Lexus IS-F 2011+ Owners Review

[Npjdiff]

I’ve been digging into the Lexus IS F recently and trying to get a clearer picture of what the “ideal” example looks like from an owner’s point of view. There’s a lot of variation in colours, interiors and mileage out there, and I’m interested in how much those differences actually matter in the real world.

The spec that appeals to me personally is something like:

• Sub‑70k miles
• Strong history and enthusiast ownership
• Ultrasonic Blue (always seems to be the one people rave about)
• White leather interior
• Preferably a well‑kept, largely original car rather than something heavily modified


I’m not posting this as a wanted ad — just keen to hear from anyone who owns or has owned something along those lines.

If you’ve got an IS F in that sort of spec:

• How does it feel to live with
• Does the colour/interior combo make it feel more special
• Any quirks, highlights or surprises that only show up with ownership
• And would you choose the same spec again if you were buying another


Always appreciate hearing real‑world experiences from people who’ve spent proper time with them. PH usually has the most honest takes.

[chip*]

Best to ask on the Lexus forum below:

https://www.lexusownersclub.co.uk/forum/forum/134-...

[Npjdiff]

Thanks

[marcella]

I've not owned one but have considered one a few times.

One thing I would suggest is looking at a Japanese Import as the road tax would be around £360 a year opposed to a UK one at £760! Also lower chance of corrosion.

[Npjdiff]

That very interesting as I’ve been avoiding the JDM as it supposed to be harder to insure. Thanks for letting me know

[Axeboy]

Only downside to the JDM is the stereo system can be annoying to swap with a UK based version. It wasnt plug and play if I remember correctly but there are alternatives on Aliexpress etc. If being kph bothers you, getting it in mph didnt work for me, none of the canbus converters worked but I didnt mind kph personally.

Might be better now though, support might have improved

[Npjdiff]

Thanks for that info. I am concerned about the conversion of the stereo and mph is important as well. Did you have to do anything with the head and fog lights at all?

[Axeboy]

Fog light is easy, you can swap one reverse for a fog very easily, just wiring and bulb.

Nothing to do with anything else to be honest.

[Npjdiff]

Thanks that’s great info