Naturally aspirated engines are rapidly disappearing from the modern performance automobile landscape. With increasingly stringent 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 increasingly rare.
In today’s market, almost all conventional sports sedans rely 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 the linear throttle response and more predictable power delivery that enthusiasts once valued. Compensation has reshaped what performance means in this class.
Despite this widespread change, there are still some who resist preserving the traditional formula. These rare models offer a more analogue driving experience, prioritizing smooth, naturally progressive power over forced induction power. In a segment now dominated by efficiency-driven engineering, they stand out as reminders of a fading era.
To provide you with the most up-to-date and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article was obtained from various manufacturer websites, including the EPA.
Even after a major overhaul, Lexus is keeping the naturally aspirated V-6 in the IS 350.
No other sports sedan has a naturally aspirated engine.
In today’s era of stricter emissions regulations, naturally aspirated engines are disappearing. While some won’t really see the big deal, enthusiasts know that there’s something special about an engine that’s designed to go full throttle. While there are a few sports cars left that still have a naturally aspirated engine, the 2026 Lexus IS 350 is the last sports sedan to not use forced induction.
2026 Lexus IS Performance Specs
- Basic tuning motor
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3.5 liter V6
- Base Fit Transmission
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8 speed automatic
- Base trim powertrain
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rear wheel drive
- Base Adjustment Horsepower
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311 horsepower at 6600 rpm
- Base tightening torque
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280 foot-pounds. @ 4800RPM
- Do
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lexus
- Model
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IS
- Segment
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Compact luxury sedan
Lexus has ditched both the IS 300 inline-four and the V-8 ES 500 for the 2026 model year. This leaves the proven IS 350 with V-6 engine as the only option. This naturally aspirated V-6 makes 311 horsepower and 288 pound-feet of torque, which isn’t exceptional today, but it’s enough to get you moving quickly. It sends power to the rear wheels as standard, but all-wheel drive is optional. Rear-wheel drive models have an eight-speed automatic, but all-wheel drive models have a six-speed automatic.
ISIS receives a lot of criticism, in general, for being slower than its main rivals. However, it goes from zero to 60 seconds in just 5.6 seconds, which is still pretty quick in our books. While it leans a little more toward comfort than sportiness, it still handles well and can be a lot of fun on a twisty back road. A big part of the fun here is the linear power generation as you climb the rev counter, something you really only get from a naturally aspirated car.
Unfortunately, Lexus’ sports sedan is a little more expensive by 2026
However, it gets a ton of updates.
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 BMW and Audi rivals by thousands. However, a big reason for this was the existence of the four-cylinder IS 300. Since the base model is now an IS 350, Lexus’ compact sedan is no longer the budget-focused option it used to be. That said, It is a much more complete premium sports sedan.although.
Models and prices of the 2026 Lexus IS 350
|
Model |
Average list price |
|---|---|
|
IS 350 F Sporty design |
$46,895 |
|
IS 350 F sport |
$51,345 |
|
IS 350 F Sport Special Appearance Package |
$61,485 |
The current generation IS has been on the road longer than most other cars. So when Lexus announced it was making some changes, we expected a new generation. Instead, however, they have revised the interior and given the sedan a facelift. While this may seem like a negative, we think the IS benefits from its old-school approach and that the sedan’s updates are enough to make it feel modern.
We think you should skip the F Sport Design and go for the F Sport model. This model comes with a sportier suspension, some nice interior cosmetic elements, and some heated and ventilated sport seats in the front. We’d also add the F Sport Handling package, which costs $1,090 and gives you a Torsen limited-slip differential and an adaptive variable suspension system.
Inside, the 2026 IS 350 looks like a much more contemporary sedan
The changes have helped keep it relevant.
While the build quality and comfort of the IS have always been top-notch, the outgoing model was definitely starting to show its age from a design standpoint. The new model does a lot to solve that problem. The cabin has evolved in such a way that the identity and charm of the IS has been kept intact, but elements that made it look old have been replaced and improved.
Interior dimensions and comfort.
|
Free space for the first row |
38.2 inches |
|---|---|
|
Front row legroom |
44.8 inches |
|
Second row clearance |
36.9 inches |
|
Second row legroom |
32.2 inches |
|
Load capacity |
10.8 cubic feet |
No compact sport sedan seems particularly roomy inside, but Lexus’ offering is particularly slim. While there’s plenty of room in the front even for tall people, the rear seats are basically only there to make kids really comfortable. Cargo capacity is also low, but there is enough space for a couple of weekend suitcases. These interior dimensions are identical to those of the outgoing IS.
Most of the changes to the IS can be seen on the dashboard. Gone is the clunky stack of controls below the infotainment screen, replaced by much cleaner physical switches. The center console has also been cleaned up and that horrible touchpad has been removed. Being a Lexus, the build quality is fantastic and you still get all the niceties you’d expect, including truly impressive faux leather upholstery, multi-zone automatic climate control and electrically adjustable front seats.
Infotainment and technology
As mentioned above, the ’90s-style trackpad you used to use to control the infotainment system in the IS has been removed. That’s because all 2026 models now come equipped with an updated 12.3-inch touchscreen. In addition to this, a 12.3-inch fully digital gauge display is also standard kit.
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included on all models. The standard sound system on offer is a decent 10-speaker setup, but audiophiles will be pleased with the optional 17-speaker Mark Levinson system offered by Lexus.
- Material
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oxford
- Organizer dimensions
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21″L x 14.6″W x 10.3″H.
- Special feature
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folding
This 13.5-gallon trunk organizer features compartments to organize and store food, sports equipment, emergency supplies, and other daily essentials.
It’s not the fastest or the smartest, but it’s fun in an old-school way.
While the IS hasn’t entered a new generation yet, Lexus has made some pretty substantial changes to the 2026 model that help keep it competitive in the modern era. They may have gotten rid of some powertrain options as well, but they’ve kept their naturally aspirated V-6 alive. There are plenty of other premium sport sedans that may be quicker off the line or tighter through corners, but none offer the linear power delivery you get in the IS, and in today’s era of forced induction that’s nothing to scoff at.
