For 2026, the Lexus IS is a fairly small, fancy, sporty sedan and you can get it in IS 300, IS 300 AWD, IS 350, IS 350 AWD, or IS 500 F SPORT Performance. You’ll find a 2.0 liter turbocharged four-cylinder, a 3.5 liter V6, or a 5.0 liter naturally aspirated V8 under the hood. It has room for five people, gets about 22 to 33 miles per gallon on average depending on which version you pick, and is rear-wheel drive as a standard feature. The IS 300 and IS 350 can both be purchased with all-wheel drive.
We at Lexus of Westminster help customers from Westminster, Long Beach, Irvine, Anaheim, and all over Orange County. This information will go over each of the IS trims, the engines, how it compares to other cars in its class, and the things people most often ask us. That way, you can decide which IS is best for you before you come and see us at the dealership.
Quick Facts: 2026 Lexus IS at a Glance
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Body style | Compact luxury sport sedan |
| Seating capacity | 5 passengers |
| Powertrain options | 2.0L turbo I-4 · 3.5L V6 · 5.0L naturally aspirated V8 |
| Drivetrain options | Rear-wheel drive standard; AWD available on IS 300 and IS 350 |
| Fuel economy (combined) | ~22–33 mpg depending on trim |
| Number of trims | 5 (IS 300, IS 300 AWD, IS 350, IS 350 AWD, IS 500 F SPORT Performance) |
| MSRP | Contact Lexus of Westminster for current pricing |
| Key distinction | One of the only compact luxury sedans still offering a naturally aspirated V8 |
Most of the IS’s competitors only have turbocharged four or six-cylinder engines now, but the IS is notable for still using a V8 that isn’t turbocharged. This is what attracts drivers who are focused on performance, all the way from Huntington Beach to Cerritos, because they desire that direct, old-school connection to the driving experience which turbocharged cars simply don’t give you.
2026 Lexus IS Trim Levels
The 2026 Lexus IS is offered in five configurations. Each pairs a specific powertrain and drivetrain combination with a distinct driver profile.
| Trim | Engine | Drivetrain | Fuel Economy (est. combined) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| IS 300 | 2.0L Turbo I-4 | RWD | ~33 mpg (most efficient trim) | Entry-level buyer seeking a refined compact luxury sedan with balanced performance |
| IS 300 AWD | 2.0L Turbo I-4 | AWD | ~30 mpg | Buyer wanting all-weather capability without sacrificing luxury refinement |
| IS 350 | 3.5L V6 | RWD | ~24 mpg | Performance-focused buyer wanting a smooth V6 in a compact luxury sedan |
| IS 350 AWD | 3.5L V6 | AWD | ~22 mpg | Enthusiast buyer prioritizing both V6 performance and all-weather traction |
| IS 500 F SPORT Performance | 5.0L Naturally Aspirated V8 | RWD only | ~22 mpg (least efficient trim) | Performance enthusiast seeking a naturally aspirated V8 in a compact luxury sport sedan |
The IS 300 gets the best gas mileage, about 33 miles per gallon overall. Because of this, it’s the sensible choice for people who drive between Long Beach and Irvine. At the top of the IS range is the IS 500 F SPORT Performance, and its 5.0 liter V8 gives up fuel economy to be a very exciting engine at high speeds, which isn’t something most small sporty sedans offer.
And, if you plan to use your present vehicle as part of the payment for a new car, find out what it’s worth (you can do that at /value-your-trade/) so you have an accurate figure for your calculations.
Powertrain Deep Dive: Three Engines, One Sport Sedan
What’s a little odd for a small, fancy car is that the 2026 IS will have three different engine choices.
The 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder (in the IS 300 and IS 300 AWD) is perfectly happy with the stop-start driving on the 22 freeway, or just running around Garden Grove and Santa Ana. It’s the most economical of the three at around 33 mpg combined with rear-wheel drive, and you can get all-wheel drive on this one if you prefer.
The 3.5L V6 (IS 350, IS 350 AWD) is six cylinders that get more powerful in a smooth way, rather than having to wait for a turbo to start up. It’s available with rear or all-wheel drive, and is for those who want more than the IS 300 gives, but aren’t quite at the IS 500 level.
And then there’s the 5.0L naturally aspirated V8 (IS 500 F SPORT Performance). This high-revving V8 is only with rear-wheel drive and is really what the IS is all about. Almost everyone else has stopped making cars with V8s, meaning the IS 500 is one of the few smaller, luxurious sports cars you can still purchase with a V8 that isn’t turbocharged, along with a performance-tuned chassis from the factory, better brakes and a sporty exhaust.
How the 2026 Lexus IS Compares to the Competition
The compact luxury sport sedan segment includes several well-established European rivals. The table below summarizes where each stands relative to the 2026 IS.
| Feature / Vehicle | 2026 Lexus IS | 2026 BMW 3 Series | 2026 Mercedes-Benz C-Class | 2026 Audi A4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Naturally aspirated V8 option | ✅ (IS 500) | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Plug-in hybrid available | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ |
| AWD standard or widely available | Optional (IS 300/350) | Optional | Optional | Standard on most trims |
| Physical controls emphasis | ✅ | Mixed | ❌ (large portrait touchscreen) | Mixed |
| RWD-first sport sedan option | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ (AWD-primary) |
The 2026 Lexus IS is competing with the 2026 BMW 3 Series. Most experts consider the 3 Series the most fun to drive in this class, and BMW offers a wider variety of engines, including a plug-in hybrid. Lexus responds with something no other car has: a naturally aspirated V8 in the IS 500. What’s more, Lexus is known for being dependable and their model lines don’t bombard you with lots of optional extras, so shopping for one is a lot easier.
When you compare the 2026 Lexus IS to the 2026 Mercedes-Benz C-Class, the main difference is about your preference for the inside. Mercedes puts almost everything into screens, and a large vertical touchscreen controls most of the cabin. They also have a plug-in hybrid. Lexus on the actual road is a more traditional drive, and has physical buttons and dials, and you can get it with a V6 or the V8. If you prefer to use controls rather than poke at glass, this is important.
The 2026 Audi A4 includes Quattro all-wheel drive on nearly all versions and has a calm, subtle European interior. Lexus gets back at Audi with more engine options (the V8 yet again), rear-wheel drive for drivers who like that setup, and the long-term reliability Lexus is famous for.
And by the way, if you’d consider a previously owned car, our Certified Pre-Owned Lexus inventory is worth a look – you get the usual Lexus quality, but for a better price.
Local Context: Driving the IS in Orange County
Westminster is at the 405 and 22 freeway interchange, and that means Lexus of Westminster isn’t too far from Long Beach, Irvine, Anaheim, Santa Ana, or Huntington Beach. The 2026 IS responds to all of those driving situations in a slightly different way.
For your daily commute on the freeway, the IS 300 averages around 33 miles to the gallon overall, keeping your expenses on the 405 fairly consistent. Then, for weekend drives, the IS 500’s V8 engine and rear-wheel drive are perfect for the winding coastal road from Huntington Beach Pier to Newport Beach. In areas like Garden Grove and Cerritos, the IS is easier to park than bigger, fancier cars, and the interior is quiet enough that you won’t get as tired on long freeway trips.
And if you’ll sometimes go to the mountains, the IS 350 and 300 with all-wheel drive (AWD) will make you feel much safer in poor weather, but won’t affect the way the car drives on the flat.
Why Buy Your 2026 Lexus IS from Lexus of Westminster
Lexus of Westminster is the Lexus dealer for Westminster, Long Beach, Irvine, Anaheim, and all of Orange County. You’ll find the entire 2026 IS collection in our showroom, and our experts can show you the IS 300, IS 350, and IS 500 next to each other so you understand what makes each one different before choosing.
To be ahead of things with the buying process, you can use our online finance application. You’ll find how to get to us and our opening times on the dealership information page.
Once you have your Lexus, our Lexus service department looks after all regular maintenance – oil changes, brake repairs, and more complicated fault-finding – and you can arrange a service at any time using the online scheduling system. We also have service offers and Lexus parts and accessories on the website.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2026 Lexus IS
What is the 2026 Lexus IS?
The 2026 Lexus IS is a relatively small, high-end sporty sedan and is available in IS 300, IS 300 AWD, IS 350, IS 350 AWD, and IS 500 F SPORT Performance versions. Lexus (the luxury arm of Toyota) makes it, and its competition comes from the BMW 3 Series, the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, and the Audi A4.
The IS 500 is what makes the Lexus IS different from those German cars, because it still has a 5.0L V8 engine that isn’t turbocharged – in fact, none of its European rivals now offer a naturally breathing V8.
What trim levels does the 2026 Lexus IS come in?
The 2026 Lexus IS is offered in five trims: IS 300 (RWD), IS 300 AWD, IS 350 (RWD), IS 350 AWD, and IS 500 F SPORT Performance (RWD only). The IS 300 trims use a 2.0L turbocharged inline-4. The IS 350 trims use a 3.5L V6. The IS 500 F SPORT Performance uses a 5.0L naturally aspirated V8.
What is the fuel economy of the 2026 Lexus IS?
The IS 500 (with its V8) and the IS 350 all-wheel drive both get about 22 miles to the gallon overall, but the IS 300 rear-wheel drive with the 2.0 liter turbo engine manages around 33 mpg combined. Because of this, the IS 300 is the best on gas of all the IS models. If you’d like the official fuel economy figures for a particular version and how it’s driven (front or all wheels) get in touch with Lexus of Westminster.
Does the 2026 Lexus IS come with all-wheel drive?
You can get all four wheels powering the IS 300 AWD and IS 350 AWD versions. The IS 500 F SPORT Performance, though, has power to the rear wheels only; this is in line with its sporty feel and what people who really like V8 powered sports sedans have always wanted. On the IS 300 and IS 350, having AWD gives you a better grip on slippery surfaces, or when you are driving in the mountains, and doesn’t greatly change the way the car drives.
What is the difference between the IS 350 and IS 500?
The IS 350 has a 3.5 liter V6 engine and can be had with power going to the rear wheels or all four. The IS 500 F SPORT Performance is a step up, with a 5.0 liter V8 (and it’s naturally aspirated, meaning it doesn’t have a turbocharger or supercharger) and rear-wheel drive. On top of everything the IS 350 provides, it also includes a chassis specifically adjusted for performance, much better brakes, and a sporty exhaust. The IS 500 is the sole version of the IS, and it’s one of the very few small, fancy cars you can currently purchase that has a naturally aspirated V8 engine.
How does the 2026 Lexus IS compare to the BMW 3 Series?
BMW’s 3 Series offers lots of engine choices, including a plug-in hybrid, and nearly all professional car judges continue to say it’s the best car for the way a sporty sedan should be to drive. The 2026 Lexus IS does things a different way. It’s the only car in its class where you can currently get a V8 engine that isn’t helped by a turbocharger or electric motor (this is in the IS 500), the different versions of the IS are simpler to understand, and Lexus is well known for lasting a very long time.
Therefore, people generally choose along fairly expected lines. If you’re after a V8, or you don’t want to spend a day trying to figure out what’s in the optional extras, the IS is a good bet. But if you’d like a plug-in hybrid or a wider selection of more powerfully performing models, the 3 Series is the obvious choice.
Is the 2026 Lexus IS 500 F SPORT Performance worth the upgrade?
Within this class of car, the IS 500 F SPORT Performance is about the only way to get a V8 engine that isn’t turbocharged. BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi…they’ve all stopped offering that type of engine. And for that, you’re rewarded with an engine that sounds great when you accelerate and a very quick reaction to your foot on the gas, something no car with a turbocharger can equal. It also has a suspension set up for good handling, much better brakes, and a sportier exhaust. If you are more concerned with how many miles you get to the gallon in everyday driving than how a car feels to drive, the IS 300 or IS 350 will be a better choice for you.
What is the price of the 2026 Lexus IS near Westminster, CA?
How much the 2026 Lexus IS costs depends on which model you choose. The IS 300 is the cheapest, while the IS 500 F SPORT Performance is the most expensive. Special offers, leasing deals and how many are in stock are always changing, meaning a price you’re shown today won’t necessarily be the price a week from now.
To get an accurate price for the specific features and version you’re looking for, contact Lexus of Westminster or look at our new cars on the website browse our new inventory.
What are the current lease deals on the 2026 Lexus IS in Orange County?
What you’ll pay to lease a 2026 Lexus IS varies from month to month, and is also affected by the specific IS trim, the length of the lease and your mileage allowance. Lexus of Westminster’s finance department will create lease plans for you, based on the trim level you are interested in, how much you’d like to put down, and your ideal monthly payment. Contact them to find out the current deals for people in Westminster, Long Beach, or Irvine.
How many passengers does the 2026 Lexus IS seat?
Five people can fit in the 2026 Lexus IS, with two in the front seats and three on the back bench. Being a relatively small, fancy car, it’s good for little families, couples or people who drive alone but sometimes have passengers. Back seat passengers have a decent amount of leg space, plus the boot is big enough for luggage for a weekend away.
Is the 2026 Lexus IS a good commuter car for the 405 Freeway?
Okay, so the 2026 IS is good for driving on the 405 and 22 Freeways. The IS 300, with its 2.0L turbo engine (it’s a four cylinder) will give you about 33 miles to the gallon overall, and it’s the most economical in the IS range. Importantly, on longer journeys, the interior is quiet enough that you won’t get too tired of the sound of the road or the wind. Plus, the driver-assist systems on offer are useful in slow moving traffic. Because of all this, people in Long Beach, Irvine and Anaheim often choose the IS 300 for their commute.
Which Lexus dealers near Westminster have the 2026 IS in stock?
Lexus of Westminster is the official Lexus dealer for Westminster, Long Beach, Irvine, and all of Orange County. We get new cars all year long, so what we have available changes fairly frequently. To find out what’s currently at the dealership, look at our new vehicle list on the website (link to /new-vehicles/) or phone the showroom – one of our experts can explain everything to you.
Can I order a 2026 Lexus IS for delivery to Westminster?
Lexus of Westminster absolutely can find one, or get one made, for the 2026 IS with the specific features, paint, and extras you’d like. When it will get to you though, relies on how the factory is running and how many are being sent to this area. If you tell a Lexus specialist what you want, they can estimate when you can have it, for Westminster and all of Orange County.
What warranty comes with the 2026 Lexus IS?
The 2026 Lexus IS is protected by Lexus’s new car warranty, and this has a standard limited coverage section alongside a specific warranty for the engine and transmission. For all the details of the 2026 warranty, someone at Lexus of Westminster can explain it all to you. Plus, Lexus generally lasts a long time, and the IS tends to be worth more compared to many other cars in its category because of that.
Does Lexus of Westminster service the 2026 IS?
Absolutely. The Lexus service department takes care of all the usual upkeep and fixing of the 2026 IS, covering things like oil changes, brake jobs, and also more complicated investigations of what’s wrong. You’re welcome to book a service appointment on our website at any time. And while you’re there, have a look at our service offers and authentic Lexus parts, accessories.
How do I schedule a test drive of the 2026 Lexus IS?
You can book a Lexus test drive at Lexus of Westminster by phoning the dealership, visiting them directly, or contacting them via their website at lexuswestminster.com. We’ll set aside the IS version you’d like to drive and a Lexus expert will be available to show you the differences between the IS 300, IS 350, IS 500 and help you choose the best one for you.
Ready to Experience the 2026 Lexus IS?
To really get a sense of how the 2026 Lexus IS is different from other cars in its class, you need to get behind the wheel. Lexus of Westminster can find you the version to suit your driving style: perhaps you’d like the IS 300 for reasonable gas mileage (around 33 miles per gallon combined), the IS 350 for its V6 engine and power, or the IS 500 F SPORT Performance – the only compact luxury sports sedan with a V8 and a lovely, naturally aspirated engine.
- Schedule a test drive of the trim that interests you most
- Browse current 2026 IS inventory to see what’s available right now
- Contact our team with questions about pricing, lease offers, or trade-in value
Have a specific question? Reach out to our team and a product specialist will follow up promptly.