First Look: 2022 Lexus IS 500 F SPORT Performance
Lexus have proven that they mean business with the introduction of their new 2022 IS 500 F SPORT Performance.
Shoehorned under the hood is a five-litre naturally aspirated V-8 engine that produces a powerful 472 hp and 395 lb-ft of torque. All the power is put down to the rear wheels via the same eight-speed Sport Direct automatic transmission found in the lesser IS 300 and IS 350 RWD siblings. This combination propels it to 100 km/h in 4.5 seconds while emanating a “ferocious” sound from its dual-stacked tailpipes – well, that how Lexus describe it.
There hasn’t been much exterior design change from the IS 350 F SPORT but to be able to accommodate the much larger powertrain the engineers have had to move the radiator forward as well as extending the front fenders, bumper and, most notably, added a raised hood with a large 2-inch bulge that helps contain the big V-8. Also added to differentiate it from its siblings are Enkei 19-inch lightweight wheels as well as an updated lower rear diffuser that helps accentuate the stacked, quad exhaust system. A dark chrome window trim is new as well as a black IS F SPORT rear lip spoiler. The only exterior badging to set this apart is only having the Lexus logo and IS 500 is small lettering on the trunk.
Also included as standard is an updated version of Lexus Safety System+ that includes a plethora of safety and convenience systems that incorporates an enhanced Pre-Collision System that includes an updated lens camera and radar that now expands the response range and helps the vehicle to better detect bicycles and pedestrians in daylight or low-light conditions.
To help control all the power the IS 500 comes with the same Dynamic Handling Package found on the IS 350 RWD F Sport that includes Adaptive Variable suspension with a Yamaha rear performance dampers and a Torsen limited-slip differential that help to enhance handling and performance. Bringing the car to a halt has now been improved with the addition of larger 14-inch two-piece aluminum rotors up front and 12.7-inch rotors in the rear both being kept cool by adding more aerodynamic enhancements.
The cabin has been dressed up with F Sport badging on the leather-wrapped steering wheel and door scuff plates with IS F Sport footrest accelerator and brake pedals being added as standard.
The 2022 Lexus IS 500 F Sport Performance will only be made available in North America and should be available in dealers in the Fall with pricing and colour choices being made available closer to roll out.
Story compiled using information provided by the manufacturer
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