Lexus Unveils the IS500 “Climax Edition,” a Limited-Run Celebration of V8 Performance

Cited from LEXUS

On June 19, Lexus announced the special edition IS500 "Climax Edition." It will be sold in a limited run of 500 units starting around August 2025.

Since the debut of its first generation in 1999, the Lexus IS has pursued the joy of driving as a compact FR sports sedan. The IS500 is Lexus's sports sedan equipped with a 5.0-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine producing a maximum output of 481 PS at 7,100 rpm and a maximum torque of 535 N-m at 4,800 rpm. The new "Climax Edition" was developed with the aim of meeting the expectations of customers seeking the overwhelming power of a V8 engine combined with an even higher level of driving performance. To this end, Lexus strengthened the suspension and reduced vehicle weight, while also adopting exclusive interior and exterior equipment. The name "Climax" signifies the completed and ultimate form of the IS500, and does not necessarily indicate the end of production or a final model.

For the exterior of the IS500 "Climax Edition," a new exclusive body color, Neutrino Gray, has been introduced. By adding metallic elements to a solid light gray base, the color expresses a world view of sporty, dynamic driving. The suspension of the IS500 "Climax Edition" features Brembo front opposed 6-piston aluminum calipers and 380 mm pillar-fin ventilated disc brakes with high-friction brake pads, ensuring high braking performance and excellent fade resistance. The brake calipers are finished in red, pursuing a sporty style in addition to enhanced driving performance. The wheels are BBS 19-inch forged aluminum wheels with a matte black finish, designed to achieve both weight reduction and high rigidity.

Inside the IS500 "Climax Edition," the interior features Ultrasuede and Ltex seat upholstery in a black and flare red color scheme, along with a dimpled genuine leather steering wheel and shift knob. A total coordination that incorporates sporty red accents throughout the exterior and interior further sharpens the powerful and aggressive styling that characterizes the IS500. The analog clock is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, featuring a three-dimensional dial painted in multiple layers and precisely laser-cut to reveal red accents. In addition, the center console plate and scuff plates adopt exclusive "Climax Edition" designs. The 8-inch TFT liquid crystal meter (TFT color multi-information display with rear seat reminder function) is also equipped with a dedicated "Climax Edition" opening screen, enhancing the sense of excitement at engine start-up.

Why not head out for a drive in this special IS500 "Climax Edition"?