2026 Lexus IS Model Review with Prices, Photos, & Specs
Lexus IS
Key Features
- Starting at $46,895 MSRP*
- 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 311 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque
- Available all-wheel drive
- Four-piston front brakes with 13.1-inch rotors and two-piston rear brakes with 11.7-inch rotors
- Heated and ventilated front seats
- Power Moonroof
- Lexus Interface with 12.3-in touchscreen display
- Heated front seats
- Lexus Safety System+ 3.0
- Available Mark Levinson® 17-speaker, 1,800-watt, 7.1-channel Premium Surround Sound with QuantumLogic® Surround Sound
About The Lexus IS
Most sport sedans are made by taking a mainstream sedan and giving it a more powerful engine. It’s an approach that can add a bit of excitement, but it’s not quite the same as a sedan that’s built to be a sedan, and that’s what you get with the Lexus IS. A powerful V6 comes standard, as do big performance brakes and a sophisticated suspension setup. Yet the interior is roomy and comfortable, with standard features like heated front seats and an available stereo system that rivals competitors that cost twice as much. This duality is possible because the IS is built with cutting-edge technology, particularly features like the available adaptive suspension, which adjusts firmness depending on the situation. Then there is the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0,
an advanced suite of safety and driver assistance features. After all, just because you enjoy a little spirited driving, that doesn’t mean you don’t appreciate comfort and safety.
What the Critics Say
What’s New for 2026
The IS receives a thorough refresh for 2026, including new styling inside and out. This includes a much bigger infotainment touchscreen, as well as a digital gauge cluster and a Forged Bamboo center console. Lexus also dropped the base four-cylinder engine, so the naturally-aspirated V6 is now standard.
Lexus IS Features
Built For Performance
Instead of the expected turbocharged four-cylinder engine, you’ll find a naturally-aspirated 3.5-liter V6 under the hood of the IS. For as high-tech as the IS, the smooth and linear power delivery of the V6 gives the car a surprisingly analog feeling that helps it to stand out from its competitors. The engine also produces an ample 311 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, enough for a 5.6-second 0-60 time. Grip is aided by the standard performance tires, and can be even further enhanced by the available all-wheel drive. Stopping is equally impressive, thanks to the four-piston front brakes with 13.1-inch rotors and two-piston rear brakes with 11.7-inch rotors. And in yet another break from the norm, the IS comes with a front double-wishbone suspension setup, which offers a great deal more handling precision than the strut setup that’s typical of the segment.
Luxury Interior
Sport sedans exist in the first place so that you can experience high-performance driving without sacrificing interior space or comfort. This goes double for IS, since interior and ride comfort are hallmarks of the Lexus brand. Ride comfort is excellent no matter what, but opting for the available adaptive suspension helps to make highway cruising and city traffic on potholed streets even more comfortable. Advanced materials help with this as well, from the soft and durable NuLuxe seat upholstery to the Forged Bamboo center console. Heated front seats and dual-zone climate control make sure that everyone is comfortable, while the available moonroof lets in natural light. And for an absolutely unbeatable listening experience, there is an available Mark Levinson® 17-speaker, 1,800-watt, 7.1-channel Premium Surround Sound with QuantumLogic® Surround Sound.
Advanced Technology
The advanced technology in the IS improves every aspect of the experience. Selectable drive modes let you pick how you want the car to behave, while the advanced Torsen®* limited-slip rear differential ensures that power is transmitted to the wheels in the most efficient way possible. The IS also comes with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, a suite of advanced safety features that employ cutting-edge technology. This includes features like Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Lane Tracing Assist, Road Sign Assist, Automatic High Beams, and Proactive Driving Assist.
Trims & Specs
IS 350 F SPORT Design (AWD Available)
- Starting at $46,895 MSRP*
- 3.5-liter V6 engine
- Heated front seats
- F SPORT exterior styling
- F SPORT 19-in split-five-spoke alloy wheels with Dark Metallic finish
- Lexus Interface with 12.3-in touchscreen display
IS 350 F SPORT (AWD Available)
- Starting at $49,345 MSRP*
- F SPORT bolstered, heated and ventilated front seats
- F SPORT exterior styling
- F SPORT 19-in split-five-spoke alloy wheels with Dark Metallic finish
- Aluminum sport pedals
- Available F SPORT-tuned Adaptive Variable Suspension
*Starting MSRP includes the Delivery, Processing and Handling fee (DPH), which is subject to change at any time. Excludes manufacturer and dealer options, taxes, title and license, and dealer fees and charges. Dealer price will vary.