2025 Cadillac CT5 vs 2026 Lexus IS

A relative bargain in the premium midsize car segment, the 2025 CT5 sedan receives several changes to keep it appealing. Mostly, they pertain to technology, and the new 33-inch display containing digital instrumentation and a new infotainment system is the most obvious manifestation of that. In addition, the CT5 gets more standard and available safety features and driver assistance tech, AKG audio, new front-end styling, and a couple of new paint colors.

Verdict: Despite the updates for 2025, the Cadillac CT5 is starting to look and feel like an older car. Also, compared to its rivals, it lacks polish and refinement. However, it is a bargain when cross-shopping it with the Audi A6, BMW 5 Series, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. Its tech is impressive, too.

Lexus refreshed the IS for the 2026 model year, infusing it with the latest digital instrumentation, infotainment, and driver-assistance technologies. It also updated the exterior and interior, re-tuned the steering and suspension, and refined the driving experience. However, the lineup loses the IS 300 with the turbocharged four-cylinder engine and the IS 500 with the thundering 5.0-liter V8, leaving a V6-powered IS 350 with rear-wheel drive (RWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD) as the sole model.

Verdict: The 2026 Lexus IS 350 is enjoyable to drive, exudes quality, and boasts a long-standing reputation for reliability. For those who want a small sports sedan with such characteristics, this is the car.