7 Reasons Why the Lexus IS 500 is the Perfect Car for Driving Enthusiasts

7 Reasons Why the Lexus IS 500 is the Perfect Car for Driving Enthusiasts

The Lexus IS 500 isn’t just an exciting new sports sedan, it’s a unicorn. That’s because when Lexus first decided to put the IS 500 into production, they relied on a simple philosophy: put a big engine in a small car, and make it go really fast. But this car is so much more than just a beefed-up IS.

Here are 7 key reasons why the Lexus IS 500 is sure to appeal to automotive purists.

1. The Way It Feels

The most noteworthy highlight of the IS 500? A naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 engine that turns out 472 hp – we’re talking over 50% more power than the new IS 350. As a result, this car has the responsiveness and linear acceleration that only a naturally aspirated V8 can deliver.

2. The Way It Sounds

That aforementioned Lexus 5.0-liter V8 isn’t just tremendously powerful; it also sounds fantastic. Out back, you’ve got two stacked exhaust pipes that take inspiration from the Lexus F models like the RC F – they look aggressive, amplify the engine note perfectly, and make the IS 500 sing.

3. The Aggressive Design

The changes to the exterior of the IS 500 are subtle but impactful: the raised hood immediately hints at the 5.0-liter V8 engine’s power, while a more subtle design change can be found on the bumper and fenders, which have been lengthened slightly to make room for that big motor. And, of course, let’s not forget the exclusive 19”split-10-spoke Enkei wheels that complete the IS500's new, more aggressive look.

4. The Attention to Detail

We’ve covered the more obvious upgrades, but the IS 500 also boasts a list of subtle updates that only a true enthusiast would notice. As the first vehicle in the new Lexus F SPORT Performance line, the IS 500 sports unique black F SPORT badges on the engine cover, door sills and steering wheel – plus there’s even a custom start-up screen graphic. Also of note, the window trim has been changed to a dark chrome. It’s the little touches that help set a car like this apart from the pack.

5. The Joy of Feeling Connected to the Road

Power is nothing without control, which is why the IS 500's chassis is built on the standard IS F SPORT’s Dynamic Handling Package. This includes a Torsen limited slip rear differential, the Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) with Yamaha rear performance damper, as well as the adjustable drive mode selector with Sport and Sport Plus modes. And for when you need to reign that power in, Lexus also upgraded the IS 500's brakes for additional cooling.

6. The Exclusivity

Production of the IS 500 isn’t capped at a specific number, but overall volume will be limited simply by nature of this car’s focused appeal. And in a world where V8 sports sedans like this are unfortunately all but extinct, this is an instant future classic!

7. It Delivers True Satisfaction

Anyone who genuinely loves cars should know how special this machine is. But the real reason to buy one is for the personal satisfaction that comes from having something that truly delivers on the promise of driving enjoyment. Combining the bold styling of the new 2021 IS launched last year with that awesome V8 engine, the IS 500 is simply an enthusiast’s dream. Or in other words, those who get, get it.

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[josephmarcel]

Love that Naturally Aspirated V8 in the smaller new IS. No offense to Turbo lovers, but I prefer the brute strength of that naturally aspirated V8.

[MetikalMan]

So much want. This is such a throwback with the tame styling, logical nomenclature and of course an amazing V8. If this can channel half of the dynamics of the LC it should rock.

[limpunsing]

Amazingly perfect for matured wise enthusiast

[philspaghet]

In a world where Mercedes goes replacing V8s with 4 cylinder hybrid setups, Lexus gives us a V8 IS sedan :')

Y'ALL BETTER BUY IT DAMMIT

[blu_is]

- One of the few IS 500 videos that I’ve missed. This was awesome to watch, but owning one has been soooo amazing. 💙🤘🏽

[santillbrezon]

Lexus is a great, beautiful vehicle company. There is only a small group of vehicle companies including lexus that have that ultimate quality and wonderful ownership experience. Congratulations, lexus deserves praise.

[robgindc]

"I have GOT to get me one of THESE!" 😍

[Del_]

Lexus brought back the E92 M3 with reliability

[karlowens]

I test drove one of these today. Coming from someone who drives a 2022 M340i, this car feels slow and less dynamic. resale value is best in class and this car will actually remain on the road instead of in the service department. Lol..

[abcdLeeXY]

The last of its kind. It's bound to be a classic 👌

[ozijay]

Lexus thank you very much.
You are the best.

[Driver]

Awesome - do not care that there is no manual, the exhaust sound is worth the compromise.

[AkioWasRight]

What in tarnation, you guys still post videos?

[erikafiore]

I miss you Mike Harley! Very nice review.

[seinundzeiten]

Lexus should put the V-10 into the IS500

[joshuanishanthchristian]

Wow. This is a neat, neat, car. And that Predator Mouth Grille actually looks good for once!

[RandomStuffGarage]

7 reasons but we only want to know ONE THING:

MANUAL???

[genkideguire]

For those who understand that you don't need to mod everything.

[DrumNut]

This wasn't a review, it was a commercial for Lexus. I want to see unbiased reviews not propaganda for car companies.

[Speedy-msck]

Going to get mine Tuesday, there close tomorrow July 5, 2022🥴