Lexus IS500 F Sport Performance.
Lexus has revealed the first-ever IS500 F Sport Performance.
The new sports sedan dials up the performance factor with a naturally aspirated 5-litre V8 engine and a ferocious-looking quad exhaust system.
This high-performance saloon also ushers in a new line of F Sport Performance models that will appeal to driving enthusiasts that crave higher levels of performance over the standard F Sport models.
LEXUS F SPORT PERFORMANCE: A NEW BREED
Exterior enhancements to the IS500 F Sport Performance include a raised bonnet and new sculpted centre character lines. The front bumper and fenders have also been lengthened to help accommodate the vehicle’s naturally aspirated V8 motor.
The 19-inch Enkei rims save nearly 0.5kg of sprung mass in front and nearly 1kg at the rear.
The 19-inch split-10-spoke Enkei alloy wheels also help save sprung weight. Other exterior updates include a revised lower rear diffuser to further accentuate the quad exhaust system, as well as dark chrome window trim.
Tying these performance cues together is a black IS F Sport rear lip spoiler.
Inside, drivers are greeted with black F Sport Performance badging on the steering wheel and door sill scuff plates.
An IS F Sport accelerator pedal, brake pedal and footrest are all standard. However, the combination instrumentation meter receives an updated startup animation that is exclusive to IS 500.
Black badging is also found IS500 F Sport Performance. This feature will distinguish future F Sport Performance models from their F Sport cousins.
LEXUS IS F SPORT PERFORMANCE: 5-LITRE FURY
Maximum output from that V8 is 472hp at 7100rpm, while the peak torque of 536Nm arrives at 4800rpm.
Despite the drastically more powerful engine, the vehicle only tips the scales at 1765kg, or a 64kg gain over the IS 350 F Sport. The zero to 96km/h sprint is completed in 4.5 seconds.
Quad exhaust supposedly offers a “throaty and ferocious” note.
A quad exhaust system with dual stacked tailpipes is said to offer a “throaty and ferocious” note. The Lexus IS500 F Sport Performance uses an 8-speed Sport Direct Shift automatic transmission.
HONED AT SHIMOYAMA
Handling wise, the new Lexus IS500 F Sport Performance builds on the improvements made to the 2021 IS. Naturally, special focus was placed on delivering confidence and a linear connection between driver and vehicle.
For a start, the Lexus IS500 F Sport Performance comes standard with the IS RWD F Sport’s Dynamic Handling Package. This includes Adaptive Variable Suspension and a Torsen limited-slip differential for enhanced traction when cornering or exiting turns.
Naturally aspirated V8 delivers 472bhp.
Also new is the use of a Yamaha rear performance damper, which reduces dynamic structural distortion. It also delivers increased comfort at low speeds, and additional stability and agility at high speeds.
Brake cooling enhancements have also been made over the standard IS350 F Sport with additional aerodynamic cooling and larger 14-inch two-piece aluminum front rotors and 12.7-inch rear rotors.
Read our review of the Lexus IS300 here!
