You can buy the unfortunately named Lexus IS 500 “Climax Edition” in Japan
If there’s one car in Lexus’ lineup that’s due for an all-new generation, it would have to be the IS sports sedan. The XE30 generation has been on sale since 2013, with two major facelifts to help keep the sedan fresh. Lexus USA has released the IS 500 Ultimate Edition as one of its special variants for its V8-powered sedan, with only 500 to be built.
We thought that this would be a US-only model, but apparently Japan has its own version of this limited edition variant, albeit with a very unfortunate name. Meet the Lexus IS 500 Climax Edition. Lexus doesnt say if it’s that model’s send-off variant in Japan, but only 500 will be sold to the public.
It still carries over the 5.0-liter 2UR-GSE naturally aspirated V8 engine that produces 479 horsepower and 536 Nm of torque, sent to the rear wheels by an eight-speed Sport Direct Shift (SPDS) automatic transmission.
Like the US-bound variant, it comes with unique 19-inch forged BBS matte black wheels that hide large 380mm Brembo brakes with six-piston calipers. Lexus says they also have improved the suspension and reduced weight all around. The body is also finished in an exclusive Neutrino Gray color.
Meanwhile, the interior is slightly different with a black-and-red color combination, utilizing both Ultrasuede and dimpled leather, which can be found on the steering wheel and shift knob.
Unique touches can be found on the analog clock with a 3D-like effect, red stretching on the carpets, and a special plate with your serial number on the center console.
Finally, to remind you of the car’s unfortunate name, you’ll see the words “CLIMAX EDITION” every time you start the car up in its gauge cluster.
We assume that the name must have been lost in translation somewhere, but even the Japanese press release calls it the “Climax Edition” in plain English, so we’re just wondering what went wrong. Regardless, it’s still a very cool car, and it might possibly be the actual climax of the third-generation IS to begin with.
Photos from Lexus
