2027 Lexus IS Set for Electric Overhaul: Report Suggests Gas Engine Axed

Daily Car

23/02/2026

Rumors are swirling that the next-generation Lexus IS sedan, slated for a 2027 release, will be a radical departure from its predecessors, potentially ditching internal combustion engines entirely for a fully electric powertrain. This move would position the luxury sedan to compete directly with upcoming electric rivals from BMW and Mercedes-Benz.

Key Takeaways

A fully electric 2027 Lexus IS is reportedly in development.
The new model is expected to feature radical styling and a highly aerodynamic design.
Performance targets include up to 500 horsepower and a potential range of 620 miles.
Solid-state battery technology might be employed.
The launch timeline aligns with previous reports of delayed Lexus EV introductions.

A Bold Electric Future For The IS

According to reports, the 2027 Lexus IS will undergo a significant transformation, embracing an all-electric future. This new iteration is expected to be approximately three inches longer than the current model and will boast a futuristic design, significantly more avant-garde than the recently introduced ES sedan. The performance figures are ambitious, with the most potent variant rumored to deliver around 500 horsepower. Furthermore, a target range of an impressive 620 miles (1,000 km) on a single charge suggests the potential integration of advanced solid-state battery technology.

Design and Technology Innovations

The redesigned IS is anticipated to feature a super low-drag body, aiming for a drag coefficient below 0.20 Cd, which would place it among the most aerodynamic production cars globally. This focus on aerodynamics is a hallmark of many modern electric vehicles. The report also indicates the use of giga-cast structural components, a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system, and the implementation of a software-defined vehicle architecture with over-the-air update capabilities, signifying a leap into advanced automotive technology.

Market Positioning and Timeline

This potential shift to an electric-only IS aligns with previous industry speculation. An earlier report from late 2024 suggested that Lexus had postponed the launch of two new electric vehicles to mid-2027. The production version of the aerodynamically focused LF-ZC concept is a strong candidate for this new IS model, fitting the description in terms of size and powertrain. If realized, this new electric IS is expected to be a global model, potentially reaching the U.S. market as a premium alternative to the upcoming electric Toyota Corolla sedan.

2026-02-02

The Capricorn 01 Zagato: A German-Italian-American V8 Supercar Masterpiece

Discover the Capricorn 01 Zagato, a unique V8 supercar blending German engineering, Italian design, and American power, featuring a manual transmission and limited production.