Lexus Taps DSPORT & Hiraku for IS 500 & IS 350 at SEMA 2021
DSPORT collab adds four-point roll bar and SPARCO QRT-K Carbon/Kevlar race seats; it’s clear Lexus is serious about turning the IS 350 into a track weapon.
To showcase the evolution of the F and F SPORT, Lexus partnered with Hiraku Co. and brand ambassador Townsend Bell. Together they developed a street performance IS 500 for SEMA 2021. The exterior changes start with a Siebon carbon fiber hood and trunk.
A Hikaru Co. designed 3D-printed body kit adds a front lip spoiler, rear diffuser, and rear roof spoiler. Retina-piercing vinyl wrap covers the body, offering a modern take on the traditional Lexus spindle styling cues.
HIRAKU STREET PERFORMANCE IS 500
Underneath the custom body are an assortment of performance enhancements. The 472-hp 5.0-liter V8 gets a custom A’PEXi induction box and TOMS Racing Carbon Fiber suction pipe for improved breathing. An A’PEXi N1 Evolution Extreme Quad Ti-tip exhaust system makes the 2UR-GSE V8 sound even more feral. And the Beat Soni Shiftpower 4.0 App enhances throttle response.
The Lexus IS 500 receives TOMS chassis braces to stiffen the front and rear suspension. Beefy, 32-way adjustable A’PEXi N1 EXV coilovers provide sharper handling reflexes. As for stopping power, the Brembo GT braking system with custom-painted calipers provide plenty of confidence. Nitto Invo tires on 20-inch Rotiform LAS-R wheels provide a dash of retro-modern style.
DSPORT & SCOTT PRUETT TRACK PERFORMANCE IS 350
The Lexus IS 350 F SPORT sits just below the IS 500 on the brand’s F SPORT Performance ladder. From the factory, it gains improved handling thanks to its Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) and limited slip differential. To build on those capabilities, Lexus teamed DSPORT Magazine with road racer and Lexus ambassador Scott Pruett. It’s clear Lexus is serious about turning the IS 350 into a track weapon.
Lexus focused on exterior, suspension, and interior modifications, retaining the 311 horsepower 3.5 liter naturally aspirated V6. A unique wrap applied by Boss Wraps covers the exterior. Developed by Troy Lee Design, this wrap features cues and colors from Scott Pruett’s helmet. Sourced from Japan’s Artisan Spirits, a hand-laid body kit provides the necessary width for the IS 350’s track tires.
Inside a four-point roll bar from Design Craft and SPARCO QRT-K Carbon/Kevlar race seats continue the IS 350’s track theme. Custom built KW Variant 3 adjustable coil-overs keep the suspension planted. Stopping power is provided by carbon-ceramic brakes from the Lexus RCF Track. Two different wheelsets showcase the IS 350’s dual mission – Lightweight ADVAN Racing Beyond GT forged 19-inch for the track and 20-inch Rotiform KPS models in Matte Copper for the street. Michelin Pilot Sport 4s cover both wheels and provide grippy rubber.
Photos: Lexus