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Price shock: 2026 Lexus IS starts higher than before
The refreshed 2026 Lexus IS arrives with sharper styling, upgraded technology and a narrower powertrain lineup — but it also carries a noticeably higher price tag. Lexus has confirmed US pricing starts at $46,795 (destination included) for the new IS, a substantial jump over the outgoing 2025 IS 300, which is still shown from $41,830 on the online configurator.
Trim and powertrain changes — fewer choices, one V6
Lexus has slimmed the range: the IS 300 and IS 500 are discontinued and the IS 300h hybrid will not be sold in the United States. That leaves the IS 350, powered by a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6, as the sole engine offered for 2026. The V6 produces 311 horsepower and 280 lb-ft (380 Nm) of torque.
Available in two flavor packages — 350 F Sport Design and 350 F Sport — the IS is configured as a rear-wheel-drive car by default, with permanent all-wheel drive offered as an option. The AWD system uses a planetary gear center differential with an electronically controlled multi-plate clutch pack that normally biases torque 30:70 front-to-rear but can transfer power evenly between axles when slippage demands it.
Transmission and drivetrain details
- Rear-wheel-drive IS models get an 8-speed automatic.
- All-wheel-drive cars use a 6-speed automatic.
- Only the rear-drive F Sport receives a mechanical Torsen limited-slip differential; AWD models come with an open differential.
Technology and safety upgrades
The cabin and cockpit tech get a meaningful bump: the central infotainment screen grows from 10.3 to 12.3 inches and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster is standard across trims. Lexus also advances its active safety suite from Safety System+ 2.5 to Safety System+ 3.0, which expands detection scenarios and adds proactive interventions such as motorcyclist detection, right-turn pedestrian detection and proactive driving assist.
Standard creature comforts include wireless phone charging, four USB-C ports, lightweight aluminum wheels, a 10-speaker audio system and natural bamboo fiber trim for the center console and start switch bezel. The F Sport adds visual and performance touches, including an available Radiant Red interior, sporty rear spoiler and optional red brake calipers.
Limited Special Appearance Package and Handling Package
Lexus is offering a factory-limited Special Appearance Package in the US (350 units). Highlights include black-painted forged BBS wheels, Hakugin Matte White exterior paint, a white-and-black interior theme, triple-beam LED headlamps and premium options such as a moonroof, Mark Levinson 17-speaker audio, Panoramic View Monitor, Intuitive Parking Assist and a power rear sunshade.
The Handling Package targets enthusiasts: it bundles the Torsen differential (on RWD F Sport), adaptive variable suspension, the Sport S+ drive mode and performance-tuned steering.
How the IS stacks up in the segment
With its emphasis on rear-wheel-drive dynamics, upgraded tech and more aggressive pricing, the 2026 IS aims directly at the Mercedes-Benz C-Class and BMW 3 Series. But with only a single, naturally aspirated V6 available in the US, buyers who want smaller engines, turbocharged alternatives or hybrid efficiency may find fewer choices than before. The price increase positions the IS closer to premium rivals, so value will depend on how buyers weigh the car's standard features, limited special editions and driving-focused options.
Highlights:
- Starting price: $46,795 (destination included)
- Engine: 3.5L V6, 311 hp / 280 lb-ft (380 Nm)
- Drivetrains: RWD standard, permanent AWD optional (30:70 default)
- Screen sizes: 12.3-inch infotainment and 12.3-inch digital cluster
- Safety: Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 with expanded detection
Whether the refreshed IS justifies its higher starting price will come down to buyer priorities: dynamic driving hardware and safety tech or broader powertrain choice and fuel economy. For drivers after a compact executive sedan with V6 character and bespoke F Sport options, Lexus still delivers — just at a steeper entry point.
Source: autoevolution
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