Because the automotive world continues its speedy shift towards electrification and downsized turbocharged engines, the naturally aspirated V8 is changing into an endangered species. For individuals who nonetheless crave the sound and really feel of an old-school, high-revving V8, Lexus has one final present earlier than this period fades into the rearview mirror. Meet the 2025 Lexus IS500 Final Version, essentially the most unique and sure ultimate sendoff for the IS sedan’s 5.0-liter coronary heart.
Restricted to only 500 models in North America, the IS500 Final Version is a celebration of the final V8-powered luxurious sedan you may nonetheless purchase new within the U.S. in the present day. Whereas the updates are largely beauty, the result’s a hanging, ultra-rare bundle that’s positive to resonate with lovers and collectors alike.
The obvious change is the paint. Lexus has given the Final Version an unique metallic mild grey end known as Wind, a colour that balances subtlety with sophistication. Paired with matte black 19-inch BBS cast wheels, the automobile has a low-key aggression that hints at its efficiency with out screaming for consideration.
Inside, Lexus continues the visible upgrades with Circuit Pink leather-based upholstery, offset by black accents and matching pink seat belts. The seating surfaces are wrapped in Lexus’s NuLuxe artificial leather-based with suede-like inserts, providing a sporty but upscale really feel. A serialized badge on the dashboard serves as each a mark of authenticity and a reminder that you simply’re behind the wheel of one thing uncommon.
Mechanically, the IS500 Final Version doesn’t mess with factor. The naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 stays untouched, nonetheless pumping out 472 horsepower and 395 lb-ft of torque. It’s paired with an eight-speed automated transmission that sends all that energy to the rear wheels, delivering the form of linear throttle response and wealthy exhaust word that fashionable turbocharged mills simply can’t replicate. The one efficiency improve comes within the braking division, with red-painted Brembo six-piston calipers up entrance for further stopping confidence and visible aptitude.
Lexus hasn’t introduced official pricing but, however given the restricted manufacturing and added options, the Final Version will virtually definitely carry a premium over the usual IS500’s $60,595 base value for 2025.
For purists, that is greater than only a particular version — it’s a celebration of what made Lexus efficiency sedans so interesting within the first place. In a market the place V8s are vanishing quick, the IS500 Final Version may simply be your final likelihood to seize a slice of naturally aspirated luxurious muscle straight from the showroom.