From breaking rumours back in 2020 to getting behind the wheel in 2024, I finally get to understand the IS 500 F-Sport Performance out on some gorgeous mountain roads. Essentially the original launch spec, this 2024 IS500 is finished in Incognito with 19in BBS and a bright circuit red interior. But as we know, the highlight of the car is under the hood.
Under the hood is the iconic Lexus 5.0L V8 making 472HP and 395 lb-ft of torque paired to an 8-speed gearbox and sending power to the rear wheels. It weighs just 3,891 lbs, just 143 lbs heavier than an IS350 F Sport. 0-60 happens around 4.5sec and somehow it can do 24MPG.
Lexus makes the F Sport trim more widely available on the IS for 2024. For the first time, the base four-cylinder IS300 can be had as an F Sport. Or, for those who are mostly interested in sporty looks, the F Sport Design trim level skips the mechanical upgrades but keeps the appearance enhancements. The IS350 adds a Blackout package that brings dark chrome trim, black exterior mirrors, and matte black wheels, plus the contents of the Memory package and the F Sport Handling package.
The IS500 gets a new Special Appearance package with an eye-catching Blue Vector exterior, blue contrast stitching on the black faux leather interior, matte black 19-inch split-spoke wheels, and a SmartAccess card key. Incognito is a new exterior colour for both the IS500 and IS350.
So.. how was it? Well to sum up the IS500 experience: HEAVY on intake sound, quieter than expected exhaust, and a charming taste of a gloriously free-revving naturally aspirated engine. But what surprised me is the IS500 is NOT an M3, RS5, or C63 level player. It is a comfortable, honestly ultra-comfortable, sports sedan.
While it may not have the aggression of the technical and precise M340i, the IS500 has an old-school sport sedan charm focused on a blend of pure fun, comfort, and daily control without breaking your back, waking up the neighbours, or overloading you with screens.
That being said, the 8-speed autos tuning could use some work (as could the paddle shifters) and heck even a more aggressive suspension would be nice on offer. But a car like this likely will never be made again so let us enjoy it while we can.
2024 Lexus IS500 F Sport Price in Nigeria
The current selling price of the 2024 Lexus IS is $41,235 and goes up to $64,000. However, the price of the 2024 Lexus IS is expected to start with a starting price in Nigeria of N55 million and go up to N75 million due to the exchange rate and import duties.
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