Lexus has announced that production of its iconic sedans, the IS500 and the IS300, will officially end by the end of 2025. This marks the end of the current generation of the IS sedan, which debuted more than a decade ago. This could possibly mean new things for the IS. Let’s find out.
IS500 And IS250 – Overview
The Lexus IS500 and IS250 cater to different ends of the compact luxury sedan spectrum. The IS500, introduced in 2022, is a performance-oriented model featuring a wonderful naturally aspirated 5.0L V8 engine that delivers 472 horsepower. It comes exclusively with rear-wheel drive and an 8-speed automatic transmission, blending traditional muscle with refined Lexus craftsmanship. The IS500 also features subtle F SPORT styling cues like quad exhausts, a rear spoiler, and a sport-tuned suspension, which made it one of the most underrated performance sedans.
The Lexus IS250 serves as a more entry-level offering. It’s powered by a 2.5L V6 engine producing around 204 horsepower, prioritising smoothness and everyday usability over outright performance. Available in both rear- and all-wheel drive configurations, the IS250 carries a more understated design and a comfort-focused interior, aimed at drivers looking for reliability, refinement, and an approachable entry into the Lexus brand. While both share the IS badge, their characters and intended audiences are distinctly different.
Lexus IS – Will There Be A New Generation?
This could ultimately lead to Lexus developing a newer generation of the IS, possibly working on electrifying it. The upcoming IS generation could boast the first ever all-electric Lexus IS model, along with Lexus IS hybrid models and a more sporty F-Sport model combining hybrid technology and Lexus’s Internal Combustion masterclass.
2025 Lexus IS500 Ultimate Edition – Farewell, V8 IS500
Lexus is introducing an Ultimate Edition of the IS sedan, with a limited run of 500 units to bid farewell to the now legendary IS500. The Ultimate Edition is based on the IS500 and has a naturally aspirated 5.0-litre V-8 engine with 472 HP. The new Ultimate Edition version of the V-8-powered IS500 F Sport Performance features visual tweaks and special badging. The Ultimate Edition comes in a new colour called the Wind, and it has special matt black 19-inch wheels and sportier red brake calipers. The interior is finished in a two-tone red and black colour scheme, including red seatbelts. There’s a plaque denoting each car with its number in the 500 unit series, and the scuff-plate trim is also exclusive to the Ultimate Edition.
Verdict
It is truly sad to see the current IS generation go, as it will probably be the last IS sedan with a naturally aspirated V8 engine, whose job was just pure enthusiasm and driver-focused fun. The upcoming newer generation may be more advanced and might have a bigger screen, but we will surely miss the free-breathing, mighty Japanese V8.
