The Japanese flagship sedan looks the same, but you can now get the F Sport trim with optional red brake calipers
The 2026 model year brings yet another update to the long-serving Lexus LS, giving the flagship sedan a modest refresh in Japan. While the overall design and mechanical package carry over, the latest version gains additional standard equipment and a new detail for its sporty trim.
The fifth-generation LS has been around since 2017, but received a comprehensive facelift in 2020 along with additional tech and safety upgrades in 2023. For 2026, Lexus made the White Nova Glass Flake and Deep Blue Mica exterior shades standard on all grades.
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Furthermore, the optional brake calipers of the F Sport trim are now finished in red, combined with silver Lexus branding. The interior remains unchanged with the digital instrument cluster and the infotainment display both measuring 12.3 inches. However, the heated front and rear seats are now standard equipment across the lineup.
The Japanese-spec LS offers a choice between gasoline and self-charging hybrid powertrains. The LS500 is fitted with a twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 producing 415 hp (309 kW / 420 PS). On the other hand, the LS500h combines a 3.5-liter V6 with two electric motors, generating 354 hp (264 kW / 359 PS). Both variants are available in RWD and AWD configurations.
The 2026 LS is now available to order in Japan. Pricing starts from ¥11,110,000 ($74,700) for the entry-level LS500 I Package and climbs to ¥17,730,000 ($119,200) for the flagship LS500h AWD Executive. Compared to the outgoing model, prices have been increased by ¥150,000 ($1,000) or ¥170,000 ($1,150) across the lineup.
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With the new generation Lexus ES sedan being labeled as a “global flagship” for the brand, the role of the LS is limited to a niche product offered in select markets. Besides Japan, the flagship sedan is still available in North America and certain European markets after being discontinued from the UK earlier this year.
What Comes Next?
The future of the LS remains uncertain. Lexus may continue to issue incremental updates, commit to a full redesign, or eventually step back from the traditional full-size luxury sedan market altogether.
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Thanos Pappas, a product design engineer by trade, has been wading through automotive journalism for… Read full bio

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