The Luxury Sedan Squeeze
Since the start of the decade, the business case for sedans in the U.S. seems more complicated, let alone full-size luxury ones. Interestingly, the Audi A8 returned to the U.S. for the 2027 model year despite reportedly ending orders in Germany. What did not survive, however, is the Lexus LS, the pioneer in this segment following its debut in 1989. But its story is not over yet.
In Japan, Lexus continues selling the LS and has updated the luxury flagship sedan. The changes are not a full redesign, but they are aimed at improving comfort and refining the driving experience – characteristics that have long defined the nameplate. Moving forward, the vehicle will be available in its LS 500h guise only.
Going All In on Hybrid
That means that the 3.4-liter twin-turbo V6 engine has been dropped in favor of a 3.5-liter V6 hybrid powertrain. The two electric motor-generators help the engine with propulsion, which should also provide smoother operation. It can be paired with either a rear-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive system across the three Japan-spec trims: F Sport, Version L, and Executive.
Lexus reinforced the center tunnel, while the existing rear suspension and luggage braces now use a response-enhancing damping structure to reduce high-frequency vibrations. These changes should help reduce unwanted flex, vibration, and body roll. Moreover, the updates are said to “improve maneuvering stability and ride comfort,” according to the press release. The adaptive variable suspension and electric power steering were also tuned to give the driver a more natural, controllable steering feel.
In addition to the mechanical bits, the Japanese marque is now offering a panoramic roof across the lineup as an option, which not only provides more natural sunlight to the cabin but also adopts a mesh deflector to suppress wind noise when the roof is opened.
An Uncertain Future
Prices start at 14,140,000 Japanese yen, approximately $92,000 at current exchange rates, for the LS 500h F Sport 2WD and go up to 18,050,000 yen (about $118,000) for the LS 500h Executive AWD. It is unclear whether this will be among the final model years, though at least Lexus is still introducing updates for prospective buyers. Following the unveiling of the LS Concept last year, some reports suggest that the LS could turn into a luxurious minivan, a vehicle type that has strong demand in Asia, along with the so-called MPV (multi-purpose vehicle).
In the U.S., the LS departed with the Heritage Edition, a 250-unit limited run celebrating the nameplate’s 36-year history in the market. Lexus still offers two sedans, the IS and ES. No imminent reports suggest either faces the chopping block, so perhaps now is the time to consider one while automakers continue to address slowing demand for sedans.
