Lexus has announced the all-new 2022 IS 500 F Sports Performance sports sedan with a naturally-aspirated 5.0-liter V8 engine producing 472 hp.
Curiously, the Japanese luxury brand says this is not a full-fledged “F” model like the original IS F in 2008, which featured the same engine. Instead, it’s a part of the new F Sport Performance line, which should consist of “mild” high-performance models.
What’s even more intriguing is that full-fledged “F” models will probably have even more powerful engines. According to rumors, Lexus is working on a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, and that powertrain might be a blast in the new IS F.
But let’s get back to the IS 500 F Sport Performance because it’s a beast in its own right. Behind the new sporty Lexus is chief engineer Naoki Kobayashi and his team, who developed the car especially for the North American market.
Lexus wants to attract passionate drivers who wanted higher performance levels over the existing F Sport models, and we think it succeeded.
The Naturally-Aspirated V8 is Back, but Not for Long
The V8 engine in the IS 500 has a maximum output of 472 hp at 7,100 rpm, while the 395 lb-ft of torque arrives at 4,800 rpm. It also sounds delightful, especially when revved to the max. Moreover, despite the bigger engine, the V8 weighs only 143 pounds more than the V6 IS sedan.
As a result, Lexus claims a 0-60 mph time of just 4.5 seconds, a fine result for the category. Moreover, the IS 500 can achieve 24 mpg on the highway. The power goes to the rear wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission, similar to the V6 models.
The IS 500’s Features Sporty Suspension and Special Enkei Wheels
Like every modern Lexus, the IS 500 has Sport S and Sport S+ that sharpen the responses. Specifically, in the Sport S+ mode, the EPS steering responds more quickly, there is an increased damping force in the suspension, and the transmission changes gears more rapidly.
Lexus says that while designing the car, chief engineer Naoki Kobayashi’s goals were to create a vehicle that would be more balanced, refined, and offer its users the ultimate ride quality. The IS 500 comes standard with Dynamic Handling Package (DHP), including Torsen limited-slip differential (LSD) and Adaptive Variable Suspension.
Furthermore, Lexus engineers improved the chassis by adding a rear performance damper by Yamaha. This damper helps in increasing comfort at low speeds, reduces dynamic structural distortion, and making the car more stable and agile at high speeds.
Meanwhile, the car’s hood is higher by 2 inches, and the front bumpers and fenders are longer to accommodate the bigger V8 engine. The car sits on a pair of 19-inch 10-spoke alloy Enkei wheels. Lexus says that the front alloys are 1-pound lighter per wheel, while the rears are 2-pounds lighter.
IS 500’s Interior Received Small Upgrades, Too
Once you get in the car, you will notice the F Sport badging on the leather steering wheel with heating function. You will also see a startup animation on the instrument cluster that is exclusive to the IS 500.
Besides, the IS 500 also has many safety features, all part of the Safety System+ package. The system uses radar and cameras to you about a possible collision and even automatically applies the brakes. Moreover, the system can also detect cyclists and pedestrians.
Lexus has not revealed prices, but it said dealerships should have it by fall.
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