Lexus has confirmed it will stop production of both the IS 500 and IS 300 models in Japan by November 2025. To mark the end of the IS 500, the company is introducing a special edition model called the IS 500 Climax Edition. This farewell version mirrors a similar approach taken in North America.
The IS 500 Climax Edition will go on sale in Japan around August and will be limited to just 500 units. Each car will be priced at 9.5 million yen (approximately RM277,000), which is about one million yen (RM29,000) more than the standard IS 500 F Sport Performance model.
Under the hood, the Climax Edition remains mechanically unchanged. It continues to use the 5.0-litre naturally aspirated V8 engine (2UR-GSE), delivering 481 PS (475 hp or 354 kW) and 535 Nm of torque. Power is sent to the rear wheels through an eight-speed Sport Direct Shift (SPDS) automatic transmission.
What sets this edition apart are several performance and styling upgrades. It features front Brembo brakes with 380 mm discs, six-piston red-painted aluminium calipers, and high-friction brake pads. These components are also found on the IS 500 Ultimate Edition sold in North America.
Other highlights include 19-inch matte black forged BBS wheels and a unique Neutrino Grey exterior paint finish.
Inside, the car gets exclusive design touches. The eight-inch TFT-LCD instrument cluster includes a special “Climax Edition” start-up animation. The steering wheel and gear knob are wrapped in dimpled genuine leather.
The cabin features Ultrasuede upholstery, with seats finished in black and red using L-tex faux leather on the side panels. Lexus also adds red seatbelts, a model-specific plaque on the centre console, branded scuff plates, and laser-etched red accents on the analogue clock, which adjusts time automatically using GPS.
This limited-run model offers a blend of luxury design cues and sporty performance enhancements as a final tribute to the IS 500 in its home market.
