Latest news with #ClimaxEdition
Miami Herald
10 hours ago
- Automotive
- Miami Herald
Lexus IS 500 Climax Edition Marks End of V8 Compact Sedan
The last compact sedan with a V8 engine really is on its way out. After Mercedes-AMG killed the V8 in the C63, the Lexus IS 500 was the last sedan of this size to retain a V8, but it seems this characterful Lexus won't be around for much longer, both in America and beyond. A few weeks ago, Lexus announced the IS 500 Ultimate Edition, a run of just 500 models that will be sold in North America. Now, it's Japan's turn to say goodbye to this sedan with the IS 500 Climax Edition. As far as car names go, this one can be thrown into the same box as the Daihatsu Naked and Ford Probe. Awkward name aside, this special edition is likely to become something of a collector's item in the years ahead. Much like our own Ultimate Edition, the Climax Edition will feature 19-inch forged BBS wheels in a sinister matte black finish. These partially conceal upgraded Brembo brakes with six-piston calipers. To match the black trim, special Neutrino Gray paint has been introduced for this model, which is inspired by neutrinos. If you also had no clue what those are, they're elementary particles produced in outer space, where they move at the speed of light. Eight other colors will be available for the Climax Edition, though. Inside, Lexus Japan has hilariously added several IS 500 "Climax Edition" plaques, not that anyone owning this car would forget what it's called. A red and black color scheme adds to the raunchy look, and even the analog clock in the center of the dashboard gets a new background. Related: End of an Era? The Lexus IS 500 Ultimate Edition Hints at the Model's Farewell Nothing has changed under the hood, not that it had to. Producing 472 horsepower and 395 lb-ft of torque, the rear-wheel-drive IS 500 can run from 0-60 mph in 4.4 seconds. That time is no longer earth-shattering, but it's accompanied by a soundtrack that no rival can match. Keep your foot planted, and the fastest IS will reach 149 mph. Paddle shifters can be used to take manual control over the eight-speed automatic transmission. In Japan, the IS 500 Climax Edition goes for 9,500,000 yen, which is equivalent to around $65,000. It's set to go on sale in August, and America's own Ultimate Edition will go on sale later this fall. Copyright 2025 The Arena Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Motor 1
13 hours ago
- Automotive
- Motor 1
Yes, Lexus Really Calls This V-8 Sedan the Climax Edition
America's IS500 Ultimate Edition is getting the JDM treatment, but with a twist. Lexus is renaming its sports sedan the Climax Edition. Whether the sexual innuendo is intentional or we have dirty minds is unclear. It's probably the latter, but the special version's name still makes us chuckle. The badge appears on the center console and in the digital gauge cluster, just in case you forget this isn't your average IS. The Climax Edition comes from the same parent company that once had a military-spec Toyota BJ and a Daihatsu Naked kei car. Aside from the unexpected name, it's essentially an IS500 Ultimate Edition with right-hand drive. Considering the names Lexus is using, it seems the end may be near for the luxury sedan. It's a logical conclusion we're making, given that this third-generation model has been around for 12 years. Photo by: Lexus The fact that it's getting a bit long in the tooth isn't all bad. Its venerable age means it hasn't fallen victim to downsizing. You still get a naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V-8. For the Climax Edition, Lexus adds front Brembo brakes with six-piston calipers and 380-mm ventilated discs, matching the U.S. version. It also gets the same 19-inch forged BBS wheels with a matte black finish. The Neutrino Gray paint is carried over as well for what is probably the car's last hurrah. Inside, the IS500 in Climax Edition flavor offers a few extras beyond the cheeky badging. The red and black interior theme will look familiar if you've seen its American sibling. There's dimpled leather on the steering wheel and shift knob, along with laser-etched red accents on the analog clock. Unique front door scuff plates round off the changes, further emphasizing the car's unusual name. Lexus hasn't made any changes to the 2UR-GSE engine, so the aging BMW 3 Series rival continues with 472 horsepower and 395 pound-feet (535 Newton-meters) of torque. Power is sent to the rear wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission. Just like in America, Lexus will sell only 500 units in Japan. The IS500 Climax Edition is priced at 9,500,000 yen, or about $65,300 at current exchange rates. Sales begin in August. Lexus IS500 Climax Edition 11 Source: Lexus Get the best news, reviews, columns, and more delivered straight to your inbox, daily. back Sign up For more information, read our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use . Share this Story Facebook X LinkedIn Flipboard Reddit WhatsApp E-Mail Got a tip for us? Email: tips@ Join the conversation ( )
