Compare the 2026 Lexus IS and Audi A5 in Baton Rouge, LA

Luxury sport sedan shoppers have plenty to consider when comparing the 2026 Lexus IS and 2026 Audi A5. At Price LeBlanc Lexus, drivers can explore the 2026 Lexus IS and learn more about its performance, technology, design, and standard safety features.

The 2026 Lexus IS is offered exclusively as the IS 350, with F SPORT Design and F SPORT grades available. It features a 3.5-liter V6 producing 311 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, with rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive configurations available.

The 2026 Audi A5 features a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 268 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, paired with standard quattro® all-wheel drive and a seven-speed S tronic® transmission.

2026 Lexus IS vs. Audi A5 Starting Price

The 2026 Lexus IS 350 F SPORT Design starts at $45,500 MSRP with rear-wheel drive, while the 2026 Audi A5 starts at $50,200 MSRP. Pricing can also vary depending on drivetrain, available equipment, packages, dealer pricing, and applicable incentives. 

Comparing the starting prices alongside each model’s available features and configurations can help you determine which luxury sport sedan best fits your needs and budget.

Explore the differences between the 2026 Lexus IS and Audi A5 below, then visit Price LeBlanc Lexus at 13200 Airline Highway in Baton Rouge, LA, to learn more about the new 2026 Lexus IS.

Get to Know the New 2026 Lexus IS Near Gonzales, LA

The 2026 Lexus IS receives refreshed exterior styling, a restyled interior, and new technology while continuing the model’s focus on sport-sedan performance. For 2026, the IS lineup is offered exclusively as the IS 350, available in F SPORT Design and F SPORT grades.

Refreshed Sport Sedan Design

The 2026 Lexus IS features an updated front design, a low center of gravity, and a wide stance. Both F SPORT grades receive newly styled 19-inch lightweight aluminum wheels. The F SPORT grade also offers an available rear spoiler and optional red brake calipers.

Driver-Focused Technology

Inside, the 2026 Lexus IS features a 12.3-inch Lexus Interface touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. The cabin also includes updated interior details, including available Forged Bamboo ornamentation. Every 2026 IS comes equipped with a 10-speaker Lexus Premium Sound system, while a 17-speaker Mark Levinson® system is available.

Standard Lexus Safety System+ 3.0

Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 is standard on every 2026 Lexus IS. The system includes technologies such as Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Full-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Tracing Assist, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Road Sign Assist, Automatic High Beams, and Proactive Driving Assist.

V6 Performance

Every 2026 Lexus IS is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 producing 311 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. Rear-wheel-drive models use an eight-speed Sport Direct Shift automatic transmission, while all-wheel-drive models use a six-speed automatic transmission.

Two Available Grades

The 2026 Lexus IS is available in two grades:

• IS 350 F SPORT Design
• IS 350 F SPORT

Both grades can be configured with rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.

2026 Lexus IS and Audi A5 Performance

The 2026 Lexus IS and 2026 Audi A5 take different approaches to luxury sport-sedan performance. The Lexus IS uses a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6, while the Audi A5 uses a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. The Lexus offers a choice between rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive, while quattro® all-wheel drive is standard on the A5.

The 2026 Lexus IS Highlights:

• 3.5-liter V6 engine
• 311 horsepower
• 280 lb-ft of torque
• Rear-wheel drive or available all-wheel drive
• Eight-speed automatic transmission on RWD models
• Six-speed automatic transmission on AWD models
• F SPORT Design and F SPORT grades

The 2026 Audi A5 Highlights:

• Turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine
• 268 horsepower
• 295 lb-ft of torque
• Standard quattro® all-wheel drive
• Seven-speed S tronic® transmission
• Available S sport suspension
• Available technology and performance-oriented packages

The two sedans therefore differ in both powertrain configuration and drivetrain availability. The 2026 Lexus IS offers a V6 engine and a choice of RWD or AWD, while the 2026 Audi A5 combines its turbocharged four-cylinder engine with standard quattro® all-wheel drive.

2026 Lexus IS and Audi A5 Technology Features

Both the 2026 Lexus IS and 2026 Audi A5 incorporate modern digital displays and smartphone connectivity into their cabins.

The 2026 Lexus IS:

• 12.3-inch Lexus Interface touchscreen
• 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
• Standard 10-speaker Lexus Premium Sound
• Available 17-speaker Mark Levinson® audio
• Wireless smartphone charging
• USB Type-C charging ports
• Available Panoramic View Monitor on select configurations

The 2026 Audi A5:

• 11.9-inch Audi virtual cockpit
• 14.5-inch MMI® touch display
• Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™
• Available Bang & Olufsen® Premium Sound
• Available 10.9-inch MMI® passenger display
• Available head-up display
• Available adaptive cruise assist

Why Choose the 2026 Lexus IS for Technology?

For shoppers who want a luxury sport sedan with a strong collection of technology included from the start, the 2026 Lexus IS offers a straightforward package. Every IS includes two 12.3-inch digital displays, a 10-speaker Lexus Premium Sound system, wireless smartphone charging, and USB Type-C ports. The available 17-speaker Mark Levinson® system adds another premium technology option for drivers seeking upgraded audio.

The Audi A5 counters with a larger 14.5-inch central touchscreen and available Bang & Olufsen® premium audio. However, the 2026 Lexus IS distinguishes itself by combining its dual 12.3-inch displays with several convenience and audio features included as standard equipment.

2026 Lexus IS and Audi A5 Safety Features

The 2026 Lexus IS comes standard with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, giving every IS the same core suite of active safety and driver-assistance technologies.

The 2026 Lexus IS Safety Highlights:

• Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
• Full-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
• Lane Tracing Assist
• Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
• Road Sign Assist
• Automatic High Beams
• Proactive Driving Assist
• Left Turn Oncoming Vehicle Detection/Braking
• Risk Avoidance Emergency Steer Assist

The 2026 Audi A5 also offers a range of driver-assistance technologies. Audi lists adaptive cruise assist, lane guidance, and parking assistance among its technology offerings. Feature availability can vary by configuration and package.

When comparing these systems, shoppers should review the specific equipment included with each vehicle and configuration, as Audi’s available driver-assistance technologies can vary by package.

2026 Lexus IS and Audi A5 Design and Comfort

The 2026 Lexus IS receives updated exterior styling designed around its low, wide sport-sedan proportions. The interior has also been refreshed with a driver-focused layout, updated trim, and larger digital displays.

The 2026 Audi A5 takes a different design approach, featuring a sweeping roofline, flush door handles, LED lighting, and a standard panoramic glass roof. Available packages can add sport-oriented exterior and interior details, including S line styling and sport seats.

2026 Lexus IS Design Highlights:

• Refreshed front-end design
• Low, wide sport-sedan stance
• Newly styled 19-inch lightweight aluminum wheels
• Available rear spoiler
• Optional red brake calipers
• Available Radiant Red interior
• Available Forged Bamboo interior ornamentation

2026 Audi A5 Design Highlights:

• Sweeping roofline
• Flush door handles
• Standard LED headlights
• Standard panoramic glass roof
• Standard 18-inch wheels
• Available 19-inch wheels
• Available S line black optic package
• Available S sport suspension

Comparing the 2026 Lexus IS Near Lafayette, LA

If you’re shopping for a luxury sport sedan in Baton Rouge, Gonzales, Prairieville, Denham Springs, or Lafayette, the 2026 Lexus IS offers a combination of V6 performance, available all-wheel drive, updated technology, and standard Lexus Safety System+ 3.0.

Comparing the two models in person can help you evaluate their seating, technology interfaces, driving characteristics, and available equipment before making a purchase decision.

Ready to Explore the New 2026 Lexus IS? 

Visit Price LeBlanc Lexus at 13200 Airline Highway, Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70817 to explore our Lexus lineup and speak with our team about the IS 350.

We proudly serve drivers from Baton Rouge, Gonzales, Prairieville, Denham Springs, and Lafayette, Louisiana. Visit us to explore available Lexus models, review current inventory, discuss financing options, and experience the 2026 Lexus IS for yourself.

Contact Price LeBlanc Lexus today to learn more about the 2026 Lexus IS and schedule your visit.

 

DISCLAIMERS: 

Starting MSRP includes the Delivery, Processing and Handling fee (DPH), which is subject to change at any time. Excludes manufacturer and dealer options, taxes, title and license, and dealer fees and charges. Dealer price will vary.

As shown MSRP may include price of certain manufacturer options and/or higher grade and includes the Delivery, Processing and Handling fee (DPH), which is subject to change at any time. Excludes other manufacturer and dealer options, taxes, title and license, and dealer fees and charges. Dealer price will vary.

Ratings achieved using required premium unleaded gasoline w/ an octane rating of 91 or higher. If premium fuel is not used, performance will decrease. Horsepower may vary depending on accessories added to vehicle.

EPA-estimated 19city/27hwy/22comb MPG rating for 2026 Lexus IS 350. Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary for many reasons, including your vehicle’s condition and how/where you drive. See

Performance figures are for comparison only and were obtained with prototype vehicles by professional drivers.

Lexus Interface display may not reflect most recent over-the-air enhancements.

Lexus Interface Services vary by vehicle and are subject to change at any time without notice. Services depend on 4G network availability, a cellular connection, and GPS signal. Without any one or more of these things, operability may be limited or precluded, including access to response center and emergency support. Further, if and when the 4G network changes or is discontinued, or the underlying technology required to support service becomes obsolete, then Connected Services will not work, and Lexus will need to discontinue impacted services. Services also require account registration through the Lexus app and acceptance of Connected Services Terms of Use and Master Data Consent. Data charges may apply. For Lexus Interface Services’ vehicle-generated data collection, use, sharing and retention practices and agreements, see https://www.lexus.com/privacy.

Accessories may vary by model year, not be available in all regions of the country, or require a special order. Please see your dealer for availability.

For accessories purchased at the time of the new vehicle purchase, the Lexus Accessory Warranty coverage is in effect for 48 months/50,000 miles from the vehicle’s in-service date, which is the same coverage as the new vehicle Basic Warranty. For accessories purchased after new vehicle purchase and installed by a Lexus dealer, the coverage is 12 months for the parts and labor, regardless of mileage, from the date the accessory was installed on the vehicle, or the remainder of any applicable new vehicle warranty, whichever provides greater coverage. Accessories purchased over the counter are covered for 12 months from the date of purchase. Refer to your Lexus accessory limited warranty or documentation that accompanies accessory purchase for coverage and conditions.

Accessory shown is not designed, manufactured or evaluated by Lexus. The accessory and any damage to other components or altered performance of the vehicle that may be caused by the accessory is not covered by your vehicle’s warranty and Lexus disclaims all liability therefor. For information on the applicable third-party warranty, see manufacturer’s warranty site.

Lexus Safety System effectiveness depends on many factors including road, weather and vehicle conditions. Drivers are responsible for paying attention to their surroundings and driving safely. See Owner’s Manual for limitations.

24/7 Roadside Assistance coverage is 4 years/unlimited mileage. Does not include parts and fluids, except limited emergency gas delivery. Towing to the nearest Lexus dealer. Restrictions apply. Available in the continental U.S. and Canada. See Lexus dealer for details and exclusions.

Wireless Apple CarPlay® requires a compatible iPhone with an active data plan. Check compatibility at https://www.apple.com/ios/carplay/. Services also require an active compatible cellular network, a cellular network connection, and GPS signal. Services vary by vehicle and are subject to change at any time without notice. Data charges may apply. To learn more, go to https://lexusconnectedtechnologysupport.com/lexus/home. To learn more about Lexus’ connected services data collection, use, sharing and retention practices, please visit https://www.lexus.com/privacy. Apple CarPlay and iPhone are registered trademarks of Apple Inc.

Wireless Android Auto requires a compatible Android® 11.0+ phone and active data plan. Check g.co/androidauto/requirements for compatibility. Services also require an active compatible cellular network, a cellular network connection, and GPS signal. Services vary by vehicle and are subject to change at any time without notice. Data charges may apply. To learn more, go to https://lexusconnectedtechnologysupport.com/lexus/home. To learn more about Lexus’ connected services data collection, use, sharing and retention practices, please visit https://www.lexus.com/privacy. Android and Android Auto are trademarks of Google LLC.

Lexus Interface Services vary by vehicle and are subject to change at any time without notice. Services depend on 4G network availability, a cellular connection, and GPS signal. Without any one or more of these things, operability may be limited or precluded, including access to response center and emergency support. Further, if and when the 4G network changes or is discontinued, or the underlying technology required to support service becomes obsolete, then Connected Services will not work, and Lexus will need to discontinue impacted services. Services also require account registration through the Lexus app and acceptance of Connected Services Terms of Use and Master Data Consent. Data charges may apply. For Lexus Interface Services’ vehicle-generated data collection, use, sharing and retention practices and agreements, see https://www.lexus.com/privacy.

The Pre-Collision System (PCS) with Pedestrian Detection (PD) is designed to help reduce the crash speed and damage in certain frontal collisions involving a vehicle, a pedestrian, bicyclist or motorcyclist. PCS w/PD is not a substitute for safe and attentive driving. System effectiveness depends on many factors, such as speed, size and position of vehicle, pedestrian, bicyclist or motorcyclist, and weather, light, and road conditions. See Owner’s Manual for limitations.

Dynamic Radar Cruise Control is not a substitute for safe and attentive driving. See Owner’s Manual for instructions and limitations.

Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist is designed to read visible lane markers under certain conditions. It provides a visual/audible alert and slight steering force when lane departure is detected. It is not a collision-avoidance system or substitute for safe and attentive driving. Effectiveness depends on many factors including road, weather and vehicle conditions. See Owner’s Manual for limitations.

The Lane Tracing Assist (LTA) lane centering function is designed to read visible lane markers and detect other vehicles under certain conditions. It is only operational when DRCC is engaged. See Owner’s Manual for limitations.

Dynamic Radar Cruise Control is not a substitute for safe and attentive driving. See Owner’s Manual for instructions and limitations.

Road Sign Assist only recognizes certain road signs. See Owner’s Manual for limitations.

Automatic High Beams operate at speeds above 21 mph. See Owner’s Manual for instructions and limitations.

Proactive Driving Assist (PDA) is designed to detect certain objects or curves in the road and provide gentle braking and/or steering support. PDA is not a substitute for safe and attentive driving. System effectiveness depends on many factors, such as speed, size and position of detected objects and weather, light, and road conditions. See Owner’s Manual for additional limitations and details.