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2022 Lexus IS 500 F Sport Takes Aim at the Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing

Lexus IS 500 F SPORT Performance 23 photos
Photo: Lexus
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The 2022 Lexus IS 500 F SPORT Performance represents the F SPORT Performance line's debut, and it does it in a very special manner, defying the current trends. This is the only way to describe the idea of bringing a big naturally aspirated V8 under the hood of the Lexus IS series in this day and age.
The IS 500 engine provides a boost in displacement and performance over the IS 350’s 3.5-liter V6. With a push of the engine start button, the model's naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 engine roars to life, providing a not-so-subtle reminder that something special lies beneath its raised hood. Do we have the BMW M3 killer here? Time will tell, but a look at the ratings certainly brings the 2022 Cadillac CT-4 Blackwing to mind.

The IS 500 has a maximum output of 472 hp at 7,100 rpm and 395 lb-ft (535 Nm) of peak torque at 4,800 rpm. Despite the drastically more powerful engine, the vehicle tips the scales at 3,891 pounds (1,805 kg), gaining only 143 pounds (65 kg) of additional curb weight over the IS 350 F SPORT.

Capable of delivering a 0 to 60 mph (96 kph) time of 4.5 seconds, the model also has a manufacturer-estimated 24 mpg (9.8 liters per 100 km) highway rating. Other IS 500 performance enhancements include a throaty quad exhaust system with dual-stacked tailpipes that perfectly amplify the new V8 engine.

The IS 500 uses the same the same eight-speed Sport Direct Shift automatic transmission found in the IS 300 and IS 350 RWD models. It also features drive mode select Sport S and Sport S+, which provide advanced engine and transmission mapping to enhance performance. Sport S+ also adjusts the amount of EPS steering assist and damping force to deliver sportier handling to match the updated powertrain settings. A Custom Mode is also available, offering multiple combinations for powertrain (Normal/Eco/Power), chassis (Normal/Sport), and air conditioning (Normal/Eco).

The IS 500 will come standard with the IS RWD F SPORT’s Dynamic Handling Package (DHP), which includes Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) and a Torsen limited slip differential (LSD). The latter is said to improve handling and performance thanks to enhanced traction when cornering or exiting turns.

Starting with the 2022 IS 500, Lexus F SPORT Performance models will come adorned with unique black badging on the sides to distinguish them from full-blown F models. No price tag was yet announced, but a starting threshold of around $65,000 seems realistic.
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