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The next-generation IS-F isn’t using the BMW M3 or Mercedes C63 as a benchmark, but Lexus’ own club-racer concept based off the current car.

Recently Lexus demoed the CCSR (Circuit Club Sports Concept) IS-F at the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, showing just how capable a machine it can be, placing second in its class. On hand for the car’s racing debut was IS-F Chief Engineer Yukihiko Yaguchi, who spoke to Lexus Magazine.

“What I’m trying to do is keep this vehicle as a benchmark for the future of the IS F, so the IS F can move in this direction,” said Yaguchi. “What I’ve built into this car is the ultimate performance of the IS F, and I’d like to reflect a lot of its traits in the production version.”

Yaguchi further explains that the CCSR isn’t a strict racer, but intended to be something “in between”, offering full track capability but still being street legal.

Using the same 5.0-liter V8 engine as the current street car the CCSR hints that the next gen IS-F will be much more performance focused - something Lexus reps have expressed in the past. Perhaps the biggest way this could happen would be in reducing weight for added performance, with the CCSR weighing 1,300 lbs less than the current road car. Past rumors have also hinted that the 2014 model could trade its V8 engine for a twin-turbo V6.

But before that new car arrives, the CCSR could be more than just a one-off says Yaguchi. Admitting that there are no current plans for a mass production CCSR,” it depends on the customer needs,” he says. “If the demand is strong enough, I’d definitely consider a production version.”