What transmission does the Lexus ISF have?
The Lexus ISF uses an eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters and a manual mode; there is no factory manual option for this high-performance model.
Introduced in 2007 and produced through 2014, the IS F pairs a 5.0-liter V8 with a performance-tuned automatic gearbox developed in collaboration with Aisin. Known as the Sport Direct Shift system, it lets drivers select gears via paddles or the shifter while maintaining the smoothness of an automatic. This setup prioritizes responsive shifts and reliability over a traditional manual gearbox.
Transmission specifications and features
Key characteristics of the IS F’s gearbox are summarized here:
- 8-speed automatic transmission
- Sport Direct Shift (SDS) control that speeds up shifts and adjusts feel for sport driving
- Paddle shifters mounted on the steering wheel for manual control
- Manual mode with selectable gears via the shifters or the shift gate
- Torque-converter-based automatic (not a dual-clutch transmission)
In short, the IS F combines the convenience of an automatic with sport-oriented shifting, trading a manual gearbox for a higher-torque converter and direct shift control.
Historical context and production window
The IS F debuted in 2007 as Lexus' performance variant of the IS lineup and remained in production until around 2014. It was designed to deliver high performance with a refined automatic-equipped drivetrain rather than a manual gearbox. The 8-speed automatic was designed to handle the 5.0-liter V8's torque while providing rapid, controlled shifts in sport and track settings.
Summary
The Lexus ISF uses an 8-speed automatic transmission with Sport Direct Shift, paddle shifters, and a manual mode, with no factory manual option. This setup balances strong performance with everyday usability and is a defining feature of the IS F's driving experience.
What transmission is in Lexus IS F?
8-speed Sport Direct Shift
The Lexus IS F features an 8-speed Sport Direct Shift (SPDS) automatic transmission with sequential shift which can lock-up the torque converter from 2nd through 8th gears (see also: Lexus IS transmission specifications).
How fast does the ISF shift?
A typical F1 transmission upshift time is approx. 0.05 seconds, with virtually imperceptible lag. The IS F upshifts occur in approximately 0.1 seconds.
Does Lexus use ZF transmissions?
Now if six turned out to be eight . . . The eight-speed transmission is not new to the automotive world. Toyota has had one in its Lexus LS and IS F sedans for a few years.
Is Lexus IS F rare?
Here's the casing point for it the Lexus ISF is such a special car actually a lot of folks hear about it but they don't realize how rare they are less than 15,000.
