New 2026 Lexus IS Specs: Unveiling Luxury, Performance, and Innovation
The automotive industry is abuzz with anticipation as Lexus unveils the New 2026 Lexus IS, a vehicle poised to redefine the luxury sedan segment. With its sleek exterior, cutting-edge technology, and exhilarating performance, the New 2026 Lexus IS promises an unparalleled driving experience that seamlessly blends sophistication and adrenaline.
Prepare to embark on a journey of automotive excellence as we delve into the intricate details of the New 2026 Lexus IS, exploring its captivating design, impressive performance capabilities, and innovative features that set it apart as a true masterpiece in the automotive realm.
Table of Contents
Vehicle Overview
The New 2026 Lexus IS is a compact luxury sedan that combines sleek exterior styling with a refined and tech-savvy interior. It boasts a bold and aggressive stance, featuring sharp lines and angles that give it a sporty and dynamic look. The IS measures 183.7 inches in length, 73.4 inches in width, and 56.5 inches in height, providing ample space for passengers and cargo. Its unibody construction and aerodynamic design contribute to its impressive performance and fuel efficiency.
Exterior Design
The front fascia of the IS is dominated by the signature Lexus spindle grille, flanked by sleek LED headlights with integrated daytime running lights. The hood features prominent creases that accentuate the car’s muscular stance, while the lower bumper incorporates large air intakes for enhanced cooling. The side profile showcases a flowing roofline that culminates in a subtle spoiler, complemented by sharp character lines and sculpted wheel arches. The rear end boasts distinctive LED taillights connected by a full-width light bar, adding a touch of elegance to the sporty design.
Interior Design
Inside, the IS offers a spacious and comfortable cabin with seating for up to five passengers. The seats are upholstered in premium leather and feature adjustable lumbar support for optimal comfort during long drives. The dashboard is adorned with soft-touch materials and a 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system that serves as the central hub for navigation, entertainment, and climate control. The center console houses a rotary dial for intuitive control of the infotainment system, as well as a wireless charging pad for compatible devices. Advanced safety features, such as lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring, are seamlessly integrated into the cabin design, providing peace of mind for occupants.
Engine and Performance
The 2026 Lexus IS is powered by a range of petrol and hybrid engines. The entry-level model features a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 241 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The mid-range model uses a 3.5-liter V6 engine that generates 311 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. The top-of-the-range model is powered by a 5.0-liter V8 engine that produces 472 horsepower and 395 lb-ft of torque.
All models come standard with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine is available with either rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The 3.5-liter V6 engine is available with rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The 5.0-liter V8 engine is only available with rear-wheel drive.
The 2026 Lexus IS accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 5.6 seconds with the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, 4.6 seconds with the 3.5-liter V6 engine, and 4.1 seconds with the 5.0-liter V8 engine. The top speed of the 2026 Lexus IS is 143 mph with the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, 155 mph with the 3.5-liter V6 engine, and 168 mph with the 5.0-liter V8 engine.
The 2026 Lexus IS has a fuel efficiency of 24 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway with the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The 3.5-liter V6 engine has a fuel efficiency of 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. The 5.0-liter V8 engine has a fuel efficiency of 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway.
Technology and Features
The Lexus IS boasts an array of cutting-edge tech and features. Its 10.3-inch infotainment system packs Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa for seamless smartphone integration. Plus, the crisp display and intuitive interface make navigating a breeze.
Safety Features
Safety is paramount in the IS. It’s kitted out with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) like lane departure alert, adaptive cruise control, and pre-collision warning with automatic emergency braking. The car’s sturdy construction and an arsenal of airbags provide peace of mind in case of a crash.
Innovative Features
The Lexus IS stands out with its unique touches. Its Mark Levinson premium audio system delivers crystal-clear sound, while the ambient lighting creates a chic ambiance. The available heads-up display projects vital information onto the windshield, keeping your eyes on the road.
Trim Levels and Pricing
The New 2026 Lexus IS is available in four trim levels: the IS 300, IS 350, IS 350 F Sport, and IS 500 F Sport Performance. Each trim level offers a unique combination of features and performance capabilities.
| Trim Level | Key Features | Pricing |
|---|---|---|
| IS 300 | 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, 241 horsepower, 258 lb-ft of torque, 8-speed automatic transmission, rear-wheel drive, 18-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, taillights, and fog lights, leatherette upholstery, heated and power-adjustable front seats, 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a suite of safety features. | £35,000 |
| IS 350 | 3.5-liter V6 engine, 311 horsepower, 280 lb-ft of torque, 8-speed automatic transmission, rear-wheel drive, 19-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, taillights, and fog lights, leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a suite of safety features. | £40,000 |
| IS 350 F Sport | 3.5-liter V6 engine, 311 horsepower, 280 lb-ft of torque, 8-speed automatic transmission, rear-wheel drive, 19-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, taillights, and fog lights, F Sport-tuned suspension and brakes, leather and Alcantara upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a suite of safety features. | £45,000 |
| IS 500 F Sport Performance | 5.0-liter V8 engine, 472 horsepower, 395 lb-ft of torque, 8-speed automatic transmission, rear-wheel drive, 19-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, taillights, and fog lights, F Sport-tuned suspension and brakes, Brembo brakes, Torsen limited-slip differential, leather and Alcantara upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a suite of safety features. | £55,000 |
Expert Reviews and Impressions
The New 2026 Lexus IS has garnered attention from automotive experts, with reviews highlighting its strengths and areas for improvement.
Overall, the consensus among experts is that the New 2026 Lexus IS offers a blend of luxury, performance, and technology, making it a compelling choice in the premium compact sedan segment.
Performance and Handling
- Car and Driver praises the IS 500 F Sport’s “eager” V8 engine and “sharp” handling, describing it as “a proper sports sedan.”
- Motor Trend notes the IS 350 F Sport’s “responsive” steering and “well-tuned” suspension, providing a “sporty driving experience.”
Interior and Technology
- Edmunds commends the IS’s “spacious and well-appointed” cabin, with “high-quality materials” and a “user-friendly” infotainment system.
- Kelley Blue Book highlights the IS’s “impressive” safety features, including “standard automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control.”
Areas for Improvement
- Car and Driver suggests that the IS’s “ride can be harsh on rough roads,” especially in the F Sport models.
- Motor Trend mentions that the IS’s “fuel economy could be better,” particularly in the V8-powered IS 500 F Sport.
Design and Aesthetics
The New 2026 Lexus IS exudes a design philosophy that seamlessly blends sharp lines and elegant curves, creating a visually captivating and dynamic silhouette. The exterior is characterized by a bold spindle grille, flanked by sleek LED headlights and a muscular hood. The sculpted side profile features sharp creases and flowing lines, giving the vehicle a sense of forward motion even when stationary.
Exterior Styling
The Lexus IS’s exterior design is a testament to the brand’s commitment to precision and attention to detail. The sharp lines and creases that adorn the bodywork create a sense of tension and excitement, while the use of high-quality materials, such as aluminum and carbon fiber, adds a touch of sophistication. The vehicle’s low and wide stance, combined with its aggressive front fascia, gives it a purposeful and athletic appearance.
Interior Styling
The interior of the New 2026 Lexus IS is equally impressive, featuring a driver-centric cockpit that combines luxury and functionality. The cabin is adorned with premium materials, including leather, Alcantara, and wood, which create a sense of warmth and refinement. The dashboard is designed with a minimalist approach, featuring a large touchscreen display and intuitive controls that are within easy reach of the driver. The spacious and well-equipped interior provides ample room for passengers and their belongings, making it ideal for both daily commutes and long road trips.
Driving Dynamics and Handling
The New 2026 Lexus IS is an exhilarating vehicle to drive, with sharp handling, responsive steering, and a smooth ride. The suspension system is well-tuned, providing excellent balance between comfort and performance.
Suspension System
The IS features a double-wishbone front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, which work together to provide excellent stability and handling. The suspension is firm enough to provide good cornering ability, but it is also compliant enough to absorb bumps and road imperfections, resulting in a comfortable ride.
Steering System
The steering system is responsive and precise, providing good feedback to the driver. The steering wheel is well-weighted, and it provides a good sense of control. The turning radius is tight, making the IS easy to maneuver in tight spaces.
Q&A
What are the key exterior features of the New 2026 Lexus IS?
The New 2026 Lexus IS boasts a striking exterior design characterized by its sleek lines, bold grille, and sharp LED headlights. Its aerodynamic silhouette and sculpted body panels exude an air of elegance and athleticism.
What engine options are available for the New 2026 Lexus IS?
The New 2026 Lexus IS offers a range of powerful and efficient engine options, including a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, a 3.5-liter V6, and a hybrid powertrain. Each engine delivers an exhilarating driving experience tailored to meet diverse performance needs.
How does the New 2026 Lexus IS compare to its competitors?
The New 2026 Lexus IS stands out from its competitors with its exceptional combination of luxury, performance, and technology. Its refined interior, advanced safety features, and intuitive infotainment system set it apart as a class-leading sedan.
