I finally got to drive the Lexus IS 500 for a week. I had driven it some years ago at an automotive event and just never had the opportunity to get it scheduled. It was definitely worth the wait when the Incognito colored 500 showed up. The more aggressive F Sport front end made it stand out from the lower trims. This model was equipped with the optional 19-inch matte black BBS forged wheels. Although I was a fan of the design, I feel like it would’ve looked better if the wheels were painted in the typical F Sport gloss black. The low profile rear black spoiler added a nice accent to the overall shape of the IS 500.

Getting into the Lexus IS 500, you’re greeted with the very bright red leather interior. One of my favorite thing is the use of red wasn’t just as an accent, but as the main color similar to cars in the 80s and 90s. The seats were sporty, yet extremely comfortable to sit in for long or fast drives. The infotainment is showing its age as it is not the latest Lexus system and is overdue for an upgrade. You can also see its age from the offering of a CD player. Thankfully the Mark Levinson system delivered a loud but clear sound playing from my iPhone via Apple CarPlay.

Under the hood, the 5.0L V8 engine was cranking out 472 horsepower through the 8-speed automatic. The IS 500 is definitely the definition of hot rodding with a Japanese twist. The 8-speed was also showing its age compared to the 10-speed that the V8 is paired with in the LC 500. It was also slighting delayed in engaging when everyday driving but no issues when driving it in a more performance way. The other thing I wish the IS 500 had was a launch control to help with the endless burnouts you get with launches. Leaving the traction control on is a necessity or you’ll be kicking out the rear with the instant response of the naturally aspirated V8

Overall, the 2024 Lexus IS 500 is the perfect formula for Japanese hot rodding. The formula is simple though, get a small car and shove a big engine in it and the IS 500 does just that.