2026 Lexus IS 350 F Sport: Specs, Trims & Performance
The 2026 Lexus IS 350 F Sport holds firm on an idea most of its rivals abandoned years ago: a naturally aspirated V6 in a rear-drive-based sport sedan. For 2026 the lineup is streamlined to a single engine and two core grades, with a limited-run appearance package on top. Here’s what the F Sport delivers, from the engine bay to the pricing ladder.
Engine & Performance: The Naturally Aspirated V6
At the center of every 2026 IS 350 is a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 — no turbo-four, no V8. Lexus simplified the lineup for 2026, retiring the four-cylinder IS 300 and the V8 IS 500 so the range now centers on this single, proven V6.
| Specification | Figure |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.5L naturally aspirated V6 |
| Horsepower | 311 hp @ 6,600 rpm |
| Torque | 280 lb-ft @ 4,800 rpm |
| Transmission (RWD) | 8-speed Sport Direct Shift automatic |
| Transmission (AWD) | 6-speed automatic (rear-biased) |
| Fuel requirement | Premium unleaded (91 octane+) |
Because there’s no turbo, power builds linearly from idle to redline — a smooth, predictable throttle response that defines the car’s character on a daily drive or a spirited run through the hills around Temecula and Murrieta. Rear-wheel-drive models pair the V6 with an eight-speed Sport Direct Shift automatic tuned for crisp, quick shifts. Choosing all-wheel drive swaps in a six-speed automatic with a rear-biased torque split that preserves the sporty feel while adding all-season traction.
Acceleration, Top Speed & Braking
Straight-line pace is respectable rather than record-setting — the trade-off for that refined, high-rpm V6 character.
- 0–60 mph: roughly the mid-5-second range for rear-wheel drive
- Top track speed: electronically limited to 143 mph
- Brakes: vented front and rear discs for consistent, repeatable stopping power
Some turbocharged competitors post quicker off-the-line sprints, but they don’t match the linear power delivery and high-rpm exhaust note of this V6.
Handling: The F Sport Handling Package
The IS 350 truly comes alive when the road bends. The optional F Sport Handling Package adds the hardware that sharpens the chassis:
- Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) — continuously adjusts damper rates in real time, cutting body roll in corners while keeping the ride compliant over rough pavement
- Torsen limited-slip rear differential (rear-wheel-drive models) — directs power to the outside rear tire through a turn, helping the sedan rotate and improving corner-exit traction
The result is precise, well-weighted steering and a planted chassis — an engaging setup for the rolling terrain around Menifee.
Interior & Technology: What’s New for 2026
The cabin received its most significant technology update in years for 2026.
- 12.3-inch touchscreen running the latest Lexus Interface, with a “Hey Lexus” voice assistant
- 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster — replaces the older moving-ring display with a fully customizable layout
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto, plus wireless charging and USB-C ports
- NuLuxe synthetic leather seating — a soft, durable alternative to genuine leather
- Redesigned center console with updated trim and physical climate controls retained
Dimensions & Practicality
The IS is a compact sport sedan — tidy on the outside, focused on the driver inside.
| Dimension | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Overall length | 185.4 in |
| Overall width | 72.4 in |
| Front legroom | 44.8 in |
| Rear legroom | 32.2 in |
| Trunk volume | 10.8 cu ft |
The front seats offer generous legroom and strong bolstering; the rear seat is more intimate, best suited to shorter trips or younger passengers. The trunk is compact but usefully shaped, and the rear seats fold 60/40 for longer items.
Drivetrain & Fuel Economy: RWD vs. AWD
Choosing between rear- and all-wheel drive affects price, traction, and efficiency. Adding AWD to either grade increases the starting MSRP by $2,000.
| Configuration | City | Highway | Combined |
|---|---|---|---|
| IS 350 RWD | 19 mpg | 27 mpg | 22 mpg |
| IS 350 AWD | 19 mpg | 26 mpg | 22 mpg |
EPA-estimated fuel economy figures are for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary depending on driving conditions, how you drive and maintain your vehicle, battery age/condition, and other factors. Both configurations require premium unleaded fuel.
Pricing: The 2026 IS 350 Trim Ladder
The 2026 IS 350 offers a clear, structured pricing ladder across two grades plus a limited appearance package. You can also browse the current IS 350 lineup to see what’s in stock now. All figures are MSRP, destination included.
| Trim | RWD (MSRP)* | AWD (MSRP)* |
|---|---|---|
| IS 350 F Sport Design | $46,795 | $48,795 |
| IS 350 F Sport | $49,245 | $51,245 |
| F Sport Special Appearance Package | approx. $61,485 | approx. $63,095 |
Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for new vehicles includes manufacturer and distributor options and delivery, process and handling fees, which may be subject to change at any time. MSRP excludes taxes, title, license and dealer installed options, accessories, fees and charges. MSRP is not the dealer advertised price. Dealer price will vary. The dealer sets the final price.
The F Sport Special Appearance Package is a limited-production model (350 units for North America) finished in Hakugin Matte White with black BBS forged 19-inch wheels, Triple-Beam LED headlamps, a moonroof, and a white-and-black NuLuxe interior, with the F Sport Handling Package and Mark Levinson audio included as standard. Lexus has not published a factory MSRP for this limited package; the figures above reflect dealer listings and are approximate — confirm current pricing and availability with the dealership.
As a conventional gasoline vehicle, the IS 350 does not qualify for federal clean-vehicle tax credits. Under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, the federal Clean Vehicle Credit (26 U.S.C. § 30D) ended for vehicles acquired after September 30, 2025 (see the IRS Clean Vehicle Credit page).
Quick Answers Before You Visit
What is the warranty coverage for the 2026 Lexus IS 350?
Every new Lexus includes a 4-year/50,000-mile basic warranty and a 6-year/70,000-mile powertrain warranty. Complimentary maintenance covers the first two factory-recommended service visits (at 6 months/5,000 miles and 12 months/10,000 miles).
This information is provided for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Warranty coverage depends on the specific terms of your vehicle’s warranty agreement. Consult your owner’s manual or a qualified legal professional for guidance on your individual situation.
Does the IS 350 require premium fuel?
Yes. The naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 is designed for premium unleaded (91 octane or higher).
What safety systems come standard?
Every 2026 IS 350 includes Lexus Safety System+ 3.0: pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with steering assist, lane tracing assist, road sign assist, and all-speed dynamic radar cruise control.
What’s the difference between F Sport Design and F Sport?
The F Sport Design focuses on aggressive exterior styling with standard 19-inch wheels. The full F Sport adds sport-oriented upgrades and unlocks eligibility for the F Sport Handling Package (Adaptive Variable Suspension and Torsen limited-slip differential).
Is roadside assistance included?
Yes — LexusCare includes complimentary roadside assistance for the first four years with unlimited miles.
Experience the 2026 Lexus IS 350 F Sport in Temecula
The 2026 IS 350 F Sport is an increasingly rare thing: a luxury sport sedan built around a naturally aspirated V6, sharp handling, and a modernized cabin. Whether you want a refined daily commuter or an engaging weekend driver, our team at Temecula Valley Lexus (42081 DLR Drive, Temecula, CA 92591) is ready to help you compare grades and schedule a test drive.