Design, Tech, and Efficiency In contrast

The Lexus IS pounced on the luxurious automobile phase in 1999. It was launched as a BMW 3 Sequence fighter, and did a commendable job — most remarkably, at a big low cost. Like the three Sequence, although, the Lexus IS has advanced many occasions since then. Gone are the suede seats, or an non-compulsory handbook transmission. For 2026, Lexus introduces a number of modifications to the IS that it hopes will maintain it aggressive within the phase — combating automobiles 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 automobile’s 2026 return. Whereas the spindle grille stays, it’s somewhat 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 an alternative, changing the “L” badge.

Among the best issues concerning the current Lexus IS is the aggressively stylized aspect profile. Fortunately, it stays principally 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 aspect, we’re inclined to say the IS — at the very least in aggressive F Sport trim — is the higher wanting automobile. Apparently, Leuxs is just providing the automobile in F Sport guise for 2026. That mentioned, there’s nothing significantly unattractive concerning the BMW 3 Sequence. We nonetheless assume it seems to be higher from the entrance and rear, too. Mild bars aren’t going to age effectively.

Inside Design

Inside, Lexus takes a extra screen-centric method, 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 take a seat 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 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 “trendy.” 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 Sequence lineup. The IS and three Sequence each could be had with all-wheel drive, too. Both method, we count on little actual problem from the 2026 Lexus IS with regards to driving engagement. Particularly in comparison with the wonderful M340i mannequin and its 386-horsepower B58 engine.

Know-how

The Lexus IS will get a much 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 gained’t do something too otherwise 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 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 — might lure in some former 3er consumers or newcomers to the phase. Nevertheless, we will’t assist however really feel the IS’s charms are growing older; it’s not the clear “worth choose” it as soon as was. Latest reviews place 2026 Lexus IS pricing at round $46,795 to begin. In the meantime, the 2026 BMW 3 Sequence 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 method, the brand new IS reminds us of 1 factor: the BMW 3 Sequence has by no means had nearer competitors.