Just when we thought the quirkily named IS 500 “Climax Edition” marked the end of the line for the Lexus IS, the brand has pulled a surprise twist. Lexus has brought its “Intelligent Sport” sedan back from the dead with a new model for 2026. However, this isn’t an all-new model, but rather a (third) major facelift of the existing generation that dates back all the way to 2013.
This major facelift introduces a dramatic new front-end design, dominated by a large, aggressive grille reminiscent of a catfish’s mouth, and new 19-inch aluminium wheels. Other changes include a new exterior paint job called ‘Neutrino Grey’ (bringing the total number of options to eight), a redesigned rear spoiler, and the option to have the brake callipers painted in red featuring the Lexus logo.
The rest of the car’s styling remains largely unchanged from the previous model, retaining the signature full-width taillights and dual exhaust tips at the rear. Despite the familiar bodywork, the car’s overall dimensions have grown slightly, with 10 mm added to its length, width, and height. The new measurements are 4,720 mm, 1,840 mm, and 1,440 mm, respectively. The wheelbase, however, remains unchanged at 2,800 mm.
The changes are more apparent on the inside, where the new Lexus IS features an updated digital cockpit. Both the central infotainment display and the driver’s instrument cluster have now expanded to 12.3 inches.
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Lexus has also introduced a new interior trim made from newly developed forged bamboo on the upper console and start-stop button, complemented by a new interior colour called “Prominence,” which is said to be inspired by the vivid glow of solar flares.
Its safety systems also get an update with the introduction of the Lexus Teammate Advanced Drive suite. This includes ADAS features such as front and rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, a 360-degree panoramic view camera with a transparent chassis function, and a driver monitoring system.
The mechanical bits also received an update. The Lexus IS is now equipped with an Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) system, which helps improve both stability and ride comfort. On top of that, the electric power steering (EPS) is now a rack-parallel system, with a variable gear to reduce the steering angle in tight spots like intersections while also improving steering feel on the open road.
Three variants will be available at launch: the IS 300h with rear-wheel drive (RWD) and a CVT gearbox; the IS 350 with all-wheel drive and a six-speed automatic; and another IS 350 variant with RWD and an eight-speed automatic. Lexus has not yet disclosed powertrain specifications, but these are expected to be available closer to the new Lexus IS’s market launch in early 2026. The V8-powered IS500 is likely, actually, gone for good, though.
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