Does the IS500 have a V8?
Yes. The Lexus IS 500 is powered by a 5.0-liter naturally aspirated V8, making it the only V8 in the IS lineup. It pairs with an eight-speed automatic transmission and is configured for rear-wheel drive.
To understand what that means for performance and positioning, the IS 500 uses a 2UR-GSE 5.0-liter V8 that delivers about 472 horsepower and 395 lb-ft of torque. This engine is shared with other Lexus performance models, giving the IS 500 a distinctive sound and character compared with the IS 300 and IS 350. Introduced for the North American market around 2021, the IS 500 is the brand’s dedicated V8 variant in the compact luxury sedan segment, and it does not offer a factory all-wheel-drive configuration in its typical trims.
Engine and performance at a glance
Key specifications for quick reference:
- Engine: 5.0-liter naturally aspirated V8 (2UR-GSE)
- Power: 472 horsepower
- Torque: 395 lb-ft
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive (no factory AWD)
- Introduction: V8-powered IS variant introduced in 2021 for the North American market
In short, these specifications position the IS 500 as the performance-focused member of the IS lineup, powered by Lexus’s venerable 5.0L V8 rather than a turbocharged six or a hybrid setup.
How it compares with other IS variants
To place the IS 500 in context, consider how it differs from the IS 300/IS 350. The main contrasts are powertrain choice, driving dynamics, and sound character. The V8 delivers stronger straight-line performance and a distinct exhaust note, while the V6 options emphasize efficiency and a smoother mid-range. The IS 500’s chassis tuning and available sport packages are oriented toward enthusiasts seeking a more track-ready, rear-drive sedan experience.
- V8 vs V6: higher horsepower and a stronger performance character
- Drivetrain: typically rear-wheel drive with sport-focused suspension
- Availability: no factory AWD option on standard IS 500 configurations
In essence, the IS 500 does have a V8, and it remains Lexus’s flagship V8-powered option in the IS lineup, emphasizing performance and a unique driving experience within the brand's compact luxury sedan family.
Summary
The IS 500 indeed features a 5.0-liter naturally aspirated V8, delivering 472 horsepower and 395 lb-ft of torque through an eight-speed automatic transmission to rear-wheel drive. This makes it the standout V8 in Lexus’s IS lineup, offering a distinctive performance-oriented alternative to the turbocharged six-cylinder and hybrid variants.
