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What is the 0 60 time for the Lexus IS500?

The 0–60 mph time for the Lexus IS500 is roughly 4.4 seconds under controlled testing conditions, powered by a 5.0-liter V8 producing 472 horsepower and paired with an eight-speed automatic driving the rear wheels.

The IS500, positioned as the high-performance variant of Lexus’ IS lineup, uses a formidable V8 and a sport-tuned automatic to deliver brisk straight-line speed while maintaining daily usability. Real-world times can vary slightly based on tires, surface, and launch method, but the low-4-second range is typical in professional testing.

Official figures and typical performance

Note: Manufacturer figures come from standardized tests and can differ from everyday driving. The following points summarize the core data most buyers want to know.

0–60 mph: about 4.4 seconds (Lexus official estimate for the rear-wheel-drive IS500 with the 8‑speed automatic).

Powertrain: 5.0-liter naturally aspirated V8, 472 horsepower, 395 lb-ft of torque.

Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive is standard; there is no factory all-wheel-drive option on the IS500.

Transmission: 8-speed automatic with manual shift capability and performance driving modes.

These numbers reflect Lexus’ performance targets for the car and are widely echoed by automotive press in controlled tests.

Real-world testing and variability

Independent testers often report results in the same general vicinity as the official figure, but exact times depend on tires, track surface, weather, and launch technique.

Car and Driver and similar outlets typically cite roughly 4.3–4.5 seconds in optimal conditions.

In everyday conditions with stock tires, results commonly fall around 4.4–4.6 seconds.

Using launch control and performance mode can shave tenths of a second in dry, grippy conditions.

In practice, the IS500 tends to deliver sub-5-second acceleration, with many tests landing in the low-4-second range when the conditions are favorable.

Factors influencing 0–60 times

Various variables affect measured times, including traction, driver input, and environmental conditions. The most impactful factors include:

Tire grip and temperature

Launch control settings and driver technique

Vehicle load (fuel, passengers, accessories)

Surface type and atmospheric conditions (track vs. street, temperature, altitude)

Understanding these factors helps explain why published times vary between tests and real-world driving.

Summary

The Lexus IS500 typically records a 0–60 mph time in the low-4-second range, with Lexus quoting about 4.4 seconds for the rear-drive version equipped with the 8‑speed automatic. Independent testing generally supports this range, though exact results depend on tires, launch setup, and conditions. Powered by a high-revving V8 and tuned for brisk acceleration, the IS500 offers a compelling blend of speed and everyday usability.

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 top speed of the IS500 0 60?

149 mph
That means 0-60 in just 4.4 seconds, at a top speed of up to 149 mph. You'll also find the latest in performance and handling features in this new Lexus model, including an F-Sport tuned adaptive variable suspension, eight-speed Sport Direct-Shift transmission, and the Drive Mode Select system with five modes.

How much horsepower does a 2025 IS500 have?

The 2025 Lexus IS 500 has 472 horsepower, not 500500500 hp. It is powered by a naturally aspirated 5.05.05.0-liter V8 engine that produces 472472472 horsepower and 395395395 lb-ft of torque.
You can watch this video for a review of the 2025 Lexus IS 500's performance: 58sMotor IllustratedYouTube · Oct 13, 2025

Engine: 5.05.05.0-liter naturally aspirated V8
Horsepower: 472472472 hp @ 7,1007 comma 1007,100 rpm
Torque: 395395395 lb-ft @ 4,8004 comma 8004,800 rpm
Transmission: Eight-speed automatic
Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive

Is the IS500 being discontinued?

Yes, the Lexus IS 500 has been discontinued, with the 2025 model year being the last one produced. Lexus is ending production of the IS 500, which featured a 5.0L V8 engine, and the 2026 model year will no longer include this variant. A special 2025 Lexus IS 500 Ultimate Edition was released as a final send-off for the model.

This video discusses the discontinuation of the IS 500 and its impact on performance sedan enthusiasts: 38sBrakeDownMediaYouTube · Sep 18, 2025

The 2025 model year is the last chance to purchase the IS 500.
Production of the IS 500 is scheduled to end in November 2025.
The 2026 model year will no longer offer the IS 500 variant.
A limited-edition 2025 IS 500 Ultimate Edition was released as a final send-off for the model.

You can watch this video to see a final review of the Lexus IS 500: 54sThe Novak ReportYouTube · Aug 9, 2025

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.