2025 Lexus IS 500 Ultimate Edition: Does 'Ultimate' Signal the End of an Era?

In an automotive landscape increasingly dominated by turbochargers and electrification, Lexus has unveiled what may be the last hurrah for naturally aspirated V8 performance sedans. The 2025 Lexus IS 500 Ultimate Edition arrives shrouded in language that feels more like an epitaph than a celebration, limited to just 500 units for North American enthusiasts.

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Decoding Lexus's 'Ultimate' Message

Lexus's press materials describe the IS 500 Ultimate Edition as "an ode to this storied nameplate's history and legacy" - phrasing that raises more questions than it answers. Automotive historians note this is similar to the language used when:

• Lexus discontinued the V8-powered RC F with a "Final Edition" model
• BMW marked the end of the V10 era with the E60 M5 "30 Jahre" edition
• Mercedes-Benz released the "Final Edition" of the S65 AMG

Industry analysts suggest the writing has been on the wall since 2022, when Lexus began replacing V8s with twin-turbo V6 engines across its lineup. The IS now stands alone as the last Lexus sedan offering a naturally aspirated V8, in a segment where competitors have all moved to forced induction or hybridization.

IS 500 Ultimate Edition: Performance Specifications

Exclusive Ultimate Edition Features

Exterior Upgrades

The Ultimate Edition distinguishes itself with several exclusive touches:

• Wind Chill Pearl paint: A new exclusive color with multi-layer pearl finish
• 19-inch BBS forged wheels: Matte black finish with machine accents
• Brembo braking system: 15-inch front rotors (1" larger than standard) with red 6-piston calipers
• Black chrome exhaust tips: Unique to the Ultimate Edition

Interior Appointments

• Circuit Red/Black interior: Exclusive color combination with synthetic leather and Ultrasuede
• Serialized badge: Numbered console plaque (1-500)
• Special startup animation: Custom display in the 8-inch instrument cluster
• Laser-etched clock: Analog dash clock with unique Ultimate Edition markings
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What 'Ultimate' Really Means for Lexus Enthusiasts

While Lexus remains coy about the future of its V8 powertrains, several indicators suggest this may be the end:

• The IS platform hasn't received a full redesign since 2013
• Lexus's focus has shifted to the turbocharged V6 in the LS and LC models
• Global emissions regulations make naturally aspirated V8s increasingly difficult to justify
• Competitors like BMW M3 and Mercedes-AMG C63 have already abandoned V8s

Automotive journalist and Lexus historian William Stopford notes: "When manufacturers start releasing these special editions with retrospective language, it's typically about 18-24 months before we see the end of production. The IS 500 Ultimate Edition checks all the boxes of a farewell model."

Should You Buy the IS 500 Ultimate Edition?

For Collectors

With only 500 units coming to North America, the Ultimate Edition has strong collector potential. Historical data shows that:

• Limited-run Lexus F models typically appreciate 15-25% over 5 years
• Last-of-the-line special editions often become sought-after among enthusiasts
• The naturally aspirated V8 will likely be the last in the IS line
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For Performance Seekers

While the Ultimate Edition isn't a mechanical revolution, it offers:

• One of the last naturally aspirated V8 experiences in its class
• Improved braking performance over the standard IS 500
• Exclusive styling that sets it apart from regular F Sport models

Pricing is expected to be announced closer to the fall 2024 launch window, but industry analysts predict a $10,000-$12,000 premium over the standard IS 500 F Sport Performance's $67,200 base price.

The Future of Performance at Lexus

Lexus's recent moves suggest a strategic shift:

• The new TX 550h+ plug-in hybrid features a turbo V6 with electrification
• Future performance models will likely use the twin-turbo 3.5L V6 from the LS 500
• Electrified performance is coming, with concepts like the Electrified Sport showing the direction

While the IS 500 Ultimate Edition may mark the end of an era, it ensures Lexus's V8 sends off the IS line with proper fanfare. For enthusiasts who prize the visceral experience of a naturally aspirated V8, this limited-run model represents what may be the last opportunity to own a new example.

The 2025 Lexus IS 500 Ultimate Edition begins arriving at dealerships in fall 2024, with allocations expected to be highly competitive. Interested buyers should contact their local Lexus dealers now to inquire about waitlists for this potential future classic.

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