2023 Lexus IS 500 review // Is this enough performance?

This is a Motormouth couple car review of the 2023 Lexus IS 500 luxury performance sedan. Look at this great colour, the Lexus IS 500 F Sport in Infrared Red!
The Lexus IS 500 F Sport has a 5L V8 with a direct shift 8-speed automatic transmission, 472 horsepower and 395 lb-ft of torque. This is a RWD model.
It has an F Sport tuned adaptive variable suspension, Yamaha rear performance dampers and stabilizer bar, Torsen limited slip rear differential, paddle shifters and drive modes that include, Normal, Sport, Eco and Sport +. While this is the sportiest Lexus I have ever driven and the V8 sounds great, it is still a Lexus and you will find it to be “Lexus sporty” but still very comfortable. Plus you can’t beat its reliability score, JD Power gives it a 90/100. Although it does a lot well, it’s not as fun and engaging as the BMW M340i with a turbocharged 3L inline 6 and 382 horsepower. Yes, the BMW has less power but that inline 6 is fantastic.
In Canada, there is just one trim of the Lexus IS 500, it starts at $75,100 CAD and in the US two trims F Sport Performance $58,670 USD and F Sport Premium $63,170 USD.
Standard features include, a 10.3” touchscreen with navigation, wired Apple Carplay and Android Auto, a 17-speaker Mark Levinson sound system, Nuluxe power front seats, heated and ventilated front seats, driver seat memory, heated steering wheel, a moonroof, panoramic view monitor and Lexus Safety System+ 2.5 including blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert.
In the US, there are some features that are not standard including, the Mark Levinson sound system, a panoramic view monitor and the larger touchscreen with navigation, instead an 8” touchscreen is standard
The Lexus IS 500 has a low stance offering 5.5” of ground clearance and comes standard with premium triple beam LED headlamps, a singular LED taillamp that tapers across the rear, dark chrome window trim, F Sport Performance 19” gloss black wheels, quad exhaust tips. In the US, the triple beam headlamps are standard on the top trim.
Fuel economy, the Lexus IS 500 gets 14.1L/100 km, 17 MPG city and 9.3L/100 km, 25 MPG highway.
Get the dealership cost, any rebates and special interest rates, plus secret discounts, go to CarCostCanada. Use the promo code MOTORMOUTH to become an expert member.
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Andrea Instagram / motormouth_andrea
Zack Instagram / motormouth_auto

[@blu_is500]

I have this car and the transmission is slow, until it’s in Sport+ and Manual mode. The purpose of the car (as stated by Lexus many times) is to be a Grand Tourer first and a Sports Sedan second. The FYC segment was funny; if the plan is to keep the car long term, none of the competition can compare. I absolutely *love* this car and feel incredibly lucky to have snagged one in my preferred spec. Longevity, Build Quality, Stellar Customer Service, and a quick N/A V8…it’s quite a deal to me! Thanks for posting.

[@omendarklight1526]

Is that in Ultrasonic Blue Mica paint color? If so, that's the same color I chose for my NX 350 F Sport. Really amazing color

[@georgewilder7423]

As an ex motor vehicle dealer for 34 years, I would take your comments on this car to be the more reliable as opposed to these 2 so-called experts..

[@KuyaArbee]

yes this car will long live all those other performance cars in this category! Lexus knows what they are doing!

[@MrMustangrick]

Yes yes yes. Love my GS F V8. After 5+ years it is still solid with no squeaks or rattles. The dealership has been fantastic. Maintenance has been downright cheap. Lexus for life for me. I will NEVER sell this car.

[@troyt5309]

Lexus/Toyota know who to go to when they want a incredible/reliable performance engine built in trusting Yamaha to design it. The last generation Supra was a Yamaha collaboration as well and many still consider the 2JZ 30+ year old engine to be one of the strongest and best made engines of all time. Id expect this 5.0L to be every bit as good or better.

[@NeedSpeedRC]

The IS looks really good. Always turns my head when I see one.

[@dextersmithbsee]

It is arresting.

[@bostonmah5667]

I think you guys missed the point of this car. This car is for someone who wants a v8 NA car like what they use yo make 20 years ago. Also for the collector who wants to keep it as I think the is500 will hold its value really well 10-20 years from now

[@LiamG903]

I've got the is350 f sport. Car has been bullet proof as expected. Handles great, drives like a dream and comfy. Not great on fuel but it's a great looking car.

[@andreaspencer9813]

Glad you are enjoying your IS!

[@LiamG903]

@@andreaspencer9813 you guys nailed the review, it's a great daily with a little bit of fun when you need it. Bassically everyhting you touched on my wife and I have said the same thing. We both enjoy your reviews keep the great content coming.

[@andreaspencer9813]

@@LiamG903 Thank you so much, we appreciate the kind words!

[@jml9550]

Now if IS350 FSport comes with a hybrid max that would be great. We just bought a NX350H and during one 400 miles trip we average 38MPG at 75-80MPH. Love it. My 2017 ES350 V6 same trip would average 28MPG.

[@omichaelnato5388]

Bad fuel due to the weight. Lexuses are so sound insulated they all are bad on gas. ❤IS350 is a weird car for sure. Beautiful, reliable, bad on gas, not fast, seems to be luxury first then reliability then sportiness in terms of priority

[@immanuelingari4336]

'Ding ding ding with your credit card'😂.Greatest car reviewers of all time👏🏼💯

[@corollabzr]

got mine recently, love every bit of it, except for the brakes lol... the transmission, it needs to be in Sports+, manual mode, TCS/VSC completely off and above 4000rpm to shift quick, otherwise just leave it in auto. The yamaha damper is a body damper and not just rear is front & rear, it reduces NVH. The ML system is actually a DVD player not CD and yes you can watch DVD movies when your car is parked... just be happy that Toyota/Lexus still make N/A V8s while everyone else are downsizing, hybrid and turbocharging due to the emission law. The direct competitor to the IS500 is the TLX Type S.

[@curiosityredpill7030]

G70 also

[@omichaelnato5388]

I guess so - Tlx is a way bigger car and a v6. They also sell for $10k less than this so idk how accurate that is. Just google these cars for sale, they’re in the 60s while tlx is in the 50s

[@corollabzr]

@@omichaelnato5388 TLX is a bigger car exterior wise but interior volume is very close to the IS, the extra size probably due to drivetrain layout and packaging, yes it's a V6 but it's a single turbo V6 vs. the 500's N/A V8

[@corollabzr]

@@curiosityredpill7030 yes, it also competes with G70 too which I forgot about...

[@NaturallyaspiratedJJM]

I drove the G70 and they do a great job with the infotainment and ergonomics of the car but the turbo motor and power delivery are much less fun to drive than the IS500 power delivery was. Do you have to reset the mode to performance + each time you start the car?@@corollabzr

[@ranthony2714]

As a single, full time dad, with only one income, cars such as this are only a dream. What a nice looking car.

[@Bonjurro]

The great thing about the CD player is you don’t have to use it if you don’t need it

[@blu_is500]

That part. 😂👍🏽

[@paulh6517]

I really love this car even in the 350 F Sport.

[@andreaspencer9813]

Such a good looking car!

[@ryb2189]

Love the presentation format.

[@jprusso224]

I use the CD player in my Lexus to load FLAC files and play them... so you can load more on a CD and don't lose the sound quality. Since you have it, might as well use it to its best!

[@corollabzr]

it also plays DVD, so u can watch movies as well, everyone think is a cd player but it's actually a DVD player

[@chesterlim9110]

Love your videos. They often end abruptly though. Most hosts thank their viewers for watching at the end of their videos.

[@elde667]

Yep. Another terrific review guys. Thanks!

[@andreaspencer9813]

Thank you!

[@facetiousmonkey5322]

My mom is one of those “guys”. Opera and classical music hits different when on CD

[@xochilquetzal18]

I'm getting this car for the naturally aspirated v8 and the reliability vs its competitors. I'm excited!

[@cjsnylons]

Great review of a great car that will be missed when out of production. Andrea, that outfit to match the car is stunning!

[@jazzjokesjalopies]

How did we ever buy cars before we had reviews like this? Really informative. Thanks!

[@EugeneLopez-tp5hb]

Hmmm, we weren't readily brainwashed like Gen Lazy.

[@JamesSmith-sw3nk]

Red and black looks GOOD. Also, nice car. 😁

[@sar2dg]

I like that you're matching the car.

[@85CEKR]

After being a BMW fanboy for most of my life, I got sick of all the time spent at the shop, I ended up getting one of these. I absolutely love this thing, I love the jekyll and hyde personality, the build quality is incredible and IMO it's right on par performance wise with the M340i. I feel like most of their complaints about this car are by design. It's supposed to feel lazy until you want to go fast and all it takes it putting your foot to the floor one time and it instantly livens up. In 10 years from now when everything is faster than this and its competition this will still be a good looking, reliable and very enjoyable to drive car, I don't think you can say that about any of its competition.

[@omendarklight1526]

Truly an amazing vehicle, love everything about it but I had to go with the NX for the extra room and features. Loss of power but great vehicle nonetheless. IS 500 would be the way to go for performance and reliability. Thanks for bringing it to us!!

[@Jykobe491]

Can you tune a Lexus to increase power?

[@omendarklight1526]

@Jay711 Yes of course, its not recommended by Lexus due to longevity issues and mechanical strain. But if done properly by a professional, you should be OK

[@Jykobe491]

@@omendarklight1526 can a tuned Lexus give an m5 a run for it's money? I want something fun but reliable

[@omendarklight1526]

@Jay711 Not sure what your question was, but as far as fun and reliable goes this is the vehicle that truly delivers both.

[@Jykobe491]

@@omendarklight1526 sorry I made a mistake I meant can a tuned Lexus give an m5 competition a run for it's money

[@denisbrisebois7658]

Andrea you just made my day … let that V8 sing WOOHOO 🙌 😊😆😉😎

[@Paul-cc5rp]

hahaha, I love that. "hang on Zac". haha you Rock Andrea!!!

[@NickNeras]

Love this Love V8 👌👌👌

[@vancity2349]

I had a 09 ISF which had a hard suspension which was later softened. Its was an awesome car one of my favourites I have owned. It was never trying to be an M3, but did what it did very well. I considered buying another one later, but for yrs they had that ridiculous entertainment system with trackpad, seriously? Finally they have Apple CarPlay (wired). The transmission was always a negative but still a blast to drive and own. Many performance brands have fake exhaust tips. If I were in the market today, I would definitely consider it.

[@jimwillingham8052]

The brakes were terrible. My 08 ISF needed front brakes at 11k and I am easy on the brakes.

[@MrMustangrick]

I have the GS F V 8 and love it. More room inside and the glorious 5 liter . In sport plus the tranny is fine. The gas mileage in normal mode has been better than expected. Bullet proof after 4 years . Solid Lexus quality inside and out.

[@eleanormassaro5195]

I miss having a CD player in my CX50! I had a six-disc CD changer in my RX!😞

[@aceofspades6667]

I’m an audiophile and there are many of us. I’m not as much into car audio but I will say the ELS system in the higher acuras is nice. Most of us audiophiles are into 2 channel setups and many will spin vinyl or stream. Most streaming services are lossless at this point and many of the Bluetooth codecs are far better than mp3 resolution and on par with cd quality.

[@BryanW916]

I agree with you on the ELS. I have an Acura TL SH-AWD with the ELS system. It's fantastic and the DVD-A demo disk really makes this system shine.

[@Steve-pd8ip]

Zack doesn't know what he's talking about, we've moved on from MP3s just like we moved on from CDs, Amazon Music is lossless and ultra HD, very close to studio recordings.

[@Billybobthor]

How is KZbin music? Is it lossless?

[@chrislim7976]

As an "audiophile" I don't understand why people would complain there is a CD slot in this car. Besides, it fits right in with the rest of the cars features. 😂

[@franckdebzh7608]

@@Steve-pd8ip It depends of your phone. The best codec used on a phone is the LDAC which you can find only on the Sony's. Otherwise, it's the aptX or aptX HD, or AAC. This last one is similar to the MP3.

[@timphillips4147]

Always like a lexus review, even got nice weather to drive in. Did Zack just wince with fear as you eccelleratrd Andrea!

[@andreaspencer9813]

There's always a little wincing! Haha!

[@timphillips4147]

@Andrea Spencer Very haha 😄

[@ericstefko4852]

would love to hear how this compares to the CT4V Blackwing

[@Eric_the_Hiking]

Lossless compressed audio is now available with some streaming services and is every bit (pun intended) as good as CD.

[@Eric_the_Hiking]

@@whatgaca Bluetooth is lossy but Wi-Fi isn't. People who really care about sound quality know to avoid Bluetooth when possible and use wired connections.

[@franckdebzh7608]

But if your receiver only accept the AAC codec, the lossless audio on the source will be compressed.

[@KeliK1]

Great review! I guess the lack of excitement and snappiness is what makes it reliable and durable. You can't have everything.

[@jimwillingham8052]

Actually you can have everything. Drive a Cadillac ATS-V or a CT4 Blackwing. You get everything with those cars.

[@jsfbay1]

At around 6:48, when checking rear seat legroom, is the front passenger seat all the way back in its tracks? And remind me please, how tall are you Zack? Thanks very much, love your reviews 🙂I'd get this in a second but that rear seat is so tight, I just can't make this work.

[@NoEscapeGaming]

Nothing will make me happier than daily driving a V8 10 years from now in the EV era of cars

[@jerrybdlben231]

Ok…..you offended me terribly with the audiophile comment!! 😅😅 I did a worldwide survey and there are actually 12 of us!! Love the straightforward comments and the avoidance of any Automobile politics.

[@lewistalmadge6703]

I am at a loss hearing about needing more snap but I guess I would need to drive one. I sold my 2015 IS 350 in 2022 and loved that vehicle and it's handling. I would not say that needed more snap. I always drove that car in manual mode as it would auto upshift in manual mode and made for longer shifts. I would move back to a Lexus and this IS 500 if the interior got massive upgrades but I also moved to a subcompact Mercedes AMG SUV that provides the same performance as my 2015 IS 350 did but in a 2 liter 4 cylinder turbo engine. Really engined watching the video as my heart still yearns for another IS (previously owned a 2001 IS300 sportcross, 2010 IS 350 F Sport, 2015 IS 350 F Sport).

[@blu_is500]

You should test drive the IS 500. I had a 2016 IS 350 FSport and the 8 speed transmission is not the same. The IS 500’s 8 speed transmission was lifted from the RC F, it is more aggressive, and does not auto upshift while in manual. You do have to work with the car, Zach is correct that this is a Lexus (GT Car) first. You have to make settings adjustments if you want to dance with someone on the road. Otherwise, it’s a serene experience.

[@harumin3392]

When, IS models will update infotainment system like other new Lexus???

[@peakreactivesr3504]

😍😍❤️ nice car

[@antoniocognato5023]

Great car

[@mojojojo-wk6wo]

Everyone compares this to its current rivals. Noone thinks that 5-10 years down the road this car will be running just fine while bmws / benz / Germans will all be going through major repairs. Speaking as a bmw owner. I wouldn't touch a used M3 or keep one for more than 4 years. Those cars you lease, this one you buy...

[@pauli6043]

BMW= Bring My Wallet (to the mechanic)

[@planbparadise2046]

How does the trans work with the manual shifting? Also lazy?

[@fc872e1]

Wish they’d make this with AWD. I bought a 2011 IS250 AWD for my daughter, and after she moved away, I stopped leasing cars, and have been driving this. In the 4 years, we’ve done very little other than oil changes, brakes, tires, and a battery. It’s a well balanced, comfortable, almost fun car that has no problems with the snow or taking me where I’m going. I’d like to have something that can carry a lot more, but do I want it enough to take on a car payment at today’s prices?

[@foxlake6750]

It’s almost 4,000 lbs……tons of fun, AWD would make it heavier.

[@timw2083]

I have an IS500 and love it. If it came with a twin turbo V6, I would not have bought it. It's not a direct competitor to the M3 or Alfa and I'm perfectly fine with that. My main point of improvement would be steering feel in Sport+

[@blu_is500]

Amen on all parts. No turbos for me! 👍🏽👏🏽

[@NaturallyaspiratedJJM]

I think most of these people just parrot others about the slow transmission and slower times being an issue. I have driven a bunch of the competitors and the only question I have is if I can get use to the track pad. The turbo cars sound terrible with the exception of the Alfa Quadrifoglio version but the seats are too small.

[@timw2083]

@@NaturallyaspiratedJJM there's not too many times you would really use the touch pad. Temp controls have a slide and most other features are on the steering wheel. I think it's more of a redundancy feature I love the styling and sound of that Afla

[@michaelchoun747]

I got mine two week ago black and red interior love it , all the complaints about outdated this outdated that will be go away once you started the engine and you hear that V8 roar.,

[@stephanierice4468]

My new white 2023 Lexus IS500 red interior should be arriving very soon & I’m so excited! I love this car💖 Congratulations to you getting yours! Enjoy! 😊

[@HoangLe-nw4xg]

thanks

[@xFactoryUSA]

I think I’ve seen just as many new 500 as 350. These will be good on the used market

[@ytj22]

The styling changes from 2 years ago are spot on. This car is striking and looks fantastic in my opinion. Akio couldn't get this car to market unless he used some parts from the bin, so the trade off may be a smoother shifting, less responsive transmission. Maybe Zach, after years on Driving Television, is the one who is warmed over? Just a thought! But seriously, keep making videos about great cars!

[@jml9550]

I love the rear taillight look at night.

[@SlipAngleG70]

I seriously considered the IS500. The looks and V8 were the big draw for me. However, the test drive changed my mind. As mentioned in the review, the only way to get sone real get up and go is sport + but I want power to always be available. Still a pretty cool car but I ended up going with a 2023 G70 - With the twin turbo's power is always on tap. The G70 has more features and costs 17K less in Canada. Good review!

[@frederickt6052]

Totally agree with your statement after test driving one myself

[@giofyocars8581]

I've literally been searching japan's lexus website for this car. Are there any other sedans with a V8? I recall only the BMW 5 series having one after the M5.

[@xorbitman]

The grill is like cilantro, you either hate it or like it. I don't like it and most people don't. Too much fake plastic intakes and the rear tail pipes configuration was cool 10 years ago but now it's a bit gimmicky. For this kind of money, I would rather have something else. Personally the new Vette C8's can now be ordered at MSRP or if you're lucky a bit below. I have a family discount with GM and I might use it. Great review, honest and straight forward. Production quality is excellent as usual. I would love you guys to do a C8 Z06 review. I know it's not typical of your family vehicle type reviews however maybe a "second" car in the garage?

[@keltheb]

You buy this for quality and durability. Not bells and whistles.

[@planbparadise2046]

I love CD players - Too sad it's going away in the Lexus ES (and more will follow...)

[@wizeguiz]

Great Review! I'm one of the eight guys that still loves his CD's! I have over 5,000 and am very disappointed in most manufacturers that don't include one! Cheers!

[@andreaspencer9813]

Wow, awesome! Apparently I still have my collection in the garage, I thought it was gone.

[@wizeguiz]

@@andreaspencer9813 😁

[@joeanunez]

Jackie Chiles approves of this review! 😂

[@user-dh8tl9ns7m]

Just ordered a 300 IS. It's on its way from Japan. I figure it will perform just about the same as my '76 Corvette did in its day which is good enough for me 🙂

[@venuesurfamerica9840]

Regular or premium gas?

[@A3A4Tom]

Its sounds to me more like the regulatory control of the performance, rather than what the Lexus engineers want the V8 to be. Fuel economy and emission standard have really hurt the industry a lot. It used to be engineers who decide what cars they want to build. Like the good old classic "over eingineered" German cars like Porsche and Mercedes. Unfortunately, its what politican and marketers decide what we "have" to drive and "how" to drive cars today.

[@ryanb8736]

Yet politicians let Dodge, GM, and Ford build fast V8’s with no issues. They give foreign cars a harder time. Even my Audi RS3 got stuck at port for a month. They put on extra catalytic converters on it to quiet it down and reduce emissions. Yet Hellcats get no regulations. Politicians are all hypocrites! I’m glad the republicans are not pushing any green bills and are against electric car push.

[@rogerthat117]

As one of 8 my I thank Lexus 😊

[@bobwells1517]

CD or at the very least, a lossless file format should be used to get the most from the audio system. I'm disappointed there's no hard drive to rip my CDs to, lol.

[@bcluett1697]

Looking at the fuel economy numbers for city I can't help thinking they want the engine to slide back into lazy mode so they don't get a reputation for guzzling. Maybe for some fuel concious regions they played it safe. I think after seeing some of the other cars to consider they probably should have an ultra sport version that opens it up all the time. Maybe a few sturdy parts upgrades and some more cash for the folks in Dubai who just like to burn out all the time lol.

[@gengstar09]

The 8 speed was actually tuned for Fuel economy. You’ll notice a difference between that and the 6 speed

[@jessegriffin9]

I don't understand why they put analog clock and CD player in a f sport car.

[@LiamG903]

Pro tip, press and hold track off for 20 secs and put on manual mode. Ups the Rev limiter and wakes it up nicely for off the line starts

[@ryanb8736]

Most of us all know this. Trans still shifts slow though. It feels like I went back 20 years in technology. It’s a great cruising car that sounds great. It’s price is high considering it’s a parts bin car. It’s got a lot of bark, but not enough bite. Many cars with smaller engines will beat it.

[@LiamG903]

@@ryanb8736 it's meant to be lexus quick, it's not a full ISF that's for sure. Engine sounds great but yor are right the tranny isn't as good as it could have been for that engine to shine But I owned an alfa quad and it was in the shop 7 times in 6 months, had an rs3 and drank oil like I've never seen and audi said it was in spec. After that I switch to lexus and haven't looked back, fj cruiser, is350, and now a sequoia trd pro. Let's just say I'm keeping them all for a while. If I didn't buy an keep my cars I'd be more open to the Germans.

[@LiamG903]

@@ryanb8736 and you'd be shocked most don't know that trick at all.

[@ryanb8736]

@@LiamG903 The Alfas are cars to stay away from. Too many issues and they can’t even fix them. Never heard of an RS3 drinking oil. It will go through a quart in 5k miles with hard driving, which is normal for turbo car. I have almost 100k on my RS3 and it’s been great. Hard miles too. Both my Lexus 98 GS400 and 03 GS430 both had more work done to them before they hit 100k. The control arms for Lexus were very expensive. My cost for parts were $1200 each. 5k in parts wholesale. Outrageous! I was always against German cars because of longevity, but they have gotten really good as of lately. M340 is definitely the best car to get under 80k these days. That B58 is a legendary engine and Toyota even put their name on it. Lexus is in talks with using that drive train. B58 tuning, DP are cheap. Make close to 500hp for under 1000.

[@ryanb8736]

@@LiamG903 If you keep cars for 10 years or more, the IS500 makes sense. They are tried and true parts. Parts are still very expensive though. Only modding is a supercharger, but trans is a huge weak link. My friend has his RCF supercharged and it’s fun. Trans feels like it won’t hold for much longer though. It’s starting to shutter a lot now.

[@MarioDallaRiva]

Sunny and dry? Did you shoot this last summer? 😝

[@angelherg1997]

Was that the Ioniq 6 you guys test drove at 2:15, or does that actually belong to someone? 😳

[@andreaspencer9813]

It's our press vehicle

[@kylenewberry2598]

I wonder if a pedal commander would fix that response issue for you.

[@ricardogil7665]

Finally a good Review for a sedan V8, i do not like I6 o V6 with turbo. Greetings from Lima Perú, Andrea could you kindly wear less black in your outfit please.

[@mervinprone]

Hard job but someone has to do it!

[@AeroDude73]

Teri Hatcher approves of this video (& the Seinfeld reference)

[@kevin-qc6wk]

This is the one

[@dsdddsd4543we]

I've been seeing the IS350 F sport all around. Love the exterior design of this current IS model, but the interior needs serious work. The Infotainment screen could be better in this segment, and cheaper vehicles with better systems exist. The new RX interior is AMAZING. I'm waiting for the brand-new IS with the updated interior.

[@corollabzr]

This is technically last gen lexus product, it's not even on TNGA platform, so they are not gonna do a massive update in the Interior, they already done extra by completely redesign the exterior, basically this is a final chapter of the 3rd generation Lexus IS before they go EV or whatever they have planned

[@JloveLamar]

I still buy cds, so I'm kinda pissed the new cars won't have the cd players, so I'm one of those 8 guys

[@AeroDude73]

PS: Ty Zach for sticking up for us Real AUDIOPHILES (!!). We Love & Need a CD player in our rides! The sound is soooo much more detailed and accurate than streaming Anything from your phone.

[@MercOne]

The car doesn't need a refresh Andrea, it's had several already. It needs a redesign from the wheels up.

[@blu_is500]

Correct. The underpinnings of the car are from the 2014 redesign. So to be accurate, this 3rd Generation IS has had 2 refreshes already. The IS 500 is the Final Boss level for the 3rd Gen, the next one to come out will be a 4th Gen redesign. But I think it’ll be electric only, which I did not want.

[@MercOne]

@@blu_is500 There was no redesign on this car. It’s been the same car since 2006 with updates. There hasn’t been a true redesign since 2006. Same old car.

[@n3wrx]

The criticisms are fair, but the problem with "the competition" is that the Germans/Europeans design their cars to fail, very expensively, right about the time the lease/warranty expire, keeping you in debt and in car payments forever and ever. The FYC cars are all really quite a bit more expensive, as are the domestic possibilities (Charger/CTS V). This car really is a pretty good value when you consider the build quality and the reliability. If you plan on paying cash and keeping the thing for more than a few years, there isn't any real competition in this segment at all - the closest is the TLX Type S - and the IS500 is clearly a better car. Over the long haul all tech in every car becomes dated anyway, so while the tech stuff matters, it isn't going to be as big a deal as things like RELIABILITY and COMFORT. If the Germans would stop engineering things to fail expensively, they would be very serious contenders - but they won't, so I can't reward them with my hard-earned. Bought the IS500 in February and the whole family loves it - a Japanese car with some personality. Fun enough to make everyone smile, comfy enough to put them to sleep. Finally something with a little fun and zing in a sea of boring SUVs.

[@dstevens518]

How can you tell us torque is what you use, and that the competition to this naturally aspirated Lexus are turbocharged (therefore better torque), but NOT quote the torque figures when listing the comparables?

[@10OF9OFBORG]

Not bad vehicle but I am not crazy about the front end tho. I am surprised they still include the cd player. I like the way you both teasing each other and that is funny. 😆 Great video Andrea! ☕️☕️

[@wwoodcox]

If you want more snap, go with the LS500

[@ieshabrathwaite]

I don't mind a cd player, personally

[@timothyburnside3229]

Everything in the car is good but nothing great! Reliability and attractive looks with Lexus service means excellent value but nothing stunning but no trips to the shop or high maintenance! Another fantastic revue by a super couple! You can always enjoy the point counter point man versus women opinions.!

[@Oldnobrand]

I for one want a CD Player... other than Sirius XM I do not stream

[@ctclardy]

It's the torque, 472 hp but only 395 ft/lb of torque... torque level should be much closer to or higher than the hp output... this is why you have no umph when you step down on the accelerator... Toyota is trying to keep the mpgs as high as possible on this gas-guzzling beast.

[@tinhinnh]

Torque is on par with the engine displacement. 472hp is actually more than what a typical 5.0L puts out. You only get more torque than hp only in turbos. A NA motor usually has less tq than hp

[@MercOne]

@@tinhinnh What is a typical 5.0L V8 today?

[@tinhinnh]

@@MercOne Current Mustang 5.0L V8 - 450hp and 410lb ft of torque. So it makes 20+ less hp than Lexus’ V8 and only slightly more tq :)

[@MercOne]

@@tinhinnh That’s literally the only one left on the market in a car.

[@alengreen589]

for a Lexus, yes.

[@acchaladka]

I thought you guys were going to release a Rivian review today? This is kind of the opposite. 😂

[@Motormouth...]

The truck was delayed, it will be out Wednesday

[@craigo2142]

Beautiful car on the outside. Too bad it is not matched with performance. Although a different class, I think I would prefer the Intergra for the $.

[@LafemmebearMusic]

I loveeee your channel great videos and accurate information most times except, the is500 f sport is not meant to compare the vehicles you’ve compared it to. The only one it really goes against class wise is the m340i. I understand that people have mistakenly and wishfully wanted it to be an m3 c63 competitor but Lexus themselves have said repeatedly that it is not meant to be that. 😅

[@andreaspencer9813]

Yes, that is what I said in the hot topic, I think it best compares to the M340i even if the BMW has less horsepower. We just added the others in For Your Consideration so our viewers can see the difference in price point.

[@ryanb8736]

Haven driven the M340 and IS500 in the same day, the M340 beats it in every category for the same price. M340 is faster, transmission is super snappy, AWD, superb infotainment, and has tuning capabilities to make it fast like M3 for cheap money and much better longevity. IS500 has a great engine I’ve always loved, is super comfortable, and has very good steering response. IS500 problems are old tech with touch pad. It’s transmission is from the 90’s. It has a ton of bark, but very little bite. I waited for IS500 and was hoping they would have put a better transmission in it. I just could never pay 65k for the old feelings it gives me. I have an Audi RS3 that I’ve had almost 6 years. It feels like I’m going backwards in performance with IS500. IS500 would be great car for 55k. High 60’s is just too much, considering it’s a parts bin car. Only R&D were hood and engine mounts. Shame. Its a great way for them to get rid of a lot of V8 power plants without spending anything on R&D. Investors love that. All profit.

[@MercOne]

@@andreaspencer9813 The problem is that it doesn't even outperform the M340i. The M340i is still faster in most areas and their interiors aren't even comparable. The Lexus is stuck in 2014 which is inexcusable when other Lexus models have vastly more modern interiors. I truly hope this is the last refresh for this car and a totally new one is just a few years away.

[@andreaspencer9813]

@@MercOne I agree with you. A follower who owns one calls the Lexus a gentle giant and I think it describes it well. It's a V8, it has plenty of power, but is a comfortable daily driver. For those who put reliability high on the list and want a naturally aspirated V8, they will be quite happy with this.

[@MercOne]

@@andreaspencer9813 The issue is that all those things can be had in a better package, well minus the V8. For a car with an engine from 2008, reliability is expected. I don't see why people tout that as some type of an accomplishment. Anyone can perfect engine reliability if they used the same engine for 15 years. It's a unique package due to age, not some type of breakthrough. Others did this same type of car in this class 15 years ago. I refuse to believe that these same people wouldn't appreciate this V8 with a totally new, modern car wrapped around it.

[@GuuiYae]

The interior and infotainment seriously needs to be upgrade on this IS.

[@CocoNut2018]

It's the sport sedan to keep for a long time.

[@blu_is500]

Exactly. You buy a Lexus, but Lease everything else.

[@artchiu584]

should make it AWD....all year round fun car...BUT as a RWD, not practical in the winter...SNOW

[@SethPinnock]

The real: If you are buy6 this car it is to keep it as a future underdog classic When has Lexus truly been more engaging than relaxing to buy.

[@jesseseymour4011]

I'd take this over a mustang any day

[@johnoksys7713]

Good Video Like The Color Of The Car & Nice Skirt Andrea

[@DjDLLM]

The “laziness” sounds like the reliability vs.performance balance. Nice to have a V8 but I would change the exhaust. 😉

[@songyuda]

why not a Mustang?

[@legacyjeetkunedo492]

CDs are better quality than compressed MP3 music. Also, some of us like to own our media.

[@ryanb8736]

Lots of bark, with a gentle bite!!

[@trspotr]

Guys, how much is a gallon of premium in Canada? 😅

[@Motormouth...]

$7.50 CDN for premium in Vancouver!

[@trspotr]

@@Motormouth... I live in California and it's about $4.80~5.00 right now 🙁

[@arctics4]

It’s all about the NA V8. Add Toyota reliability, fit/finish and its compromises become quite acceptable, IMO.

[@blu_is500]

In a nutshell, yes. 👍🏽👏🏽

[@islanddon865]

I can see this as the perfect ride for Andrea, dropping the keys of this beauty in the hand of the valet at Holt Renfrew at Bloor & Bay in Toronto. All while she picks up a few more stunningly fetching outfits, to make all the lady viewers green with envy. This car was born for YOU. Let Zack follow you around in his beloved Classic Citröen Deux Chevaux!🤭

[@vicgill1980]

Got the car to match the skirt I see

[@bcvijasiu]

It drives me nuts when people say the car is not snappy (transmission is not snappy). It is more of a setup and temperature thing than anything else. 1. Wait for the oil to get to its operating temperature. 2. Switch it to Sport S+ driving mode and put the transmission into manual mode. The transition up shifts and downshifts will now be snappier and they will also line up with your throttle or breaking input. Essentially mimicking a drivers response in a manual transmission car. It also drives me nuts when people compare it to M3 and just dismiss it. The base M3 and the IS500 have almost the same HP (+1 hp for M3) and M3 has 11 lb-ft of torque more. The difference comes from the fact that the torque in the M3 hits at 2,650 RPM and in the IS500 it comes at 4,800 RPM and the fact that M3 is wearing 285x21 tires in the back compared to IS500's 265x19s. So earlier torque and more rubber. M3's 3.9-second 60-mph time and its quarter-mile result of 12.2 seconds at 117 mph IS500 4.3-second 0-60-mph time, with the quarter mile claimed in 12.7-seconds @ 112.7 mph I say test both cars after about 60K miles of driving. I think the results maybe closer due to carbon buildup from direct injection system compared to that of a direct+port injection system In any case, I decided to go with the IS500 over the M3 for two reasons, reliability and durability, and $10K savings.

[@carboydorifutoparty3976]

What are u talking about? There's already multiple M340is with practically the same trans and etc that have pass 60k without issue. Carbon build up doesn't happen with that engine cause that was prominent with the N54/55.

[@bcvijasiu]

@@carboydorifutoparty3976 👍🏼