Going out with a bang: Lexus IS 500 Climax Edition revealed

Last month, Lexus revealed the IS 500 Ultimate Edition for the US market. While it appeared to be just another special edition model of the sports sedan, it could actually be a signal from the brand that the V8-powered sports sedan is not long for this world. Limited to just 500 units, the Ultimate Edition will be a highly sought-after collector's item among Lexus enthusiasts in North America.

Over in Japan, Lexus decided to make the IS 500 Ultimate Edition available to its home market as well. But instead of calling it the Ultimate Edition, the Japanese automaker decided to go with something a bit more risque. Say hello to the IS 500 Climax Edition, and before you say it's essentially the same car, the JDM IS 500 Climax Edition sports some exclusive upgrades.

For starters, the IS 500 Climax Edition gets a bigger brake kit thanks to new 15-inch discs that are paired with six-piston Brembo calipers and high-friction pads. The upgraded brakes are complemented by stylish 19-inch BBS forged alloy wheels painted matte black. Those with keen eyes will know these are the same ones found in the USDM IS 500 Ultimate Edition, albeit sporting a different finish.

Hop inside, and an Ultrasuede upholstery welcomes the lucky customers who will get the IS 500 Climax Edition. The cabin also comes with dimpled leather on the shift knob & steering wheel, shades of black & red for that extra sporty feel, a special pattern for the signature clock on the dashboard, and of course, a Climax Edition plaque on the center console to remind customers they are in something special.

Like the regular IS 500, the Climax Edition gets a 5.0L naturally-aspirated V8 that generates 479 PS and 535 Nm of torque. Power is then transferred to an 8-speed automatic gearbox that drives the rear wheels. It may not have a set of turbos or a hybrid system, but it sure does make one heck of a noise thanks to the V8 engine.

Like the USDM IS 500 Ultimate Edition, the IS 500 Climax Edition will only be limited to 500 examples for the Japanese market. As to what will happen to the Lexus IS as a whole, there is still no official word yet if the sedan is set to be consigned to the history books or if it will get a fourth-generation model. As a refresher, the current Lexus IS (codenamed XE30) first debuted in 2013 and has already undergone two facelifts.

Do you think Lexus will make a new generation IS, or will the market's obsession with crossovers spell the untimely demise of the IS sports sedan?