The Lexus IS isn’t going anywhere, but there’s a catch
After much speculation over the future of the Lexus IS, the truth is out. The luxury sedan will live on for at least another year, although it won’t look the same for 2026. For starters, the IS gets a design refresh inside and out for the new year.
However, beyond the new lease on life, the model drops its V8-powered IS 500 trims, leaving the IS a six-cylinder-only model.
The Lexus IS returns for 2026 with a new look, inside and out
Until just recently, fans believed the Lexus IS was living on borrowed time. Rather than driving off into the sunset, Lexus refreshed the sedan yet again. It’s the third time the Japanese marque has updated it in its third-generation run.
Instead of the same familiar face of the 2021-2025 XE30 model, the 2026 Lexus IS gets an updated front fascia. Still, the styling update isn’t all that dramatic, as the rakish squint and large maw remain.
They remain, although Lexus reshaped them. The new grille now funnels back alongside the headlamps to the leading corners of the hood. At the rear, F SPORT models get trim-specific touches, like a rear spoiler, colorful brake calipers, or larger, 19-inch aluminum wheels at the F SPORT Design level.
On the inside, the 2026 model gets an interior makeover. For starters, both the digital gauge cluster and infotainment screen sit at an easy-to-see 12.3 inches. Gone is the old standard unit, which was 4.3 inches more diminutive than the new infotainment screen. Materials are nicer throughout, and a stimulating Radiant Red interior color is available.
But it’s goodbye to the V8
Yet another eight-cylinder option bites the dust for 2026. This time, it’s the Lexus IS 500 trims, closing the books on the brand’s final remaining V8-powered IS sports sedans.
For 2026, the IS 350 is available exclusively as a 311-horsepower 3.5L V6 application in either the F SPORT or F SPORT Design trims. Transmission options for the RWD and AWD models are an eight-speed or a six-speed automatic, respectively.
As such, the 241-horsepower, four-cylinder IS 300 and the 472-horsepower naturally aspirated 5.0L IS 500 head to the chopping block before the new year. But that doesn’t mean the 2026 model will be all sensibility and no play. Lexus says the new model gets a suspension update and electric steering, which promise to add some driver engagement to the formula.
