Lexus IS500
 

Not sure if you guys watch the YT channel Donut but they had a vid on the IS500 and this car looks like a winner (they were unable to actually take it out for a drive bc it’s the only one in NA at the moment); but wow - if I were looking for a 4door V8 with reliability and fun - I would have to consider this for sure.

Can’t wait to see the reviews from other YT’er channels out there when we can finally see a real road test etc.

https://youtu.be/DZaeTs3wHn8

I'm not sure what to think so far.

Price point
Competing on paper
How nice regular Toyotas are already for everyday purpose

The GS-F was a cool car, and I feel it had a more imposing presence, but with that money I feel it took a very different lust. And now we have something of a replacement (well, I more of IS-F replacement) that comes up in a line that is a bit of a "second midlife". It's underwhelming in that train of thought, imo.

But we're in an increasingly scarce market of NA V8 luxury sedans. This probably isn't the fastest thing in its segment, but something still tickles. When I went RC-F shopping, there's a bit of a giggle just thinking "this is a Toyota" and "this is a V8" when you start it in the dealer lot.

Would if I could as a second car.

I definitely can't wait for reviews on this car. Overall (IF the reviews are solid) - I think this would be a great daily/family car that still offers a nice sounding V8 along with that Toyo/Lexus reliability.

If the reviews are solid - and a quick search is showing the base model at $56k - it could be a contender for someone who wants a sedan along with one of the last V8s. It could be a winner - for me - it is a beautiful car and they are using the same engine from the LC500 - seems like a good starting point. :)

I really like this car, both the 350 and 500 trim. I am a little confused about the market position of the is500....

Engine, LSD, FR layout, quad exhaust, says it’s (suppose) in a similar class to C63, M3, RS4....

YET, interior is unchanged, press car uses a metallic red over silver wheel combo, no special badge in the rear, and that is called F sport (not “IS-F”), says it’s at best aiming at lower AMG, M sport, S4.....

Let’s see how it’s priced. Can’t wait.

And I appreciate the new IS retains the shifter stick. Had my eyes on the new TLS A Spec until I saw the gear select knob. Drove a rental minivan with that, just....couldn’t....stand.....it....