Lexus Transformed the LS into a Van and SUV as Sedans Are 'Struggling to Compete'

      Lexus

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      On Wednesday, the West was greeted with reports of a Lexus LS revival revealed at the 2025 Japan Mobility Show. However, it no longer represents the flagship sedan cherished by many. Instead, Lexus has attached the LS name to an unusual six-wheeled van concept and a crossover it's dubbing a "coupe." This seems odd, though it’s not surprising since four-door vehicles have significantly declined in popularity in the United States. It might surprise you that a representative from the company openly admitted that sedans are “fighting a losing battle.”

      When discussing the reasoning behind the LS name reassignment, Ian Cartabiano, President of Toyota’s CALTY Advanced Design, shared with The Drive, “[It’s] time to go for something new. It’s definitely time to try something else. And you never know, in the future, sedans could definitely come back, especially with the younger generation, right? So, we’re not closed to that, but right now, we’re focused on innovating and pushing forward.”

      Cartabiano further explained that Lexus envisions the LS as more of a family of vehicles rather than just a single model.

      “It’s an LS family of flagships,” he said. “It’s not necessarily one answer. Some customers might prefer a more driving-oriented experience. The LS Coupe Concept surpasses the LS [sedan] in interior volume in every aspect. Plus, it boasts a more attractive exterior. Therefore, we’re offering two different options; we’re not restricting our customers to one path.”

      For clarity, Lexus indicates that LS stands for “Luxury Space.”

      Transitioning to this new concept won't happen overnight. The Lexus LS has been recognized as a premium sedan for 36 years before the announcement of its discontinuation in September. It has a strong presence in the minds of luxury car buyers and enthusiasts who value its renowned reliability and solid construction. And who can forget the impressive Bose suspension prototype that could literally leap over obstacles?

      While Cartabiano hinted that the six-wheeled LS van might see production, I doubt it will ever make it to the U.S. market. Americans tend to prefer spacious, comfortable SUVs over executive vans. However, that crossover being labeled as the LS Coupe? Absolutely. We’ll just have to wait and see if Lexus decides to redefine the LS brand in the U.S. It certainly wouldn’t be the first instance of an automaker pursuing a strategy like this.

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