Road Test: 2025 Lexus IS 500

A V8 Farewell Tour?

In an age of electrified everything, the 2025 Lexus IS 500 is a glorious outlier—a rear-wheel drive, naturally aspirated V8 sedan that reminds us what it means to connect with the road through sound, sensation, and unapologetic power. Painted in a head-turning Jaune Ardent (that’s “Blazing Yellow” for the rest of us), this limited-edition Lexus isn’t just a car—it’s a last stand for analog soul in a digital world. And it delivers.

Exterior: Bold Moves in Bright Yellow

The IS 500 has never been shy, but this 2025 Special Appearance Package takes things to another level. From its blacked-out window surrounds and matching rear spoiler to the satin-finish BBS 19-inch forged wheels, this car looks ready to pounce. The triple-beam LED headlights add a sharp, purposeful glare, while the body lines flow like sculpted metal origami. Paired with the contrast of Ultrasuede black and yellow interior accents, it’s a spec that demands attention—and rewards it.

Power: V8 Thunder in a Downsizing World

Let’s be honest—this is the reason you’re here. The 5.0-litre DOHC V8 engine under the hood sings a song that’s rapidly disappearing from modern soundtracks. With direct injection and Dual VVT-i, it produces 472 horsepower and 395 pound-feet of torque, delivered with spine-tingling urgency through an 8-speed Direct Shift automatic transmission.

Lexus has equipped the IS 500 with an Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS), selectable drive modes including SPORT+, and the full suite of VDIM (Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management) to keep things in check when the pace picks up. Braking is handled by a confident anti-lock system (ABS) that inspires trust even during aggressive canyon carving.

This isn’t a track-tuned monster like the RC F, but it’s far from tame. It’s fast, fluid, and charismatic in a way few sedans manage anymore. Think muscle car manners wrapped in luxury sport sedan tailoring.

Interior: A Two-Tone Statement

Inside, Lexus balances sport and sophistication with an interior that’s as exclusive as it is expressive. The Ultrasuede seats—black with yellow stitching—feel race-inspired yet refined. The front buckets are heated, ventilated, and offer eight-way power adjustment with lumbar support. Memory settings for the driver’s seat and power-adjustable heated steering wheel (wrapped in leather) add everyday convenience to the excitement.

Details matter, and Lexus gets them right: aluminum scuff plates, a leather-wrapped gear knob, ambient interior lighting, and a centre armrest with cupholders that folds flat when the rear seats are down. There’s an element of theatre here, especially with the digital gauge cluster inspired by the iconic LFA supercar. It’s Lexus at its most playful—and most passionate.

Infotainment: Mark Levinson, Meet the V8

When you’re not listening to the V8 sing, the Mark Levinson 17-speaker premium audio system is more than up to the task. Audio inputs include USB-A, USB-C, and an auxiliary jack, while smartphone integration is seamless. Lexus hasn’t gone full touchscreen-only here—you still get physical controls for key functions, which is a relief for those of us who prefer to drive, not swipe.

Connectivity is aided by an intuitive interface and a panoramic view monitor for parking precision. Rain-sensing wipers, reverse-tilt side mirrors, and a remote starter round out the tech package.

Driving Performance: The Vicarious Effect

Behind the wheel, the IS 500 is everything a modern sport sedan should be—responsive, composed, and deeply satisfying to drive. The naturally aspirated V8 delivers linear, lag-free power all the way to its 7,100 rpm redline, with a sound that stirs the senses. The steering is tight and communicative, while the AVS suspension adapts to both twisty roads and relaxed cruising with ease.

There’s a sense of old-school charm baked into the IS 500’s DNA. It doesn’t beg for attention—it earns it. And in Sport+ mode, it sharpens into something seriously engaging. It’s a car that makes you want to take the long way home.

Conclusion: Limited Edition, Unlimited Emotion

At a price of $82,751.08 CAD (including destination, fees, and that vivid yellow paint), the 2025 Lexus IS 500 isn’t cheap—but it is rare, charismatic, and possibly the last of its kind. With Lexus and Toyota embracing hybrid and EV platforms across the board, this V8-powered IS feels like a swan song. But what a song it is.

If you’re a driving enthusiast with a soft spot for naturally aspirated power, now is the time to act. This isn’t just a great Lexus—it’s one of the last performance sedans that dares to be different.

Quick Specs: 2025 Lexus IS 500
Price as tested: $96,000.00 CAD
Freight: Per dealership
Configuration: Front-engine / Rear-wheel drive
Engine / Transmission: 5.0-litre DOHC V8 / 8-speed Direct Shift automatic
Power / Torque: 472 horsepower / 395 lb-ft
Fuel (Capacity): Premium gasoline (66L)
Fuel Economy (L/100 km): 14.1 city / 9.0 highway / 11.8 combined
Warranties: 4 years / 80,000 km basic, 5 years / 100,000 km powertrain
Notable Features: Adaptive Variable Suspension, LFA-inspired digital dash, Mark Levinson audio
Main Competitors: BMW M340i xDrive, Cadillac CT5-V, Porsche 718 Cayman, Toyota GR Supra
Website: Lexus Canada