Almost flawless: what makes the new Lexus IS500 so impressive

The Lexus IS500 F Sport Performance offers a superb combination of luxury and performance with a powerful V-8 engine. While Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz eschew eight-cylinder engines in this segment, the Lexus IS500 is the only compact luxury car with a powerful naturally aspirated V-8 engine.

Thanks to 472 horsepower and 535 newton meters (395 lb-ft) of torque transmitted to the rear wheels, the IS500 accelerates to 100 km per hour in 4.4 seconds and has a top speed of about 420 km per hour. Motor1 experts told us more about the new product.

It's not the most powerful or fastest car in the class, but Lexus' 5-liter V-8 has more power than BMW's inline-six and Mercedes-Benz's four-cylinder hybrid combined.

In fact, it's the same engine as the original IS F (as well as the GS F and RC F), only updated for the needs of the modern age. It gradually increases power throughout the entire rev range. The IS 500's acceleration is not stunning - maximum power reaches 7100 rpm and maximum torque only reaches 4800. But the powerband is linear and excellent right up to the 7300 rpm redline. And at the limit, this engine works at its best.

The suspension is almost identical to the IS350 F Sport. The IS500 has an updated rear damper (from Yamaha), but that's about it. The Torsen limited-slip differential is carried over from the IS350 F Sport, as are the adaptive front shock absorbers and Bridgestone Potenza S001 tires. That's not to say that the suspension settings aren't perfect - the IS500 soaks up bumps with only a little stiffness transmitted through the 19-inch wheels.

Experts say the steering wheel is heavy and reliable, but not fast. And the 8-speed automatic transmission takes a second -too long - to engage a gear. It should be faster.

The interior is perfect. Beautiful red leather covers the seats, center console, door panels, and some parts of the dashboard. High-quality aluminum accents and matte black plastic parts cover the center console, as well as many of the buttons and dials.

But there are downsides. While most other Lexus models have switched to Toyota's much-improved audio-multimedia system with a larger touchscreen, the IS still has an outdated touchscreen controller with a small 10.3-inch screen and the severely outdated Lexus Enform infotainment system.

The 2024 Lexus IS500 F Sport Performance is not cheap, starting at $60,545. Apart from a few problems with technology and suspension setup, the IS500 is a truly fantastic sports sedan.

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