Credit: LexusNaturally aspirated engines are rapidly disappearing from the modern performance car landscape. With tightening emissions standards and a strong industry shift toward turbocharging and electrification, most sports sedans have abandoned larger, high-revving engines in favor of smaller, forced-induction setups. As a result, the driving character that once defined this segment is becoming increasingly rare.
In today’s market, nearly every mainstream sports sedan relies on turbochargers to deliver power more efficiently and meet regulatory demands. While this approach improves output and fuel economy, it often comes at the expense of linear throttle response and the more predictable power delivery that enthusiasts once valued. The trade-off has reshaped what performance means in this class.
Despite that widespread shift, there are still a few holdouts that preserve the traditional formula. These rare models offer a more analogue driving experience, prioritizing smooth, naturally progressive power over outright forced-induction punch. In a segment now dominated by efficiency-driven engineering, they stand out as reminders of a fading era.
In order to give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article was sourced from various manufacturer websites, including the EPA.
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Even after a major overhaul, Lexus keeps the naturally aspirated V-6 in the IS 350
No other sports sedan has a naturally aspirated engine
Credit: LexusIn today’s era of tightening emissions regulations, naturally aspirated engines are dying off. While some won’t really see the big deal, enthusiasts know that there is something special about an engine that is designed to be revved right to the top. While there are a handful of sports cars left that still have a naturally aspirated engine, the 2026 Lexus IS 350 is the last sports sedan that doesn’t make use of forced induction.
2026 Lexus IS performance specs
Base Trim Engine
3.5-liter V6
Base Trim Transmission
8-Speed Automatic
Base Trim Drivetrain
Rear-Wheel Drive
Base Trim Horsepower
311 HP @6600 RPM
Base Trim Torque
280 lb.-ft. @ 4800 RPM
Make
Lexus
Model
IS
Segment
Compact Luxury Sedan
Lexus has gotten rid of both the inline-four IS 300 and the V-8 IS 500 for the 2026 model year. This leaves the proven V-6-powered IS 350 as the lone option. This naturally aspirated V-6 makes 311 horsepower and 288 pound-feet of torque, which isn’t exceptional in this day and age, but is enough to get it moving quickly. It sends power to the rear wheels as standard, but all-wheel drive is optional. Rear-drive models get an eight-speed automatic, but all-wheel drive models feature a six-speed auto instead.
The IS gets a lot of flak, in general, for being slower than its core rivals. However, it goes from zero to 60 seconds in as little as 5.6 seconds, which is still pretty quick in our books. While it leans a little more towards comfort than sportiness, it still handles well and can be a ton of fun on a twisty back road. A big part of the fun here is the linear power build as you push your way up the rev gauge, something that you only really get from a naturally aspirated car.
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Unfortunately, Lexus’ sports sedan is a little more expensive for 2026
It does get a ton of upgrades, though
If you were looking for an affordable luxury car, the IS has always traditionally been one of the best options out there. It used to undercut its rivals from BMW and Audi by thousands. However, a big reason for this was the existence of the four-cylinder IS 300. With the base model now being an IS 350, Lexus’ compact sedan is no longer the budget-focused option it used to be. That being said, it is a much more complete premium sports sedan, though.
2026 Lexus IS 350 trims and pricing
|
Model |
Average list price |
|---|---|
|
IS 350 F Sport Design |
$46 895 |
|
IS 350 F Sport |
$51 345 |
|
IS 350 F Sport Special Appearance Package |
$61 485 |
The current generation of the IS has been on the road longer than most other cars. Thus, when Lexus announced they were making some changes, we kind of expected a new generation. Instead, however, they have overhauled the interior and given the sedan a facelift. While this might sound like a negative, we think that the IS benefits from its old-school approach, and that the updates to the sedan are enough to keep it feeling modern.
We think that you should skip the F Sport Design and go for the F Sport model instead. This model comes with a sportier suspension tune, some nice interior aesthetic elements, and some heated and ventilated sports seats up front. We would also tack on the F Sport Handling package, which costs $1,090 and gets you a Torsen limited-slip differential and an adaptive variable suspension system.
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Inside, the 2026 IS 350 feels like a much more contemporary sedan
The changes have helped keep it relevant
While the build quality and comfort in the IS has always been top-notch, the outgoing model was definitely starting to show its age from a design point of view. The new model does a lot to fix that. The cabin has evolved in a way that the identity and charm of the IS has been kept intact, but things that made it feel old have been replaced and improved.
Interior dimensions and comfort
|
Front row headroom |
38.2 inches |
|---|---|
|
Front row legroom |
44.8 inches |
|
Second row headroom |
36.9 inches |
|
Second row legroom |
32.2 inches |
|
Cargo capacity |
10.8 cubic feet |
No compact sports sedan feels particularly spacious on the inside, but Lexus’ offering is particularly cramped. While there is plenty of space for even tall people up front, the back seats are basically only good for kids to really be comfortable. Cargo capacity is also on the low side, but there is enough room for a couple of weekend bags. These interior dimensions are identical to the outgoing IS.
Most of the changes to the IS can be seen on the dashboard. Gone is the clunky stack of controls that sat under the infotainment screen, with them being replaced by much cleaner physical switches. The center console has also been neatened up, and that horrible touchpad has been removed. Being a Lexus, build quality is fantastic and you still get all the niceties that you would expect, including really impressive faux-leather upholstery, multi-zone automatic climate control, and power-adjustable front seats.
Infotainment and technology
As mentioned above, the 90s-style trackpad that you used to use to control the infotainment system in the IS has been removed. This is because every 2026 model now comes equipped with an updated 12.3-inch touchscreen. As well as this, a 12.3-inch fully digital gauge display is also standard kit.
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included in every model. The standard sound system on offer is a decent 10-speaker setup, but audiophiles will be pleased by the optional 17-speaker Mark Levinson system that Lexus offers.
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Material
Oxford
Organizer Dimensions
21″L x 14.6″W x 10.3″H
Special Feature
Foldable
This 13.5-gallon trunk organizer features compartments to organize and store groceries, sports equipment, emergency supplies, and other daily essentials.
Not the quickest or the sharpest, but fun in an old-school way
While the IS hasn’t entered a new generation just yet, Lexus has made some pretty substantial changes to the 2026 model which helps keep it competitive in the modern age. They may have also gotten rid of some powertrain options, but they have kept their naturally aspirated V-6 alive. There are plenty of other premium sports sedans that may be quicker off the line or sharper through corners, but none offer the linear power delivery you get in the IS, and in today’s age of forced induction that is nothing to scoff at.
