The car that started it all for Lexus is about to be retired in its key market, with a final run of limited editions set to see out the current-generation LS limousine in the US.
Lexus USA has announced the 2026 LS500 AWD Heritage Edition, a “final year tribute” to the nameplate that launched the Japanese luxury marque 36 years ago.
Limited to just 250 units in the US, the Lexus LS500 AWD Heritage Edition is headlined by a new Lexus-first exterior paint colour, Ninety Noir, as well as an LS-first interior finish called Rioja Red.
Other specification highlights include 20-inch alloy wheels in Dark Gray Metallic, and an LS Heritage Edition emblem on the centre console as well as on the head restraints.
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“Over the past 36 years, the Lexus LS has defined what a flagship luxury sedan should be: the perfect balance of performance, innovation, and timeless comfort,” Lexus said in its accompanying media release.
“This special edition is a statement to the LS’s remarkable journey, celebrating the craftsmanship, innovation, and passion that have defined it from day one.”
The 2026 Lexus LS500 AWD Heritage Edition is priced from US$99,280 (A$151,785), and is due to arrive in American dealerships “this fall” (September-November).
As with the regular LS500, power comes from a 3.4-litre twin-turbo petrol V6 outputting 310kW. Drive is sent to all four wheels via a 10-speed automatic transmission, with 0-60mph (0-97km/h) acceleration taking a claimed 4.6 seconds.
Lexus Australia has confirmed with CarExpert that the discontinuation of the LS for the North American market has no impact locally, with the big Japanese limo safe Down Under “for the foreseeable future”.
The Lexus LS is currently offered in 500 and 500h engine variants – the latter powered by a more efficient V6 hybrid drivetrain – across F Sport and Sports Luxury trims.
Pricing starts from $199,850 plus on-road costs for the LS500h F Sport, and tops out at $207,940 before on-roads for the LS500 Sports Luxury.
The LS first arrived in Australia in 1990, when Toyota launched its premium brand here, and has been a mainstay in the range as the flagship Lexus limousine ever since.