The Lexus IS 500 has arrived, brandishing a glorious five-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine in a world increasingly dominated by turbochargers and electrification. For enthusiasts craving the visceral thrill and unmistakable sound of a V8, the IS 500 promises a refreshing return to form. But does this powerful heart translate to truly impressive performance figures, specifically when considering the Lexus Is500 0-60 time? Let’s delve into a detailed review that explores whether the IS 500 delivers on its performance aspirations.
Image alt text: Front profile view of the 2023 Lexus IS 500 showcasing its sporty design.
At the heart of the IS 500 lies a 5.0-liter V8 engine, a masterpiece of engineering in an era leaning towards smaller, turbocharged units. This engine churns out a formidable 467 horsepower, and unlike many modern engines that deliver peak torque at low RPMs, this V8 begs to be revved. It truly comes alive above 3,500 RPM, rewarding drivers with a crescendo of power and a symphonic V8 roar as it approaches its 7,000 RPM redline. The sheer auditory experience is enough to remind you what’s missing in the downsized engine landscape.
Image alt text: Angled front exterior shot of the 2023 Lexus IS 500 F Sport emphasizing its aggressive front fascia.
However, despite the impressive horsepower figures, the Lexus IS 500 carries a significant weight, tipping the scales at close to 4,000 pounds. This heft impacts its straight-line performance, and the lexus is500 0-60 time, while respectable, isn’t class-leading for 2023. Clocking in at 4.4 seconds to reach 60 MPH, the IS 500 finds itself trailing competitors like the BMW M340i. The M340i, despite boasting nearly 100 less horsepower on paper, leverages its turbocharged inline-six engine and lighter weight to achieve quicker acceleration times across the rev range. While the M340i might be faster, it certainly can’t match the soul-stirring sound of the IS 500’s V8.
Image alt text: Interior view of the Lexus IS 500 showcasing its luxurious cabin and driver-focused cockpit.
Further hindering the IS 500’s performance potential is its aging eight-speed automatic transmission. In today’s automotive landscape, transmissions have made significant strides in responsiveness and shift speed. Unfortunately, the IS 500’s transmission feels dated, exhibiting sluggish downshifts even when using the paddle shifters. Upshifts are also characterized by noticeable delays and a general lack of urgency. Compared to Lexus’ own advanced 10-speed transmission found in the LC 500, the eight-speed unit in the IS 500 feels generations behind. Adding to the transmission woes is a noticeable harshness during shifts, making for a less-than-refined driving experience. The overly short first gear, combined with throttle programming, sometimes creates a hesitant feeling when pulling away from a standstill in standard driving mode, almost like a limp mode engagement.
When the roads get twisty, the IS 500 presents a mixed bag of handling characteristics. On the positive side, the suspension prioritizes ride comfort, effectively absorbing road imperfections and providing a compliant ride. This softer suspension setup also makes the IS 500 more approachable at its limits on public roads. The chassis communicates well, allowing drivers to gradually build confidence as they explore the car’s handling capabilities.
Image alt text: Close-up interior detail of the Lexus IS 500 highlighting the premium materials and craftsmanship.
However, the IS 500 falls short of being a true track-ready sports sedan. The soft suspension that contributes to its comfortable ride becomes a limitation when pushed hard through corners and during quick transitions. Combined with its considerable weight, the IS 500 can feel somewhat ponderous in rapid left-right maneuvers, lacking the agility and composure of sharper sports sedans. Its handling leans more towards a classic muscle car feel – enjoyable for spirited road driving but not as precise or focused as rivals like the BMW M3 or Alfa Romeo Quadrifoglio. It’s important to remember that the IS 500 is an “F Sport” model, not a full-fledged “IS F,” suggesting that the chassis is ripe for upgrades. Upgrading to aftermarket coilovers and anti-roll bars would likely significantly improve its handling prowess for track days or more aggressive driving.
Image alt text: Side profile of the 2023 Lexus IS 500 F Sport emphasizing its sleek silhouette and sporty stance.
The steering, while accurate, is criticized for being too light and lacking in feedback and self-centering. This lightness further contributes to a less connected feel, particularly when paired with the softer suspension. However, for those seeking some tail-out fun, disabling the traction and stability control (annoyingly only fully disengageable at a complete stop) allows for easily controllable oversteer in slower corners. The restrictive nature of the stability control system, which partially re-engages above 30 MPH, feels overly intrusive for a performance-oriented car.
Stepping inside the IS 500 reveals a cabin that embodies Lexus’ renowned quality and luxury. Sumptuous leather and solid build quality are hallmarks of the interior, creating a premium and refined ambiance. Rattles and squeaks are absent, even in a well-used press vehicle, suggesting long-term durability. However, the infotainment system remains a significant drawback. Lexus continues to utilize its outdated trackpad-operated interface, a system widely criticized for its clunkiness and lack of user-friendliness. This dated infotainment system is a major point of contention and could be a deal-breaker for some potential buyers.
Image alt text: Close-up detail of the Lexus IS 500 wheels, highlighting their unique design and performance brake calipers.
Another area of concern is the overly sensitive active safety systems. The collision avoidance system, in particular, proves to be too intrusive. In certain scenarios, such as pulling away from intersections when the car ahead hasn’t moved sufficiently, the system can abruptly cut power, leaving the IS 500 momentarily powerless and potentially creating a dangerous situation, especially with traffic approaching from behind. This overly aggressive system behavior has been noted in other Toyota products as well.
For everyday driving and cruising, the Lexus IS 500 shines as a comfortable and refined grand tourer. The V8 engine provides a relaxed and burbly soundtrack, the seats are comfortable, and the ride quality is well-suited for long journeys. Fuel economy is surprisingly decent for a V8, averaging around 22 MPG in mixed driving. For drivers seeking a luxurious and characterful daily driver who prioritize comfort and V8 sound over outright track performance, the IS 500 presents a compelling option, particularly for those willing to overlook the infotainment system. In a market saturated with BMWs and Mercedes, the Lexus IS 500 offers a distinctive and visually striking alternative with its potent V8 engine.
Image alt text: Rear exterior view of the 2023 Lexus IS 500 showcasing its taillights and quad exhaust outlets.
While the Lexus IS 500 has its shortcomings, particularly in outright lexus is500 0-60 speed and track-focused handling, it offers undeniable appeal, especially considering its price point. Starting under $60,000 and reaching $66,525 as tested, the IS 500 delivers a significant value proposition in the performance sedan segment. While it may not be a direct competitor to the BMW M3 in terms of ultimate performance, it carves out a unique niche as a more affordable and characterful alternative to softer performance sedans like the Audi S4. The V8 engine is the star of the show, elevating the IS 500 above its objective flaws and injecting a dose of desirability that is hard to quantify. The IS 500 has untapped potential, and with some chassis refinement, it could truly become a standout sports sedan.
Pros: Wonderful V8 engine; Great value and quality.
Cons: Lexus IS 500 0-60 time not class-leading; Too soft for hard driving; Outdated transmission and intrusive safety aids.
