2025 Lexus IS 500 F-Sport Performance Review: The Last of the Naturally Aspirated V8 Sedans

In a world moving toward turbocharged four-cylinders and hybrid powertrains, the Lexus IS 500 F-Sport stands defiant with its glorious 5.0L naturally aspirated V8.

The 2025 Lexus IS 500 F-Sport Performance represents something increasingly rare in today’s automotive landscape: an unapologetically old-school performance sedan. While competitors embrace downsizing and electrification, Lexus continues offering what enthusiasts crave—a naturally aspirated V8 engine that sings to 7,000+ RPM.

We spent time behind the wheel and experienced this sedan on both public roads and a professional racetrack to discover whether this Japanese muscle sedan deserves its cult following.

Quick Verdict

Rating: 9.0/10

The 2025 Lexus IS 500 F-Sport Performance is an absolute gem for driving enthusiasts. With a thrilling 472-horsepower naturally aspirated 5.0L V8, precise rear-wheel-drive handling, legendary Lexus reliability, and surprising daily drivability, it’s one of the last true driver’s sedans. The gloss black styling looks aggressive, the interior blends luxury with sport, and track performance is genuinely impressive. Yes, it’s not the most modern inside, but that’s part of its charm—it’s focused on the driving experience above all else.

Strengths:

• Glorious 472hp naturally aspirated V8
• Rear-wheel drive with excellent handling
• Track-capable performance
• Legendary Lexus reliability
• Daily drivable comfort
• Physical controls (not screen-dependent)
• Aggressive F-Sport styling
• Surprising cargo space

Weaknesses:

• Interior tech feels dated (CD player in 2025?)
• Rear seat headroom limited
• Fuel economy (17/25 MPG)
• No active exhaust system
• The infotainment controller can be finicky
• $69,000+ pricing

Best For: Driving enthusiasts, V8 purists, track day enthusiasts, Lexus loyalists, anyone wanting a reliable performance sedan, and those who appreciate naturally aspirated engines.

Specifications: V8 Power in a Compact Package

Engine & Performance

The heart of the IS 500 F-Sport is what makes it special—a naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 that’s becoming extinct elsewhere.

Powertrain Specifications:

Dimensions & Capacity

Size Specifications:

Fuel Economy

EPA Ratings:

• City: 17 MPG
• Highway: 25 MPG
• Combined: ~20 MPG

Reality Check: These aren’t great numbers, but if you’re buying a 5.0L V8, fuel economy probably isn’t your top priority.

Exterior Design: Aggressive F-Sport Styling

Front End: Bold and Purposeful

The IS 500 F-Sport announces itself with unmistakable presence.

Front Design Elements:

✅ Iconic hourglass grille – Lexus’s signature spindle design
✅ Gloss black accents – Aggressive sporty appearance
✅ Triple-beam LED headlights – Dark housing with striking DRL strips
✅ Forward-facing camera – Positioned above Lexus badge
✅ Parking sensors – Integrated into grille
✅ Lexus badge sensor – Houses adaptive cruise radar

Design Flow:

The hood features prominent character lines that flow down to meet the corners of the hourglass grille, creating a cohesive, aggressive front-end design that’s unmistakably Lexus yet distinctly sporty.

Side Profile: Muscular and Refined

The side view showcases the sedan’s athletic proportions while maintaining elegant lines.

Side Design Highlights:

✅ 19-inch BBS wheels – Premium lightweight forged wheels
✅ Gloss black finish – Matches the overall aesthetic
✅ Gloss black brake calipers – Behind the BBS wheels
✅ Dark F-Sport badge – Subtle performance indicator
✅ Gloss black side skirts – Lower body accent
✅ Camera-equipped mirrors – With integrated turn signals
✅ Dark chrome window trim – Premium detailing
✅ Sunroof – Adds light to the cabin

Character Lines:

Prominent sculpting in the lower door sections creates a muscular, athletic appearance without being overdone. The design is aggressive yet refined—perfect for a luxury performance sedan.

Rear End: Stacked Quad Exhausts

The rear design leaves no doubt this is a serious performance machine.

Rear Design Features:

✅ Gloss black spoiler – Integrated trunk lid spoiler
✅ LED taillights – Dark housing with signature light strip
✅ Light strip through trunk lid – Modern design element
✅ Backup camera – Central positioning
✅ Parking sensors – Multiple sensors
✅ Stacked F-Sport quad exhausts – The signature element
✅ Diffuser with fins – Sporty aerodynamic detailing
✅ F-Sport badging – Low on the rear panel

The Exhausts: The stacked quad-exit exhaust layout is a visual statement that immediately identifies this as the V8-powered IS 500, not the regular IS models.

Incognito Paint

The test vehicle featured Incognito paint—a sophisticated dark color that accentuates the aggressive gloss black accents throughout the exterior. It’s stealthy yet striking.

Interior: Luxury Meets Driver Focus

Front Cabin: Sport Luxury Balance

The IS 500’s interior prioritizes the driver while maintaining Lexus’s commitment to luxury materials.

Door Panels:

The white leather door panels create an upscale aesthetic, complemented by unique trim accents surrounding the window controls. A speaker is integrated into the lower door section, though additional storage would be welcome.

Seating: Two-Tone Sport Seats

Front Seats:

✅ Automatic adjustments – Power controls for all settings
✅ Memory function – Saves preferred positions
✅ Heated and ventilated – All-season comfort
✅ Two-tone design – White leather with contrasting accents
✅ Excellent bolstering – Supportive for spirited driving

The seats strike an excellent balance between comfort for daily driving and support for aggressive cornering.

Steering Wheel: Perfectly Sized

F-Sport Steering Wheel:

✅ Perforated leather – Grip-enhancing texture
✅ Perfect diameter – Not too thick, not too thin
✅ Paddle shifters – Both sides
✅ Heated function – Winter comfort
✅ Audio controls – Left side
✅ Voice/Bluetooth – Right side

The steering wheel feels exactly right in hand—substantial yet not oversized, with perfectly placed controls.

Gauge Cluster: Traditional with Digital Accents

Instrument Panel:

The gauge cluster combines analog gauges with a central digital display:

✅ Large central tachometer – Perfect for a performance car
✅ Temperature gauge – Left side
✅ Fuel gauge – Right side
✅ Digital display – Center screen for information
✅ Customizable views – Move tach position
✅ Multiple info screens – Compass, audio, trip data

Unique Feature: You can shift the entire tachometer to the right side of the display, opening up more screen real estate for information on the left. It’s a neat touch that shows attention to driver preference.

Center Stack: Physical Controls Reign

In an era where everything is being moved to touchscreens, the IS 500 proudly retains physical controls.

Climate Controls:

✅ Dual-zone automatic climate
✅ Temperature knobs (both sides)
✅ Fan speed dial
✅ Air distribution buttons
✅ Defrost buttons
✅ Physical buttons for all functions

Audio Controls:

✅ Power and tuning knobs
✅ CD player (yes, in 2025!)
✅ Physical track controls
✅ Volume knob on steering wheel

Seat Controls:

✅ Heated seat buttons (both sides)
✅ Ventilated seat buttons
✅ Heated steering wheel button

Drive Mode Controls:

✅ Multiple driving modes
✅ Gauge cluster changes with each mode
✅ Tachometer illumination varies by mode
✅ Snow mode
✅ Traction control
✅ Auto hold

Infotainment System: Dual Input Methods

Screen & Controller:

The infotainment offers both touchscreen and trackpad control:

✅ Touchscreen capable – Direct interaction
✅ Trackpad controller – Center console mounted
✅ Split-screen view – Map plus additional info
✅ Phone pairing – Bluetooth connectivity
✅ Navigation – Built-in mapping
✅ Menu structure – Logical organization

Reality Check: The system is functional but not cutting-edge. Competitors offer more modern interfaces, but the dual-input approach works well once you’re familiar with it.

Special Features

Left Stalk Controls:

✅ View button – Cycles through camera angles
✅ Rear sun shade – Electric operation
✅ Active exhaust toggle – Pipes engine sound into cabin
✅ Trunk release
✅ Hood release
✅ Automatic high beams

Camera System:

The multi-angle camera system includes:

• Backup camera – Multiple angle options with guidelines
• Forward-facing camera – Can activate automatically at low speeds
• Top-down view – 360-degree perspective
• Automatic activation – Engages at slower speeds for better visibility

Overhead Console

✅ Garage door buttons – HomeLink integration
✅ Touch-sensitive dome lights – No physical switches
✅ Sunroof controls – Electric operation

Storage & Practicality

Center Console:

✅ Cup holders – Two positions
✅ Auxiliary ports – USB and 12V
✅ Storage compartment – Under armrest

Glove Box:

✅ Locking capability
✅ Generous space

Door Storage:

Front doors have storage pockets, though rear door storage is limited.

Rear Seats: Cozy But Functional

Space Reality Check

At 5’10” with Front Seat Positioned:

⚠️ Legroom: Adequate when front seat moved forward
⚠️ Headroom: Limited—barely touching headliner with hat
⚠️ Access: Fold-down capability via headrest release

Features:

✅ Two-tone leather – Matches front aesthetic
✅ Center armrest – Folds down
✅ Pop-out cup holders – Accessed from armrest
✅ Climate vents – Center console mounted
✅ Storage pockets – Behind front seats
✅ Fold-down seats – Access to trunk

Family Use:

The rear seats are functional for adults on shorter trips. A car seat would fit, making this viable as a family sedan, though taller passengers will feel the limited headroom.

Visibility

Despite the sporty profile, rear-seat visibility is surprisingly good with substantial glass area allowing easy views over both shoulders.

Cargo Space: Surprisingly Practical

Trunk Capacity

Opening the Trunk:

✅ F-Sport badging – On lower trunk panel
✅ Easy-access release – Opens trunk lid
✅ Single grab handle – Right side for closing

Cargo Area:

The trunk offers surprising capacity for a compact sport sedan:

✅ Good overall space – Can pack numerous items
✅ Fold-down rear seats – Extends cargo capacity
✅ Spare tire – Full-size spare underneath
✅ Under-floor storage – Additional small item storage

Real-World Use: The trunk can accommodate groceries, luggage, sports equipment, and more. The fold-down rear seats add versatility for longer items.

The V8 Engine: The Star of the Show

Naturally Aspirated Glory

This is what makes the IS 500 F-Sport special in 2025—a 5.0-liter naturally aspirated V8 that revs freely to over 7,000 RPM.

Why This Matters:

In an automotive world rapidly moving toward:

• Turbocharged four-cylinders
• Twin-turbo V6 engines
• Hybrid powertrains
• Full electric vehicles

The IS 500 stands as one of the last naturally aspirated V8 sedans you can buy new. It’s a dying breed, which makes it even more special.

Performance Characteristics

Power Delivery:

The 5.0L V8 produces:

• 472 horsepower at high RPM
• 395 lb-ft of torque with linear delivery
• Rear-wheel drive for engaging handling
• 8-speed automatic with quick shifts

High-RPM Magic:

This engine truly shines in higher RPM ranges. When you rev it out through each gear, the experience is phenomenal:

✅ Linear power building
✅ Thrilling engine note
✅ Quick shifts under full throttle
✅ Responsive throttle
✅ No turbo lag (because there’s no turbo!)

Track Experience: Where It Comes Alive

During track testing at Charlotte Motor Speedway, the IS 500 demonstrated its true performance potential.

Track Configuration:

• Basically stock (minor modifications)
• Lowered suspension (track setup)
• Grippier track-focused tires

Track Performance:

The experience was absolutely phenomenal:

✅ Top speed: 150+ mph achieved
✅ High-speed stability: Rock solid
✅ Braking performance: Confident and predictable
✅ Cornering capability: Neutral, balanced handling
✅ Engine responsiveness: Incredible in higher RPM ranges
✅ G-forces: Genuine performance capability

Professional Driver Hot Lap:

Experiencing a professional driver push the IS 500 to its limits revealed just how capable this platform is. The V8 singing at high RPM through NASCAR-grade turns was absolutely thrilling.

Daily Driving Reality

While the track showcased its ultimate potential, the IS 500 is surprisingly docile for daily driving:

✅ Smooth power delivery in normal driving
✅ Comfortable around town
✅ Easy to modulate throttle
✅ Refined at cruising speeds
✅ Predictable handling

Versatility: This sedan offers genuine dual-personality capability—comfortable commuter during the week, track weapon on weekends.

Driving Dynamics: Rear-Drive Precision

Handling Characteristics

Rear-Wheel Drive:

The IS 500 uses a traditional rear-drive layout with:

✅ 50/50-ish weight distribution
✅ Balanced chassis dynamics
✅ Predictable oversteer characteristics
✅ Natural steering feel
✅ Engaging driving experience

Transmission Performance

8-Speed Automatic:

The eight-speed automatic works well:

✅ Paddle shifters – Manual control
✅ Quick shifts – Especially under full throttle
✅ Sport mode responsiveness – Holds gears longer
✅ Smooth daily operation – Comfortable when not pushed

Shift Quality: In sport modes (especially Sport S+), shift speeds increase dramatically and responsiveness sharpens. The transmission holds gears longer and downshifts more aggressively.

Drive Modes

Multiple drive modes alter vehicle behavior:

✅ Eco – Maximum efficiency
✅ Normal – Balanced daily driving
✅ Sport – Sharper responses
✅ Sport S+ – Maximum performance
✅ Snow – Winter traction

Gauge Cluster Changes: Each mode changes the tachometer illumination and display layout, providing visual confirmation of the selected setting.

Sound Character

Exhaust Note:

The V8 sounds good from the factory, especially when pushed hard:

✅ Aggressive tone at high RPM
✅ Pleasant rumble at idle
✅ Satisfying acceleration soundtrack

Active Exhaust Toggle:

There’s a button to pipe engine sound into the cabin, enhancing the aural experience. However, there’s no true active exhaust valve system to change the actual exhaust volume.

Enthusiast Wish: Many owners would appreciate either:

• A louder factory exhaust option
• An active valve exhaust system (like competitors offer)
• Aftermarket exhaust potential remains strong

Technology & Features

Safety Features

The IS 500 includes modern safety technology:

✅ Adaptive cruise control – Distance pacing
✅ Lane keeping assist – Center lane guidance
✅ Forward collision warning – With automatic braking
✅ Parking sensors – Front and rear
✅ Backup camera – Multiple angle views
✅ 360-degree camera – Top-down perspective
✅ Automatic high beams – Adaptive lighting

Convenience Features

✅ Keyless entry – All doors
✅ Push-button start – Convenient operation
✅ Power-folding mirrors – Automatic operation
✅ Memory seating – Driver preferences saved
✅ Auto-dimming mirror – Rear visibility
✅ Sunroof – Electric operation

The CD Player Debate: 2025 Anachronism

Yes, There’s Still a CD Player

In 2025, the IS 500 retains a CD player—something Lexus has discontinued in some models but kept in others.

The Reality:

Most buyers will never use it. Everything is on smartphones now with Bluetooth connectivity. But its presence speaks to Lexus’s approach: keeping things simple and reliable rather than chasing the latest trends.

Philosophy:

This represents the IS 500’s overall character—it’s not trying to be cutting-edge with technology. It’s focused on the driving experience, with technology serving as a tool rather than the main attraction.

Daily Drivability: Surprisingly Practical

Commuting Reality

Despite the performance focus, the IS 500 works well as a daily driver:

✅ Comfortable ride quality – Well-damped suspension
✅ Easy to drive – Not intimidating in traffic
✅ Good visibility – Substantial glass area
✅ Reasonable trunk space – Practical for groceries/luggage
✅ Rear seats functional – Adults can fit (if not tall)
✅ Lexus reliability – Peace of mind

Family Sedan Potential

Can It Work as a Family Car?

Yes, with caveats:

✅ Rear car seat will fit
✅ Trunk space adequate for family needs
✅ Safe and reliable
⚠️ Limited rear headroom for taller kids
⚠️ Fuel costs higher than average

Long-Term Reliability

Lexus Reputation:

One of the IS 500’s biggest selling points is legendary Lexus reliability:

✅ Proven V8 engine
✅ Simple, dependable 8-speed automatic
✅ Minimal complex technology
✅ Strong dealer network
✅ Excellent build quality

Peace of Mind: You can drive this daily knowing it will start every morning and won’t leave you stranded—something not all performance sedans can claim.

Value Proposition: $69,000+ Worth It?

Pricing Context

MSRP: Just over $69,000 (as tested in Incognito)

What You Get:

• 472hp naturally aspirated V8
• Rear-wheel drive
• Track-capable performance
• Lexus reliability
• Premium interior
• Comprehensive safety features
• Unique position in market

Competition Comparison

vs BMW M340i:

• BMW: More modern interior, better tech
• IS 500: V8 vs turbo-six, better reliability
• BMW: Better handling (arguably)
• IS 500: Better soundtrack, simpler operation

vs Mercedes-AMG C43:

• Mercedes: More luxurious interior
• IS 500: More engaging engine
• Mercedes: Better tech integration
• IS 500: Lower maintenance costs

vs Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing:

• Cadillac: Manual transmission available
• IS 500: Better reliability reputation
• Cadillac: More raw performance
• IS 500: Better daily drivability

vs Genesis G70 3.3T:

• Genesis: Better value, more warranty
• IS 500: V8 vs turbo-six, better brand reputation
• Genesis: More features for money
• IS 500: More engaging naturally aspirated engine

Who Should Buy the Lexus IS 500 F-Sport?

Perfect For:

✅ V8 enthusiasts – Want naturally aspirated power
✅ Track day regulars – Need weekend capability
✅ Lexus loyalists – Trust the brand
✅ Driving purists – Appreciate traditional performance
✅ Reliability seekers – Want dependable performance
✅ Anti-turbo buyers – Prefer linear power delivery
✅ Those who value simplicity – Don’t want tech overload
✅ Sound lovers – Crave V8 soundtrack

Consider Alternatives If:

❌ You need cutting-edge technology
❌ You want the absolute best interior luxury
❌ Fuel economy is a priority
❌ You need spacious rear seats
❌ You want manual transmission
❌ You demand the loudest exhaust
❌ You need all-wheel drive

Final Verdict: A Modern Classic

The Bottom Line

The 2025 Lexus IS 500 F-Sport Performance is a special vehicle that deserves appreciation while it’s still available.

What Makes It Special:

🎯 Last of a dying breed – Naturally aspirated V8 sedans are disappearing
🎯 Dual personality – Daily driver and track weapon
🎯 Legendary reliability – Lexus dependability
🎯 Driver-focused – Prioritizes experience over gadgets
🎯 Genuine performance – Track-proven capability
🎯 Unique positioning – Nothing else quite like it

What Could Be Better:

⚠️ Modernize interior tech – System feels dated
⚠️ Active exhaust system – Let it roar on command
⚠️ More rear headroom – Improve passenger comfort
⚠️ Better fuel economy – Though this isn’t the priority

Should You Buy It?

Absolutely yes, if you’re a driving enthusiast who appreciates naturally aspirated engines, values reliability, and wants a sedan that can handle track days yet commute comfortably. The IS 500 F-Sport is one of the last opportunities to buy a new V8 sedan from a Japanese manufacturer.

Maybe not, if you prioritize cutting-edge technology, need the most spacious rear seats, or fuel economy is a major concern. There are more modern, efficient options available.

Final Rating: 9.0/10

Excellent – The IS 500 F-Sport succeeds at what matters most: delivering an engaging, reliable, track-capable driving experience wrapped in a practical package. Its “weaknesses” are really just trade-offs made to focus on what enthusiasts truly want—a glorious V8 engine and rear-drive dynamics. In a few years, we’ll look back on these as modern classics.

Bottom Line: Buy one while you still can. This formula won’t exist much longer.

The 2025 Lexus IS 500 F-Sport Performance proves that old-school formulas—naturally aspirated V8, rear-wheel drive, driver focus—still have tremendous appeal. It’s not perfect, but it’s perfectly tuned for enthusiasts who value driving experience above all else.

Special thanks to Hendrick Lexus North Lake for providing the test vehicle. All opinions are honest and based on real-world testing experience.