One of the new models promised by Lexus Philippines has reached local shores. A couple of months after its global reveal last September, the new Lexus IS has arrived and started its retail sales. For 2026, the “Intelligent Sport” premium sports sedan offers a heightened sense of style along with improvements to its driving dynamics and in-car technology; all the while keeping a choice between hybrid and combustion engine flavors.
For 2026, Lexus is offering two powertrains for the Lexus IS. The 3.5-liter 2GR-FKS V6 is still the range-topping engine found exclusively in the IS 350 F Sport. Mated to an 8-speed automatic, it produces 315 horsepower and 380 Nm of torque. Meanwhile, in the IS 300h Executive and IS 300h Premier, the electrified 2.5-liter 2AR-FSE 4-cylinder puts out 221 horsepower combined. This one uses an E-CVT.
With a development theme of “Refinement in performance and design,” the Lexus IS gains a recalibrated electric power steering system with a new parallel rack gear (Variable Gear Ratio) and low inertia motor. This helps reduce steering angle at lower speeds, while improving the overall steering feel.
This goes hand in hand with an updated Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS). Found in both the IS 300h Premier and IS 350 F Sport, the new AVS replaces the conventional step-type actuator with a newly developed built-in solenoid actuator, enhancing the damping force response by four times. This helps achieve a flatter sprung-mass behavior and reduced shock from road surface inputs.
Outside, the 2026 Lexus IS is 10 mm longer (4,720 mm), while retaining its width (1,840 mm) and height (1,435 mm). The added length is due largely to its revised front fascia with a low-set spindle grille with integrated brake ducts. Overall, this update accentuates its low center of gravity and wide stance. At the back, the Lexus logo has been replaced with the “LEXUS” script first introduced in the Lexus NX. The F Sport variant, meanwhile features a more aggressive rear spoiler that enhances rear downforce. The alloy wheels are also new with 18s as standard on the IS 300h Executive, 19s on the IS 300h Premier, and forged BBS 19s with staggered sizing on the IS 350 F Sport. A variety of colors are available, including a new shade exclusive to the IS 350 F Sport: Neutrino Gray.
Inside, the Lexus IS takes on the brand’s “Tazuna Concept” cabin wherein sound ergonomics make for intuitive operation and control. Among the changes include a new 12.3-inch touchscreen center display that’s slightly canted towards the driver. This goes together with a new 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster with easy-to-read graphics and more personalization. The touchpad has been removed and replaced with a physical volume knob and switches for the ventilated seats for the IS 300h Premier and IS 350 F Sport. Other changes include new USB Type C inputs front and back, a wireless charger, ambient lighting with 14 preset color combinations, and a power rear sun shade.
As always, Lexus makes sure to offer a true auditory experience. The IS 300h Executive comes with a 10-speaker system, while the IS 300h Premier and IS 350 F Sport come with a 17-speaker Mark Levinson system.
For all the changes, the focal point in the interior is the new Forged Bamboo material—the first Lexus model to receive this innovative interior material. Replacing the traditional piano black, carbon fiber, or even wood inlays, this distinctive “Inei” shading is created by woven bamboo fibers embedded into the panel itself.
As for color ways, the IS 300h Executive is available solely with a leather interior, while the IS 300h Premier comes in a choice of black or tan. The IS 350 F Sport comes in a choice of black, white, or red.
With cumulative sales of approximately 1.3 million units across 40 countries and regions, the Lexus IS has continued to resonate with drivers around the world for more than 25 years. Its development has involved rigorous testing, including at the Toyota Technical Center Shimoyama, in a relentless effort to refine the distinctive performance feel known as the “Lexus Driving Signature.”
The Lexus IS is priced at P 3,128,000 for the IS 300h Executive; P 3,408,000 for the IS 300h Premier, and P 4,388,000 for the IS 350 F Sport.
