Imagine navigating winding mountain roads with seamless precision, where every turn and acceleration feels like an extension of your instincts. This is the driving experience Lexus aims to deliver with its newly unveiled 2026 IS model.
Since its debut in 1999, the Lexus IS has embodied the brand’s commitment to driving pleasure. As a compact front-engine, rear-wheel-drive (FR) sports sedan, it has become synonymous with Lexus’s dynamic performance and bold styling, garnering global acclaim. Over 25 years, the IS has attracted drivers worldwide, with cumulative sales reaching approximately 1.3 million units across 40 markets. Its development process involves rigorous testing to refine what Lexus calls the "Lexus Driving Signature"—a distinctive performance ethos.
The 2026 IS undergoes a comprehensive exterior refresh, emphasizing its low center of gravity and wide stance for a more commanding presence. The F SPORT trim introduces an optional rear spoiler for enhanced aerodynamics and red brake calipers to accentuate its sharp handling. Both F SPORT and F SPORT Design variants feature new 19-inch lightweight alloy wheels.
Seven exterior colors will be available, including the new "Wind Gray," a metallic shade that complements the IS’s athletic character. Inside, the cabin adopts a driver-centric layout with a redesigned 12.3-inch infotainment display and digital instrument cluster. A novel "Forged Bamboo" trim adorns the center console, while the exclusive "Flare Red" interior option—inspired by solar flares—adds a sporty edge.
The 2026 IS 350, offered in rear-wheel-drive (RWD) or all-wheel-drive (AWD) configurations, retains its 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 311 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. The RWD variant pairs with an eight-speed automatic transmission, while AWD models use a six-speed unit. Lexus has refined the electric power steering and suspension systems to enhance responsiveness, aiming for linear feedback across driving conditions.
Standard across the lineup, Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 includes:
- Pre-Collision System (PCS) with pedestrian detection and emergency steering assist.
- Full-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC) for adaptive speed maintenance.
- Lane Tracing Assist (LTA) and Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist .
- Road Sign Assist (RSA) and Proactive Driving Assist (PDA) for situational awareness.
Pricing and full specifications for the 2026 Lexus IS will be announced closer to its early 2026 launch.