Lexus IS F gets sharper and more cutting-edge for 2010

The BMW M3-rivalling Lexus IS F gets a range of improvements for 2010 that make it better to drive and easier to own.

The biggest is change is a new limited slip differential, as was announced at the 2009 Frankfurt motor show. Fitted as standard, it gives the IS F significantly better traction and stability in high-speed cornering: Lexus test engineers were able to improve the car's lap time around the Fuji International Speedway by a full two seconds.

The Torsen unit is robust enough to handle the 505Nm delivered by the IS F's 5.0-litre V8 engine, automatically directing drive torque to the rear wheel with the most grip. Out-and-out performance is unchanged, with the IS F capable of nought to 62mph acceleration in 4.8 seconds and a top speed (electronically limited) of 168mph.

On the inside, there's a new satellite navigation system, powered by a 40GB hard disc drive (HDD). Lexus claims that it's one of the fastest-responding and most accurate guidance systems on the market, giving full-map coverage across Europe, with automatic links to local traffic information data to ensure efficient route planning.

The HDD also provides an on-board "sound library" function, with 10GB of disc space available for owners to store tracks from CD - space enough for around 2,000 songs. The sound system has been upgraded to receive DAB digital broadcasts and a USB port has been added (in addition to the Aux-in jack), to allow for fully integrated connection of portable digital music players.

New leather interior and alloy wheel options mean that the IS F can be ordered with a new white leather interior in place of the standard black finish and with new mesh-design 19-inch alloy wheels instead of the standard 10-spoke design. Both are no-cost options.

The 2010 Lexus IS F is on sale now, priced £55,595 on-the-road.