The Final V8 Lexus Sports Sedan Signifies The Close Of An Era | Carscoops

      Only 500 buyers in Japan will have the opportunity to purchase the exclusive IS 500, which mirrors America’s Ultimate Edition.

      Lexus has unveiled the final version of the V8-powered IS 500 for the Japanese market.

      The Climax Edition boasts upgraded Brembo brakes, BBS wheels, and a dual-tone red-black interior.

      It is powered by a naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 engine producing 472 hp and 395 lb-ft of torque.

      In today’s market, V8-powered performance sedans are becoming increasingly rare, and their availability will soon diminish even further. As the Lexus IS 500 comes to the end of its production run, the company is offering Japanese customers something particularly special. Introducing the Climax Edition, a limited release of only 500 units, equipped with several enhancements to create a more memorable farewell.

      The defining aspect of the Climax Edition is its enhanced braking system. The ventilated discs, enlarged to 380 mm (15 inches), are paired with six-pot Brembo calipers and high-friction brake pads. This upgrade surpasses the standard IS 500 brakes and aligns it more closely with the track-oriented RC F Coupe.

      The striking red Brembo calipers are easily noticeable, situated behind a set of 19-inch BBS forged aluminum wheels in a matte black finish. Those familiar with the US-spec IS 500 Ultimate Edition will recognize these wheels, as they were also featured on the Japanese F Sport Mode Black series, albeit with a glossy black finish. Additionally, there is now a new Neutrino Gray exterior color available.

      Inside, the cabin showcases Ultrasuede upholstery combined with textured leather on the shift knob and steering wheel. It features Black and Flare Red tones, a distinct pattern on the analog clock, a Climax Edition plaque on the center console, and unique welcome graphics displayed on the 8-inch LCD meter.

      Same V8 Power, No Surprises

      This special edition does not alter the naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 engine, which maintains its output of 472 hp (352 kW / 479 PS) and 395 lb-ft (535 Nm) of torque, just like the standard IS 500. The engine is paired solely with an eight-speed automatic transmission that delivers power to the rear wheels.

      The IS 500 Climax Edition is limited to 500 units in Japan, with the first models expected to arrive in dealerships this August, priced at ¥9,500,000 ($65,400). In comparison, the standard IS 500 starts at ¥8,500,000 ($58,500) in the same market, whereas the similarly limited First Edition from 2022 was priced at ¥9,000,000 ($61,900).

      In the US market, the Lexus IS 500 F Sport Performance for the 2025 model year begins at $60,715. Lexus has yet to announce the pricing for the US-version IS 500 Ultimate Edition, which will also be limited to 500 units.

      What Will Happen To The IS?

      The IS sedan has been in production since 1999, and after nearly 20 years, it is approaching retirement. Lexus introduced the current generation in 2013, refreshed it in 2017, and updated it again in 2020. However, it appears that this model is nearing its conclusion.

      While Lexus has not revealed much about the future, there are rumors suggesting that a next-generation IS could be fully electric, potentially featuring a dual-motor configuration and available in both sedan and shooting brake body styles. Whether this will come to pass depends on market trends, and with hybrids still prevalent, the direction Lexus will take remains uncertain.

      Since its introduction in 1999, Lexus has sold approximately 1.3 million IS units across 40 countries and regions worldwide. The Japanese model was designed to compete with the BMW 3-Series, Mercedes C-Class, and Audi A4.