Lexus IS 500 F Sport

The Lexus IS 500 F Sport.

How it looks on the street: It’s a swan song for IS 500 by Lexus, an old-fashion sports car. Or is it? The IS-500 is a sharp sports sedan that snarls to the encore tune last of the Lexus V8 engines. In the outside its meant to look mean, from the diagonal slant of tits front headlamps to the curl of the lip that curves above the 19-inch wheels. It’s closel related to the Lexus IS sedan, which will soon go into its 25th year of productio, but has a whole different character.

How it feels on the inside: Style eschews toward a sporty nature on the inside also. Our tester had accoutrements like a heated leather steering wheel, a power sunshade, and a panoramic moonroof. Seats are snug and red, but comfy. A 10.3-inch navigation screen, and Apple CarPlay integration and Android Auto accessibility are at the crux of its connected experience. Tech-minded safety features include lane tracing assistant, panoramic view monitor, and lane-departure warning with a steering assistant.

How it drives: The IS 500 F Sport stars a big 472 horsepower number due to the V8, tuned with sporty suspension that can at times feel a bit jumpy. Of course its fun to drive. It’s eager to please with all that power outfitted in a rear-wheel drive package, though at times it can get a little sloppy to maneuver through gears.

Space for people and things: Not the car for elbow room. The backseats are kind of there.

What to compare it to: Ford Mustang.

How much does it cost: Our test vehicle — F Sport Performance Package — was priced at $67,000.