The Lexus IS facelift brings along revised exterior styling, tuned suspension/steering and the latest driving assist technologies, but only two out of four powertrain options remain available.
The front fascia with the signature trapezoid grille looks recognizable, but changes are numerous, all the same. The grille itself now looks sharper and more geometrically deliberate. The front bumper boasts an upscale look while retaining its sporty side intakes, and the trunk lid is topped by a short, but stylish spoiler.
Customers in Japan will be able to preorder the saloon in early 2026. They will be able to choose from a couple of new exterior finishes, opt for redesigned 19-inch wheels and go for red brake calipers if they feel like it. The facelift made the IS 10 mm (0.4”) longer, but all other dimensions stay unchanged.
On the mechanical side of things, the car’s variable-rate steering mechanism now receives superior power assistance. The suspension uses new shock absorbers for more precise steering and cornering, Lexus says, and all screens in the cabin have been bumped to 12.3 inches of diagonal size.
There will be only two versions of the car to choose from – the IS 300h and the IS 350. Buyers will still be choosing between 2WD and AWD, but they won’t be able to get a non-electrified engine like the previously available 5.0-liter V8.
Lexus says it plans to launch the new IS in several other markets aside from Japan, but all relevant details remain to be announced.
