2026 Lexus IS 250 Review, Changes, Dimensions – One of the brand’s best-selling vehicles was entirely revamped for the 2026 launch of the most recent Lexus IS. Because there were so many distinct models, trim levels, option packages, and powertrains, there were a lot of alternatives.
While optional F Sport options improved the IS’s performance and visibility, value-bundled equipment groups made it easy for consumers to tailor their IS to any need, preference, or budget. Anticipate a number of goodies, including radar cruise control, adaptive performance lighting, leather with climate control, power sunshades, Bluetooth, a top-tier Mark Levinson audio system, navigation, a sunroof, a pre-collision warning system, and wood trim. 2026 Lexus IS 250 Review
2026 Lexus IS 250 Redesign and Update Plan
Exterior and Interior
Examine the IS you are considering for indications of rust development, especially at the inner, lower edges of the doors, the hood, and the trunk lid; the region where the rear bumper joins the body above the back wheels; and the bottom margins of the rear door apertures. According to certain owners, Lexus was examining and fixing rust-related issues that only affected certain models. Discuss any relevant repair coverage with a Lexus service department if you observe any corrosion in the above mentioned places.
A discussion of erratic central command systems that may slow, freeze, or crash may be found here. Dealers should handle any strange activity involving the central command system; they will probably install new system software to fix the problem. Disconnecting and reconnecting the battery in an attempt to reset the central command system is a very terrible idea, despite what many owners advise one another on discussion groups. Verify your smartphone’s Bluetooth pairing capabilities and call quality before making a purchase.
There aren’t many complaints about this model, but the most frequent ones are over the cabin, which some people find to be small, and the small back seat for larger folks. Keep in mind that certain luxury automobile enthusiasts may not enjoy the rough ride of cars with large wheels and thin tires. Try a variant with thicker tires and smaller wheels if you think the IS you’re contemplating has too rough of a ride.
2026 Lexus IS 250 Specs
Engine and Performance
Two V6 engines with a displacement of 2.5 or 3.5 liters were among the first engine options. The Lexus IS 350 received the bigger V6 with up to 306 horsepower, while the IS 250 received the smaller V6. An automatic transmission was standard on all versions, and paddle shifters were an option. Most trim levels had either standard or optional all-wheel drive (AWD), depending on the year.
Keep in mind that Lexus’s AWD technology is imperceptible and doesn’t need driver input. For the 2016 model year, a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo engine with 241 horsepower was added to the IS range, resulting in the IS 200t model version. In 2016, a new IS 300 variant with a 3.5-liter V6 engine with a reduced power was also introduced. 2026 Lexus IS 250 Review
2026 Lexus IS 250 Fuel Economy
Drivers who want a combination of touring-ready comfort, enjoyable performance, respectable fuel efficiency, and a luxurious interior that completely lives up to the IS’s promise of luxury driving may easily enjoy it. Excellent interior construction quality and a sense of sturdy durability are noted by several owners. Additionally, models with AWD inspire confidence in difficult weather conditions. Favorite features include the keyless engine start and the high-end sound system. The performance and sound of the higher-output V6 engine also appear to excite all drivers.
2026 Lexus IS 250 Safety Features
Before discussing some potential model-specific problems to watch out for, we’ll start with some basic advice for purchasing a secondhand luxury vehicle like the Lexus IS. Keep in mind that the emblem on the car’s hood is not a reliable sign of long-term dependability; rather, it is the manner previous owners have kept, serviced, and cared for the vehicle. Even while Lexus has a solid reputation for producing dependable luxury cars, this reputation may be jeopardized if previous owners have not taken the necessary care of the car you are contemplating.
Because Lexus Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicles are subjected to a rigorous quality and care inspection prior to sale, a model with complete service records sold through a CPO program is your best option for peace of mind. A pre-purchase inspection (PPI) performed by a Lexus technician is a useful way to avoid purchasing a used IS that could be hiding flaws or concerns if the model you’re interested in is being offered privately or through a non-Lexus dealer.
2026 Lexus IS 250 Price and Release Date
Before fees and taxes, you may get a very well-equipped IS 250 for $46,850, an ES 350 for $50,550, and an ES 300h for $52,600. Every trim has an additional $2,205 for freight, which cannot be negotiated.
A well-equipped BMW 3 Series begins at $55,000, a well-equipped Acura TLX starts at $52,000, and an Audi A4 starts at $48,950, although some of the more sophisticated safety features that the IS comes with as standard equipment cost more. 2026 Lexus IS 250 Review