The Lexus IS pounced on the luxurious automobile section in 1999. It was launched as a BMW 3 Collection fighter, and did a commendable job — most remarkably, at a major low cost. Like the three Collection, although, the Lexus IS has advanced many instances since then. Gone are the suede seats, or an optionally available guide transmission. For 2026, Lexus introduces a number of modifications to the IS that it hopes will hold it aggressive within the section — combating automobiles just like the Audi A5, Mercedes C-Class, and naturally, the BMW 3 Collection. Right here’s how the three Collection and the 2026 Lexus IS stack up.
Exterior Design
Lexus modifications up fairly a bit for the automobile’s 2026 return. Whereas the spindle grille stays, it’s a bit of extra conservative, now that includes a two-part look that blends horizontal grille slats the place the headlights meet it and the spindle look down beneath. Narrower headlights and a few new paint and wheel choices additional modernize the automobile. Although, maybe not a lot that it’s instantly identifiable as a “new” Lexus mannequin. Round again, Lexus now spells out the model as a substitute, changing the “L” badge.
Among the finest issues concerning the present Lexus IS is the aggressively stylized facet profile. Fortunately, it stays principally intact year-over-year. It’s one of many largest ways in which the Lexus IS differentiates itself and likewise scores some main styling factors. From the facet, we’re inclined to say the IS — at the very least in aggressive F Sport trim — is the higher trying automobile. Apparently, Leuxs is simply providing the automobile in F Sport guise for 2026. That stated, there’s nothing notably unattractive concerning the BMW 3 Collection. We nonetheless assume it seems higher from the entrance and rear, too. Mild bars usually are not going to age properly.
Inside Design
Inside, Lexus takes a extra screen-centric strategy, however there are different modifications to speak about, too. The primary is the model’s “Cast Bamboo” ornamental trim, which surrounds the beginning/cease button bezel and higher console space. The brand new materials joins new upholstery choices, too. Disappointingly, the analog clock that used to sit down between the air vents appears to be out for 2026. Perhaps it’s an choice. Nothing happening within the inside is one thing we haven’t seen earlier than. Whereas the black and pink upholstery proven within the press images is neat, the three Collection and the Lexus appear about on par so far as normal format goes. The final IS I used to be in felt fairly good when it comes to high quality, too. So, we’re inclined to name this a tie, though the three Collection cabin is certainly extra “fashionable.” Extra on that later.
Efficiency
With the replace, Lexus trims the fats. The 2026 Lexus IS solely comes within the IS 350 guise. Beforehand, a V8-powered IS 500 and fewer highly effective IS 300 existed, however they’re out — for now. We count on little to vary from the present automobile’s 311-horsepower naturally aspirated V6. That places the automobile smack dab in the course of the BMW 3 Collection lineup. The IS and three Collection each might be had with all-wheel drive, too. Both means, we count on little actual problem from the 2026 Lexus IS in terms of driving engagement. Particularly in comparison with the wonderful M340i mannequin and its 386-horsepower B58 engine.
Know-how
The Lexus IS will get an even bigger display screen for 2026. Nonetheless, the brand new 12.3-inch display screen and 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster are nonetheless a bit much less dominant within the cabin than within the 3er. Lexus touts a “next-generation multimedia system,” and likewise claims enhanced driver help programs. We’re sure the Lexus gained’t do something too otherwise from the three Collection. Nonetheless, we’ll admit that the brand new IS’s display screen integration is noticeably smoother than the BMW’s.
Toyota’s minor modifications to the Lexus IS add up. In the long run, the automobile’s sporty styling and up to date tech — the latter of which has all the time been a little bit of a sticking level for the model — may lure in some former 3er customers or newcomers to the section. Nonetheless, we are able to’t assist however really feel the IS’s charms are getting older; it’s not the clear “worth choose” it as soon as was. Current experiences place 2026 Lexus IS pricing at round $46,795 to begin. In the meantime, the 2026 BMW 3 Collection begins hardly a stone’s throw away, at $48,675 after vacation spot charges. Maybe the model is leaving the door open for a decrease entry level mannequin sooner or later. Both means, the brand new IS reminds us of 1 factor: the BMW 3 Collection has by no means had nearer competitors.
