2024 Lexus IS 500 F SPORT Performance Premium Is Attractive Inside and Out

Embodying the philosophy that outer beauty pleases the eye [while] inner beauty captivates the heart,* the 2024 Lexus IS 500 F SPORT Performance Premium is a prime example of Lexus' commitment to crafting vehicles that are both visually attractive and notably well-appointed. As a flagship entry offering in the small luxury sport sedan segment, the IS 500 stays true to the L-Finesse design philosophy that blends simplicity, elegance, and performance into a cohesive whole. This design language avoids unnecessary complexity, and instead focuses on clean lines along with well-thought-out proportions that reflect the brand's performance-oriented ethos. The interior cabin also reflects Lexus' Takumi craftsmanship where each element, from the contrast stitching to the placement of controls, is strategically designed for comfort and usability.

Exterior Styling

Drawing inspiration from nature's movements and the concept of motion in stillness, the IS 500 exterior presents a balance between aggressive lines and elegant curves. The bold, angular front end features a wide, aggressive grille, flanked by sleek, narrow LED headlights that embody the brand's signature spindle grille design. While flowing bodylines coupled with sculpted fenders provide a purposeful presence, functional aerodynamics further improve handling and performance at high speeds. Lexus' attention to detail extends to the exterior paint choices, with the introduction of a new Incognito color, as well as the availability of an exclusive Special Appearance Package that offers Blue Vector paint, 19-inch Matte Black BBS forged alloy wheels, and bespoke interior details.

Performance Pursuits

The very-fun-to-drive IS 500 F SPORT harnesses the power of a naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 engine, a key element in Lexus' commitment to delivering spirited performance in a refined luxury package. The engine generates 472 horsepower at 7,100 rpm and 395 lb-ft of torque, propelling the sedan from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds. This refined performance is paired with an eight-speed Sport Direct Shift automatic transmission, providing seamless gear shifts and responsive acceleration under a variety of driving conditions. The IS 500 F SPORT Performance Premium benefits from a sport-tuned suspension system which delivers a balanced ride with precise handling; and to further enhance dynamic performance, the car is equipped with an Adaptive Variable Suspension system, optimized for stability during high-speed cornering. A Torsen® limited-slip rear differential improves traction during acceleration and in challenging driving conditions, thereby ensuring precision and responsive handling.

Interior Design

The interior cabin showcases Lexus' hallmark craftsmanship, featuring NuLuxe®-trimmed seating and 10-way power-adjustable front seats, seamlessly blending luxury and comfort to create a relaxing environment. The F SPORT trim adds details such as perforated leather upholstery and exclusive trim accents that further highlight the vehicle's sporty yet luxurious feel. The driver-focused layout includes a leather-wrapped steering wheel, an ergonomic shift knob, and strategically placed controls for easy-to-reach access to essential features. Precision contrast stitching on the dashboard and door panels adds texture and depth to create a visually striking yet functional space. Interior color options including Black, Glazed Caramel, and Rioja Red complement the vehicle's exterior, while the F SPORT models feature unique trim and bespoke stitching that reflect the performance-oriented character of the car.

Technical Touches

Basically unchanged after a significant refresh for the 2021 model year, the IS 500 F SPORT is equipped with a dated but comprehensive infotainment system comprised of a 10.3-inch touchscreen which provides access to an array of features including Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™. The intuitive layout and high-resolution graphics make it easy for drivers to control settings like navigation and audio settings with minimal distraction. Lexus' commitment to advanced sound quality is evident in the available Mark Levinson® 17-speaker Premium Surround Sound system which delivers a rich, immersive audio experience. The system's 1,800-watt amplifier ensures crystal-clear sound, making it ideal for audiophiles who appreciate exceptional sound quality. Additionally, the IS 500 F SPORT Performance Premium features a Panoramic View Monitor that provides a bird's-eye view of the vehicle's surroundings that conveniently helps drivers park and navigate tight spaces with ease.

Safety Features

Lexus Safety System+ 2.5 is a suite of active safety features designed to keep both the driver and passengers safe in a variety of situations. Standard features include Pre-Collision System (PCS) with Front Collision Warning (FCW), Pedestrian and Bicyclist Detection, Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB), and Emergency Steering Assist (ESA), which work together to help avoid accidents or mitigate their severity. Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist (LDA w/ SA) and Lane Tracing Assist (LTA) further enhance driver safety by helping keep the vehicle within its lane and guiding the driver in maintaining optimal positioning on the road. The IS 500 F SPORT Performance Premium also features All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC), which adapts to the flow of traffic, maintaining a safe distance from other vehicles even in stop-and-go situations. Intelligent High Beams automatically adjust the headlights based on surrounding traffic, ensuring optimal visibility without blinding other drivers. Together, these safety systems offer peace of mind for both the driver and passengers, underscoring Lexus' commitment to prioritizing safety in every vehicle it manufactures.

The 2024 Lexus IS 500 F SPORT Performance Premium balances dynamic performance with striking design, delivering both beauty and function in a compact luxury sedan. Its sculpted athletic demeanor reflects Lexus' commitment to elevated design, while the refined interior showcases the brand's hallmark craftsmanship. With a powerful V8 engine, adaptive suspension, and comprehensive safety features, the IS 500 ensures a performance-driven experience without sacrificing luxury. Despite some value concerns, the vehicle remains a compelling choice for those who appreciate beauty, comfort, and confident agility in a performance sedan.

Specifications

Engine: 472 horsepower 5.0L V8
Torque: 395 pound-feet
Transmission: 8-speed Sport Direct Shift
Wheels: 19-inch split-10-spoke Enkei alloy
Sound: Mark Levinson® 17-speaker Premium Surround Sound
Color: Incognito
Fuel: 17/25/20 (mpg city/highway/combined)
MSRP: Starts at $53,350
MSRP: As shown $63,370

Learn More

For more information or to test drive this vehicle for yourself, stop by a local dealer or visit online at:
Lexus IS 500

About Lexus

Lexus launched in 1989 with a flagship sedan and a guest experience that helped define the premium automotive industry. In 1998, Lexus introduced the luxury crossover category with the launch of the Lexus RX. The luxury hybrid sales leader, Lexus delivered the world's first luxury hybrid and has since sold over 1.5 million hybrid vehicles. A global luxury automotive brand with an unwavering commitment to bold, uncompromising design, exceptional craftsmanship, and exhilarating performance, Lexus has developed its lineup to meet the needs of the next generation of global luxury guests and is currently available in over 90 countries worldwide. Lexus associates/team members across the world are dedicated to crafting amazing experiences that are uniquely Lexus, and that excite and change the world.

* Mandy Hale-Gautsch