Technically, the 2026 Lexus IS 350 is a compact luxury sedan, but it really is a mini racecar that acts like an everyday car with a lot of get-up-and-go and a fair amount of practicality, assuming you and your significant other are of average height and weight.

Indeed, this is a sportscar disguised as a small sedan.  If you want something racy but need it to be user-friendly for most of your days, this is worth considering. But know upfront that trunk space and backseat passenger space is at a premium.

It takes just under 6 seconds for this year’s IS 350 to go from 0 to 60. Yeah, sure, if you really are trying to win at the races, this may not work for you, but if you are trying to grab that last parking space at the laundromat, well, hmm, this is something to consider, perhaps.

This little powerhouse comes standard with 311 horses, a V6 engine and Rear-Wheel Drive. That’s a lot of power to pack into a compact sedan, and perhaps a little too much power.  But you will definitely feel it once you hit the gas.  All-Wheel Drive is available.

Effectively, there are just three trim levels for the 2026 IS 350, and they are all known as F-Sport.

For those unfamiliar with F-Sport, it is the racing, performance trim that Toyota designates for all its fast and flashy cars. When you get an F-Sport trim, it will usually have exterior accents like black front bumpers and mesh grilles, along with special badging. Sport-tuned suspensions and steering will also be included.

The base F-Sport Design trim starts around $46K US and, along with the special badging and racing gear, has 19-inch alloy wheels, dual 12.3-inch displays, heated front seats and synthetic leather upholstery.

I tested the midrange regular ole F-Sport trim, which starts around $48K US.  This one-up trim adds ventilated front seats, memory seats for the driver and a heated steering wheel.

There is also a Special Appearance Package this year, limited to just 350 in North America. This trim adds some even cooler-looking exterior features, which make this luxury compact look even racier and, well, more of a standout than it already is.

Perhaps the biggest downside to the IS 350 is its interior room.  Effectively, you get about 11 cubic feet of cargo room with the backseats up, but with the 60/40 split seats in back, you can squeak out a bit more cargo space. Sorta.

To be sure, the backseats really are cramped, even if you are lean, seen and compete ever year in the Pride 5K. As for your pets, well, even your Pomeranians might want you to upgrade to something more small-town looking.

But I say check it out, drive it, see what you think.  See what you can finance.  Don’t have this as your one and only vehicle. I had fun with the car, sure. You can’t have fun, every day. Or can you?

Where are we at in the world today? Where are we at in the car world right now? Honesty, those deep questions are beyond pay grade, and as a living breathing citizen of the world, you don’t need me to tell you what’s going on.

But I do need you to keep me informed on all you know.

Again, how did we get here?