badged models in the world, and is seen by Lexus' top brass as a key market for the performance-oriented sub-brand.

Like BMW's optional M packages, the F Sport badge brings with it a range of styling and handling upgrades designed to inject a sportier flavour into Lexus' models.

The CT 200h F Sport (above) boasts a tighter suspension than its more prosaic stablemates, additional chassis bracing, a dark roof lining and a unique body kit. The IS 250 and IS 350 F Sport also get a tauter suspension, bigger brakes, body-hugging seats lifted from the IS F and, F Sport-specific wheels and a revised aero package.

The CT 200h F Sport currently retails for $49,990, while the IS 250 F Sport and IS 350 F Sport retail for $66,800 and $71,800 respectively.

• To read TMR's review of the CT 200h F Sport, CLICK HERE
• To read TMR's review of the IS 350 F Sport, CLICK HERE