The Lexus IS500 F Sport Performance comes home to Japan

It was a bit confusing why Lexus didn't introduce this in its home market first. PHOTO FROM LEXUS

When the Lexus IS500 F Sport Performance first debuted last year, it was an automotive enthusiast’s dream come true: killer looks in a practical compact sedan form factor, legendary Toyota reliability, and a growling naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8.

But in a confusing move, it was only destined for North America. Not even the brand’s home country of Japan could get a taste of (what could potentially be) one of the last V8-powered models to come out of the marque.

At least the Japanese will be able to get to experience the IS F's spiritual successor. PHOTO FROM LEXUS

Well, it looks like the Japanese market will finally be getting its share of the super-sedan pie. The first 500 units of the Japanese-spec IS500 F Sport Performance “First Edition” will be sold via a lottery starting August 25 until September 15.

This special-edition model will come with matte-black 19-inch forged aluminum wheels by BBS, and black door mirrors on the outside. The interior receives an exclusive ocher interior with open-finish trim, black and brown seat trims, and F Sport Performance First Edition badging.

Fingers are crossed that the IS500 makes it onto our shores. PHOTO FROM LEXUS

But thankfully, regular IS500s will go on sale toward the end of 2022 if you weren’t able to get any of the First Edition units in Japan.

Here’s to hoping that Lexus Philippines brings this bad boy in, considering it was primarily sold in the North American market, which is left-hand-drive. For now, we can only drive the naturally aspirated, V8-powered sports sedan in our dreams.