Lexus has just sharpened the current IS again. The nose is tighter, the cabin cleaner, and the chassis revised as well; it keeps the familiar formula alive a little longer, which probably wasn’t an accident. Still, there`s more beneath the surface, something much bigger that appears to be happening.
The big surprise, according to Japan sources, might be the arrival of the next-generation IS as an electric vehicle, which means that it would ditch the current internal combustion system entirely.
If that holds true, it would mark a clean break for a sedan that has long sat inside Lexus’ traditional lineup. However, that might not be something new; back in 2021, Lexus already previewed its electric future with a sedan concept – the LF-ZC – introduced to the media’s eyes two years later. That was supposed to be a futuristic concept that would inspire the future model from Lexus. And now, with the announcement of the 2027 IS, the model is rumored to draw heavily from that LF-ZC direction, favoring aerodynamics over classic three-box proportions.
Proportions
The next-gen IS is supposed to be around 4,790 mm long, which will bring it a bit closer to the new Lexus ES, with a 5,140 mm length. So it remains compact by brand standards, even if its stance may feel more radical than before.
Powertrain
Under the skin, the reported lineup begins with a single-motor rear-wheel-drive version. Above that, a dual-motor AWD flagship could produce close to 500 horsepower. A steer-by-wire system is considered likely, along with a chassis tuned around the “Lexus Driving Signature” philosophy. Manufacturing may incorporate Tesla-like giga-casting, and the cabin is expected to emphasize advanced connectivity and safety systems.
As for mile range, this is where things become more interesting. Solid-state battery technology is supposed to provide the model with an estimated 620-mile range, which would realistically reshape expectations in the top compact EV segment rather quickly.
Toyota`s plan for the near future is to keep combustion powertrains alongside hybrids and electric vehicles. This plan won`t be followed by Lexus, which thinks that it would be best to stick only to EVs, especially when it comes to far more advanced models, like the new IS.
With regard to the competition of the new IS 2027, there are bound to be some stiff figures ahead. The BMW i3 Neue Klasse could be one of the best predators, and the Audi A4 e-tron and Mercedes-Benz C-Class EQ could demonstrate their higher position in terms of more developed battery systems and higher range of miles.
And if development is as advanced as suggested, Lexus may not stay quiet about its electric sedan plans for much longer.
2027 Lexus Renderings / 2026 Lexus IS 300h – Photo Gallery
