2026 Lexus IS Buying Guide: Trims, Pricing and What to Know
The 2026 Lexus IS 350 starts at $46,895 MSRP, including destination, and every U.S. model pairs a 311-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 with Lexus's sport-sedan tuning. If you're shopping for a luxury sport sedan near South Atlanta, this guide covers each trim, the rear-wheel vs. all-wheel-drive decision, what to know about model-year timing, and how to buy smart at Butler Lexus of South Atlanta in Union City, GA.
The 2026 Lexus IS at a Glance
For 2026 the IS lineup is simple: one engine, two trim levels, and your choice of rear-wheel or all-wheel drive.
| Trim | Drivetrain | Starting MSRP* |
| IS 350 F SPORT Design | Rear-wheel Drive | $46,895 |
| IS 350 F SPORT Design | All-wheel Drive | $48,895 |
| IS 350 F SPORT | Rear-wheel Drive | $49,345 |
| IS 350 F SPORT | All-wheel Drive | $51,345 |
*MSRP includes the $1,395 destination charge and excludes tax, title, license, options and dealer fees. Pricing is based on published 2026 MSRPs; confirm current pricing and inventory with Butler Lexus of South Atlanta.
Performance: A Naturally Aspirated V6 in a Turbo Era
The 2026 IS 350 is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 rated at 311 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, with a reported 0-60 mph time of 5.9 seconds. It has no turbocharger and no hybrid assist. That makes for a linear, immediate throttle response and a smooth, refined sound that many sport-sedan drivers specifically look for.
With the 2026 model year, Lexus narrowed the U.S. IS lineup to this single V6 powertrain. One engine means one clear decision: you choose your trim and drivetrain, not a power level.
The real-world case for the IS comes down to feel. Rear-wheel-drive balance, a driver-focused cockpit and the quiet, well-damped ride Lexus is known for make it as comfortable on I-85 as it is on a back road toward Peachtree City. The best way to judge it is behind the wheel, which is why we encourage a test drive before you decide.
F SPORT Design vs. F SPORT: How to Choose
Both trims share the same V6 and the sport-sedan look. The decision is mostly about how much equipment you want included.
Both trims share the same V6 and the sport-sedan look. The decision is mostly about how much equipment you want included.
• F SPORT Design is the entry point at $46,895. It brings F SPORT styling and 19-inch wheels, along with Lexus's standard Lexus Safety System+ driver-assist suite.
• F SPORT starts at $49,345, a $2,450 step up from F SPORT Design in either drivetrain. It adds ventilated front sport seats and is the only trim eligible for the available F SPORT Handling Package, which brings adaptive variable suspension and a Torsen limited-slip rear differential. Both trims share the 311-horsepower V6, 19-inch wheels, heated front seats, a 12.3-inch touchscreen and Lexus Safety System+.
Our advice: if you plan to keep the car for years and use it daily, price out both trims side by side. Our team can build both quotes so you can see the full picture before you choose.
Rear-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive in Georgia?
All-wheel drive adds $2,000 to either trim. Here is how to think about it:
• Choose rear-wheel drive if you value the classic sport-sedan driving character and want the lowest starting price.
• Choose all-wheel drive if you want added traction on wet pavement. Atlanta-area summers bring heavy downpours, and the occasional winter ice event catches many drivers off guard, so extra grip is a real comfort.
Georgia rarely demands all-wheel drive, so this is a preference call rather than a necessity. If you split your time between highway commuting and spirited weekend drives, a test drive of both versions will make the difference obvious.
Buying a 2026 IS Now: What to Know About Model-Year Timing
Lexus has announced the 2027 IS with a starting MSRP of $47,545, which is $650 above the 2026 base price of $46,895. The 2027 models have not reached our showroom, and we cannot confirm when they will arrive. The 2026 IS is available to shop and test drive today, so ask our team about current 2026 inventory and what is on our lot.
Interior, Technology and Safety
The IS received a significant interior update for the 2026 model year. Expect a driver-focused layout, available Mark Levinson audio with 17 speakers, and 10.8 cubic feet of trunk space for weekend luggage or a golf bag.
Every 2026 IS comes with Lexus Safety System+, a suite of driver-assist features that includes adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane departure alert with steering assistance. These systems are driver aids and do not replace attentive driving.
As a compact sedan, the IS is sized for everyday use: easy to park at Atlantic Station or Perimeter, and comfortable for four adults on a typical commute.
Who the IS Fits, and Who Should Look Elsewhere
The IS is a strong fit if you:
• Want a luxury sedan that rewards driving without giving up daily comfort
• Prefer a naturally aspirated V6 with no turbo and no hybrid complexity
• Value a compact footprint and a well-finished cabin
Consider another Lexus if you:
• Need more rear-seat and cargo space (the Lexus ES or an SUV like the NX or RX may suit you better)
• Want an electrified powertrain (Lexus offers hybrid and electric models across the lineup)
• Need a third row (the new Lexus TZ is on its way)
We would rather match you to the right Lexus than the fastest sale. Tell us how you drive and we will point you to the right model.
Buying Tips From Butler Lexus of South Atlanta
1. Get your trade-in appraised first. Knowing your current vehicle's value sets your budget. In Georgia, a trade-in can also lower the value used to calculate the one-time Title Ad Valorem Tax, so ask our finance team how it applies to you.
2. Compare lease and finance side by side. The best structure depends on how long you keep your vehicles and how many miles you drive.
3. Price both trims and both drivetrains. A few minutes of quoting can clarify what each step up really costs.
4. Schedule a test drive. Spec sheets can't show how an IS 350 feels on your own commute, so drive it before you decide.
Our showroom is at 4025 Jonesboro Road, Union City, GA 30291, serving South Atlanta and nearby communities. Call 678-619-5395 or email customercare@butlerlsa.com to schedule a visit.
Lexus IS FAQ
How much does the 2026 Lexus IS cost? The 2026 Lexus IS 350 starts at $46,895 MSRP including destination for the F SPORT Design, and reaches $51,345 for the all-wheel-drive F SPORT, before options, tax, title and fees.
Is there still an IS 300 or IS 500? No. Lexus reduced the U.S. lineup to the IS 350 starting with the 2026 model year.
How much horsepower does the 2026 Lexus IS have? The 3.5-liter V6 makes 311 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque.
Where can I test drive a Lexus IS near South Atlanta? Butler Lexus of South Atlanta, at 4025 Jonesboro Road in Union City, GA. Call 678-619-5395 to schedule or stop in!