BIMS 2026: Refreshed Lexus IS 300h combines hybrid tech with sleek looks
Stylish and eco-friendly 2026 Lexus IS 300h is proof you can compromise
Despite being over a decade old, Lexus still gave its premier sports sedan a major redesign, and it's now in Southeast Asia.
Making its debut in the region is the 2026 Lexus IS, and it made its presence felt at this year's Bangkok International Motor Show. Sporting a refreshed and more dynamic look, this is the third facelift of the third-generation Lexus IS, and it gets some key changes.
In case you didn't notice it from the start, the updated IS no longer gets the brand's signature spindle grille. Not only is it bigger, but the bold redesign gives it a more dynamic look that goes well with the refreshed front bumper and restyled LED headlights & daytime running lights.
The rear largely remains the same, but it now comes with an integrated trunk spoiler, a sportier rear bumper, and dual exhausts. These add-ons are standard on the F Sport variant of the IS 300h and are not equipped on the Luxury model. You read right, the sports sedan is only being offered as a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) in The Land of Smiles, which we'll get to later.
Open the doors, and the IS gets some tech upgrades. For starters, it gets a new 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and an updated touchscreen infotainment system that's also the same size. Unfortunately, the signature analog clock is no more to make room for the larger touchscreen and updated center console. Also getting a redesign are the aircon vents, which now get an angular look instead of the previous circular design.
Also worth mentioning is the new interior color called “Prominence”, which covers the cabin in a nice shade of red. The 2026 IS also comes with the new “Forged Bamboo” trim, which serves as a more eco-friendly alternative to traditional trim accents. Other new features include a wireless charging pad, USB-C charging ports, and updated door trims.
The Thai-spec IS 300h is powered by a 2.5L four-cylinder hybrid engine that puts out a combined 223 PS and is paired with an e-CVT that drives the rear wheels. No V6 options here, as Lexus is focusing on offering electrified variants in Thailand.
We can expect the refreshed Lexus IS to make its way to the Philippines soon. After all, Lexus Philippines has already confirmed its arrival in the country and has even listed the 2026 IS 300h models with the Department of Energy (DOE) as HEVs. The only question now is, could the PH-spec Lexus IS still come with a V6?
