2027 New Lexus IS Engine, Review, Configurations – The 2027 Lexus IS arrives with a dramatic redesign that elevates the compact luxury sedan to an entirely new level of refinement and aggression. The car now rides on Toyota’s updated TNGA-L platform, which enables a lower center of gravity, a wider stance, and improved rigidity. Designers have stretched the body slightly in both length and width, giving the IS a more planted profile. The roofline is sleeker, and the body now integrates more aerodynamic surfacing to reduce drag and enhance high-speed stability. 2027 New Lexus IS Engine
2027 New Lexus IS Redesign and Update Plan
Exterior & Interior
Step inside the 2027 Lexus IS, and the cabin immediately feels more upscale and technologically advanced. Lexus has taken inspiration from its flagship LS sedan, using premium materials throughout and offering a more driver-centric cockpit. A new 14.3-inch curved touchscreen takes center stage, replacing the previous touchpad interface. It runs Lexus Interface 2.0 with an updated UI, real-time OTA updates, and full wireless compatibility with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Alexa.
Seating has been re-engineered for ergonomic excellence, offering more bolstering and support during aggressive driving while still providing comfort for long-distance travel. Standard upholstery includes NuLuxe synthetic leather, while higher trims get semi-aniline leather with contrast stitching and perforated detailing. Ambient lighting, now customizable in 64 shades, runs along the dashboard and door panels. The center console is cleaner, housing a wireless charging pad, two USB-C ports, and a rotary drive mode selector.
The new IS also gets the next-gen Mark Levinson audio system with 18 speakers and Quantum Logic surround sound. Rear seat passengers enjoy more legroom thanks to the stretched wheelbase, as well as USB ports, climate vents, and optional seat heating. Lexus even adds a full digital gauge cluster and a 10-inch color head-up display. The build quality, from soft-touch panels to the tactile feedback of switchgear, gives the interior a distinct sense of craftsmanship and quality that feels well above its segment.
At the front, the signature Lexus spindle grille has been reimagined with a more three-dimensional mesh design, flanked by razor-sharp LED headlamps with arrowhead DRLs. A new hood with deep sculpting gives the car a muscular, performance-focused look. The rear features a full-width LED light bar, a subtle integrated spoiler, and larger dual exhausts that hint at the power under the hood. Lexus offers several new paint options for 2027, including Inferno Red Metallic, Atomic Silver Pearl, and Ultrasonic Blue 2.0.
Beyond the aesthetic updates, the new IS benefits from structural improvements that reduce overall weight by nearly 150 pounds, while improving torsional stiffness by 17%. This redesign isn’t just about styling—it’s foundational. Lexus has also overhauled the suspension geometry to create a more balanced ride and sharper handling dynamics. This comprehensive rework sets the tone for a sportier, more modern, and premium driving experience that matches the expectations of younger luxury buyers.
2027 New Lexus IS Specs
Engine & Performance
The 2027 Lexus IS brings a significant upgrade under the hood, finally introducing a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 in the IS 500 variant. This engine delivers a potent 375 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque, pushing the IS 500 from 0–60 mph in just 4.6 seconds. This marks a huge leap over previous models and repositions the IS as a true contender against German sport sedans. Paired with a recalibrated 10-speed automatic transmission, shifts are quicker and more responsive, with paddle shifters giving the driver even more control.
Base models, such as the IS 300, continue with a refined 2.4-liter turbocharged inline-four, now tuned to produce 265 horsepower, while the IS 350 F Sport gets a more powerful 3.5-liter V6 pushing 311 horsepower. Rear-wheel drive is standard, but all-wheel drive is available across most trims, improving traction and performance in all conditions. Each model comes with adaptive variable suspension and a revised drive mode selector, including Eco, Normal, Sport, and Custom settings.
Handling has been significantly improved with wider tires, stiffer bushings, and a new electronic steering rack. Optional performance packages include a Torsen limited-slip differential, upgraded Brembo brakes, and performance tires. Lexus engineers have dialed in the chassis for better feedback without sacrificing ride quality. The 2027 IS feels alive in corners, planted on highways, and confident under heavy braking—making it not just a luxury commuter, but a real driver’s car for enthusiasts.
2027 New Lexus IS Fuel Economy
Despite the performance gains, fuel economy remains competitive. The IS 300 returns an estimated 26 mpg combined, while the IS 350 comes in at 24 mpg combined. The twin-turbo IS 500, despite its power, delivers 21 mpg combined, thanks to start-stop tech and cylinder deactivation at cruising speeds. Lexus also includes an Eco mode that adjusts throttle response and climate settings to prioritize efficiency during daily commuting. 2027 New Lexus IS Engine
2027 New Lexus IS Safety Features
Safety is a major focus in the 2027 Lexus IS, which now comes standard with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0. This comprehensive suite includes pre-collision braking with intersection support, adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go, lane keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and traffic sign recognition. The new system uses enhanced sensors with wider range and better detection even in low-light conditions, ensuring a higher level of accuracy and responsiveness.
New for 2027 is ProActive Drive Assist, which works alongside adaptive cruise to provide automatic lane changes, curve speed management, and hands-free steering on compatible highways. Also included is Lexus’s Safe Exit Assist, which alerts occupants if a car or cyclist is approaching as doors are opened. The new IS also adds a driver attention monitoring system and a high-definition surround-view camera with 3D overlays for safer parking and maneuvering.
The structure itself benefits from advanced crash zones, reinforced side-impact beams, and ten standard airbags. Lexus has also included a new digital rearview mirror and an advanced parking system that can autonomously enter and exit parking spots with a single button press. Altogether, the 2027 IS blends cutting-edge software with physical safety hardware, creating a car that’s not only smart, but secure from every angle.
2027 New Lexus IS Release Date & Price
Pricing for the 2027 Lexus IS starts at around $44,200 for the base IS 300 RWD. The IS 350 F Sport will begin at approximately $51,000, while the IS 500 F Sport Performance will come in at around $63,500, making it an aggressive value compared to German competitors. The AWD variants add roughly $2,000 to the MSRP, and fully loaded trims with all performance and tech packages can reach $70,000. Still, even top-tier models offer features that would cost significantly more in rival brands.
Lexus plans to officially debut the 2027 IS in Q4 of 2026, with pre-orders opening shortly after. Deliveries are scheduled to begin in spring 2027 for North American markets, followed by European and Asian markets in mid-year. Dealership allocations are expected to be tight during launch, especially for high-performance trims. Lexus is also teasing a future IS plug-in hybrid and a possible electric variant by 2028, signaling that the IS nameplate will continue to evolve with consumer trends and global emissions standards. 2027 New Lexus IS Engine