2026 Lexus IS350 Review

TL;DR

The 2026 Lexus IS350 refresh improves transmission tuning and interior quality but ruins its signature moving gauge cluster with a laggy digital replacement.

Key Points

• 1.The 311hp 3.5L V6 and 6-speed auto return unchanged, but transmission tuning is vastly improved. Throttle response feels near-instant in normal mode; Canadian models are AWD-only, while RWD (US-only) gets an 8-speed auto.
• 2.The biggest regression is the new digital gauge cluster, which is slower than the analog unit it replaced. The iconic moving tachometer from previous IS models is gone, and traction-off mode covers the gear indicator — a serious issue for track use.
• 3.Lexus added a driver-monitoring camera that records you during traffic jam assist. A prompt asks permission to record the driver's condition, which the hosts flag as a major privacy concern benefiting insurance companies.
• 4.The interior is a genuine highlight, with hard climate buttons, wireless CarPlay, heated/cooled seats, and a striking dark red cabin. The infotainment is lag-free and well-integrated, and adaptive suspension is comfortable across all modes.
• 5.The refreshed exterior adds a Toyota-like beak grille that looks less premium than before, though the wing, tail lights, and wheel design are decent. The tested wind-color paint (previously special edition) is now standard. Pricing runs CAD $56,855–$67,367.