Pistons Ain’t Lifeless But: The New Lexus IS500 F-sport Sizzling Rod Is Proof Of That – Look Out, Germans
(By Tom Lohnes) – In an age of electrification and turbocharging, the brand new Lexus IS500 F-sport is a uncommon discover, nevertheless it retains the essence of a muscle automotive alive.
Mainly a run-of-the-mill IS350 with a 5.0-liter naturally aspirated V8 shoehorned into it, the IS500 isn’t the full-stop F model, however makes a ridiculous 472 horsepower and 395 lb-ft of torque whereas being competitively priced. Styling sensible, the IS500 stays true to the clear strains of the IS300 and IS350, whereas mixing in additional muscle by some 19-inch Enkei wheels and the signature stacked exhausts that signify a V8 in Lexus tradition. The Yamaha-developed 5.0-liter unit makes peak energy at 4,800 RPM however can rev all the way in which to 7,300. Inside, the IS stays trying like an IS, which is an efficient factor, contemplating the superb look, seating place, and general high quality that got here with an IS350 tester we not too long ago had. 0-60 occurs in 4.5 seconds, which is fast for the phase.
The IS500 is a good filler mannequin, consider it because the Scat Pack to the long run IS F’s Hellcat. The IS500’s essential opponents are the BMW M340i, Audi S4 and S5, in addition to the Mercedes C 43 and Cadillac CT4-V. Fairly surprisingly, contemplating this automotive has the on-paper potential to provide an M3 a run for its cash. The IS500 begins at $56,000, which is under lots of its 4-and-6-cylinder powered challengers.
