Lexus, being a luxury automaker owned by Toyota, means that reliability and durability will be part of the brand’s unique selling points. The thing is, though every Lexus is pretty much considered reliable, there are still some models that go beyond the exceptional.
Case in point, this Lexus sedan, which also happens to be the brand’s most reliable model at the moment. It’ll most likely carry over in 2026, because though this model is getting an update, it is still mechanically similar to the first model that debuted in 2013.
This IS The Most Reliable Lexus
Based on this year’s J.D. Power annual vehicle dependability study, the most reliable Lexus is the IS sports sedan. Yes, the IS in its current generation form has been on sale since the 2014 model year, making it a 12-year-old model at this point.
Its Age Makes It Reliable
But hey, its age is probably its best asset, too, right? Though the IS gets a third facelift for the 2026 model year, it is still mostly the same vehicle that debuted in 2013 for the 2014 model year. Thank the proven mechanics underneath the IS, which will carry over pretty much unchanged into 2026 despite featuring a comprehensively redesigned exterior and interior.
Being a 12-year-old platform also means that any production issues should have been fixed by now. Though it means that a BMW 3 Series with a more modern platform will feel more plush and sharper to drive, Lexus didn’t leave the platform of the IS unchanged. More on that later.
Its Engine Is Also Exceptionally Reliable
As sedans continue to lose market share to crossovers and SUVs, it only makes sense for Lexus to shrink the lineup to just one engine choice. Remaining for 2026 is the Lexus IS 350, which means it gets the reliable 3.5-liter 2GR-FKS V-6. Mechanically related to the 2GR-FSE it replaces, this new engine adds an on-demand Atkinson cycle from the 2UR-GSE and 8AR-FTS engines for improved efficiency. It also inherits the D-4S direct and port injection system. By using a dual fuel injection system, these engines only switch to direct injection as needed, which helps solve the problem of carbon buildup among direct injection engines.
The 2GR-FKS, though, also introduces both good and not-so-good traits versus the 2GR-FSE it replaces, according to Car Care Nut. None of these, though, affects reliability. For one, the serviceability of this engine is easier. The spark plugs and the belt tensioner are easier to service, along with the exhaust manifold. On the downside, Toyota decided to construct the cooling system with plastic, but then again, the cooling system itself is easier to service as well. So it’s a give-or-take thing, nothing that really makes one more reliable than the other.
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What To Expect In The 2026 IS
The 2026 Lexus IS will hit dealerships early next year, and with it are crucial updates to keep this 12-year-old sports sedan appealing amid newer competition.
F Sport As Standard
Two variants of the 2026 Lexus IS 350 will be sold, and both come with the F Sport package as standard. This means that a sporty exterior that emphasizes the low and wide stance of the IS comes as standard. The Spindle Grille has been widened and reshaped. Flanking it are new LED headlights that visually merge with the grille itself. The Lexus badge has also been repositioned towards the top of the grille, which gives the IS a more menacing look.
The side profile remains unchanged, though a new five-twin-spoke design for the 19-inch wheels has been introduced. Red brake calipers also add a sportier touch to the car’s side profile. Lastly, the rear end receives minor visual tweaks, wherein a ducktail spoiler supposedly helps improve aerodynamics. Furthermore, the traditional L badge has been ditched in favor of the “LEXUS” script written across its tailgate.
A Completely New Dash Design
Perhaps receiving more pronounced changes is the interior of the 2026 Lexus IS. Though the overall architectural shape is familiar, the entire dash design is new. You now get a more straightforward look, with sculpted air vents and a larger expanse of leather paneling. This also means redesigning the knobs and switches to match the new dash design. Other interior highlights include a Radiant Red color scheme and a newly-developed “Forged Bamboo” interior trim.
Perhaps the main motivator for getting a completely new dash is the slew of new tech features. Equipped as standard are a pair of 12.3-inch screens for the gauge cluster and the Lexus Interface infotainment system. The IS was one of the last Lexus models to feature the touchpad-based Remote Touch Interface, and now, we officially say goodbye to this infotainment system. A 10-speaker Lexus Premium Sound System is standard, but a 17-speaker Mark Levinson surround sound system is also available.
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V6 As Standard, Hello Chassis Upgrades
As mentioned, the 2026 Lexus IS will only be sold in IS 350 form. Two transmission choices are also available, but that’s dependent on the drivetrain layout you choose.
RWD Or AWD? Your Choice
For 2026, the IS 350 continues to be offered in either rear-wheel drive (RWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD) versions. The RWD continues to feature an eight-speed automatic, while the AWD gets the shorter end of the stick with its more rudimentary six-speed automatic. Both versions get the 3.5-liter V-6 2GR-FKS with 311 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. The IS 300 with the 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder will be discontinued for this model year, too.
2026 Lexus IS 350 Performance Specs
|
Engine |
3.5-liter V-6 |
|
Layout |
RWD, AWD |
|
Horsepower |
311 hp |
|
Torque |
280 lb-ft |
|
Transmission |
6-speed A/T (AWD) 8-speed A/T (RWD) |
Sharper Handling To Match
To match the comprehensive exterior and interior updates, the IS comes with numerous chassis rigidity improvements, all in the name of making the IS feel sportier than ever. These come in the form of increased rigidity measures at the front and rear sections of the vehicle, including additional spot welding points.
Matching the improved chassis is the transition to a rack-parallel electric power steering system, whose variable gear ratio aims to deliver a linear yet responsive steering feel. Lastly, the new, linear solenoid-type adaptive variable suspension allows for smoothened damping force and quicker response to the vehicle’s body movements as it goes through corners and road imperfections.
Sources: Lexus, JD Power