2026 Lexus IS Trim Level Guide

April 17th, 2026 by

Choosing the right 2026 Lexus IS trim level is easier when you understand exactly what each configuration delivers. This comprehensive guide covers every trim, available package, and powertrain option in Lexus’s iconic compact luxury sport sedan lineup — helping you identify which model best matches your driving style, technology preferences, and budget. Whether you’re drawn to the sharp styling of the IS 350 F SPORT Design, the dynamic performance upgrades of the IS 350 F SPORT with Handling Package, or the collector-grade exclusivity of the Special Appearance Package, everything you need to make an informed decision is right here.

The 2026 Lexus IS arrives as a more focused, performance-centric lineup than ever before. For 2026, Lexus has streamlined the IS family around a single, powerful engine — the 3.5-liter naturally aspirated V6 producing 311 horsepower — and wrapped every configuration in comprehensive F SPORT styling and standard Lexus Safety System+ 3.0. With bold new exterior updates, dual 12.3-inch digital displays, and refreshed interior materials including elegant Forged Bamboo console trim, the 2026 IS is a sport sedan that’s sharper, more connected, and more driver-focused than its predecessor.

2026 Lexus IS Trim Level Overview

2026 Lexus IS in infrared and iridium

The 2026 Lexus IS lineup has been significantly refined for this model year. Gone are the four-cylinder IS 300 and the V8-powered IS 500 — the 2026 family is built around a single, proven 3.5-liter V6 powertrain offered in two core trims (F SPORT Design and F SPORT), one optional performance package (F SPORT Handling Package), and one highly limited special edition (F SPORT Special Appearance Package). Every IS 350 is now a sport sedan in both name and character.

Model Drivetrain Horsepower MPG (Combined)
IS 350 F SPORT Design (RWD) 3.5L V6, 8-Speed Auto 311 hp 22 mpg
IS 350 F SPORT Design (AWD) 3.5L V6, 6-Speed Auto 311 hp 22 mpg
IS 350 F SPORT (RWD) 3.5L V6, 8-Speed Auto 311 hp 22 mpg
IS 350 F SPORT (AWD) 3.5L V6, 6-Speed Auto 311 hp 22 mpg
IS 350 F SPORT Special Appearance Pkg 3.5L V6, 8-Speed or 6-Speed Auto 311 hp 22 mpg

*All MSRP figures are manufacturer’s suggested retail prices including Delivery, Processing and Handling fee, and are subject to change without notice. Actual transaction prices vary by dealer, region, and available incentives. Contact Lexus of Pembroke Pines for current pricing, available inventory, and special offers.

Standard Features Across Every 2026 IS 350

No matter which trim or drivetrain configuration you select, every 2026 Lexus IS 350 includes:

  • Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 (LSS+ 3.0): Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian, Cyclist, and Motorcyclist Detection; Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist; Lane Tracing Assist; Automatic High Beams; Radar Cruise Control with Full-Speed Range; Road Sign Assist; Emergency Steering Assist; Intersection Assist
  • 12.3-inch Lexus Interface touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ and “Hey Lexus” voice assistant
  • 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster — fully customizable display for navigation, performance data, or safety alerts
  • Wireless smartphone charging pad and four USB-C ports
  • Forged Bamboo console trim — an elegant new 2026 design detail
  • Multi-color ambient cabin lighting — standard across all 2026 IS grades
  • F SPORT exterior styling — standard on all 2026 IS configurations, including sport bumpers, unique grille treatment, and 19-inch alloy wheels
  • LexusCare benefits including complimentary roadside assistance and exclusive ownership perks
  • 10-speaker premium audio system
  • Proximity keyless access and push-button start
  • Active noise control for a refined, quiet cabin
  • Paddle shifters for manual gear selection

2026 Lexus IS 350 F SPORT Design

The IS 350 F SPORT Design is the ideal starting point for drivers who want the complete IS experience. With 311-horsepower V6 performance, a fully refreshed tech-forward interior, and bold F SPORT aesthetics, the F SPORT Design is available at the most accessible price in the 2026 lineup.

IS 350 F SPORT Design Highlights

Exterior & Performance:

  • F SPORT front fascia with refreshed, wide-stance grille
  • Newly designed 19-inch lightweight alloy wheels
  • Summer performance tires
  • Power-folding side mirrors
  • Automatic rain-sensing wipers
  • Available in 7 exterior colors including new Wind (soft gray metallic)

Interior Features:

  • NuLuxe®-trimmed sport front seats with lateral support bolsters
  • Heated front seats
  • Leather-wrapped F SPORT steering wheel with paddle shifters
  • Forged Bamboo center console and ignition switch bezel trim
  • Multi-color ambient cabin lighting
  • Available in Black, Latte, Palomino, and Radiant Red interior palettes

Technology:

  • 12.3-inch Lexus Interface touchscreen
  • 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
  • Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
  • “Hey Lexus” natural language voice assistant
  • Wireless charging pad
  • 4 USB-C ports
  • 10-speaker premium audio system
  • Wi-Fi hotspot and Bluetooth connectivity
  • Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 (full suite)

Powertrain Options:

  • 3.5L naturally aspirated V6 — 311 hp, 280 lb-ft torque
  • RWD: 8-speed Sport Direct-Shift automatic
  • AWD: 6-speed automatic with dynamic torque distribution
  • 0–60 mph: approx. 5.9 sec (RWD) / 5.7 sec (AWD)
  • EPA-estimated 19 city / 27 hwy / 22 combined mpg (RWD)
  • EPA-estimated 19 city / 26 hwy / 22 combined mpg (AWD)

The F SPORT Design is also the trim most focused on visual distinction. If you love the aggressive IS aesthetic but don’t prioritize mechanical performance upgrades, this is your starting point. Optional packages include a power tilt-and-slide sunroof for those who want open-air motoring.

2026 Lexus IS 350 F SPORT

Stepping up to the IS 350 F SPORT adds meaningful performance and comfort upgrades that deepen the driver-focused character of the sedan. This is the trim for buyers who want both the look and the feel of a true sport sedan, with sport-bolstered seats, a more engaging driving environment, and access to Lexus’s most dynamic chassis upgrades.

IS 350 F SPORT Key Additions

  • Ventilated front performance seats with enhanced lateral bolstering
  • 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with memory function
  • Aluminum sport pedals for a more connected, cockpit-style feel
  • Staggered-width performance wheels for improved cornering grip
  • F SPORT perforated leather–trimmed steering wheel with unique sport accents
  • Available rear spoiler (new for 2026) — improves aerodynamic performance and sharpens the sedan’s profile
  • Optional red brake calipers with Lexus logo
  • Available triple-beam LED headlamps for superior nighttime visibility
  • Available power rear sunshade for added privacy and sun control
  • Access to the F SPORT Handling Package

Which 2026 Lexus IS 350 Trim Is Right for You?

2026 Lexus IS in iridium rear profile

Trim / Configuration Choose This If You Want… Key Advantages Best For
IS 350 F SPORT Design (RWD) Maximum value: 311-hp V6, full F SPORT styling, and the complete new tech suite at the lowest entry price. • Lowest starting MSRP
• Full 12.3-in dual display suite
• F SPORT exterior standard
• 8-speed sport transmission
• First-time IS buyers
• Style-focused luxury shoppers
• Daily commuters in South Florida
IS 350 F SPORT Design (AWD) F SPORT Design aesthetics with added all-season traction confidence for multi-region drivers. • Dynamic AWD system
• Slightly quicker 0–60
• Complete F SPORT styling
• Peace of mind in varied conditions
• Buyers who travel outside South Florida frequently
• All-weather preference
IS 350 F SPORT A more complete sport sedan experience; ventilated seats, performance upgrades, and the foundation for the Handling Package. • Ventilated front seats
• 10-way power driver’s seat w/ memory
• Aluminum sport pedals
• Staggered-width performance wheels
• Optional red brake calipers
• Enthusiasts wanting a full sport interior
• Pembroke Pines buyers who want cooling seats
• Drivers who may add the Handling Package
IS 350 F SPORT + Handling Package The definitive driver’s IS; Adaptive Variable Suspension, Torsen LSD (RWD), and the sharpest handling dynamics in the lineup. • Adaptive Variable Suspension
• Torsen LSD for corner grip (RWD)
• Sport-tuned chassis response
• Real driving engagement on any road
• Performance car enthusiasts
• Drivers who enjoy canyon or coastal road drives
• Track-day participants
IS 350 F SPORT Special Appearance Package An utterly exclusive, fully loaded IS limited to just 350 units — the definitive statement piece of the 2026 lineup. • 350-unit production limit
• Hakugin Matte White paint
• BBS® forged wheels
• Mark Levinson® audio standard
• Handling Package standard
• Collectors and brand loyalists
• Buyers who want the fully loaded IS
• Drivers seeking a rare, investment-grade Lexus

Experience the 2026 Lexus IS at Lexus of Pembroke Pines

2026 Lexus IS in infrared side profile

Ready to find your perfect 2026 Lexus IS? Visit Lexus of Pembroke Pines and let our Lexus-certified product specialists guide you through every trim, drivetrain, and available package. From the value-forward IS 350 F SPORT Design to the breathtaking exclusivity of the Special Appearance Package, we have the expertise and inventory to match you with the right IS for your lifestyle.

Schedule a personalized test drive today and experience firsthand why the 2026 Lexus IS remains one of the most driver-rewarding compact luxury sport sedans on the market. We’ll walk you through a side-by-side trim comparison, explore financing and lease options, and help you take advantage of current Lexus offers in the Pembroke Pines area.

2026 Lexus IS Frequently Asked Questions

What trim levels does the 2026 Lexus IS come in?

The 2026 Lexus IS is available in two core trims — the IS 350 F SPORT Design and the IS 350 F SPORT — plus an optional F SPORT Handling Package available on the F SPORT trim, and a limited-edition IS 350 F SPORT Special Appearance Package restricted to 350 units for all of North America. Every 2026 IS is powered by the same 3.5-liter V6 producing 311 horsepower.

What happened to the IS 300 and IS 500 for 2026?

For 2026, Lexus has retired both the four-cylinder IS 300 and the V8-powered IS 500, streamlining the IS lineup to a single, powerful V6 powertrain across all trims. This means every 2026 IS buyer receives the full 311-horsepower, 3.5-liter V6 experience as standard — no longer reserved for upper-tier models. Buyers still seeking the IS 500 can explore certified pre-owned 2022–2025 models.

What is the difference between the IS 350 F SPORT Design and the IS 350 F SPORT?

The F SPORT Design focuses primarily on exterior styling and delivers the complete tech suite — dual 12.3-inch displays, wireless connectivity, ambient lighting, and F SPORT exterior design — at the most accessible price. The IS 350 F SPORT steps up with interior performance upgrades including ventilated front seats, a 10-way power driver’s seat with memory, aluminum sport pedals, staggered-width performance wheels, and access to the optional Handling Package with Adaptive Variable Suspension and a Torsen Limited-Slip Differential.

What does the IS 350 F SPORT Handling Package include?

The Handling Package is available on the IS 350 F SPORT trim and adds an Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) that adjusts damping in real time between comfort and sport modes, plus a Torsen® Limited-Slip Rear Differential on RWD-equipped models for improved corner-exit traction. This package delivers the sharpest, most engaging driving dynamics of any IS 350 configuration and is also included as standard equipment on the Special Appearance Package.

How many Special Appearance Package units are available?

The 2026 Lexus IS 350 F SPORT Special Appearance Package is strictly limited to 350 units for the entire North American market. Each unit features exclusive Hakugin Matte White exterior paint, a White and Black interior, 19-inch Black BBS® forged alloy wheels, triple-beam LED headlamps, a moonroof, Mark Levinson® audio, the full Handling Package, and a suite of additional premium features — all included as standard. Availability per dealership will be extremely limited; contact Lexus of Pembroke Pines as early as possible to inquire about allocation.

Is all-wheel drive available on all 2026 IS trims?

AWD is available on both the IS 350 F SPORT Design and the IS 350 F SPORT trims. AWD models use a 6-speed automatic transmission, while RWD models pair with the sportier 8-speed Sport Direct-Shift automatic. For Pembroke Pines-area drivers, the RWD configuration is generally recommended given South Florida’s warm, dry climate — though AWD is an excellent choice for those who travel frequently to regions with more variable conditions.

What new technology does the 2026 Lexus IS offer?

The 2026 IS receives a major interior tech upgrade. Every model now features a new 12.3-inch Lexus Interface touchscreen (replacing the previous 8-inch unit) alongside a new 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, both standard across all trims. The system includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a “Hey Lexus” natural language voice assistant, a wireless charging pad, four USB-C ports, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi hotspot capability, and SiriusXM Satellite Radio. Multi-color ambient cabin lighting and Forged Bamboo console trim are also new standard features across the entire 2026 IS lineup.

What safety features come standard on the 2026 Lexus IS?

Every 2026 Lexus IS includes Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 (LSS+ 3.0) at no additional cost. This comprehensive suite includes a Pre-Collision System with detection for pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists; Emergency Steering Assist; Intersection Assist; Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist; Lane Tracing Assist; Radar Cruise Control with Full-Speed Range; Road Sign Assist; and Automatic High Beams. These features represent some of the most advanced driver assistance technology available in the compact luxury sedan segment.