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2023 Lexus IS: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The most important change for the 2023 Lexus IS is the new IS 350 F SPORT Design trim, which pairs the 311-hp V6 with sportier exterior details. The rest of the lineup receives only modest trim and equipment updates.
About the 2023 Lexus IS
3rd generation IS (2014-present), in the 2021 refresh phase; 2023 is the third model year after that major update.
Lexus positions the IS as a compact luxury sport sedan with bold styling, a close driver-to-car feel, and track-developed handling without giving up everyday comfort. The brand leans hard on themes like “pure exhilaration,” “track-born” development at Shimoyama, and premium craftsmanship inside. In practice, the IS is the Lexus sedan for shoppers who want sharper responses and stronger visual attitude than a comfort-first luxury sedan, with the IS 500 adding an old-school V8 flavor at the top of the range.
The IS 300 serves as the straightforward luxury-sport model, with an 8-inch touchscreen, smartphone integration, and a broad driver-assistance suite. The IS 350 F SPORT adds a 311-hp V6 and a more driver-focused cabin, while the rear-wheel-drive IS 500 stands apart with a 472-hp V8. The IS 500 Premium adds a 10.3-inch touchscreen, 17-speaker audio, and a 360-degree camera system.
What changed, by category
Styling
The new IS 350 F SPORT Design combines the 311-hp V6 with sport-styled bumpers, a rear spoiler, special badging, and 19-inch wheels. IS 500 models gain dark-finish standard wheels and Satin Chrome interior trim. The IS 500 Launch Edition leaves the lineup.
Tech
A heated steering wheel becomes standard on the IS 350 F SPORT rather than optional.
2023 Lexus IS specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.0 Liter / V6, 3.5 Liter | V6, 3.5 Liter | V6, 3.5 Liter | V8, 5.0 Liter | V8, 5.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 8-Spd Sport w/Direct Shift | Automatic, 8-Spd Sport w/Direct Shift | Automatic, 8-Spd Sport w/Direct Shift | Automatic, 8-Spd Sport w/Direct Shift | Automatic, 8-Spd Sport w/Direct Shift |
| Drivetrain | RWD | RWD | RWD | RWD | RWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 20–21 mpg | 20 mpg | 20 mpg | 17 mpg | 17 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 28–31 mpg | 28 mpg | 28 mpg | 25 mpg | 25 mpg |
| Horsepower | 241–260 hp | 311 hp | 311 hp | 472 hp | 472 hp |
| Torque | 236–258 lb-ft | 280 lb-ft | 280 lb-ft | 395 lb-ft | 395 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 10.8 cu-ft | 10.8 cu-ft | 10.8 cu-ft | 10.8 cu-ft | 10.8 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 32.2 in | 32.2 in | 32.2 in | 32.2 in | 32.2 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | |||||
| Automatic High Beams | |||||
| Blindspot Sensors | |||||
| Lane Departure Warning | |||||
| Park Assist | |||||
| Rain Sensing Windshield Wipers | |||||
| Rear View Camera | |||||
| Alloy Wheels | |||||
| LED Headlights | |||||
| Memory Exterior Mirrors | |||||
| Power Moonroof | |||||
| Rear Spoiler | |||||
| Navigation System | |||||
| Premium Audio | |||||
| Satellite Radio | |||||
| Smartphone Interface | |||||
| Touch Screen Monitor | |||||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | |||||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | |||||
| Heated Front Seats | |||||
| Heated Steering Wheel | |||||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | |||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | |||||
| Memory Driver's Seat | |||||
| Memory Steering Wheel | |||||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | |||||
| Push-Button Engine Start | |||||
| Rear Window Shades | |||||
| Remote Start | |||||
| Ventilated Front Seats | |||||
| Wood Interior Trim | |||||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2023 Lexus IS?
The biggest change is the addition of the IS 350 F SPORT Design. It uses the 311-hp V6 and adds the F SPORT look, but it has fewer cabin upgrades than the full IS 350 F SPORT.
How is the 2023 IS 350 F SPORT Design different from the IS 350 F SPORT?
The IS 350 F SPORT Design focuses on V6 power and sporty exterior details, while the full IS 350 F SPORT adds a more driver-focused interior with heated and ventilated sport seats, a heated leather steering wheel, and a performance-style gauge display.
Did the 2023 Lexus IS get new engines?
No, the 2023 Lexus IS carries over its existing engines. The key lineup change is that the new IS 350 F SPORT Design packages the existing 311-hp V6 with sportier exterior trim.
What changed on the 2023 Lexus IS 500?
The 2023 IS 500 gains dark-finish standard wheels and Satin Chrome interior trim. The limited Launch Edition from 2022 is no longer part of the lineup, while the regular IS 500 F SPORT Performance and Premium trims continue with the 472-hp V8.
Is the 2023 Lexus IS a major redesign?
No, the 2023 Lexus IS is not a major redesign. It remains part of the third generation and largely carries over the substantial 2021 update, with a new trim and a few equipment changes for 2023.
2023 Lexus IS Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2023 Lexus IS.
4.5
2023 Lexus IS
(170 reviews)
“It has a fun, sporty look, yet is very comfortable. Not overloaded with every newest amenity, but definitely has all the most important ones for my needs. Highly recommend!”
“This is an exciting and fun vehicle to drive, while providing a high level of comfort and luxury.”
Sources
- pressroom.lexus.com — Whats New 2023 Is 300 350 500
- lexus.com — Models / 2023 / MY23 Lexus IS Brochure
- pressroom.lexus.com — Whats New 2022 Lexus Is 300 350
- pressroom.lexus.com — 2022 Lexus Is 500 A New Breed Of F Sport Performance
- pressroom.lexus.com — Whats New 2024 Lexus Is 300 350 500
- lexus.com — Models / 2024 / MY24 Lexus IS Brochure
- pressroom.lexus.com — Whats New For 2023