Coupe is a definite car body type that conveys sportiness, but as cool and sleek as it is, it is far from practical. So what do you do? Get a lean sedan that has the silhouette of a coupe. That is exactly what the third-generation Lexus IS is. A four-door sedan masquerading as a coupe. Not going to lie. I almost thought the new Lexus IS was a coupe. Alas, it is not. Then again, it never was a coupe, and that is exactly what made the IS, IS.
The Lexus IS has a humble beginning. The first model in 1999 was actually based on the Toyota Altezza and was known as the IS200. It has since seen three generations, and the latest generation has just been refreshed again. Premiered back in September, the 2026 Lexus IS Compact FR Sports Sedan continues the pursuit of driving pleasure and sporty design
The 2026 IS debuts in two variants, the IS 300h and IS 350, both built around “refinement in performance and design.” Steering feel sees a big upgrade thanks to the new rack-parallel electric power steering with a variable gear ratio system. Lexus also fitted a linear-solenoid adaptive variable suspension that keeps the car flatter, calmer, and less susceptible to road harshness.
The exterior now features a sharper front design with an even lower visual center of gravity. F SPORT models add a new rear spoiler, plus 19-inch lightweight aluminum wheels. There are eight body colors, including the new Neutrino Gray, which sounds like something Tony Stark would daily drive
Inside, the upgrades continue with a restyled cabin, larger 12.3-inch touchscreen, matching 12.3-inch digital cluster, and a new Forged Bamboo trim that gives the console a dynamic shading effect. A new PROMINENCE interior color brings solar-flare vibes to the cabin. Lexus Safety System + is expanded, and Advanced Drive now supports hands-off assistance in traffic congestion on expressways
Main specs include overall length of 4,720 mm, width of 1,840 mm, height between 1,435 and 1,440 mm depending on variant, wheelbase of 2,800 mm, and available 18 to 19 inch wheels. Powertrains include an 8AT for the IS 350, a 6AT transmission for AWD, and a CVT for the IS 300h.
Availability and pricing are to be announced [JP].
Images: Toyota [JP].
