2022 Lexus IS 500 F Sport - Review by Mark Fulmer +VIDEO
You Coulda Had a V8
By Mark Fulmer
Sr. Producer and Editor
THE AUTO CHANNEL
Yes, this years limited edition of the Lexus IS 500 has re-activated one of its veteran players - the legendary V8. It is limited in the sense that only 500 will be made and only for the North American market. The baritone rumble is still there, growling out "Hey Look at me!" as one pulls into a gas station for the second time in a week. And the misinformation about ethanol and other renewable bio fuels continues.
Anyway, this V8 gets a 56 hp boost to 472 hp which can achieve 0 to 60 mph in 4.3 seconds with a top speed of 149 mph. So after folks hear you coming, they could be impressed with the exterior look, which is looking good. The IS 500 brandishes lots of shiny black accents, badges, and chrome trim, and the exclusive 19-inch Enkei wheels make a statement as well.
The driving experience was most enjoyable in the curves as the sporty sedan held true to the line approaching and departing the apex. Freeway driving, which these days has a plethora of unskilled auto and truck drivers, can be a real trial for your right foot - however the 500 has Adaptive Cruise Control. Learn it. And use it. You'll be glad you did.
The front row seats can be heated and ventilated and are wrapped in leather. The steering wheel is also heated, and there is a dual-zone automatic climate control system, and a power moonroof.
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Front Seat Leg Room 44.8 in
Front Seat Headroom 38.2 in
Front Seat Shoulder Room 55.9 in
Front Seat Hip Room 54.3 in
The second row has reasonable space that for passengers is fine for errands about town but long trips for adults should probably include semi frequent get out and stretch moments.
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Rear Seat Leg Room 32.2 in
Rear Seat Headroom 36.9 in
Rear Seat Shoulder Room 53.4 in
Rear Seat Hip Room 54 in
The infotainment system with its touchpad, voice commands, and good mix of know controls is packed with all of the modern digital systems including:
- HD Radio
Bluetooth Connection
Satellite Radio
Smart Device Integration
WiFi
Hotspot
Auxiliary Audio Input
MP3 Player
The Lexus IS series has a track record of excellent safety, and this model continues that with:
- Back-Up Camera
Cross-Traffic Alert
Rear Parking Aid
Blind Spot Monitor
Lane Departure Warning
Lane Keeping Assist
ABS
Tire Pressure Monitor
Brake Assist
Stability Control
Traction Control
The Lexus sedan formula of reliability, high-quality interiors, plusher materials, and more refined riding experiences is alive and well in this edition of IS 500