Next-Gen Lexus IS Revealed with Bolder Looks & Updated Tech

The revised new 2026 Lexus IS has finally bowed, marking yet another new chapter to this compact rear-wheel-drive (RWD) executive sports sedan’s line. Set for market release in the first quarter (Q1) of 2026, it builds on a 25-year heritage that saw over 1.3 million units shifted globally.

Like before, two main variants were detailed - an electrified IS 300h hybrid plus a signature IS 350 guise. Development for both centered on “Refinement in performance and design,” touts Toyota’s luxury arm. This is evident through claims that its engineers have sharpened steering response, improving stability, and enhancing comfort. 

Much of the enhanced drive stems from the new variable-ratio electric power steering system. This, claims Lexus, makes the car more agile through corners. Next comes an updated adaptive suspension suite that smooths out road inputs without dulling engagement levels.

Powertrain details weren’t disclosed, but the IS 350 is widely expected to continue with a 3.5-litre V6 petrol mill that outputs 314 hp. It will be offered in either RWD form brimmed with an 8-speed automatic box, or all-wheel-drive (AWD) guise primed with a 6-speed box instead.

The IS 300h, on the other hand, looks set to also continue with its signature combination of a a 2.5-litre 4-cyl petrol base engine augmented by an e-motor and compact battery pack. This setup previously put out 217 hp, and came paired with an E-CVT automatic transmission too.

Moving to design changes, Lexus has elected to emphasise a lower, wider stance to reinforce the IS’s athletic presence. The F Sport variant adds to this thanks to a new rear spoiler and lightweight 19-inch wheels. The colour palette has grown too and sees eight options available now including a new Neutrino Gray hue.

On board, the cabin has been crafted around the driver using Lexus’s human-centered ‘Tazuna Concept’. It brings a larger new 12.3-inch touchscreen next to the IS’s signature fully digital 12.3-inch instrument cluster. New details here include “Forged Bamboo” trim and a vivid “Prominence” interior color, followed by a multi-color ambient lighting suite, premium audio options and wireless charging pad.

In terms of footprint, the new IS sits 4,720 mm long with a 2,800 mm wheelbase, 1,840 mm wide, and 1,435 mm tall. Rolling stock sees both 18- and 19-inch options on offer too.

Safety tech takes a major step forward with an expanded Lexus Safety System Plus (LSS Plus) suite. It now includes Proactive Driving Assist, beefed up Pre-Collision System, Lane Change Assist, and radar cruise control. On top of which comes a newly added  ‘Advanced Drive’ semi-automated highway assist system designed to ease fatigue in congested traffic.

With sharpened dynamics, bolder styling, a modernized interior, and advanced driver assistance, the new IS reaffirms Lexus’s commitment to delivering the pure joy of driving in a compact sports sedan.