Is 500 Lexus rated?
There isn’t a standalone model simply named “Lexus 500.” The “500” badge appears on several 5.0-liter V8 variants—namely the LC 500, RC F, and IS 500—and each carries its own rating profile depending on year, trim, and the rating source.
What the 500 badge represents in Lexus’ lineup
The “5.0” designation in Lexus branding signals a 5.0-liter V8 behind the hood. The primary 5.0L Lexuses are the LC 500, RC F, and IS 500. They share the same engine family but differ in body style, suspension tuning, and interior emphasis, which influences how they’re reviewed and rated by critics and rating agencies.
- Lexus LC 500 — a two-seat grand tourer focused on long-distance comfort and high-speed performance with a 5.0L V8.
- Lexus RC F — a high-performance coupe aimed at sharper handling and track-ready dynamics with a 5.0L V8.
- Lexus IS 500 — a four-door performance sedan based on the IS lineup with a 5.0L V8 and sport-oriented tuning.
These models share the 5.0L V8 heritage, but every year and trim level may bring tweaks to power delivery, exhaust note, and suspension. For precise horsepower, torque, and acceleration figures, consult the official Lexus specifications for the exact model year you’re considering.
How these models are rated by major sources
Ratings come from several organizations and publications that focus on different aspects—reliability, safety, efficiency, and overall driving experience. Here’s a general outline of what you can expect from the main sources for these 5.0L Lexuses. Note that results can vary by year, trim, and optional equipment.
- Reliability and build quality — Lexus vehicles typically score well for long-term reliability and interior quality, with brands like J.D. Power and Consumer Reports often rewarding Lexus for dependability and owner satisfaction. Variations can occur for low-volume performance variants due to fewer long-term data points.
- Safety and driver-assistance features — Modern Lexus models are well-equipped with standard and available safety tech, and they tend to perform solidly in crash tests and safety evaluations conducted by IIHS and NHTSA, depending on the year and option package.
- Fuel economy and performance balance — The 5.0L V8 is oriented toward performance, so fuel economy is typically modest relative to non-performance peers. Real-world results depend on driving style, transmission choice, and wheel/tire setup.
- Owner experience and media reviews — Critics frequently praise the sense of refinement, cockpit design, and quiet ride of Lexus, while some reviewers note the trade-offs in ride firmness or premium maintenance costs associated with high-performance variants.
To get the latest, most accurate picture, check the current EPA fuel economy figures, IIHS/NHTSA safety results, J.D. Power reliability rankings, Consumer Reports reliability/owner-satisfaction scores, and the most recent professional reviews for the exact model year you’re considering.
What to verify for the latest model year
Because Lexus updates hardware and software over time, always verify the exact figures for the year and trim you’re interested in. Look up the latest official specifications from Lexus and read current reviews to understand how the specific LC 500, RC F, or IS 500 you’re evaluating performs today.
Fuel economy, performance, and ownership experience
The 5.0L V8 delivers strong performance across these models, with a focus on a engaging driving experience rather than maximum efficiency. The ride and handling characteristics vary by body style—luxury grand tourer, sport coupe, or performance sedan—so personal preferences will influence how you rate each model.
If you’re aiming to compare across the lineup, test drives and a side‑by‑side look at EPA estimates, safety ratings, and owner feedback for the exact year and configuration you want are the best ways to determine which model best fits your expectations.
Bottom line
The notion of a single “Lexus 500” rating isn’t applicable because there isn’t one model by that exact name. The 5.0L badge appears on LC 500, RC F, and IS 500, each with its own strengths and rating profiles. For an accurate assessment, identify the precise model year and trim, then consult the latest EPA, safety, reliability, and consumer-review data from trusted sources.
Summary
In short, there is no standalone “Lexus 500” rating. The 5.0L Lexuses—LC 500, RC F, and IS 500—are evaluated according to the same standards as other Lexus models, with attention to reliability, safety, and driving dynamics. To determine how a specific 5.0L Lexus stacks up today, review current official specs and up-to-date independent reviews for the exact year and configuration you’re considering.
IS the 2025 is 500 a good daily driver?
The IS 500 strikes a solid balance between fun and comfort, delivering a satisfying drive, but its handling falls short of its more agile class rivals. While it may not offer the thrills of a true sports car, it shines as a capable and enjoyable daily driver.
IS the Lexus IS 500 expensive to maintain?
A Lexus IS 500 will cost about $6,479 for maintenance and repairs during its first 10 years of service. This beats the industry average for luxury coupe models by $5,937.
What IS the safety rating of the Lexus IS 500?
2025 IS 500 Crash Test Results
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave the 2025 Lexus IS the highest rating of Good in the three crash tests conducted and for its standard vehicle-to-pedestrian front crash prevention system.
What makes the Lexus IS 500 special?
A DIFFERENT BREED OF F SPORT
There's no sound quite like it. The IS 500 F SPORT Performance boasts a full 472 horsepower* at 7,100 rpm. And a blistering 0-to-60 time of just 4.4 seconds.* The result? A pure performance sport sedan unlike anything you've heard.
