Lexus bucked the downsizing trend when they introduced the IS 500 F Sport Performance last month and now they’re following up with a special Launch Edition. Exclusive to North America, the 2022 IS 500 Launch Edition features an Incognito exterior with 19-inch matte black forged alloy wheels from the IS F Sport Dynamic Handling Package. They’re made by BBS and each one is approximately 1.8 kg lighter than the standard IS F Sport wheels.
Bigger changes occur in the cabin as the
model has two-tone black and gray Ultrasuede upholstery on the seats, doors and
center console. Designers also added an individually numbered badge and a
heated leather steering wheel with unique silver ash wood trim. Last but not
least, the car has an exclusive startup animation for the instrument cluster.
Of course, the real star is the naturally
aspirated 5.0-liter V8 engine that produces 472 hp and 536 Nm of torque. It’s connected to an eight-speed automatic
transmission which enables the sedan to run from 0-96 km/h in 4.5
seconds.
Besides the beefy V8, the IS 500 has an
aggressive front fascia and a bulging hood. Fans will also notice a black rear
spoiler and a four-tailpipe exhaust system that hints this isn’t your typical
IS. There are also functional upgrades including an adaptive variable
suspension, a limited slip differential and a beefier braking system with
two-piece aluminum rotors up front.
Production will be limited to 500 units
and the special edition is set to arrive at U.S. dealerships this fall. Pricing
will be announced closer to launch, but the model will be positioned above IS
350 F Sport which begins at US$ 42,900 before a destination charge of US$ 1,025.
