Close X
Sunday, December 22, 2024
ADVT 
Reviews

2023 Lexus IS 500 Return of the V8

Benjamin Yong Darpan, 24 Jul, 2023 01:32 PM
  • 2023 Lexus IS 500 Return of the V8

In what might be the swan song for the V8-powered sedan segment, the 2023 Lexus IS 500 F SPORT Performance is the return of an eight-cylinder option on the sporty four-door not seen since the previous generation. And if this is indeed the end of the road of big motors shoehorned into compact cars, it's not a bad way to go out.

No longer called IS F, the 500 is the first product to fall under the new F SPORT Performance line. The 5.0-litre engine is essentially an updated version of the unit last offered seven years ago, now sending 472 horsepower and 395 lb-ft of torque to the rear axle, representing a massive improvement over the previous 416 and 371, respectively.

Mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission, the 0 to 100 km/h time is rated at approximately 4.4 seconds. While an impressive number, peak torque doesn't come on until 4,800 RPM and feels slower, especially compared to the instant acceleration modern EVs provide. However, the experience is much more visceral, and the throaty exhaust note sounds almost musical once things get moving, something Lexus has a reputation for.

Handling is surprisingly as nimble as the V6 IS 350 F SPORT, and the larger mill only adds an extra 143 pounds thanks to some clever engineering. And like its sibling, the vehicle benefits from the Dynamic Handling Package, the equipped standard here, comprised of Adaptive Variable Suspension — which monitors G-force, yaw, velocity and steering input and then adjusts the firmness accordingly — and a Torsen limited-slip differential.

Though built for performance driving, the 500 includes a Yamaha rear damper helping to increase comfort during low around-town speeds and stability and agility on the highway.

The car features some visual upgrades to stand out against the rest of the portfolio. The centre section of the specially-sculpted hood is raised to hint at what's underneath, and the front bumper and fenders are both elongated, appearing sleeker. Sitting on ornate lightweight 19-inch split 10-spoke Enkei wheels, there's also dark chrome window trim, a revised diffuser housing stacked quad exhaust tips and a black rear lip spoiler. The coat of bright Infrared paint on our press loaner was absolutely brilliant and turned a lot of heads on the road.

Inside, the cabin retains a heritage touch and feels similar to all second-gen IS' forward. Exclusive F SPORT Performance badging can be found on the leather steering wheel and door sill plates, and the motorized LFA-style, digital gauge cluster, gains a unique start-up animation. The heated and ventilated seats are the ideal combination of supportive and comfortable, holding occupants snuggly when engaged in spirited manoeuvres.'

The 2023 Lexus IS 500 F Sport Performance starts at $77,725 MSRP and is built at the Toyota Tahara Plant in Japan.

Highlights: 

MSRP: $77,725

Motor: 5.0-litre V8

Horsepower: 472 @ 7,100 rpm

Torque (lb-ft): 395 @ 4,800 rpm

Gearbox: eight-speed automatic

Layout: front-engine, rear-wheel drive

Fuel economy: 16.0 L/100 km mixed city/highway (observed)

MORE Reviews ARTICLES

Edmunds compares: Kia Telluride and Mazda CX-90

Edmunds compares: Kia Telluride and Mazda CX-90
The CX-90 is an ideal choice if you want an upscale three-row SUV that’s stylish and enjoyable to drive. The available plug-in hybrid model is a bonus, too. But overall the Kia Telluride remains the leader in this comparison. 

Edmunds compares: Kia Telluride and Mazda CX-90

Edmunds: 5 hidden automotive gems that no one buys

Edmunds: 5 hidden automotive gems that no one buys
In the new car market, there exist some hidden gems — excellent vehicles with a lot to offer that are overlooked by many shoppers. Edmunds explores five of these hidden gems, shedding light on the X factor that makes them special.  

Edmunds: 5 hidden automotive gems that no one buys

Some vehicle updates are better than others and experts at Edmunds fill you in on the top 5 for 2024

Some vehicle updates are better than others and experts at Edmunds fill you in on the top 5 for 2024
A few years into a new model’s launch, automakers will often update it with new features to spur interest and sales before it receives a full redesign. This update, which is commonly called a midcycle refresh, can vary in scope from revised styling to new engines and updated technology. The automotive experts at Edmunds have gathered five noteworthy vehicle updates for 2024.

Some vehicle updates are better than others and experts at Edmunds fill you in on the top 5 for 2024

Edmunds: The best three-row SUVs of 2023

Edmunds: The best three-row SUVs of 2023
Three-row SUVs have been a popular choice among car shoppers with large families. However, choosing the right one isn’t easy. There are a wide range of models to choose from, varying in size and price, and some are available with efficient hybrid and plug-in hybrid engines. Edmunds has rounded up the best three-row SUVs to help you narrow down your search. 

Edmunds: The best three-row SUVs of 2023

Edmunds: The top 6 infotainment systems available in 2023

Edmunds: The top 6 infotainment systems available in 2023
To help quicken your new-vehicle shopping process, the automotive experts at Edmunds have identified six of the best vehicle operating systems available today.  Edmunds's focus is on the automakers’ newest infotainment systems that are typically found in all-new or recently updated vehicles.

Edmunds: The top 6 infotainment systems available in 2023

Edmunds Compares: 2023 Kia EV6 GT vs Tesla Model Y Performance

Edmunds Compares: 2023 Kia EV6 GT vs Tesla Model Y Performance
These vehicles blend the acceleration and agility of a sports car with the packaging of an electric SUV. They also maintain a practical side thanks to their roomy second rows and a long roster of tech features. The automotive experts at Edmunds put these performance-themed EVs to the test to determine which is the better buy.

Edmunds Compares: 2023 Kia EV6 GT vs Tesla Model Y Performance

PrevNext