Introduced in 2013, the Lexus IS is the brand’s oldest model in the lineup and received its third facelift last fall as it entered MY2026.
At the 2026 Bangkok International Motor Show, we got to spend time with the refresh in the IS 300h F Sport configuration. Here’s our experience with the latest version of the 2026 Lexus IS Hybrid:
Design
The 2026 Lexus IS Hybrid brings subtle exterior updates and retains its sharp and focused look. The compact dimensions work well with its dynamic styling.
At the front, Lexus has bifurcated the grille for a sleeker look. The top part of the grille is compact and could easily be missed from a distance due to the gloss black appliqué below it. The lower part features a mesh pattern, repeated on the side air inlets, which are smaller but still vertically oriented.
The brand logo is smaller and has been positioned ahead of the hood instead of on the Spindle grille. The triple-beam headlamps with an L-shape signature are the only carryover at the front.
On the sides, the 2026 IS Hybrid sports new 19-inch dual-five-spoke wheels wrapped in staggered-width Bridgestone Potenza S001L tires: 235/40 R19 tires at the front and 265/35 R19 tires at the rear.
Unlike the old model, the 2026 model has red brake calipers. At the rear, there’s a block-lettered brand inscription instead of a logo and a more prominent spoiler.
Interior
The interior of the 2026 Lexus IS Hybrid has more extensive changes, aimed at giving the cabin a cleaner and more upscale look. The dashboard and steering wheel both carry a sleeker design, and the former skips the analog clock seen in the old model. The outer-end AC vents in the dashboard, although vertically oriented, have a sportier appearance.
Lexus has brought the start-stop button to a lower, more easily accessible position. The company has replaced the 8.0- and 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment systems with a larger, 12.3-inch unit. It has also introduced a fully digital instrument cluster measuring 12.3 inches diagonally.
Experience in the 2026 Lexus IS
I am 5’7,” and noticed that getting into the 2026 Lexus IS Hybrid requires care. The low roofline means you need to watch your head while stepping in, and the footwell feels tight when the driver’s seat is set to my driving position.
Once seated, however, the driver’s seat delivers a snug, supportive fit. The backrest provides good lower-back support, helped by the power lumbar adjustment.
Under-thigh support is also well designed, aided by the ability to raise the front portion of the seat cushion. The bolstering feels firm without being restrictive, giving the seat a balance of sportiness and comfort for my frame.
Once I settled in, headroom in the front was around 4.5 inches, which is adequate, and outward visibility remains clear in all directions. The new steering wheel suits the car’s intent. It has a well-sized diameter, a moderately thick rim, and a grippy finish.
Material quality meets the expectations for this segment, and most touchpoints use soft-touch materials. Buttons and switches offer consistent tactile feedback, and the cabin feels as solid and sporty as it looks.
As for rear seat access, the low roofline again requires you to duck while entering. Headroom is extremely limited at about half an inch, which restricts comfort for taller passengers. The backrest is fixed but set at a fairly comfortable angle.
Legroom and knee room are adequate, and shoulder room is sufficient for two occupants of my height. Support is comparable to the front, offering a firm and stable seat base.
The center seat is largely impractical. A tall transmission tunnel eats into foot space, and the raised cushion position pushes the occupant’s head into the headliner. Rear seat features include two USB Type-C ports with protective covers, two air vents, seatback pockets, and hooks. The door panels do not include bottle holders, which reduces practicality.
Specifications
Under the hood, the 2026 Lexus IS Hybrid has the 2AR-FSE 2.5-liter direct-injection gas engine, tuned to produce 181 PS (179 hp) and 221 Nm of torque and linked to an e-CVT.
A permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) that develops 105 kW (141 hp) and 300 Nm of torque assists the engine. Lexus claims a system power of 164 kW (220 hp) from this setup.
The PMSM draws supply from a nickel-metal hydride battery consisting of 192 cells and operating at 230.4 volts. The 2026 IS Hybrid hits 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62 mph) in 8.7 seconds and achieves a top speed of 185 km/h (115 mph). The compact hybrid sedan has a fuel economy rating of 18.52 km/l or roughly 43.6 MPG, although this isn’t an EPA-certified rating.
Price
In the U.S., Lexus only offers the 2026 IS in the gas-powered 350 variant that delivers an EPA-est. fuel economy of 22 MPG, with prices starting at USD 46,795 (excl. USD 1,295 DPH fee).
Lexus has not announced plans to offer the IS 300h hybrid variant in the U.S. However, with hybrid demand growing across every segment, we believe the company is leaving money on the table by keeping it off the American lineup.
Also See: First Look: Lexus LS Concept previews future direction of the flagship
In Thailand, the 2026 Lexus IS Hybrid is available in a Luxury trim and the F Sport trim featured in this story, priced at THB 2,799,000 (USD 85,163) and THB 3,099,000 (USD 94,291), respectively.
International Automotive News Editor since 2014, covering global motor shows, industry events, and test-driving various vehicles, with a focus on hybrid and electric cars in recent years.
