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
- 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
While other manufacturers make a sport sedan by taking a mainstream model and adding more power, the Lexus IS is built from the ground up to be a sport sedan. Featuring standard V6 power and a sophisticated performance suspension setup, the IS offers an outstanding driving experience regardless of trim or options. And yet, Lexus compromised none of the luxury or ride comfort the brand is famous for in making the IS a serious performance machine. The key to this uncompromising approach is the advanced technology Lexus built into every inch of the IS. This includes available features like adaptive suspension and a seriously impressive stereo system. But it also includes the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, an advanced suite of safety and driver assistance systems, which comes standard.
What the Critics Say
“The Lexus reputation for refined interiors extends to the entry-level IS. A center console inlaid with forged bamboo contrasts available two-tone interiors, blending the natural with the flashy. F Sport models feature more metallic surfaces and plates, as well as aluminum sport pedals.” — Kelley Blue Book
“We tested the Lexus IS 350 F Sport. Not only does it deliver the comfort expected of a Lexus, but it is surprisingly athletic and nimble, with responsive steering and a suspension that’s firm enough to keep the car planted without feeling so stiff that midcorner bumps unsettle it.” — Edmunds
What’s New For 2026
The IS got a major refresh for 2026, with updates to the styling for both the exterior and interior. The big equipment change has been under the hood, where Lexus dropped the old four-cylinder base engine, making the V6 standard. The IS also gets a much bigger infotainment touchscreen, a digital gauge cluster, and a Forged Bamboo center console.
Lexus IS Features
Built For Performance
In a segment full of turbocharged four-cylinder engines, the IS comes with a standard 3.5-liter naturally aspirated V6. This means smooth and linear power delivery, a surprisingly analog feel for such a high-tech sport sedan. And there’s plenty of power too: a potent 311 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque that give the IS a 0-60 time of just 5.6 seconds. Standard performance tires help to make sure that none of that power is lost getting to the pavement, and available all-wheel drive gives you even more traction. The brakes also far exceed expectations, with four-piston front calipers and 13.1-inch rotors, as well as two-piston rear calipers with 11.7-inch rotors. And although strut-type front suspension setups are popular in compact models, even performance compacts, for their space- and cost-saving qualities, the IS comes with a double-wishbone front setup, giving you better control and more precise handling.
Luxury Interior
The IS has always existed as a way to get sports car handling and performance paired with a spacious and comfortable interior. And since this is Lexus, the IS also comes with industry-leading ride comfort. This is further helped by the available adaptive suspension, which makes even potholed city streets feel smooth. Premium materials help to further set the IS apart from its competitors, including the NuLuxe upholstery and Forged Bamboo center console. And since a great listening experience is, for some, key to a well-rounded luxury experience, the IS is available with a Mark Levinson® 17-speaker, 1,800-watt, 7.1-channel Premium Surround Sound with QuantumLogic® Surround Sound.
Advanced Technology
Advanced technology is used throughout the IS, improving your driving experience with features like selectable drive modes and an advanced Torsen® limited-slip rear differential for better traction. But the high-tech nature of the IS is really on full display when it comes to safety and driver assistance features. Most of these are part of the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 suite of advanced safety features. The suite includes 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 with 311 horsepower
- F SPORT Design 19-inch split-five-spoke alloy wheels with Dark Metallic finish
- Eight-way power adjustable and heated front seats
- Forged Bamboo center console
- Lexus Interface with 12.3-inch touchscreen display
IS 350 F SPORT (AWD Available)
Starting at $49,345 MSRP*
- F SPORT-tuned suspension
- Available 1,800-watt Mark Levinson® audio system with 17 speakers
- Red-finished front and rear brake calipers
- Available Technology Package, including Traffic Jam Assist, Lane Change Assist, and Front Cross-Traffic Alert
- Available F SPORT Handling Package with adaptive suspension, additional drive modes, and a limited-slip rear differential
**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.