By Otsile Kadiege

Since its debut in 1999, the Lexus IS has embodied the pursuit of driving enjoyment as a compact rear-wheel-drive sports sedan. Over the last 25 years, it has become the very essence of the Lexus driving experience, praised globally for its dynamic performance and bold, sporty design.

For 2026, Lexus has updated the IS 350 with a refreshed exterior, a more premium and driver-focused cabin, advanced safety tech and refined driving dynamics – staying true to the Lexus Driving Signature philosophy.

Exterior – refined and aggressive

The 2026 IS 350 wears a redesigned front fascia, which looks inspired by the current gen. Toyota Camry, accentuates its low center of gravity and wide stance, giving it a more planted and athletic look. The F SPORT model enhances the car’s sporty credentials with a new rear spoiler designed to improve aerodynamics, optional red brake calipers, and newly styled 19-inch lightweight alloy wheels.

The updated IS family also introduces Wind, a new exterior color that pairs a hard-toned light gray base with metallic highlights to express motion and dynamism. The color palette now includes seven options, from classic Ultra White to striking Ultrasonic Blue Mica 2.0.

Interior – driver-focused and premium

Inside, Lexus has elevated the IS 350’s cabin with a restyled instrument panel, center console and trims. A new 12.3-inch Lexus Interface multimedia display takes center stage, paired with a matching 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster for a clean, modern look.

The cabin features a unique Forged Bamboo trim on the console and start switch bezel, adding a natural, performance-oriented touch. Exclusive to F Sport models is a bold Radiant Red interior, inspired by the glow of solar flares, giving the cockpit a more aggressive feel.

Convenience and connectivity have also been upgraded, with four USB-C ports, a well-placed Qi wireless charging pad, and a choice between the standard 10-speaker Lexus Premium Sound system or an optional 17-speaker Mark Levinson system for audiophiles.

Safety – Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 as standard

The 2026 IS 350 comes equipped with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 across the range. This suite of active safety technologies includes:

Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection

Risk Avoidance Emergency Steer Assist

Left Turn Oncoming Vehicle Detection/Braking

Full-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control

Lane Tracing Assist & Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist

Road Sign Assist

Proactive Driving Assist

These features work together to enhance driver awareness, provide steering and braking support in emergencies, and make highway driving more effortless.

Performance – polished for driver engagement

Powering the 2026 IS 350 is a 3.5-liter naturally aspirated V6 delivering 311 hp (232 kW) and 280 lb-ft of torque (380 N.m). Rear-wheel-drive models feature an eight-speed Sport Direct Shift automatic, while AWD variants use a six-speed automatic.

Engineers have further refined the IS’s chassis by optimizing its Electric Power Steering (EPS) and suspension systems to provide more linear, predictable handling and a smoother, more connected feel. The goal was to create a sedan that moves with the driver’s intent, offering satisfying feedback during cornering, acceleration, and braking.

Availability

Lexus South Africa is yet to confirm local availability.