Lexus IS500 Climax Edition launched in Japan as final V8 sedan, limited to 500 units
Lexus has unveiled what is likely its last V8-powered sedan—the IS500 Climax Edition, a limited-production product for the JapanESe market. With just 500 units planned, this edition is a farewell to the brand's legendary naturally aspirated V8 engine during this time of global electrification. Priced at ¥9,500,000 (or around ₹ 51.2 lakh), this premium model brings a refined blend of performance enhancements and styling upgrades. Scheduled to arrive in Japanese showrooms in August 2025, the Climax Edition is for collectors and enthusiasts who want a part of Lexus' high-revving heritage.
Lexus IS500 Climax Edition: Design
Visually, the IS500 Climax Edition distinguishes itself through a distinctive Neutrino Grey exterior paint finish that integrates metallic flakes into a pale grey base, presenting the sedan with an understated but aggressive look. Lexus defines the color as a visual depiction of "sporty, speedy driving." Adding to its stance are 19-inch forged BBS alloy wheels in matte black, designed to combine lightweight construction with high structural stiffness.
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Inside, the cabin receives a radical facelift with two-tone red and black interior trim. L-tex faux leather and Ultrasuede are applied throughout the seats, door trim, and console by Lexus, with red seatbelts and red-trimmed Ultrasuede garnish adding to the sport-luxury ambiance. Textured leather is used for the steering wheel and gear knob to remind one of Lexus's trademark premium build quality. Subtle branding elements—like a dedicated Climax Edition startup animation, laser-etched analogue clock, and badged door sills—add to the exclusivity. Lexus IS500 Climax Edition: Features and Specs
Under the hood, the IS500 Climax Edition continues to be powered by the 5.0-litre naturally aspirated V8, delivering 472 bhp. While the powertrain remains the same, performance sees an upgrade with a high-spec Brembo brake package. The vehicle now comes with six-piston red calipers and bigger 380mm 'pillar fin' brake rotors instead of the standard 356mm brakes. Special-engineered rotors provide greater cooling, an important upgrade for ultra-high-performance driving.
Also Read : The 2026 Lexus ES goes all-electric. Check out 5 key highlights of the novel sedan
Beyond braking, the mechanical setup is identical to the IS500 F Performance variant. The 8.0-inch TFT instrument cluster remains, now with Climax-exclusive startup graphics. Despite the emotional name, the Climax Edition is about achieving peak refinement and driving purity—true to the model's name in the performance sedan segment.
Check out Upcoming Cars in India 2024, Best SUVs in India.
First Published Date: 22 Jun 2025, 13:30 PM IST
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