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Is 500 Lexus top speed?

The LC 500’s top speed is electronically limited to about 168 mph (270 km/h) in most markets. This article explains what that means for the LC 500 and its variants, and how the limit is applied.


The question comes up because the “500” in the name might imply extreme performance. Here, we separate marketing from engineering: the official limiter sits at a fixed speed, while real-world performance can vary with conditions, tires, and model year. We’ll break down what you need to know about the LC 500’sTop speed and why the speed cap exists.


Top speed by LC 500 variant


Below are the commonly cited top speeds for the main LC 500 variants sold in many markets. Note that exact figures can vary by country due to tuning, tires, and safety regulations.



  • Lexus LC 500 Coupe: electronically limited to 168 mph (270 km/h).

  • Lexus LC 500 Convertible: electronically limited to 168 mph (270 km/h); the convertible’s extra weight and aerodynamics generally keep the limit the same in official specs.


Practically, drivers may observe slight variations in top speed on different tracks or with different tire sets, but the official limiter is typically the same across these variants in most regions.


Why the limiter exists


Automakers apply electronic speed limiters to protect tires, drivetrain components, and overall vehicle stability at high speeds. For the LC 500, the limiter is set to balance strong performance from its 5.0-liter V8 with reliable, predictable handling and tire performance at highway and track speeds. The LC 500 uses a 10-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive, with the engine producing about 471 hp, enabling rapid acceleration yet capping top speed to maintain safety margins and warranty integrity.


Engine and performance details


The LC 500 is powered by a 5.0-liter naturally aspirated V8 producing roughly 471 hp and 398 lb-ft of torque. The car ships with a 10-speed automatic transmission and is predominantly rear-wheel drive. These design choices deliver strong acceleration (0-60 mph in the low 4-second range in many configurations) while the electronic limiter governs the top end at 168 mph in most markets.


Summary


In short, the Lexus LC 500’s official top speed is limited to about 168 mph (270 km/h) across its Coupe and Convertible variants in most regions. The “500” badge denotes the model line and its 5.0-liter V8 rather than a numeric top-speed target. Real-world speeds can vary with tires, weather, and road conditions, but the electronic limiter remains a standardized safety feature for these vehicles.

What Lexus can go 200 mph?


This Lexus supercar is equipped with a 4.8-liter V-10 engine for 553 horsepower with an upshift ability of 200 milliseconds. The Lexus LFA has the ability to reach speeds of up to 202 mph. The Lexus LFA set the precedent for the future of performance vehicles.



How fast is the Lexus LS500?


The top speed for the Lexus LS 500 is 136 mph or 140 mph, depending on the model year, but some sources indicate an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph for certain configurations. The discrepancy is likely due to variations in trim, model year, and whether the figure represents the manufacturer's specification or a verified test result. 

  • 136 mph: This figure is cited for some 2019-2020 models. 
  • 140 mph: This figure is cited for the 2023 model. 
  • 155 mph: This is the electronically limited top speed for some newer configurations, such as the one mentioned in the Lexus Stevens Creek article. 

0:54Lexus LS 500: Top Speed and Performance InsightsTikTokkushnchy_dilman · 1mo 0:27OUCH! Not a good sound! 2024 Lexus LS 500h 0-60 MPH ...YouTubePaul's Place · 1y 0:582025 Lexus LS500! The Luxury Sedan You Forgot About!YouTubeBros FOURR Speed · 1mo (function(){
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IS500 sport performance?


The Lexus IS 500 F SPORT Performance is a luxury sport sedan powered by a 5.0-liter V8 engine, producing 472 horsepower and 395 lb-ft of torque. Its performance is enhanced by a Torsen limited-slip rear differential, a Sport Direct-Shift 8-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters, and F SPORT-tuned Adaptive Variable Suspension. Key performance features include stacked quad exhaust tips, Brembo® brakes, and a 0-60 mph time of 4.4 seconds.
 
This video demonstrates the performance of the Lexus IS 500, including acceleration and handling: 1mDM Car ReviewsYouTube · Jul 30, 2025
Engine and powertrain

  • Engine: A 5.0-liter, naturally aspirated V8 engine.
  • Horsepower: 472 hp.
  • Torque: 395 lb-ft.
  • Transmission: An 8-speed Sport Direct-Shift automatic transmission with paddle shifters.
  • Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive. 

Performance and handling
  • Acceleration: 0 to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds. 
  • Suspension: F SPORT-tuned Adaptive Variable Suspension for improved handling. 
  • Differential: Torsen limited-slip rear differential for enhanced traction. 
  • Brakes: Two-piece aluminum brake rotors, with optional Brembo® calipers and 380mm discs on the Ultimate Edition. 
  • Exhaust: Stacked quad exhaust tips designed for performance and sound. 
  • Driving Modes: Includes ECO, Normal, Sport S, and Sport S+ modes for customizable performance. 

Additional features
  • Interior: Customizable gauge cluster with an LFA-inspired design, F SPORT seats, and premium materials. 
  • Technology: Equipped with a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility. 
  • Safety: Includes standard driver-assistance features like Forward Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning, and Adaptive Cruise Control. 



What is the top speed of the Lexus IS 500?


149 mph
Power and Performance
That means 0-60 in just 4.4 seconds, at a top speed of up to 149 mph.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.