Should you wait for the new Lexus LS? A complete guide to the 2026 full model change

There is a growing possibility that Lexus’ flagship sedan, the Lexus LS, will undergo its first full model change in about nine years in 2026. For those currently considering purchasing an LS, an important decision will be whether to wait for the new model or buy the current model.

In this article, we will provide detailed information on the latest information on the 2026 Lexus LS model , comparing it with the current model, and tips on when to buy.

1. Overview of the 2026 Lexus LS full model change

Release date forecast

The Lexus LS is currently in its fifth generation, which debuted in 2017. Since the Lexus LS generally has a model change cycle of about 8 to 10 years, it is highly likely that a new model will be released between late 2026 and early 2027 .

Development Background

The development of the new LS was driven by three major trends:

2. Expected evolution points of the new LS

Renewed exterior design

The new LS is expected to feature a more advanced and sophisticated exterior based on Lexus’ latest design language .

Major expected changes:

• Further evolution of the spindle grille
• Sharp and futuristic LED headlights
• Body lines that emphasize aerodynamic performance
• A sportier and more powerful side silhouette

Powertrain Innovation

A variety of powertrain options are expected to be available , aiming to achieve both environmental friendliness and driving performance .

Expected lineup

1. Newly developed 3.5L V6 twin-turbo engine (LS500)

• Maximum output: 400ps or more
• 0-100km/h acceleration: about 4.6 seconds
• Improved fuel efficiency

1. Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV)

• EV driving range: 50-80km
• Total system output: 450ps or more
• Significant improvement in fuel economy

1. Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV)

• Range: Over 500km
• Fast charging compatible
• Completely zero-emission driving

Significant evolution of the interior

The ultimate in comfortable space is planned to be realized, further deepening the spirit of “omotenashi” (hospitality) .

Highlights:

• Equipped with a large display of over 15 inches
• Latest infotainment system
• Advances in AI voice assistants
• Use of higher quality materials
• Ergonomic seat design

Major improvements to Highway Teammate

Highway Teammate , the autonomous driving assistance technology installed in the current LS , will become even more advanced.

Predicted evolution:

• Wider range of automated driving assistance
• Enhanced driving assistance functions for public roads
• Personal optimization with AI learning function
• Supports OTA (Over-The-Air) updates

Specific new features

1. The evolution of Advanced Drive

• Consideration for adjacent vehicles
• More natural lane changes
• Dealing with complex traffic situations

1. Advanced Park expansion

• 360-degree monitoring system
• Remote parking function
• Assistance in getting in and out of narrow parking lots

State-of-the-art safety technology

The Lexus Safety System+ has been further improved to provide even greater safety.

Key safety features:

• High-precision nighttime pedestrian detection
• Intersection Collision Avoidance Assist
• Driver Monitoring System
• Automatic emergency stop function

3. Comparison between the current model and the new model

Features of the current LS (2017 onwards)

What makes it great:

• Incredible quietness and ride comfort
• High-quality interior materials
• Mature Reliability
• Comprehensive after-sales service

Areas for improvement:

• Fuel economy (gasoline model)
• Infotainment Usability
• Range of autonomous driving assistance features

Improvements expected in the new LS

item	Current LS	New LS (prediction)
Powertrain	V6 gasoline hybrid	PHEV and BEV added
fuel efficiency	LS500h: 12-13km/L	15km/L or more/EV driving
display	12.3 inches	15 inches or more
Autonomous driving	Highway Teammate	Public road expansion
Price range	10 to 13 million yen	11 to 14 million yen (estimated)

4. Who should wait for the new model and who should buy the current model?

People who should wait for the new model

We recommend waiting for the new model if:

1. Those who value the latest technology

• I want to experience cutting-edge autonomous driving technology
• Interested in electrification (PHEV/BEV)
• They want larger displays and the latest infotainment

1. Those who value environmental performance

• Seeking higher fuel efficiency
• Seeing the value in zero-emission driving
• Looking ahead to future environmental regulations

1. Those who have time to spare

• Waiting time of 2-3 years is possible
• I can get by with my current vehicle without any issues.
• Don’t insist on purchasing the initial lot

Who should buy the current model?

The current model is recommended for those who:

1. Those who urgently need a vehicle

• There is a problem with the current vehicle
• I need a luxury car for business purposes
• There are circumstances that make it impossible to wait until 2026

1. Those seeking mature technology

• Emphasis on high reliability through mature technology
• I want to avoid the risk of initial defects.
• Current performance is satisfactory

1. Those who value price advantages

• Increased discounts on current models due to the introduction of new models
• Quality Choices in Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles
• Want to reduce overall costs

Benefits of purchasing the current model

Price:

• Increased discounts before the new model is released
• A wide selection of high-year used cars
• Reasonable price for optional equipment

Practical aspects:

• Immediate delivery available (in stock)
• Enhanced after-sales service system
• Low risk of failure

5. Relationship with competing models

Trends of major competing models

The new LS is expected to be compared against the following competitors:

Mercedes-Benz S-Class

• Strengths: Brand image, advanced technology
• Lexus LS advantages: reliability, quietness, after-sales service

BMW 7 Series

• Strengths: Dynamic performance, innovative technology
• Lexus LS advantages: ride comfort, hospitality

Audi A8

• Strengths: Advanced technology, design
• Lexus LS advantages: quality and long-term reliability

Competitive advantages of the new LS

Technical advantages:

• High-quality Highway Teammate
• Toyota Group’s Hybrid Technology
• Optimized for Japan’s road environment

Service Advantages:

• Lexus hospitality
• Enhanced domestic support system
• Long-term warranty system

The best time to buy

Strategy for 2024-2025

Advice for those currently considering it:

1. If the urgency is high

• Considering purchasing the current LS500h
• Negotiate a discount on the 2024 model
• Certified pre-owned cars are also an option

1. Medium urgency

• Wait until spring 2025
• Decision to be made after confirmation of new model details
• Consideration of the final specifications of the current model

1. When the urgency is low

• Wait until new model is released
• Continue comparing with other brands
• Considering purchasing after the initial lot

Cost-effectiveness thinking

Advantages of waiting for the new model:

• Value enhancement through cutting-edge technology
• Increased satisfaction with long-term use
• Maintaining future used car prices

Advantages of buying the current model:

• immediate gratification
• Total cost reduction through price negotiations
• 3-year additional usage period

6. Summary

The new Lexus LS (2026 model) has the potential to become a new benchmark for flagship sedans, combining innovative technology with traditional values.

Final purchase decision points

Those who should wait for the new model:

• Seeing value in the latest technology (autonomous driving and electrification)
• Emphasis on environmental performance
• 2-3 year waiting period possible

Who should choose the current model?

• I urgently need a luxury sedan
• Emphasis on mature technology
• Seeking price advantages

If you are considering purchasing a Lexus LS, we recommend that you comprehensively assess your needs and circumstances and make your purchase decision at the best possible time.