Should you wait for the new Lexus IS? A complete guide to the major minor changes coming to Japan in 2026

The Lexus IS will undergo its third minor change on September 9, 2025, with its release scheduled for early 2026. For those considering purchasing the current model or wondering whether to wait for the new model, we have compiled details of this major minor change and key points to consider when making a purchase decision.

Global Toyota

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Lexus New IS Minor Change 2026 Model Complete Guide: Details and Notable Improvements The new Lexus IS, unveiled to the world by Lexus (Toyota Motor Corporation) on September 9, 2025, is the culmination of the compact FR sports sedan, which has a history of more than a quarter century since the first model was released in 1999…

Five reasons why you should wait for the new IS

1. Lexus’ first third design change

This latest update marks the third minor change in the design of a Lexus vehicle, a first for the car. It is a mature model that can be considered the culmination of the IS series, which has sold a total of approximately 1.3 million units in the quarter century since the first model was released in 1999.

2. Driving performance has improved dramatically

Revolutionary Evolution of EPS

The electric power steering (EPS) has been changed to a parallel rack type and uses a variable gear. This reduces the steering angle at intersections and consecutive corners, resulting in a more linear and comfortable steering feel.

Significantly improved performance of AVS:

The adoption of a linear solenoid type AVS (Adaptive Variable Suspension system) improves damping force response by approximately four times compared to the previous model. This achieves a high level of both vehicle behavior stability and road shock reduction, further enhancing the “comfortable driving” experience.

3. Major design overhaul

Exterior

• Adopting a new generation design language since LBX
• New grille with blade-shaped lines connecting the left and right headlights
• Front face with a low center of gravity and a wide stance
• Rear emblem changed to “LEXUS” logo
• Available in eight body colors, including the new “Neutrino Gray” color
• New rear spoiler and 19-inch lightweight aluminum wheels exclusive to F SPORT

interior

• A 12.3-inch touch panel display is standard on all vehicles.
• Enlarged to a 12.3-inch full LCD meter
• Adoption of the newly developed ornament panel “Forged bamboo”
• Introducing a new interior color, “PROMINENCE”
• First equipped with multi-color ambient light (64 colors)

4. Significantly improved safety equipment

Expanded functionality of Lexus Safety System+

• Dealing with cyclists (at night)
• Motorcycle (daytime)
• Addition of collision avoidance assistance at intersections
• Proactive Driving Assist (PDA) installed

Newly equipped with advanced driving assistance technology:

Lexus Teammate Advanced Drive (hands-off function during high-speed traffic jams). When driving in traffic jams between 0km/h and approximately 40km/h, hands-off driving is possible under certain conditions, such as when the driver is facing forward, significantly reducing fatigue during traffic jams.

5. The final evolution of the fourth-generation Lexus

The new IS is positioned as the final evolution of the fourth-generation Lexus before the full transition to BEVs (electric vehicles). It is a model that has been perfected to the utmost as a vehicle equipped with an internal combustion engine, and it may be the last chance to enjoy the “traditional Lexus driving” that is different from the BEV models that will be released in the future.

Cases where you should “buy without waiting” the current model

If you need a car immediately

Delivery will take some time, so if you wait for the release after early 2026, actual delivery may be mid-2026 or later. If you need a car immediately, it’s worth considering current model stock or display cars.

Those who prioritize price

The price of the new IS is expected to increase by approximately 200,000 yen from the current model.

Current model reference price

• IS300h: 5,270,000 yen
• IS300h F SPORT: 5,810,000 yen
• IS300h version L: 6,010,000 yen

New model expected price

• IS300h: Approximately 5.3 million to 5.5 million yen
• IS300h F SPORT: Approximately 5.9 million to 6.1 million yen
• IS300h version L: Approximately 6.1 million to 6.3 million yen

If you take advantage of clearance prices for the current model or discounts at the end of fiscal year, you may be able to purchase it at a better price than the new model.

Those who want an IS350 or IS500

Important points

: In the Japanese market, the new model will only be available as the IS300h (FR). The IS350 and IS500 will be sold exclusively overseas, so those wanting these models will need to consider the used car market. In particular, the IS500 “Climax Edition” is a limited edition car, so it may become increasingly rare in the future.

Main specifications and features of the new IS

Powertrain

IS300h (scheduled for introduction in Japan)

• Engine: Inline 4-cylinder 2.5L + motor hybrid
• Engine output: 178ps/22.5kgm
• Motor output: 143ps/30.6kgm
• System output: 226ps
• Drive system: FR
• Fuel economy: 18.0km/L (WLTC mode)

IS350 (overseas model)

• Engine: V6 3.5L
• Output: 318ps/38.7kgm
• Drive system: FR/AWD
• Transmission: 8-speed AT (FR), 6-speed AT (AWD)
• Fuel economy: 10.7km/L (WLTC mode)

Body size

• Overall length: 4,720mm (10mm longer than conventional model)
• Overall width: 1,840mm (±0mm)
• Overall height: 1,435mm (FR) / 1,440mm (AWD) (±0mm)
• Wheelbase: 2,800mm (±0mm)
• Passenger capacity: 5 people
• Tire size: 18 inches / 19 inches

The overall length has been increased by another 10mm, emphasizing a more elongated and sporty style.

Comparison with competing models

The Lexus IS’s main rivals are:

• BMW 3 Series : The epitome of German premium sedan
• Mercedes-Benz C-Class : refined luxury
• Audi A4 : Advanced technology and premium finishes

The new IS differentiates itself from its competitors with its unique character as a “Japanese premium sedan” and its refined driving quality. In particular, the “Lexus Driving Signature,” which has been thoroughly honed at Toyota Technical Center Shimoyama, is an appeal not found in other brands.

Checklist of characteristics of people who should wait to buy

If many of the following apply to you, we recommend waiting for the release of the new IS.

✅ I value the latest safety features

✅ I’m attracted to advanced driving assistance (hands-off function)

✅ I want to use the latest multimedia system

✅ I’m attracted to the new-generation exterior design

✅ I want to enjoy interior design features such as ambient lighting

✅ I don’t mind delivery after mid-2026

✅ A price increase of around 200,000 yen is within my tolerance

✅ I’m fully satisfied with the IS300h FR

✅ I want to own the complete fourth-generation Lexus

✅ I plan to keep driving it for the long term

Characteristics of people who should buy the current model immediately

On the other hand, if any of the following apply to you, you should consider purchasing the current model.

✅ I need a car right away

✅ I want to buy it as cheaply as possible

✅ I want to get a discount on a stock or display car

✅ I’m particular about the current design

✅ I want a used IS350 or IS500

✅ I want an AWD model

✅ Simple equipment is enough

✅ I don’t want to wait for delivery

Schedule for the release of the new IS

• September 9, 2025 : World premiere (completed)
• October to December 2025 : Detailed specifications and prices to be announced
• January 2026 : Scheduled to be released in Japan
• First half of 2026 : Deliveries will begin sequentially
• From early 2026 : Release in each region

The release date is scheduled for January 2026, but actual delivery may take several months after release, so if you are considering purchasing one, we recommend visiting a dealer early.

The history and evolution of the Lexus IS

First generation IS (1999-2005)

The first-generation IS debuted in 1999. The name of the car comes from the initials of “Intelligent Sport.” Based on the model sold in Japan as the “Toyota Altezza,” it was highly praised as a compact FR sports sedan.

Second-generation IS (2005-2013)

The second generation, released in 2005, began to be sold in Japan under the Lexus brand. The lineup expanded significantly with the addition of the open-top IS C and the high-performance IS F, equipped with a 5L V8 engine.

3rd generation IS (2013 to present)

The current third generation was released in 2013. The IS300h, the first hybrid model in the IS series, was introduced, achieving both environmental friendliness and driving performance. The 2015 update also saw the addition of a turbo engine, the first for a Lexus FR vehicle.

A major minor change was made in November 2020, and the IS500 and IS300 were discontinued in 2025, after which this third major minor change was announced.

Summary: The new IS is “worth the wait”

The new Lexus IS is an exceptional improvement, being the first in Lexus history to undergo a third minor design change. It has undergone significant evolution beyond a simple minor change, and we can conclude that it is “worth the wait” for the following reasons.

On the other hand, if you want an IS350 or IS500, need a car immediately, or price is your top priority, it may be worth considering purchasing a current model or an in-stock vehicle.

Ultimately, the decision

comes down to whether you want the latest technology and perfection or the price and timing. If you plan to keep the car for a long time, the advances in the new IS more than make up for the 200,000 yen price difference.

The car is due for release in early 2026. This is also the time when advance consultations and test drive reservations will begin at Lexus dealerships, so if you’re interested, we recommend gathering information early.

• Lexus official website: IS details page
• Press Release: Global Toyota