Lexus IS Goes Electric: New All-Electric Model Set for 2026 Launch

In an exciting shift for the luxury sedan market, Lexus has announced that its all-new IS model will transition from a gasoline powertrain to an all-electric platform by 2026. This move marks a significant evolution for the Lexus IS lineup, which has been a staple in the automotive industry since its debut in 1998.

The original Lexus IS, known as the IS 300 in the United States, was introduced as a sporty and luxurious sedan that combined performance with elegance. Its distinctive features included a robust 3.0-liter straight-six engine, sporty proportions, and a wagon variant that made its debut in 2001. Notably, the interior design of the original IS embraced a youthful, boy-racer aesthetic, which was atypical for the Lexus brand. This included unique touches like a chrome metal ball shifter and a chronograph-style instrument panel that appealed to a more performance-oriented audience.

As the IS evolved through its second and third generations, it continued to rely on gasoline engines. The second-generation model, launched in 2005, did away with the wagon option due to lackluster sales and focused on enhancing the luxury experience. It introduced two models in the U.S. market—the IS 250 and IS 350—both powered by a refined 3.5-liter V6 engine. This iteration marked a shift towards a more sophisticated interior, featuring luxurious leather seating, bespoke ambient lighting, and an optional premium sound system developed by Mark Levinson. In 2007, Lexus added the high-performance IS-F model, which was engineered for racing, even competing at the renowned Nurburgring in 2009.

The third-generation IS, which debuted in 2013, was characterized by its controversial ‘spindle grille’ design and modern aesthetics, including LED headlights. This generation also saw the introduction of a hybrid variant, the IS 300h, though it was not available in the U.S. A significant facelift in 2020 refreshed the sedan, enhancing its presence with a larger spindle grille, full-width taillights, and improved connectivity features, such as compatibility with Apple and Android devices.

Fast forward to today, and Lexus is poised to revolutionize the IS lineup once more with the introduction of the fourth-generation model, expected to arrive in showrooms in 2026 as a fully electric vehicle (EV). According to Japan’s Best Car magazine, the new IS will feature a cutting-edge design and advanced technology that aligns with the growing trend toward electric mobility.

A concept model of the upcoming IS was showcased at the Japan Mobility Show last October, revealing a bold and aerodynamic exterior that boasts an impressive drag coefficient of just 0.20. This level of aerodynamics indicates that the vehicle will face minimal resistance, enhancing efficiency and performance. The new IS adopts a more futuristic crossover-inspired design, moving away from traditional sedan proportions to create a dynamic silhouette that will likely attract a wider audience.

One of the most notable changes in the new IS is the reimagining of the iconic spindle grille. In this iteration, the grille is integrated seamlessly into the body design, eliminating the need for a pronounced grille while still retaining the Lexus identity. This modernized aesthetic reflects a commitment to innovation and forward-thinking design principles.

Under the hood, the new IS will feature an all-wheel-drive (AWD) “Direct4” system, allowing for flexible power distribution between the front and rear wheels. This system can adjust the power delivery in a range from 100:0 to 0:100, enhancing traction and performance in various driving conditions. Additionally, the vehicle will incorporate next-generation steer-by-wire technology, enabling more responsive handling and an engaging driving experience.

Another exciting aspect of the new IS is its software capabilities. Lexus plans to utilize the ‘Arene OS’ platform, a state-of-the-art system that allows for over-the-air updates, ensuring that the vehicle remains up to date with the latest features and improvements long after purchase.

While detailed specifications regarding the powertrain remain under wraps, there is anticipation surrounding the potential use of a dedicated EV platform and next-gen solid-state batteries. These advancements are expected to deliver acceleration performance that rivals current electric models from competitors like Mercedes-Benz and BMW. As Lexus transitions into the electric vehicle space, the goal is to maintain the performance and luxury the brand is known for while embracing the benefits of electric mobility.

As for the exterior, the design is expected to undergo further refinement to appeal to a broader market. This balance between innovative design and traditional luxury is key for Lexus as it seeks to attract both loyal customers and new buyers in an increasingly competitive automotive landscape.

In conclusion, Lexus’s decision to transition the IS from gasoline to an all-electric powertrain represents a pivotal moment in the brand’s history. As the automotive industry moves toward electrification, the new IS is set to embody a blend of performance, luxury, and cutting-edge technology, paving the way for a new era of driving. Enthusiasts and potential buyers alike are eagerly anticipating the official launch, which promises to bring a fresh and exciting option to the luxury sedan segment.