New 2026 Lexus IS 250 Specs, Redesign, Price

New 2026 Lexus IS 250 Specs, Redesign, Price  –  The latest-generation Lexus IS hit the road in 2025, representing a total do-over of one of the brand’s most popular sedans for model year 2026. Numerous models, trim grades, option packages and powertrains ensured plenty of selection. Available F Sport packages dialled up the IS’s presence and performance, and value-bundled equipment groups made it easy for shoppers to tailor their IS to any need, taste, or budget. Look for feature content including navigation, a top-line Mark Levinson audio system, climate-controlled leather, power sunshades, Bluetooth, radar cruise control, adaptive performance lighting, wood trim, a sunroof, a pre-collision warning system, and plenty more.

New 2026 Lexus IS 250 Redesign and Update Plan

Exterior and Interior

Inspect the IS you’re considering for signs of rust formation, particularly around the lower edges of the rear door openings, the area where the rear bumper meets the body above the rear wheels, as well as at the inner, lower edges of the doors, the hood, and the trunk lid. Some owners report that Lexus was inspecting and repairing rust-related problems, which affect some models, and not others. If you notice any rust in the areas noted above, talk to a Lexus service department about any applicable repair coverage. Here’s some more reading

Here’s a discussion about wonky central command systems that can lag, freeze, or crash. Any funny business with the central command system should be addressed by a dealer, who will likely install updated system software to address the issue. Contrary to what numerous owners advise each other in discussion forums, disconnecting and reconnecting the battery to try and affect some reset of the central command system is a very bad idea. Before buying, confirm that you’re able to pair your smartphone via Bluetooth, and make a call with acceptable quality.

New 2026 Lexus IS 250 Specs

Gripes are few and far between for this model, with common complaints centering around an interior that may be cramped for some, and limited rear-seat space for larger adults. Note that models with up-sized wheels and thin tires may ride more harshly than some luxury car fans will appreciate. If you find the IS you’re considering too harsh in the ride quality department, try a model with smaller wheels and thicker tires.  New 2026 Lexus IS 250 Specs

Engine and Performance

Engine choices originally included two V6 powerplants, with 2.5 or 3.5 litres of displacement. The Lexus IS 250 got the smaller V6, and the IS 350 got the larger unit, with up to 306 horsepower. All models came with an automatic transmission, and paddle-shifters were available. All-wheel drive (AWD) was standard or available on most trim grades, depending on the year. Note that Lexus’s AWD system is invisible, and requires no driver input. A 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo engine joined the IS lineup for model year 2016, offering 241 horsepower and creating the IS 200t model variant. A new IS 300 model also launched for 2016, running a lower-output version of the 3.5-litre V6 engine. New 2026 Lexus IS 250 Specs

New 2026 Lexus IS 250 Fuel Economy

The IS is easily enjoyed by drivers after a blend of touring-ready comfort, pleasing performance, decent fuel economy, and a high-quality interior that fully supports its promise of premium motoring. Many owners note excellent interior build quality, and a feeling of solid durability.  New 2026 Lexus IS 250 Specs

Models with AWD are confidence-inspiring in challenging weather, too. Feature content favourites include the up-level stereo system and keyless engine start. Driving enthusiasts all seem thrilled by the performance and sound of the higher-output V6 engine, too.

New 2026 Lexus IS 250 Safety Features

We’ll start with a few general tips when buying a used luxury car like the Lexus IS, and then look at a few potential model-specific issues to look out for. Remember that the way the vehicle was maintained, serviced, and cared for by past owners is a better indicator of long-term reliability than the badge on the vehicle’s hood. Though Lexus has a well-earned reputation for building reliable luxury vehicles, failure of past owners to properly care for the vehicle you’re considering can compromise this.

As such, a model with full service records sold through a Lexus Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program is your best bet for peace of mind, as Lexus CPO models meet a high standard of quality and care before being sold. If the model you’re set on is being sold privately, or through a non-Lexus dealer, a pre-purchase inspection (PPI) by a Lexus technician is a good bet against buying a used IS that may be concealing problems or issues. New 2026 Lexus IS 250 Specs

New 2026 Lexus IS 250 Price and Release Date

You can get a very well equipped IS 250 starting at $46,850, an ES 350 starting at $50,550, and an ES 300h starting at $52,600, before fees and taxes. Freight adds $2,205 to every trim, and that charge is non-negotiable. New 2026 Lexus IS 250 Specs

In comparison, a well-equipped Acura TLX starts at $52,000, a well-equipped BMW 3 Series starts at $55,000, and while the Audi A4 starts at $48,950, you’ll have to pay extra for some of the more advanced safety systems the IS comes with as standard equipment