Don’t forget, some of us don’t already have an IS 500. I view it as my last chance to get one. I’m making up for taking for granted our RC F, GS F, and LC 500 and trading them over the last decade. So unless I want to try and get another LC 500…this will be my last chance to get this engine new. So I’m not overly concerned about the colors or exclusivity. I do like the “F” brakes. It will be the closest thing to the GS F…which was my favorite because of its practicality.

Well, some IS 500 wheel (BBS) are matte also. The wheels on the UE are matte but a different pattern than the glossy ones that were also found on the IS 500 (I think the flare yellow edition had the same wheel design but glossy)

Absolutely, if you didn't get an IS 500 between 2022 and now, this is a great chance to get one!! I am still debating whether I will trade my 2022 for this one because of the depreciation/loss I will take for a new color and a few goodies inside. I know this is not the consensus here but seeing the 2026 interior has really given me the itch to trade but I always vowed I would keep my V8 forever. I put low mileage on mine as it's summer driven only so it could last me a long time but the darn 'trade in' illness gets me every 2 to 3 years :(

Same, that dang “trade in” illness gets me everytime! But I’ve got to learn to manage it now with this type of vehicle going away. I also put low miles on our two vehicles. Only drive both maybe once a week for enjoyment and to keep them going. I’m trying to resist trading the 2022 RX for another LC 500. Not even sure many 2026 LC’s will be available. And it’s nice to have a RX for bad weather and to haul things.

If I can help you with your decision, no, you should NOT purchase a UE. Just not enough special there to justify it.

Also, trading your V8 for the same V6 (from 2006) sounds absolutely ludicrous to just get a better interior.

My local dealer is charging a $5k markup because they are saying other people want the car even though I'm first in line. They told me there will be no markup long time ago but that there has recently been a change in management so it will go over MSRP. They also said there may be some room for negotiating the $5k but it will go for over MSRP

This is why dealerships get a bad name. That's a scumbag move.

Sodbuster1 - I hear you, that itch is real!! If only they made cream for dat! (LMAO!) I have debated whether trading my IS 500 for the LC 500 instead to make it a REAL change but that is like adding another 60K after trade in (in Canada) and where I am on teh verge of retirement, not sure I want to dip into my piggy bank to fork the difference. I have considered uploading some 'racy and sexy pics' of myself to generate revenue but my wife asked how I would come up with the remaining 59 999$ dollars. I had one word for her - DLPTony! (LMAO)

ExLexOwner - thanks for your feedback. I know, the rational side of me says I would be crazy to trade a paid off IS 500 with such low mileage to get an IS 350 with the V6. Thanks for pouring ice cold water on my dream ;)

TommyTea - It is sad that dealers will do that kind of stuff. Just out of principle I would walk away but it is easier said than done, especially for those already owning one of these babies.

95Bbat - DITTO!

No matter how despicable this dealership move may be, someone will always be willing to pay the markup to get the car. The question is how badly do you want the car?

Nobody ever mentions this but one thing I love about owning the IS500 is that it's a great way to get salespeople to take you seriously when you're shopping for other high performance cars. It shouldn't be this way, but it's just human nature, especially among salespeople who are sizing you up the moment you step out of your car.

wthrman2 - LOL :D

TommyTea - Sorry to hear about the potential markup. That's unfortunate. My dealer could do the same I suppose. They said other dealers have already called about my allocation, but they have a policy of no dealer markup on new vehicles I hope they stick to. I really want it!!! I feel lucky to have the allocation. I read on the forum today that LC 500 Coupe Inspiration Series allocations seem to be all taken, have big markups, or only sell locally.

V8Brah - I've seriously experienced this driving up in our RX at German nameplate dealers multiple times LOL. They have no interest in me. I usually wear blue jeans and tennis shoes which I'm sure also doesn't help.

BWAHAHA!! For you buddy, I’ll come out of retirement.

Bless it. 😊😊

This 100%! Between its rarity and price point, it says don’t eff with me. I have a nice car and don’t +need+ one.

$5000 markup at Lexus Carlsbad. I used to recommend this place. Today I won't.

https://www.lexuscarlsbad.com/new/LE...1ee7cfe776.htm

Photos of the Ultimate Editon IRL have surfaced courtesy of a Reddit post. https://www.reddit.com/r/LexusIS500/s/Ux5l2IQgBC
https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.clu...cce44ef27.jpeg
https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.clu...4eaa5317d.jpeg
https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.clu...4486f0cd6.jpeg
https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.clu...fe2d49446.jpeg

the matte wheels and brake calipers look awesome :thumbup: