2026 Lexus IS 350 in Oakland: The Sport Sedan Built for Drivers, Refined for 2026

The Lexus IS has always occupied a specific position in the luxury compact sedan market: the driver’s choice among the Japanese luxury brands, a vehicle that approaches the performance character of its German competitors with the build quality and reliability track record that defines Lexus. The 2026 IS 350 arrives with a meaningful refresh — redesigned exterior, a new 12.3-inch infotainment system, updated instrument cluster, retuned driving dynamics, and a simplified, sharpened lineup — that brings the IS to its most focused expression yet.

Coliseum Lexus of Oakland carries the 2026 IS 350 at 7273 Oakport Street. If a compact luxury sports sedan is what you’re after, this one deserves a test drive before you decide.

The Powertrain: A Naturally Aspirated V6 in a World of Turbo Fours

The 2026 IS 350 makes a choice that’s increasingly unusual in the segment: a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 producing 311 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. In a compact sports sedan class that has largely moved to turbocharged four-cylinders, the IS 350’s V6 delivers a different character — linear power delivery, a distinctive exhaust note, and an engine that rewards driving enthusiasts who appreciate the texture of a naturally aspirated engine over the surge-and-plateau of a turbocharged alternative.

Rear-wheel drive models use an eight-speed Sport Direct Shift automatic transmission — a configuration that emphasizes driver engagement. AWD models use a six-speed automatic. RWD is where the IS 350 makes its most compelling driving case; AWD is the practical choice for buyers who want the IS’s character year-round in variable conditions.

For 2026, Lexus has simplified the IS lineup significantly. The IS 300 (both four-cylinder and V6 variants) and the IS 500 (V8) are discontinued. The IS 350 is the sole engine option, available in two grades — which makes the decision straightforward for buyers.

Two Grades, Both Worth Knowing

The IS 350 F Sport Design opens the 2026 lineup at $46,795 — the entry-level grade with the F Sport exterior and interior treatment, 18-inch BBS wheels, sport seats with enhanced bolstering, and the full technology suite. Available in RWD or AWD (AWD adds $2,000).

The IS 350 F Sport starts at $49,245 in RWD form and adds the F Sport Performance package content — sport-tuned Adaptive Variable Suspension, enhanced front and rear performance hardware, and the additional dynamic capability that makes the IS 350 worth mentioning alongside its German competitors. AWD is available at $51,245. A Special Appearance Package is available on the F Sport grade to commemorate the 2026 launch — black accents, unique exterior treatments, and exclusive interior appointments for buyers who want the most distinctive IS 350 available.

The 2026 Refresh: What’s New

The 2026 IS received a comprehensive exterior redesign — sharper front end with a refined spindle grille, new LED headlights with integrated daytime running lights, and smoother body lines that update the IS’s silhouette without abandoning its distinctive proportions. The cab-rearward stance, long hood, and short deck that emphasize the RWD platform’s sporting intent are retained and enhanced.

Inside, the major technology update is a new 12.3-inch Lexus Interface touchscreen paired with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster — replacing the previous system. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, wireless device charging, and four USB-C ports are standard. Forged Bamboo ornamentation on the center console adds a sophisticated textural element to the cabin. Available Alcantara trim and Radiant Red upholstery options on the F Sport grade extend the personalization choices beyond what was available previously.

Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 Standard

Every 2026 IS 350 comes with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 — the full driver assistance suite including forward collision warning with pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-centering steering, and automatic high beams. The IS 350 also includes Traffic Jam Assist (with Drive Connect subscription trial) for congested freeway situations — relevant for Bay Area buyers who encounter stop-and-go regularly on I-880, I-580, or the Bay Bridge approach.

The IS 350 in the Oakland and East Bay Context

The IS 350 is the kind of vehicle that makes Bay Area driving rewarding rather than merely functional. The hills of Oakland and the Piedmont neighborhood reward a rear-wheel-drive sports sedan’s balance and steering feel. Highway 13, the stretch of 24 through the Caldecott Tunnel, and the coastal routes accessible from the East Bay all give the IS 350’s driving dynamics room to express themselves. For buyers who find the commute more bearable when the car makes it interesting, the IS 350 makes the commute interesting.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2026 Lexus IS 350

What’s new on the 2026 Lexus IS 350?

Redesigned exterior styling, new 12.3-inch touchscreen and instrument cluster, Forged Bamboo interior trim, updated Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, retuned driving dynamics, and a simplified two-grade lineup. The IS 300 and IS 500 are discontinued; the IS 350 V6 is the sole powertrain for 2026.

Is the 2026 IS 350 available with AWD?

Yes — AWD is available on both F Sport Design and F Sport grades. RWD is standard and is the driving enthusiast’s preferred configuration. AWD adds $2,000 to the starting price of each grade.

How does the IS 350 compare to the BMW 3 Series or Mercedes C-Class?

The IS 350’s naturally aspirated V6 gives it a distinctive driving character compared to the turbocharged four-cylinders in the 3 Series and C-Class. The 3 Series has the edge in pure driving dynamics; the IS 350 competes well on refinement and brings Lexus’s reliability advantage to the comparison. The IS 350 starts at a price point that undercuts fully loaded 3 Series and C-Class configurations.

What is the starting price of the 2026 Lexus IS 350?

The IS 350 F Sport Design starts at $46,795 including destination. The F Sport starts at $49,245. AWD adds $2,000 to either. Contact Coliseum Lexus for current pricing and any available incentives.

Can I test drive the 2026 IS 350 at Coliseum Lexus of Oakland?

Yes — contact us at (510) 671-8038 or visit 7273 Oakport Street. We recommend scheduling in advance to ensure the RWD or AWD configuration you want is ready for the drive.

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