After Toyota Motor Philippines president Masando Hashimoto announced the arrival of two new sedans for Lexus this 2026, it looks like we won’t need to wait long for one of them.
The top guy at Toyota confirmed that the all-new Lexus ES and heavily-refreshed Lexus IS will drop into showrooms sometime this year. But now, we get its clearest indicator yet as Lexus IS just appeared in the Department of Energy (DOE)’s list of recognized hybrids.
Naturally, the only one to appear in the DOE’s list is the Lexus IS 300h which will come in two variants, the IS 300h Executive and the IS 300h Premier. Both will have the same engine—the 2AR-FSE which puts out a total of 221 horsepower (180 horsepower from the combustion engine and 143 horsepower from the electric motor says the DOE) accompanied by an E-CVT gearbox. It will likely be joined by the IS 350 which continues with its normally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 that puts out 315 horsepower and 380 Nm of torque. This flagship variant uses an 8-speed automatic.
For 2026, the Lexus IS receives a recalibrated electric power steering system with a new parallel rack gear (Variable Gear Ratio) and low inertia motor. This should deliver a more linear and smoother steering feel regardless of driving situations.
This goes together with an updated Adaptive Variable Suspension. By replacing the conventional step-type actuator with a newly developed built-in solenoid actuator, the AVS enhances the damping force response by four times. This helps it achieve flatter sprung-mass behavior and reduced shock from road surface inputs.
Outside, the 2026 Lexus IS is 10 mm longer (4,720 mm), while retaining its width (1,840 mm) and height (1,435 mm). The added length is due largely to its revised front fascia with a low-set spindle grille with integrated brake ducts. At the back, the Lexus logo has been replaced with the LEXUS script. The F Sport variant, meanwhile, features a new rear spoiler that enhances rear downforce.
As usual, the full specs of the new Lexus IS is locked away in Toyota Motor Philippines’ SharePoint account, but we expect that in terms of equipment, the Lexus IS will be close to the current generation model. This means the base Lexus IS 300h Executive will run on 18-inch wheels, while the Lexus IS 300h Premier will be on 19s. The Lexus IS 350 F Sport, meanwhile, will be on forged 19-inchers with a staggered set-up.
We expect that across the line-up, the 2026 Lexus IS will also benefit from a new 12.3-inch touchscreen center display which is angled to the driver, while still not obstructing the line of sight. This goes together with a new 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster with easy-to-read graphics and more personalization. Other standard changes include new USB Type C inputs front and back, a wireless charger, and ambient lighting with 14 preset color combinations. The 10-speaker sound system will probably be standard on the Executive, while the Mark Levinson will be both on the Premier and F Sport variants.
It will also be interesting to see if the new Lexus IS will get the new Forged Bamboo material—the first Lexus model to receive this innovative interior material. Replacing the traditional piano black, carbon fiber, or even wood inlays, this distinctive In-ei shading is created by woven bamboo fibers embedded into the panel itself.
So ugly compared to the previous one, hoping they dont mess up the coming NX like this because I am looking to purchase one!
ReplyDeleteUgly? What? The new style is MUCH better! You definately have bad taste my friend.
DeleteThis looks like a camry trying to be sporty, last one look sleek, elegant and undeniably lexus.
DeleteWouldn't say ugly, just worse because the 2021 generation was already perfect.
DeleteThe previous units had a steering wheel design from the turn of the century. This one is up-to-date and hybrid options will attract "younger" buyers going up from mainstream brands. Remains to be seen if red leather can be swapped. The novelty wears off.
ReplyDeleteThis looks better. Cleaner lines and mature looking.
ReplyDeleteAnother refresh? Then just giving that modern generic look? Pass
ReplyDeleteI'm wondering if they'll release the 300h Fsport in our country. Japan and I think China? has the 300h with Fsport package. With how volatile the gas prices are, I do wish they add the 300h Fsport so we'll still get the sport package but with the hybrids.
ReplyDelete