Japan’s latest dragster is the 2024 Lexus IS 500 F Sport, which boasts a 5.0L V8 engine (rear wheel drive) with 472 HP and 395 lb-ft of torque, and has a top speed of 149 mph. With a price point around $63,370, this is one of the most delightful drives the manufacturer has to offer; it’s in a class by itself.
On the outside, its blue flame color resembles a pack of azure Skittles. The overall silhouette is seductive and racy. Its bodacious and brawny presence always draws attention. Its F Sport performance trim includes stacked quad exhaust, suspension tuning, rear dampers, and 19-inch matt black BBS forged wheels with bolts. Upon entry with the SmartAccess card key, the cockpit has more than enough technology with USB ports scattered throughout. As you step inside, you’ll notice illuminated kick plates and aluminum pedals. But the brains of the beast sit flush in the dash. The 10.3-inch infotainment has a massive screen that almost appears to connect to the odometer display. It’s intuitive and well-equipped, just as you would expect from a Lexus. The driver can easily control all systems by touching, speaking, or playing with the trackpad.
Connecting wirelessly with Apple Carplay or Android Auto. The creature’s premium Mark Levinson concert-like audio system is what truly distinguishes it from others in its class. Playing Tems Me & U, the Afrobeats icon, over and over again, was an emotional experience for us.
Further, Lexus Safety+ 2.5 includes road sign assistance, pedestrian detection, panoramic view monitor, blind spot monitor, parking assist with auto braking, blind spot detection, and intelligent high beam headlamps.
Performance-wise, it’s playful and peppy. You will fall head over heels with both its exhaust notes and overall responsiveness. The V8’s performance is best described as invigorating. She claws every corner and will stop at the drop of a hat. Both the steering and the drivetrain are adaptive. Pushing almost 500 horsepower in a compact luxury sedan is pure nirvana.
It’s clear that the 2024 Lexus IS 500 F Sport should be recognized by the World Car Awards. It’s the right amount of bite that this company needs as it continues to dominate the world stage. And, Lexus deserves credit for maintaining their elegance with grace.
PLUSES:
Power moonroof
Rear power shade
Dual climate seats
Ventilated heated + cool seats
17 city / 25 highway
Images + Story | Vaughn Lowery
