Does The Lexus IS500 Trademark Application Hint At New V8-Powered Model?

Subsequent to the unveiling of the 2021 IS in mid-June, Lexus appears to be interested in expanding the lineup with an all-new variant.

They have already taken a first step in this direction by filing applications to secure the IS500 moniker in the United States and Canada on June 25. Discovered by GR86, it was still pending at the time of writing, yet it has met the minimum filing requirements.

According to the USPTO’s (United States Patent and Trademark Office) Goods and Services category, the moniker can be used for “automobiles and structural parts thereof”, and the same classification applies north of the U.S. border as well.

Read Also: How Does The 2021 Lexus IS Compare To The Outgoing Model?

Given that Toyota’s luxury brand has filed a trademark application for the IS500 and not the IS-F, such a model would likely not be a true challenger to the likes of the BMW M3 and Mercedes-AMG C63.

2021 Lexus IS

Nonetheless, word on the web has it that it might be a V8-powered variant of the latest IS, which might adopt the 5.0-liter naturally aspirated eight-banger powering the GS F, RC F and LC500, where it pumps out 471 horsepower and 398 pound-feet (540 Nm) of torque. If it is indeed in the making, then this model is likely around 1 year away.

Meanwhile, the 2021 IS is offered with a 2.0-liter four-pot, developing 241 HP in the rear-wheel drive variant, while the AWD IS 300 packs a 260 HP 3.5-liter V6. The IS 350 serves as the current range-topper of the series, with a 311 HP 3.5-liter V6. The premium sports sedan will arrive at dealers this fall and pricing will be announced in due course.

Note: 2021 Lexus IS pictured in the gallery