How fast is the Lexus IS500?
The Lexus IS500 accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in about 4.4 to 4.5 seconds and has a top speed around 168 mph, depending on conditions and configuration.
The IS500 is the V8-powered variant of Lexus' IS lineup, delivering 472 horsepower and 395 lb-ft of torque from a 5.0-liter V8, paired with an eight-speed automatic and rear-wheel drive. These figures translate into brisk acceleration and strong highway performance, though real-world results vary with tires, weather, and driving mode.
Performance snapshot
Key performance specifications that determine the IS500's speed are listed below.
- Powertrain: 5.0-liter naturally aspirated V8 (2UR-GSE) producing 472 horsepower and 395 lb-ft of torque
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic with manual shift mode and paddle shifters
- Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive with a limited-slip differential; no factory all-wheel-drive option for IS500
- 0-60 mph: approximately 4.4 to 4.5 seconds, depending on mode and conditions
- Top speed: electronically limited to 168 mph (270 km/h)
- Handling/feature notes: available F Sport Performance package with adaptive suspension and larger brakes
Taken together, these specs establish the IS500 as a high-performance variant in the IS lineup, prioritizing strong straight-line speed and confident dynamics for a luxury sedan.
Real-world performance and considerations
What you experience on the road can differ from the numbers above due to several factors.
- Tire quality and temperature significantly affect grip and acceleration
- Drive mode selection (Normal, Sport, Sport+) changes throttle response, transmission shifts, and stability control behavior
- Weather and road surface (wet, icy, or rough roads) can slow times
- Vehicle weight, fuel level, and optional equipment (such as the F Sport Performance package) influence performance
- Launch control and driver technique can yield better 0-60 times under optimal conditions
In practice, the IS500 delivers solid, responsive acceleration that aligns with its V8 character, but the exact time and top speed you experience will depend on the conditions and configuration.
Summary
The Lexus IS500 offers a compelling blend of luxury and performance: a 472-hp V8, rear-wheel drive, and brisk acceleration with a top speed around 168 mph. While not a hypersport sedan, its V8 soundtrack and confident street manners make it a standout choice for buyers prioritizing speed within a refined, daily-driver package. Real-world results will vary with tires, conditions, and trim level.
Is the Lexus IS500 fast?
Yes, the Lexus IS 500 is very fast, with a 0-60 mph time of about 4.4 seconds. It achieves this with a 5.0-liter V8 engine producing 472 horsepower and 395 pound-feet of torque, making it a powerful performance sedan that is quick both off the line and in its acceleration up to its limited top speed of 149 mph.
You can watch this video to see a real-world 0-60 mph test of the Lexus IS 500: 1mMilesPerHrYouTube · Sep 10, 2023
- Acceleration: The IS 500 can go from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 4.4 seconds.
- Engine: Its performance comes from a 5.0-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine.
- Horsepower: The engine delivers 472 horsepower at 7,100 rpm.
- Torque: It produces 395 pound-feet of torque.
- Top Speed: The top speed is electronically limited to 149 mph.
This video shows a POV test drive of the Lexus IS 500, highlighting its acceleration and engine sound: 54sTheTopherYouTube · Sep 21, 2024
What is the 0 to 60 time for the Lexus IS500?
The Lexus IS500 accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 4.4 to 4.5 seconds, according to Lexus and automotive reviewers. This is achieved with its 5.0-liter V8 engine, which produces 472 horsepower.
You can watch this video to see a POV test drive of the Lexus IS500 and its 0-60 mph acceleration: 58sDM Car ReviewsYouTube · Jul 30, 2025
- Manufacturer claim: Lexus states a 0–60 mph time of 4.4 seconds.
- Independent tests: Various reviews and tests have recorded times between 4.4 and 4.5 seconds, often in ideal conditions.
- Engine and performance: The acceleration is a result of the 5.0-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine, which generates 472 horsepower and 395 pound-feet of torque.
Which is better, IS350 or IS500?
0–60-MPH Times. When we tested a rear-wheel-drive IS350 F Sport, we recorded a brisk 5.6-second 60-mph time, average for this swift class. The V-8-powered IS500 model is the ultimate IS, and it laid down a 4.3-second 60-mph time at our test track.
How fast does the IS500 go?
The 2025 Lexus IS 500 F Sport Performance comes with a 5.0-liter V8 engine that produces up to 472 horsepower and 395 lb-ft of torque. That means 0-60 in just 4.4 seconds, at a top speed of up to 149 mph.
