Lexus IS continues into 2026 with updated design

The redesigned compact sports sedan will be available in Canada with a single powertrain variant, the IS 350, while the IS 300 and IS 500 will be discontinued.

2026 Lexus IS 350 front and side — *The Lexus IS 350 gets an updated exterior appearance and cabin for 2026. – Lexus Canada photo*

The automotive media had been predicting the imminent demise of Lexus’ compact sports sedan, but instead the luxury Japanese automaker has updated it for the coming model year.

It is not a new generation of IS, just a model refresh.

The Lexus IS is continuing into 2026 with a single powertrain variant, the IS 350, while the IS 300 and IS 500 are discontinued.

All-wheel drive is standard on the IS 350.

In Canada, the car will be available in three grades, those being F Sport Design, F Sport 2 and F Sport 3.

The IS 350 is powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine that produces 311 hp and 280 lb.-ft. of torque. Power is sent to the all-wheel-drive system via a six-speed automatic transmission.

The automaker expects the car to be available in Canada in early 2026.

2026 Lexus IS 350 rear and side — *All 2026 Lexus IS 350 cars coming to Canada feature a sporty F Sport design. – Lexus Canada photo*

New design

The refreshed Lexus IS 350 gets a new front end design with a bold, large grille that gives the car a wider look.

There’s also an optional rear spoiler and optional red brake calipers.

The F Sport Design and F Sport 2 grades get new 19-inch lightweight aluminum wheels while the F Sport 3 gets 19-inch forged BBS wheels.

There are seven colours to choose from, Ultra White, Iridium, Cloudburst Gray, Caviar, Infrared, Ultrasonic Blue Mica 2.0 and Wind, with Wind – a light grey with metallic highlights – being the newest one.

2026 Lexus IS 350 interior — *The Lexus IS gets a restyled cabin for 2026. – Lexus Canada photo*

Interior changes

The cabin gets a restyled instrument panel, centre console, trims and received an updated multimedia system.

The instrument cluster and centre display have both been increased to 12.3 inches.

The centre screen, Lexus said, has been positioned for a more natural line of sight to the driver.

Lexus said the car has what it calls “Forged Bamboo” ornamentation on the centre console and start switch bezel. These elements use natural bamboo fibres.

Furthermore, the IS 350 gets a new interior colour called Radiant Red, to give the car a sportier feel inside.

Safety

The 2025 IS 350 comes standard with the Lexus Safety System + 3.0.

This suite of driver safety features includes automatic high beams, pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, which features risk avoidance emergency steer assist and left turn oncoming vehicle detection and braking, full-speed dynamic radar cruise control, lane departure alert with steering assist, road sign assist and proactive driving assist.

Canadian pricing hasn’t been provided.

For full model details and updates, visit the Lexus Canada website.