2026 Lexus IS: What's New, Specs & Features

Last updated August 4, 2026

2026 Lexus IS

The 2026 Lexus IS gets a meaningful late-cycle refresh, not a full redesign. The biggest change is a slimmer, V6-only IS 350 lineup paired with refreshed styling, a reworked cabin, upgraded safety technology, and revised handling.

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About the 2026 Lexus IS

3rd generation (2014-present), major late-cycle refresh for 2026.

Lexus positions the IS as its compact rear-drive sport sedan: a smaller, more driver-focused choice than the ES, with bold styling, a naturally aspirated V6, and a cockpit built around the driver. For 2026, that identity becomes even sharper. The brand leans on the IS’s blend of responsive handling, premium cabin finish, and everyday usability rather than pure track aggression, making it a sporty luxury sedan for shoppers who want engagement without giving up comfort or all-weather AWD availability.

For 2026, the IS is a two-grade sport sedan powered by a 311-hp 3.5-liter V6, with rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. F SPORT Design emphasizes the athletic look and everyday comfort with heated front seats, a heated leather-trimmed steering wheel, and 19-inch wheels. F SPORT adds a sport-tuned suspension, heated and ventilated sport seats, driver memory, and an exclusive Radiant Red interior color.

What changed, by category

Powertrain
The four-cylinder IS 300 and V8-powered IS 500 grades are dropped. Every 2026 IS is an IS 350 with a 311-hp 3.5-liter V6 and either rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
Styling
The front end is redesigned, while the cabin receives a new instrument-panel look and revised center-console details. Both grades also get newly styled 19-inch lightweight aluminum wheels.
Safety
The newer Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 safety suite replaces the previous 2.5 version as standard equipment.
Tech
A 12.3-inch digital instrument display becomes standard. Touchscreen monitor equipment shifts from standard to optional.
Structural
The electric power steering and suspension tuning are revised for more natural steering response and cleaner body control.

2026 Lexus IS specs and features by trim

2026 Lexus ISIS 350 F SPORT1 in stock
2026 Lexus ISIS 350 F SPORT Design0 in stock
EngineV6, 3.5 LiterV6, 3.5 Liter
TransmissionAutomatic, 8-Spd Sport w/Direct ShiftAutomatic, 8-Spd Sport w/Direct Shift
DrivetrainRWDRWD
Fuel TypeGasGas
MPG City19 mpg19 mpg
MPG Highway27 mpg27 mpg
Horsepower311 hp311 hp
Torque280 lb-ft280 lb-ft
Trunk/Cargo10.8 cu-ft10.8 cu-ft
Rear Legroom32.2 in32.2 in
Seats55
Doors44
Alarm System
Automatic High Beams
Blindspot Sensors
Lane Departure Warning
Park Assist
Rear View Camera
Alloy Wheels
LED Headlights
Memory Exterior Mirrors
Power Moonroof
Rear Spoiler
LCD Instrument Cluster
Premium Audio
Smartphone Interface
Touch Screen Monitor
Dual-Zone Climate Control
Heated Front Seats
Heated Steering Wheel
Integrated Garage Door Opener
Memory Driver's Seat
Memory Steering Wheel
Proximity Keyless Entry
Push-Button Engine Start
Rear Window Shades
Remote Start
Ventilated Front Seats

Frequently asked questions

Is the 2026 Lexus IS a full redesign?

No. The 2026 Lexus IS is a major late-cycle refresh of the third-generation car, with redesigned front styling, a reworked cabin, updated technology, and revised steering and suspension tuning.

What engine does the 2026 Lexus IS have?

Every 2026 Lexus IS has a 311-hp 3.5-liter V6. The lineup consists only of IS 350 F SPORT Design and IS 350 F SPORT models, with rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.

Does Lexus still make an IS 500 for 2026?

No. The V8-powered IS 500 leaves the U.S. lineup for 2026, along with the four-cylinder IS 300. The remaining IS 350 uses a 311-hp V6.

What changed inside the 2026 Lexus IS?

The 2026 Lexus IS gets a restyled cabin with a new instrument-panel design and revised center-console details. A 12.3-inch digital instrument display is standard, while touchscreen monitor equipment is optional rather than standard across the lineup.

What is the difference between the 2026 IS 350 F SPORT Design and F SPORT?

F SPORT Design is the style-focused grade, with the refreshed F SPORT exterior, heated front seats, a heated leather-trimmed steering wheel, and 19-inch wheels. F SPORT adds a sport-tuned suspension, heated and ventilated sport seats, driver memory, and the exclusive Radiant Red interior color.

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