Bryan McAllister’s personal reference notebook
September 13, 2026Short & citedBlog
Civic Viewpoint.
A quiet encyclopedia with a personal desk
How It Works • 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.

Updated September 13, 20261 min readCited sources

The Lexus LS is a full-size luxury sedan that has served as Lexus’s flagship model since the brand launched in 1989. Multiple sources report that the 2026 model year is the last for the LS sedan.

What it is

The Lexus LS is the flagship sedan of Lexus, 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.

Key details

The current fifth-generation LS uses a twin-turbocharged 3.4-litre V6 in the LS 500, rated at 416 hp and 442 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic. A hybrid LS 500h is offered with a 3.5-litre V6 hybrid powertrain (354 net hp). The LS is available with rear-wheel drive 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.

In short

  • Lexus LS launched in 1989 as the brand’s first model.
  • Early generations used V8 engines; current generation uses a twin-turbo V6 or hybrid V6.
  • LS 500 makes 416 hp; LS 500h makes 354 net hp.
  • 2026 is the final model year for the LS sedan.
Canadian angle

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.

Quick questions

What is the Lexus LS?
The Lexus LS is a full-size luxury sedan and the flagship model of Lexus.
What engine options are available?
The LS 500 uses a twin-turbocharged 3.4-litre V6 (416 hp), and the LS 500h uses a 3.5-litre V6 hybrid system (354 net hp).
Is the Lexus LS still in production?
Yes, but multiple sources state that 2026 is the final model year for the LS sedan.

Sources

  1. Car and Driverhttps://www.caranddriver.com/lexus/ls
    Supports: Current LS powertrain, standard AWD on reviewed model, and report that 2026 is the final model year.
  2. Lexushttps://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.
  3. The Car Connectionhttps://www.thecarconnection.com/cars/lexus_ls
    Supports: Current LS engine specifications, available features, and driver-assistance technology.
  4. Wikipediahttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lexus_LS
    Supports: Background on the LS as Lexus’s flagship sedan since 1989 and early-generation drivetrain layout.
  5. MotorTrendhttps://www.motortrend.com/cars/lexus/ls
    Supports: Model-year lineup, engine output, and note that the 2025/2026 LS is in its later lifecycle.
  6. Edmundshttps://www.edmunds.com/lexus/ls/
    Supports: 2026 Heritage Edition trim and the report that 2026 is the final year for the LS.
  7. The Drivehttps://www.thedrive.com/car-reviews/2025-lexus-ls-review
    Supports: Generation history, current powertrain, and report that 2026 is the final year.