Technology & Internet • Automotive

Lexus LS

The Lexus LS is a full-size luxury sedan that has served as Lexus’s flagship model since the brand launched in 1989.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

The Lexus LS is a full-size luxury sedan that has served as Lexus’s flagship model since the brand launched in 1989. The current generation uses a twin-turbocharged V6, and Lexus has indicated that the 2026 model year is the last for the LS sedan. The LS is known for comfort, quietness, and advanced features.

Overview

The Lexus LS is the flagship sedan of Lexus and is positioned as the brand’s most luxurious full-size car. It is known for comfort, quietness, and advanced features, and it has been sold since 1989.

History

The LS launched alongside Lexus in 1989 and helped establish the brand in the luxury-car market. The first four generations used V8 engines and were mostly rear-wheel-drive.

Current generation

The fifth-generation LS, introduced for the 2018 model year, moved to a twin-turbo V6 and a 10-speed automatic transmission. It is available in LS 500 and LS 500h forms, with rear-wheel or all-wheel drive depending on trim.

Final model year

Lexus and multiple automotive publications report that the 2026 LS is the last model year for the sedan. Coverage describes a limited final configuration, including the Heritage Edition trim.

Key facts

The Lexus LS is a full-size luxury sedan and the flagship model of Lexus.
The LS has been Lexus’s flagship sedan since the brand’s debut in 1989.
The current LS 500 uses a twin-turbocharged 3.4-litre V6 rated at 416 hp and 442 lb-ft of torque.
Multiple sources report that 2026 is the final model year for the LS sedan.
The LS is a five-passenger, full-size luxury sedan with a focus on comfort and refinement.

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Canadian context

The Lexus LS is sold in Canada as part of Lexus’s luxury sedan lineup, and Canadian coverage often tracks its pricing, equipment, and final model-year status.

Frequently asked questions

What is the Lexus LS?

The Lexus LS is a full-size luxury sedan and the flagship model of Lexus.

When was the Lexus LS introduced?

The Lexus LS was introduced in 1989.

What engine does the Lexus LS use now?

The LS 500 uses a twin-turbocharged 3.4-litre V6, while the LS 500h uses a 3.5-litre V6 hybrid system.

How much power does the LS 500 make?

The LS 500 is rated at 416 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque.

Is the Lexus LS still in production?

Yes, but multiple sources state that 2026 is the final model year for the LS sedan.

Is the Lexus LS a rear-wheel-drive car?

The LS is available with rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive depending on trim and model year.

References

Car and Driver — https://www.caranddriver.com/lexus/ls
Supports: Current LS powertrain, standard AWD on reviewed model, and report that 2026 is the final model year.
Lexus — https://www.lexus.com/content/dam/lexus/documents/brochures/models/2025/MY25-Lexus-LS-Brochure.pdf
Supports: Official brochure details for LS 500 and LS 500h powertrains and model positioning.
The Car Connection — https://www.thecarconnection.com/cars/lexus_ls
Supports: Current LS engine specifications, available features, and driver-assistance technology.
Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lexus_LS
Supports: Background on the LS as Lexus’s flagship sedan since 1989 and early-generation drivetrain layout.
MotorTrend — https://www.motortrend.com/cars/lexus/ls
Supports: Model-year lineup, engine output, and note that the 2025/2026 LS is in its later lifecycle.
Edmunds — https://www.edmunds.com/lexus/ls/
Supports: 2026 Heritage Edition trim and the report that 2026 is the final year for the LS.
The Drive — https://www.thedrive.com/car-reviews/2025-lexus-ls-review
Supports: Generation history, current powertrain, and report that 2026 is the final year.