Lexus launched its first performance sedan – the IS F – fourteen long years ago, landing it with a five-liter non-turbo V8 worth 421 PS (415 hp / 310 kW). The engine model disappeared from the next-gen IS and reappeared later in the GS F tuned to 477 PS (470 hp / 351 kW). Today, history repeats itself again with the Lexus IS 500 F Sport Performance.
The car opens up a whole line of special editions that the luxury automaker intends to slot in between the ‘warm’ F Sport versions and ‘hot’ Sport ones.
Compared side-by-side with the regular sedan, the F Sport Performance has new bumpers, 19-inch wheels, widened fenders, and black details such as the diffuser, exhaust tips and hood. The latter sports a 50mm (2-inch) dome to accommodate the larger engine.
The engine is a naturally aspirated five-liter V8 also featured in other Lexus sports cars. Its output amounts to 479 PS (472 hp / 352 kW) and 535 Nm (395 lb-ft). An eight-speed automatic transmission delivers the torque to the rear axle, enabling a 0-60 mph (0-97 km/h) sprint in 4.5 seconds. Compared to the IS 350 F Sport version with its 3.5-liter V6, the newcomer is 65 kg (143 lbs) heavier.
Base features include large-diameter brake discs, adaptive suspension, a heated sports steering wheel, and an extended Lexus Safety System+ 2.5 package. A Torsen limited-slip differential is installed on the rear axle instead of the TVD active diff lock that comes standard with the GS F.
Sales in North America – the only target market for the new IS F – will begin in the fall. Prices are still pending. Once out, the model will have to compete with the likes of the BMW M3 and the Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing.
Odds are good that the IS 500 F Sport Performance will be the marque’s last production vehicle powered by a naturally aspirated V8: the engine is scheduled to retire soon.