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Although Lexus has not acknowledged it, the IS sports sedan is nearing the end of its life cycle. The new Ultimate Edition version of the V-8-powered IS500 F Sport Performance has cosmetic enhancements and distinctive badging, and will be produced in a limited run of 500 cars. Its arrival in the autumn as a 2025 model means there will be no 2026 IS in the United States, and we'd be sad to lose yet another sports sedan, especially one with a naturally aspirated V-8 engine.
The Ultimate Edition is available in a new color, Wind, and has distinctive matte-black 19-inch BBS wheels and red brake calipers. The inside is completed in a two-tone red and black color design, with red seatbelts. Each car in the 500-unit series is identified by a plaque, and the Ultimate Edition additionally features special scuff-plate detailing.
The IS500's 472-hp 5.0-liter V-8 engine and eight-speed automatic transmission remain unchanged, and the Ultimate Edition, like all other IS500s, is only available with rear-wheel drive. This F Sport Performance variant previously reached 60 mph in 4.3 seconds during our tests, and we also tested it at the Lightning Lap circuit.
When asked if the IS will be discontinued after the 2025 model year, a Lexus official informed C/D that the firm "could not comment on future product plans." However, we'd be amazed if the current-generation IS lasts much longer, considering it debuted for the 2014 model year and had a big redesign in 2021. However, there are worse ways to go out than with a naturally aspirated V-8 boom.
