Did Lexus Sneakily Confirm the LS 500’s Doom? Lexus
The Lexus LS revolutionized the luxury car world upon its arrival in 1989. The market for high-end sedans has changed a lot over the last 36 years, however, with SUV models like RX dominating the carmaker’s sales charts these days instead of sedans. Now, with 2026 just around the corner, Lexus has just dropped a new Heritage Edition trim for the LS 500— which the brand has described as “a final year tribute” to the flagship nameplate.
Officially known as the 2026 Lexus LS 500 AWD Heritage Edition, this special tribute to the LS 400 will be limited to just 250 units in the United States. Every unit will feature the same appointments: a bespoke exterior hue called Ninety Noir, a set of Dark Gray Metallic 20-spoke wheels, and a new-to-LS Rioja Red interior. It’s a rather sinister-looking package, if not one that necessarily conjures images of the first-gen model.
The interior is a real standout, too, especially the new laser-etched wood trim in a much darker shade than series cars. The suede headliner and panoramic roof combo also make for quite the premium-looking experience.
Lexus
Under the hood of the Heritage Edition sits the familiar twin-turbocharged 3.4-liter V-6 engine, which provides 416 hp and 442 lb-ft of torque. A 10-speed automatic transmission backs the engine in this LS application. The full-time all-wheel drive system does employ a Torsen differential, but the car is missing the Dynamic Handling Package goodies from the F-Sport variant.
The LS hasn’t had a great year; Lexus killed it off in the U.K. during the early part of 2025 due to lackluster sales performance, and while the brand hasn’t confirmed any sort of plans to kill off the nameplate, its wording in this particular release seems rather clear.
That said, it’s possible the LS name sticks around in a different way altogether, as brand executives have previously suggested the nameplate could even change segments and become a crossover. Toyota does have a big announcement planned for October 13; perhaps we’ll get to learn a bit more about what Lexus has up its sleeve as well. Until then, you can hand over $99,280 including destination for a chance at one of these Heritage Edition— and apparently final—LS 500 sedans.
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