What engine is in the Lexus IS500?
The Lexus IS 500 uses a 5.0-liter naturally aspirated V8 from the 2UR-GSE family, delivering about 472 horsepower and 395 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive as standard.
To understand what underpins the IS 500’s performance, it relies on the venerable V8 design found in Lexus’ most track-ready models. The IS 500’s powertrain is a deliberate shift away from the turbocharged four-cylinders that populate the broader IS lineup, prioritizing high-revving V8 character, a distinctive exhaust note, and strong straight-line acceleration.
Engine details
The following specifications outline the IS 500’s powertrain configuration and output.
- Engine configuration: 5.0-liter V8 (naturally aspirated)
- Engine family: 2UR-GSE
- Displacement: 4,966 cc
- Peak power: 472 hp (approximately 7,100 rpm)
- Peak torque: 395 lb-ft (approximately 4,600 rpm)
- Valvetrain: Dual overhead cam, 32 valves
- Induction: Naturally aspirated
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic with manual shift mode
- Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive standard (all-wheel drive is not offered on IS 500)
In short, the IS 500’s engine is the familiar, high-revving 5.0-liter V8 from Lexus’ RC F and LC 500 lineage, tuned to match the IS sedan’s chassis and performance goals.
Engine lineage and performance notes
The 2UR-GSE family has become synonymous with Lexus’ front-to-rear performance lineup. In the IS 500, the V8’s tuning emphasizes immediate throttle response, a broad power band, and a signature V8 exhaust note that differentiates the IS from its turbocharged siblings in the lineup. The eight-speed automatic transmission is matched to the engine to optimize response in everyday driving and track-ready modes alike.
Performance context
With its 5.0-liter V8 under the hood, the IS 500 targets brisk acceleration and a more aggressive driving character than other IS models. Official estimates place 0-60 mph in the roughly 4.4-second range for the RWD configuration, underscoring the model’s performance focus within the IS lineup.
Potential buyers should note that the IS 500 is not offered with all-wheel drive, which keeps the engine’s power delivery focused through the rear tires and often enhances the driving feel that enthusiasts seek in this variant.
Summary
The Lexus IS 500 is powered by a naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 (2UR-GSE) producing around 472 hp and 395 lb-ft of torque, mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission and standard rear-wheel drive. This engine choice places the IS 500 squarely in the vein of Lexus’ high-performance V8 lineup, delivering strong performance and a characteristic V8 soundtrack.
Additional context
For buyers comparing powertrains, the IS 500’s V8 stands in contrast to the smaller turbocharged engines in other IS trims. The V8’s appeal lies in its high-rev capability, linear power delivery, and the distinct sensation of revving to the redline, which aligns with the IS 500’s performance-oriented mission.
Summary takeaway
Engine: 5.0-liter naturally aspirated V8 (2UR-GSE); Power: ~472 hp; Torque: ~395 lb-ft; Transmission: 8-speed automatic; Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive standard; Not offered with AWD.
What engine does the IS500 use?
5.0-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine
The 2025 Lexus IS 500 F SPORT Performance is engineered for those who crave power and precision. At its core is a 5.0-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine delivering a robust 472 horsepower and 395 lb-ft of torque.
Who makes Lexus V8 engines?
Toyota
Toyota UZ engine, the engine developed for the first Lexus LS400.
IS the IS500 being discontinued?
While the IS 500 has been discontinued, the 2026 Lexus IS 350 features an aggressive new front-end and a restyled interior. The "aggressive new front end" is the same front end as the new Camry.
Does the IS500 and LC500 have the same engine?
So on my left side I have Shim with his LC500. We've done videos before uh today we're going to find out how these two compared i think it's a weird one but it's a good one at the same. Time.
