All-new 2022 Lexus IS 500 Marks the Return of the 5.0L V8
Building on the next-generation 2021 Lexus IS, the company is adding a new high-performance model with a 5.0-litre V8 engine for the 2022 model year.
Directly inspired by the IS F from the late 2000s, the new IS 500 F Sport Performance becomes the first member of the F Sport Performance range at Lexus.
- Also: Lexus Rumoured to Unveil Three F Models Later in 2021
- Also: 2021 Lexus IS: In the Shadow of the Germans
472 Horsepower
Producing 472 horsepower and 395 pound-feet of torque, the mighty sports sedan accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 4.6 seconds. While the naturally aspirated V8 is considerably heavier than the 3.5-litre V6 found in the IS 350, engineers have reduced weight in other areas so the difference is actually just five kilograms.
The transmission is the same eight-speed automatic that’s featured in the base IS 300 RWD.
The Lexus IS 500 F Sport Performance also comes standard with the Dynamic Handling Package, which includes an adaptive variable suspension and Torsen limited-slip differential. In the braking department, 14-inch front and 12.7-inch rear discs are part of the mix.
Wilder Looks
Similar to future F Sport Performance models, the new IS 500 wears a black badge on the side to separate itself from regular F models. The badge also appears on the door sill plates and the steering wheel.
The hood was raised by five centimetres to make room for the bigger engine. The bumpers and fenders are larger, too, while 19-inch, 10-spoke Enkei wheels add extra flair.
In the rear, you’ll find quad tailpipes emitting ferocious sound effects that are inspired by the RC F, Lexus says. Above them is a black spoiler, not to mention darkened taillights.
When it comes to safety, the Lexus Safety System+ 2.5 includes a number of advanced features such as pre-collision assist, dynamic cruise control and lane tracing assist with active steering.
The 2022 Lexus IS 500 F Sport Performance will go on sale in Canada this fall. Pricing and full equipment details including available body colours will be announced closer to launch.