Design, Tech, and Performance Compared

The Lexus IS pounced on the luxurious automotive phase in 1999. It was launched as a BMW 3 Sequence fighter, and did a commendable job — most remarkably, at a major low cost. Like the three Sequence, although, the Lexus IS has advanced many occasions since then. Gone are the suede seats, or an non-obligatory handbook transmission. For 2026, Lexus introduces a number of modifications to the IS that it hopes will preserve it aggressive within the phase — combating vehicles just like the Audi A5, Mercedes C-Class, and naturally, the BMW 3 Sequence. Right here’s how the three Sequence and the 2026 Lexus IS stack up.

Exterior Design

Lexus modifications up fairly a bit for the automotive’s 2026 return. Whereas the spindle grille stays, it’s a bit 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 automotive. 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.

The most effective issues concerning the present Lexus IS is the aggressively stylized facet profile. Fortunately, it stays largely intact year-over-year. It’s one of many greatest 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 — not less than in aggressive F Sport trim — is the higher trying automotive. Curiously, Leuxs is just providing the automotive in F Sport guise for 2026. That mentioned, there’s nothing notably unattractive concerning the BMW 3 Sequence. We nonetheless assume it appears higher from the entrance and rear, too. Gentle bars are usually 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 “Solid 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 possibility. Nothing happening within the inside is one thing we haven’t seen earlier than. Whereas the black and crimson upholstery proven within the press photographs is neat, the three Sequence and the Lexus appear about on par so far as common structure 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 Sequence cabin is definitely 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 anticipate little to vary from the present automotive’s 311-horsepower naturally aspirated V6. That places the automotive smack dab in the midst of the BMW 3 Sequence lineup. The IS and three Sequence each may be had with all-wheel drive, too. Both approach, we anticipate little actual problem from the 2026 Lexus IS on the subject of driving engagement. Particularly in comparison with the superb M340i mannequin and its 386-horsepower B58 engine.

Expertise

The Lexus IS will get an even bigger display screen for 2026. Nevertheless, 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 techniques. We’re sure the Lexus received’t do something too in a different way from the three Sequence. Nevertheless, 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 automotive’s sporty styling and up to date tech — the latter of which has at all times been a little bit of a sticking level for the model — may lure in some former 3er customers or newcomers to the phase. Nevertheless, we will’t assist however really feel the IS’s charms are growing old; it’s now not the clear “worth decide” it as soon as was. Latest stories place 2026 Lexus IS pricing at round $46,795 to start out. In the meantime, the 2026 BMW 3 Series 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 approach, the brand new IS reminds us of 1 factor: the BMW 3 Sequence has by no means had nearer competitors.