Lexus Wraps Up the IS 500 Era with the Exciting JDM Climax Edition
“We may not be done, but Lexus certainly has wrapped things up.”
The Lexus IS 500 has officially reached its final chapter. Since its debut in 2021, this V8-powered luxury sport compact has stood out as one of Lexus’s coolest offerings. However, both the IS 500 and the IS model line as we know it may be nearing their end. To mark the occasion, Lexus has introduced special edition versions — including the IS 500 Ultimate Edition available in the U.S. Meanwhile, Japan is getting its own exclusive model: the Lexus IS 500 Climax Edition. Representing the peak of IS performance this year, this limited edition won’t be around for long, so act quickly if you want one.
The Climax Edition Lexus IS 500 closely mirrors the US Ultimate Edition but comes loaded with impressive enhancements. It features powerful six-piston Brembo front brakes gripping massive 380 mm rotors, paired with high-friction brake pads designed for rapid stopping and resistance to fade. The striking red calipers add a bold visual touch, while the special forged 19-inch BBS wheels not only elevate the car’s style but also help shave off weight.
Climax Edition Brings a Few Exciting Upgrades
The Climax Edition stands out with its exclusive Neutrino Gray paint, shared only with the Ultimate Edition. Inside, the cabin features a unique Ultrasuede interior combining black with flare red accents, complemented by a dimpled leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob. Subtle touches like a redesigned 3D clock dial with precision laser etching and a Climax Edition scuff plate add to the special feel. Plus, striking red seatbelts provide both style and safety for occupants.
If you still weren’t sure what made this model special, the eight-inch center display features a unique Climax Edition startup screen that Lexus says “creates a sense of exhilaration when starting the engine.” This isn’t a mistranslation—there’s even an English-lettered badge to prove it.
The IS 500’s V8 Engine: Always Primed for Action
At the heart of the IS 500 lies its standout feature: a 5.0-liter V8 engine. This powerplant is a variant of the same V8 found in Lexus’s LC, IS, RC, and GS F models. In the IS 500, it delivers a robust 472 horsepower and 395 lb-ft of torque. Unlike most modern Lexus models that favor all-wheel drive, this one channels all its power exclusively to the rear wheels, offering a classic, thrilling driving experience.
The standard IS model wasn’t designed to accommodate a V8, so the IS 500 features a prominent hood bulge to house the larger intake system. It also boasts Yamaha-tuned rear shocks and an F Sport adaptive variable suspension for enhanced handling. As one of the final V8-powered compact sport sedans on the market, the IS 500 remains a hidden gem worth noticing.
Lexus is producing a limited run of 500 Climax Edition IS 500s exclusively for the Japanese market. These models went on sale today and are expected to sell out quickly. Pricing starts at 9.5 million yen (tax included), which is roughly $65,000 at current exchange rates. That’s about $7,000 more than a standard IS 500 and $24,000 above the IS 300h — a steep premium for the Climax Edition.
