“I don't think I will ever switch from Lexus after having this IS 300. The interior is sleek and it handles like a gem.”
2018 Lexus IS: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The most important change for the 2018 Lexus IS is a 5-horsepower increase for its V6 models. It is otherwise a light-update year, with the rear-wheel-drive IS 200t renamed IS 300 and a rearview camera becoming standard across the lineup.
About the 2018 Lexus IS
3rd generation (2014-2020), second model year after the 2017 refresh.
Lexus positions the IS as a compact luxury sport sedan with sharp styling, a driver-focused cockpit, and a stronger emphasis on comfort and craftsmanship than raw track intensity. Its appeal is the mix of bold looks, rear- or all-wheel drive, turbo or V6 power depending on trim, and Lexus’s reputation for solid build quality and everyday livability in a small premium sedan.
The IS 300 is the everyday entry to the range, with either a 241-horsepower turbo four-cylinder engine and rear-wheel drive or a 260-horsepower V6 and all-wheel drive. The IS 350 is the quicker version, using a 311-horsepower V6. Both have LED headlights, a power moonroof, a 7-inch infotainment screen, and a safety suite with automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control.
What changed, by category
Powertrain
The IS 300 AWD and IS 350 gain 5 horsepower, reaching 260 and 311 horsepower, respectively. The rear-wheel-drive turbo model keeps its 241-horsepower engine but is renamed IS 300, replacing the IS 200t name.
Safety
A rearview camera becomes standard across the lineup. The broader safety suite introduced for 2017 carries over without a major hardware change.
2018 Lexus IS specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.0 Liter / V6, 3.5 Liter | V6, 3.5 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 8-Spd | Automatic, 8-Spd |
| Drivetrain | RWD | RWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 20–22 mpg | 20 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 28–32 mpg | 28 mpg |
| Horsepower | 241–260 hp | 311 hp |
| Torque | 236–258 lb-ft | 277 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 10.8 cu-ft | 10.8 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 32.2 in | 32.2 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ||
| Alarm System | ||
| Automatic High Beams | ||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||
| Park Assist | ||
| Rear View Camera | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| Fog Lights | ||
| LED Headlights | ||
| Power Moonroof | ||
| Rear Spoiler | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| Smartphone Interface | ||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||
| Ventilated Front Seats | ||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2018 Lexus IS?
The biggest change is a 5-horsepower increase for the V6-powered IS 300 AWD and IS 350. The 2018 model is a light update rather than a redesign.
Did the Lexus IS 200t go away for 2018?
The IS 200t name went away, but the car continued as the rear-wheel-drive IS 300. It retained its 241-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine.
How much horsepower does the 2018 Lexus IS have?
The 2018 IS 300 has 241 horsepower with rear-wheel drive or 260 horsepower with all-wheel drive. The IS 350 has 311 horsepower, regardless of whether it has rear- or all-wheel drive.
Was the 2018 Lexus IS redesigned?
No, the 2018 Lexus IS was not redesigned. It remains part of the third generation and follows the more substantial styling and safety update made for 2017.
Did the 2018 Lexus IS get new safety equipment?
Yes, a rearview camera became standard across the 2018 lineup. The automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane departure alert, and automatic high beams introduced across the range for 2017 carry over.
2018 Lexus IS Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2018 Lexus IS.
4.2
2018 Lexus IS
(107 reviews)
“The Lexus IS is the consummate "all a rounder": it has adequate power, handles very well, is comfortable and has available all wheel drive. They extremely well built and should be virtually trouble free.”
“I ?? The exterior but this car lacks great functionality in the interior. Barely any cubby's or places to store much of anything. Next time I'll look into getting the NXT or the RX”
Sources
- lexus.com — Models / 2018 / MY18 IS Brochure
- pressroom.lexus.com — Lexus 2018 Is Sporty Design Exhilarating Ride
- pressroom.lexus.com — Lexus Restyles 2017 Is350 Is200 Sedan Bolsters Safety Tech
- pressroom.lexus.com — 2019 Lexus Is Press Kit
- pressroom.lexus.com — 2014 Lexus Is Premiere Detroit Auto Show Jan15