Lexus Trademarks IS 500 Hinting at Upcoming V8 Power
The 2021 IS debuted without V8 power, but there's an indication it still might happen.
Holding Out Hope
By all accounts, the 2021 Lexus IS is a very nice update to an aging platform. But IS fans have been waiting for a very long time for a V8 to return to the platform, even if Lexus refuses to build another IS F, and this latest update didn't scratch that particular itch. It was especially disappointing considering the fact that there was even a rumor that the 5.0-liter V8 would be making an appearance in the revised luxury sedan. However, a recent trademark may indicate that we still have reason to believe a V8 is coming.
Photos: Lexus
What's in a Name?
A member of the GT86 Forum was the first to discover a Toyota trademark filing for "IS500" at the United States Patent and Trademark Office. Of course, IS500 is the model name rumored to be given to that 5.0-liter V8 powered IS previously. According to the trademark, the name is intended to be used for "automobiles and structural parts thereof."
Photos: Lexus
>>Join the conversation about the IS 500 trademark is right here in the ClubLexus forum.
With a Bang
The previous rumor suggested that the IS500 would be the last hurrah for Lexus' naturally-aspirated 5.0-liter V8, as it is currently developing a new 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 that was supposed to be used in the forthcoming LC F, a model that may now also be canceled. It would be a great way for Lexus to send that long-running mill out with a bang, we think.
Photos: Lexus
>>Join the conversation about the IS 500 trademark is right here in the ClubLexus forum.
Big Step Up
It certainly wouldn't be too difficult for Lexus to put the 5.0 in the IS, since it's done it before. And that would result is a pretty hot sedan, as the 5.0 currently produces 472 horsepower and 395 pound-feet of torque in the RC F. It would be a huge step up from the 311 horsepower provided by the IS 350, that's for sure.
Photos: Lexus
>>Join the conversation about the IS 500 trademark is right here in the ClubLexus forum.
Questionable Decision
Problem is, Lexus reportedly cancelled the LC F program because of economic uncertainties stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic, coupled with the cost of developing the car itself. So one has to wonder if they would still considering investing in the IS500 after making that decision.
Photos: Lexus
>>Join the conversation about the IS 500 trademark is right here in the ClubLexus forum.
Parts Bin
Then again, if the automaker has a bunch of 5.0 parts laying around that it wants to get rid of as it continues to develop the new 4.0-liter mill, this would be a pretty easy way to do it. And Lexus enthusiasts would certainly appreciate the effort, that's for sure.
Photos: Lexus
>>Join the conversation about the IS 500 trademark is right here in the ClubLexus forum.
Bring Them Back
For now, however, we'll just have to wait and see what Lexus ultimately decides to do. We know that times are tough right now, but we believe that a V8-powered IS would help the model tremendously. Even if it isn't a volume leader for the brand, at least it would help the model's image among enthusiasts who might've already departed for other brands that do offer high-performance versions of their compact luxury sedans.
Photos: Lexus
>>Join the conversation about the IS 500 trademark is right here in the ClubLexus forum.
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