All-new 2022 Lexus IS 500 Marks the Return of the 5.0L V8
Building on the next-generation 2021 Lexus IS, the company is adding a new high-performance model with a 5.0-litre V8 engine for the 2022 model year.
Directly inspired by the IS F from the late 2000s, the new IS 500 F Sport Performance becomes the first member of the F Sport Performance range at Lexus.
- Also: Lexus Rumoured to Unveil Three F Models Later in 2021
- Also: 2021 Lexus IS: In the Shadow of the Germans
472 Horsepower
Producing 472 horsepower and 395 pound-feet of torque, the mighty sports sedan accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 4.6 seconds. While the naturally aspirated V8 is considerably heavier than the 3.5-litre V6 found in the IS 350, engineers have reduced weight in other areas so the difference is actually just five kilograms.
![](https://i.gaw.to/content/photos/46/19/461907-lexus-is-500-2022-le-v8-de-5-0-l-est-de-retour.jpeg?1024x640)
The transmission is the same eight-speed automatic that’s featured in the base IS 300 RWD.
The Lexus IS 500 F Sport Performance also comes standard with the Dynamic Handling Package, which includes an adaptive variable suspension and Torsen limited-slip differential. In the braking department, 14-inch front and 12.7-inch rear discs are part of the mix.
Wilder Looks
Similar to future F Sport Performance models, the new IS 500 wears a black badge on the side to separate itself from regular F models. The badge also appears on the door sill plates and the steering wheel.
![](https://i.gaw.to/content/photos/46/19/461903-lexus-is-500-2022-le-v8-de-5-0-l-est-de-retour.jpeg?1024x640)
The hood was raised by five centimetres to make room for the bigger engine. The bumpers and fenders are larger, too, while 19-inch, 10-spoke Enkei wheels add extra flair.
In the rear, you’ll find quad tailpipes emitting ferocious sound effects that are inspired by the RC F, Lexus says. Above them is a black spoiler, not to mention darkened taillights.
![](https://i.gaw.to/content/photos/46/19/461902-lexus-is-500-2022-le-v8-de-5-0-l-est-de-retour.jpeg?1024x640)
When it comes to safety, the Lexus Safety System+ 2.5 includes a number of advanced features such as pre-collision assist, dynamic cruise control and lane tracing assist with active steering.
The 2022 Lexus IS 500 F Sport Performance will go on sale in Canada this fall. Pricing and full equipment details including available body colours will be announced closer to launch.