2026 Lexus IS

Last year, Lexus seemed to mark the end of its compact sport sedan with a limited Ultimate Edition. The Ultimate farewell was limited to the IS 500 variant and its 472-hp V8. Lexus streamlined the bookends for 2026, eliminating the 4-cylinder IS 300 as well, leaving only the IS 350 and its V6 in F Sport Design and F Sport grades.

Lexus spruced up its oldest model, which was last redesigned in 2014. A taller grille sweeps up into the hood, the top F Sport grade sports a new rear spoiler and red brake calipers, and both models ride on 19-inch aluminum wheels. Inside, a 12.3-inch touchscreen replaces the prior 8-inch screen, and there is also a new 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster.

The refreshed 2026 Lexus IS 350 comes with more standard features, but it also carries a higher sticker price that’s about $5,000 more than the outgoing 2025 Lexus IS 300.

We’ve logged hundreds of hours driving and evaluating this generation of compact luxury sedans, including the Lexus IS.

The 311-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 showcases how all the other powertrain parts affect the characteristics of an engine. The rear-wheel-drive (RWD) models continue to use an 8-speed automatic transmission, while all-wheel-drive (AWD) models rely on a 6-speed automatic. Both transmissions come with paddle shifters mounted to the steering wheel for those who want manual control of gear changes.

The IS 350 RWD is quicker off the line, with a little more jump and bite than the AWD model. Lexus says the RWD hits 60 mph in less than 6 seconds, while the heavier and more plodding AWD version hits it a tic above.

At cruising speeds, the AWD model feels like it has more punch, because in part the 6-speed seems happy enough to stay above 3,000 rpm. For added performance, upgrade to the F Sport but then add the $1,090 Handling package for an adaptive suspension and a limited-slip rear differential. The package is a small charge, all things considered. But considering such things would make us reconsider a used IS 500 with the V8.

Sharp steering inputs and the overall low, compact package of the IS 350 give it those prized handling attributes naturally, without ever riding so stiff that your back begs for breaks. There are sportier handling sedans, including the Genesis G70. The BMW 3 Series has gotten so large it can feel like it’s in another class. The Cadillac CT4-V could be a steal if you can find one before it’s discontinued this year. The IS 350 might be the most accessible of the bunch.

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.

The front legroom and headroom are above average in the compact sedan class, which is a plus. But the heavily bolstered sport seats on the F Sport can cramp larger bodies. Rear seat passengers of any size will be cramped on long rides, with only 32.2 inches of rear legroom. The 60/40-split rear seats fold down, but the compact trunk only holds 10.8 cubic feet of stuff. It’s on the small side, even for small sedans.

Infotainment system

The new digital interfaces create a more streamlined dash, with the 12.3-inch touchscreen jutting out from the recessed 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. Crisp graphics and some dynamic views that change with the drive mode keep it engaging, but the touchscreen has some unnecessarily complicated steps, particularly for searching audio. Set it and forget it.

Great tech and amenities

The IS 350 comes with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a standard wireless device charger, at least four USB-C ports, heated front seats covered in synthetic leather upholstery and dual-zone climate control. If you’re thinking IS 350, we’re thinking the base RWD model is the best value at $46,795 with destination.

Sport model

The Sport model adds $2,500 for more standard features such as bolstered front seats, and it also unlocks the $1,090 Handling package for more spirited handling. It includes an adaptive suspension and a limited-slip differential.

The sole engine in the Lexus IS 350 is the brand’s well-regarded 3.5-liter V6 that makes 311 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. Standard rear-wheel drive gives it some classic sports car feel, but a 0-to-60-mph time of just under 6 seconds just isn’t that impressive anymore. Available AWD adds $2,000 and a bit more grip, but it weighs more and isn’t quite as quick off the line as the RWD model.

The EPA ranks both the RWD and AWD models at 22 mpg combined.