Yes I drove one. Alright my thoughts:
Pros: Quick car, nice low end torque. The design isn't Japanese at all given that it's a 5.0L V8, and the car is lots of fun in many situations. It gets attention and stands out from the regular IS. Nice sound system and interior, you definitely feel like you're driving an expensive, nice, performance car.
Cons: Paddle Shift only transmission.. cool for a little while, but I really did miss the true manual. 8 forward speeds was really overkill, and I felt like I had to use all 8.. realistically you need 6. Also, fake dual exhaust tips in the back.. they aren't connected to anything, and the physical exhaust pipe is embarrassingly small for a V8. And the back seat is a bit small.
Now, this is all my opinion: The IS-F starts at $56,700... the 2009 Cadillac CTS-V starts at $60,700, but I guarantee you'll get a discount. The V comes with 136 more hp, a helluva lot more torque, and a record setting 'ring lap time. You choose your transmission in the V: paddle shift or true manual. It's the fastest V8 production sedan in the world, and it's roomier than the IS-F. The V also comes with 2 suspension modes that you can change in car (good for the ladies who don't like a harsh ride). I really would vote on the V here.. you won't regret it.
But anyways, the high-performance sedan segment is AWESOME. All the cars are total sleepers, and you'll find yourself with great stop light races and tempting highway situations. Test drive the IS-F, the CTS-V, and the 09 BMW M3 sedan. You really can't lose... but I'd still stick with the V. Enjoy and keep us updated! Make sure to check out Caranddriver.com and motortrend.com reviews of both.
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