Climax Edition Unveiled

End of an Era

V8 engines used to be everywhere, from muscle cars to luxury sedans. Nowadays, they’re practically endangered species. The Lexus IS 500 is saying adieu with a special edition just for the Japanese market: the Climax Edition. A fitting farewell to the V8 roar, limited to just 500 gems, this edition spices things up a little to make the goodbye more memorable.

Performance

Under the hood, the Climax Edition retains the naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 that delivers a hearty 472 horsepower and 395 lb-ft of torque. This power is managed through an eight-speed automatic transmission that drives the rear wheels. While the mechanical aspect stays untouched, the Climax Edition kicks things up a notch with a new, robust braking system. It borrows a bit of flair from the track-focused RC F Coupe, boasting 15-inch ventilated discs, six-pot Brembo calipers, and high-friction brake pads. Keeping this beast glued to the ground are matte black 19-inch BBS forged aluminum wheels, reminiscent of those on the US-spec IS 500 Ultimate Edition.

Design

The exterior gets a fresh splash with a new Neutrino Gray paint option, complementing the sleek and stealthy look. The inside is where luxury and sportiness collide, with a vibrant mix of Black and Flare Red for the interior. Lexus doesn’t skimp on details; there’s exquisite Ultrasuede for the upholstery, and the leather is dimpled to enhance grip on the steering wheel and shift knob. The analog clock gets a unique pattern, and there’s a special Climax Edition plaque right on the center console, just in case a reminder of exclusivity is needed.

Drive Feel

Driving the IS 500 Climax Edition is akin to holding the reins of a racehorse. It’s precise, powerful, and unyielding on straights, yet agile enough in corners. While most V8 competitors are in hibernation mode, this one gives the familiar grace of a BMW 3-Series or an Audi A4 a knockout punch with effortless power delivery and handling. This isn’t just a sedan; it’s a last hurrah for those who crave the purity of a naturally aspirated engine.

Future Outlook

The IS sedan has held on for more than two decades, an enduring symbol in the Lexus lineup. But it’s sensing retirement now, with its start tracing back to the original release in 1999. Rumor mills swirl with talks of an electric future for the IS, possibly featuring a dual-motor setup. Imagine an all-electric sedan or even a shooting brake — but that reality sits on the horizon.

Final Pricing

The Climax Edition, expected to hit Japanese roads in August, comes with a sticker price of approximately $65,400. For comparison, the standard IS 500 is priced at around $58,500 in Japan. In the United States, the IS 500 F Sport Performance for the 2025 model year comes in at $60,715. Lexus hasn’t dropped the details on US pricing for the IS 500 Ultimate Edition yet, but anticipation is certainly in the air.

This iconic V8 lineup may be closing the curtain, but it’s pulling out all the stops for the grand finale. The Lexus IS 500 Climax Edition is a token for enthusiasts to remember the bold growl and unmistakable power of a V8 which, like all good things, must eventually end.