The 2026 Lexus IS has made its global debut, and after a redesign, its appearance more closely resembles that of a Toyota

[PCauto] The 2026 Lexus IS made its global debut on September 9, 2025, marking the third mid-cycle refresh for the third generation of this compact FR sports sedan, which has been developed over a quarter of a century.

The new model is scheduled to gradually enter global markets starting early 2026. The Japanese market will introduce the IS300h hybrid variant, while overseas markets will continue to offer the IS350 model.

The exterior has been redesigned to more closely resemble a Toyota

The new IS has a total length increased by 10 mm to 4,720 mm, while the width remains unchanged at 1,840 mm. The height varies depending on the drive configuration: 1,435 mm for rear-wheel drive models and 1,440 mm for all-wheel drive models. The wheelbase is maintained at 2,800 mm. These changes give the vehicle a more elongated and elegant proportion.

In terms of exterior design, the new IS features a redesigned spindle grille, with its upper section slightly narrowed, creating a more harmonious visual connection with the retained LED headlight clusters. The front bumper air intakes adopt a new contour design, giving the car a lower and wider stance.

The side profile largely carries over the current design but adds an optional 19-inch aluminum alloy wheel. The F Sport version also comes with a newly designed rear spoiler and red brake calipers.

The most notable change at the rear end is the relocation of the LEXUS lettering to the center of the tailgate. The new vehicle offers a choice of eight body colors, including the newly added Neutrino Gray metallic paint.

The interior upgrade is the focus of this facelift

The 2026 Lexus IS comes standard with a 12.3-inch fully digital instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch central control touchscreen, and the previously controversial touchpad controller has been remove.

The center console has been redesigned, with the climate control area now featuring a single row of toggle switches, and the air vents updated to a trapezoidal design.

What's most noteworthy is the inaugural use of "Forged bamboo" decorative panels—developed from bamboo—in a mass-produced vehicle. This eco-friendly material is formed by compressing bamboo fibers through a special process, resulting in a unique textured effect.

The F Sport version introduces a new Prominence interior color scheme, which, combined with the interior ambient lighting system, enhances the sporty atmosphere.

The new vehicle is equipped with USB-C ports in both the front and rear rows and includes a wireless charging pad. The audio system can be optionally upgraded to either a 10-speaker Lexus Premium standard system or a 17-speaker Mark Levinson premium system.

The safety system has been comprehensively upgraded. The latest generation Lexus Safety System+ adds a Proactive Driving Assist (PDA) function, which can anticipate potential risks such as pedestrians and cyclists, and provide steering and deceleration assistance.

Some markets will also offer the Lexus Teammate Advanced Drive system, enabling hands-free driving on compatible highways at speeds up to approximately 40 km/h.

​​Chassis ride quality will be enhanced​​

In terms of mechanical performance, engineers made significant improvements to the Electric Power Steering (EPS) system, changing from a traditional coaxial rack design to a parallel gear (variable gear ratio) structure. This effectively suppresses excessive steering angle changes at intersections and during continuous cornering, providing more precise steering feedback.

The Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) system adopts a newly developed linear solenoid actuator, increasing damping response speed by approximately four times. This achieves a high-level balance between flat spring action and road shock absorption.

The 2026 IS will only retain the single IS350 model

Regrettably, the 2026 IS has discontinued the high-performance IS500 variant equipped with the 5.0-liter V8 engine, leaving only the single IS350 model.

The IS350 continues to use a 3.5-liter V6 naturally aspirated engine with a maximum output of 311 horsepower. The rear-wheel-drive version is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, while the all-wheel-drive version uses a 6-speed automatic transmission.

The Japan-market exclusive IS300h is equipped with a 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder hybrid system. It has a combined maximum output of 226 horsepower and achieves a WLTC fuel economy of 18.0 km/L.

This is likely the final update for the current-generation IS

Since its initial launch in 1999, the Lexus IS has achieved cumulative global sales of approximately 1.3 million units across about 40 countries and regions.

This facelift primarily focuses on enhancing driving refinement and design sophistication rather than offering a complete overhaul. However, it is likely the last update for the current-generation IS, as the model is expected to be succeeded by all-electric or hybrid versions in the future.

Facing fierce competition from German rivals like the BMW 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, and Audi A4, the 2026 Lexus IS continues to compete by adhering to its internal combustion engine powertrain. Although the powertrain hasn't undergone electrification upgrades, its improvements in handling precision and ride comfort ensure it remains a significant choice for consumers who seek driving pleasure.