The Lexus LS Receives Minimal Updates for 2026, But How Long Will It Last? | Carscoops

      The Japanese flagship sedan maintains its appearance, but now offers the F Sport trim with optional red brake calipers.

      12 hours ago

      by Thanos Pappas

      The 2026 LS in Japan features standard heated seats for both front and rear, in addition to the new red calipers.

      The powertrains remain unchanged, including V6 gasoline and hybrid options in both rear-wheel drive (RWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations.

      Prices have seen a slight increase, now ranging from ¥11 million to ¥17 million ($74,700 to $119,200).

      The 2026 model brings a subtle refresh to the enduring Lexus LS, showing minimal changes in design and mechanics. The latest version adds extra standard features and a new element for its sporty variant.

      The fifth-generation LS has been on the market since 2017, with a significant facelift occurring in 2020, and further technology and safety enhancements introduced in 2023. For 2026, Lexus has made the White Nova Glass Flake and Deep Blue Mica exterior colors standard across all variants.

      Additionally, the optional brake calipers for the F Sport trim are now available in red with silver Lexus branding. The interior remains the same, featuring a digital instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch infotainment display, while heated seats for both the front and rear are now standard throughout the range.

      The Japanese version of the LS provides options for both gasoline and self-charging hybrid powertrains. The LS500 is equipped with a twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 engine delivering 415 hp (309 kW / 420 PS), while the LS500h combines this V6 with two electric motors to produce 354 hp (264 kW / 359 PS). Both variants can be configured as RWD or AWD.

      Orders for the 2026 LS are now open in Japan. The starting price for the base LS500 I Package is ¥11,110,000 ($74,700), reaching up to ¥17,730,000 ($119,200) for the top-tier LS500h AWD Executive. Compared to the previous model, prices have increased by ¥150,000 ($1,000) or ¥170,000 ($1,150) across the lineup.

      With the new generation of the Lexus ES sedan being termed a “global flagship” for the brand, the LS's role has become more niche, offered only in select markets. In addition to Japan, the flagship sedan is still sold in North America and select European regions, having been discontinued in the UK earlier this year.

      What Lies Ahead?

      The future of the LS remains unclear. Lexus might continue to make small updates, pursue a complete redesign, or possibly withdraw from the traditional full-size luxury sedan market altogether.