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Originally Posted by gmblack3a My friend has inquired at his dealer about the IS500. Time will tell. |
it's suppose to compete with the M3, etc. here's some info
... once again, great job!
Lexus won't comment on it, but our latest spy footage from Death Valley reveals what looks to be an even higher performance version of the Lexus IS 350 sedan.
Rest assured that whichever route Lexus takes, the IS 500 will stand as its most aggressive move yet toward unseating the Germans in the performance sport sedan segment. And if you don't believe that, consider this: the Lexus LS 460 sedan that goes on sale this fall will be the first model in the lineup to allow full disengagement of the traction and stability control systems. Don't be surprised if the IS 500 is the second.
Where that power is going to come from is the big question and there are two possible scenarios. The most likely source is a retuned version of the 5.0-liter V8 set to debut next year in the Lexus LS 600h, a hybrid version of the company's flagship sedan. With the help of its electric motors, it rated at more than 430 hp. Our sources in Japan tell us that Yamaha, a corporate partner of Lexus parent Toyota, will retune the V8 for use in the IS 500. Combined with a paddle-shifted version of Lexus' new eight speed automatic transmission, the 400+ horsepower IS 500 is expected to have a zero-to-60 time under five seconds along with a top speed of 155mph.
Although the use of a V8 in the IS 500 seems likely given its competition, other reports suggest this may not be the preferred route. A recent article in Automotive News has Lexus executives dismissing the idea of a V8 saying, "it would kill the car's handling." With that mind, Lexus could take a different route — hybrid power. By retuning the current 3.5-liter V6 and adding electric motors, the IS 500 could achieve the necessary horsepower targets without putting all the extra weight up front. It would also give the IS 500 the traction of all-wheel drive like its Audi rival. Lexus has already shown the performance capability of hybrid power in its GS 450h sedan, a car which outruns its V8-powered stablemate by combining a V6 with electric motors.
Rest assured that whichever route Lexus takes, the IS 500 will stand as its most aggressive move yet toward unseating the Germans in the performance sport sedan segment. Look for an official debut by the end of the year with sales beginning in 2007.
! never been in one, were you impressed with it (i heard an IS500 is coming out)?
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