Podcast Episode Details

2026 Lexus IS Drops More Affordable Trims, Now Starts at Around $47K

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A Higher Starting Point

Lexus has released pricing for the facelifted 2026 IS, and with the more affordable trims now discontinued, the lineup opens at $46,795 (including delivery and handling fees). That figure represents a roughly $5,000 increase over the outgoing 2025 model year, though the gap narrows considerably when comparing equivalent trim levels.

The aforementioned starting price applies specifically to the 2026 IS 350 F Sport Design, which carries only a $1,640 increase compared with its 2025 counterpart. Year-over-year price increases have become common across the automotive industry, a key reason why the average new vehicle transaction price in the U.S. now sits around $50,000. Such increases are even more expected for facelifted models like this luxury compact sedan, which is still based on the third-generation IS platform introduced in 2013.

A Fresh Look, Same Foundations

For the 2026 model year, the IS receives a series of visual and feature updates, including a revised spindle grille, while the performance-oriented F Sport trim adds a functional rear spoiler, lightweight 19-inch aluminum wheels, and optional red brake calipers. Inside, buyers will find a cabin that can now be specified with a forged bamboo trim finish, along with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment display. Audio options include either a standard 10-speaker Lexus system or an optional 17-speaker Mark Levinson setup.

The 2026 IS 350 F Sport Design can also be configured with an all-wheel-drive system, bringing its starting price to $48,795. Base pricing for the IS 350 F Sport is set at $49,245. Opting for all-wheel drive on the F Sport pushes the starting figure to $51,245.

As outlined above, the IS 300 and 500 trims offered for the 2025 model year are no longer part of the lineup. This means the 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four producing 241 horsepower, the detuned 3.5-liter V6 previously offered in the IS 300, and the 5.0-liter V8-powered IS 500 are absent for 2026. Instead, the refreshed IS range will rely on a single V6 configuration, tuned to produce 311 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. Rear-wheel-drive models are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, while all-wheel-drive variants use a six-speed automatic.

Pricing and Availability

Compared with direct rivals, the BMW 330i starts at $47,500, while the Mercedes-Benz C 300 starts at $49,650. Both MSRPs exclude destination fees and other charges.

Below is the complete pricing for the 2026 Lexus IS: