On September 25, 2025, Lexus launched the improved “New LS” for the Japanese luxury sedan market. This latest model, which firmly establishes its position as a flagship sedan, is available in a wide range of prices, from 11,110,000 yen to 17,730,000 yen. In this article, we will provide a detailed explanation of the new LS and provide useful information for those considering purchasing one.
Major changes for the 2025 model
New exterior colors
LS500h F SPORT
The most notable changes to the range include two new exclusive liveries available across the entire range:
- White Nova Glass Flake : Premium white, pursuing pure white brilliance without cloudiness
- Deep Blue Mica : An elegant blue that combines vividness and lustrous depth.
These colors are positioned as more sophisticated options that meet the needs of the luxury car market that the Lexus LS targets.
Standardization of comfort-enhancing equipment
LS500h F SPORT
Heated front and rear seats are now standard equipment on all models. This equipment, which was previously optional depending on the grade, has now become standard, allowing you to enjoy a comfortable in-car environment regardless of the grade you choose.
Appearance changes for F SPORT models
LS500h F SPORT
The sporty F Sport grade gets a new brake caliper design:
- Caliper body: Sporty red paint
- Logo: Stylish and elegant silver
This change significantly enhances the visual appeal of the F Sport model.
Detailed pricing and tier configuration
LS500h (hybrid model) price list
| grade | Drive system | Price (tax included) |
|---|---|---|
| EXECUTIVE | 2WD (FR) | 17,250,000 yen |
| EXECUTIVE | AWD | 17,730,000 yen |
| Version L | 2WD (FR) | 15,570,000 yen |
| Version L | AWD | 16,050,000 yen |
| F SPORT | 2WD (FR) | 13,790,000 yen |
| F SPORT | AWD | 14,270,000 yen |
| I package | 2WD (FR) | 12,570,000 yen |
| I package | AWD | 13,050,000 yen |
LS500 (gasoline model) price list
| grade | Drive system | Price (tax included) |
|---|---|---|
| EXECUTIVE | 2WD (FR) | 15,790,000 yen |
| EXECUTIVE | AWD | 16,270,000 yen |
| Version L | 2WD (FR) | 14,110,000 yen |
| Version L | AWD | 14,590,000 yen |
| F SPORT | 2WD (FR) | 12,330,000 yen |
| F SPORT | AWD | 12,810,000 yen |
| I package | 2WD (FR) | 11,110,000 yen |
| I package | AWD | 11,590,000 yen |
Pricing Analysis and Purchasing Guidelines
The hybrid model (LS500h) is priced at a premium of approximately 1.46 million yen over the corresponding gasoline model (LS500). It is important to consider cost performance when taking into account annual mileage and fuel economy.
Evolution of exterior design
Front design features
The new LS continues the design language adopted in the major 2020 update, but with further refinements:
- Spindle Grille : Dark metallic finish for a sophisticated look suitable for formal occasions
- Headlight : “BladeScan AHS” with a compact triple-lamp unit
- Bumper design : Vertical character lines express a good stance
Innovative blade-scanning AHS
The Lexus LS’s Blade Scan Adaptive High Beam System (AHS) is the most advanced lighting technology in the industry:
Technical Features:
- Controlling light with a fast-rotating blade mirror
- Precise light distribution control by synchronizing LED and blade mirror
- Wider high beam illumination area than conventional systems
- Anti-dazzle function for oncoming and preceding vehicles
This technology significantly improves night driving safety.
Rear design improvements
- Combination lamp : Piano black interior plating molding
- Lamp shape : Three-dimensional design that gives a sense of thickness
- Harmony with the headlights : A unified presence from the front to the rear
Interior and latest technology
The evolution of infotainment systems
Features of the new generation system introduced in the 2022 upgrade:
Main features:
- Voice control using natural speech
- Wireless Apple CarPlay compatible
- High-resolution audio system
- Improved operability by eliminating the touchpad “Remote Touch”
Digital meter (adopted in 2023)
The large 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster provides visual confirmation of the following information:
- Vehicle operation information
- Navigation Information
- Safety system operation status
- Energy flow (hybrid model)
Changes for improved usability
Layout optimization:
- Frequently used seat heater/ventilation/steering wheel heater switches located on the console
- New smartphone holder
- Add a USB Type-C connector
Powertrain and Performance
LS500 (gasoline engine model)
Engine specs:
- Model: V35A-FTS
- Displacement: 3.5L V6 twin turbo
- Maximum output: 422ps/5,200-6,000rpm
- Maximum torque: 61.2 kgm/1,600-4,800 rpm
- Transmission: Direct Shift-10AT (10-speed AT)
Performance improvement points:
- Improved torque build-up in frequently used driving ranges
- Improved acceleration response
- Reducing gear change frequency by optimizing shift schedules
LS500h (hybrid model)
System configuration:
- Engine: 8GR-FXS (3.5L V6)
- System maximum output: 359ps
- Engine output: 299ps/6,600rpm, 36.3kgm/5,100rpm
- Motor output: 180ps
- Transmission: Multi-Stage Hybrid System
Hybrid system features:
- Multi-stage hybrid provides natural acceleration
- Increased battery assist for smooth acceleration
- Improved quietness by reducing maximum engine speed when starting
Fuel efficiency and environmental performance
Official fuel economy value
- LS500 (gasoline) : 10.1km/L (WLTC mode)
- LS500h (Hybrid) : 13.6km/L (WLTC mode)
Consideration of practical fuel economy
In the flagship sedan class, the LS500h’s fuel economy of 13.6km/L is excellent compared to its competitors. Considering the difference in fuel costs for a vehicle in this performance class driven 15,000km per year, the hybrid model’s economics are particularly attractive in the long term.
Advanced safety technology
Lexus Safety System +
The new LS comes standard with a comprehensive range of safety systems:
Main features:
- Pre-crash Safety
- Radar cruise control
- Lane Tracing Assist
- Road Sign Assist
- Leading vehicle departure notification function
Advanced Drive (traffic jam assistance function)
Advanced driver assistance features added in the 2023 model year:
- Autonomous driving assistance in traffic jams
- Coordinated control of steering, acceleration and braking
- Driver monitoring system linkage
Advanced Park
An evolved version of the parking assistance system:
- Automatic parking function
- Remote parking function (linked to smartphone app)
- Shipping support function
Body size and livability
Basic specifications
- Length x width x height : 5,235 x 1,900 x 1,450 mm
- Wheelbase : 3,125mm
- Vehicle weight : Approximately 2,200 kg (varies depending on grade and drive system)
Indoor space features
Features achieved by adopting the GA-L platform:
- High torsional rigidity for a stable ride
- Maximum interior space
- Improved rear seat comfort
- Significant improvement in quietness
Comparison with rival vehicles and market position
Main competitors
| Car model | Price range | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Mercedes-Benz S-Class | Approximately 12 million yen and up | A representative German premium sedan |
| BMW 7 Series | Approximately 11 million yen and up | Emphasis on sporty driving performance |
| Audi A8 | Approximately 10 million yen and up | A balance of advanced technology and design |
Lexus LS’s Differentiation Points
- Trustworthy as a Japanese brand
- Attentive after-sales service
- Unique hospitality philosophy
- Enhancing domestic maintenance network
Things to know before purchasing
Grade Selection Guidelines
I package (entry grade):
- Cost-effective with full basic equipment
- Recommended for first-time Lexus buyers
F-SPORT:
- Sporty appearance and driving performance
- Popular among relatively young users
version L:
- Well-balanced equipment
- Best-selling grade
EXECUTIVE (top level):
- Fully equipped with all specifications
- Ideal for entertaining and official use
Key points when selecting options
Recommended options:
- Premium Audio System
- sunroof
- Semi-aniline leather seats
- Rear Entertainment System
Delivery time and purchase time
As of October 2025, the delivery time for the new LS is expected to be approximately 4-6 months. We recommend that you consider a purchase schedule that avoids the New Year holidays and fiscal year-end closing dates.
summary
The 2025 Lexus LS is a highly refined vehicle that embodies the true spirit of “omotenashi” (hospitality) in Japan’s premium sedan market. It features improvements down to the finest details, including new exterior colors, heated seats as standard equipment, and exterior changes to the F Sport model.
Although the price is high, starting at 11,110,000 yen, the appeal of the new LS is that it meets all the quality, performance, and service expected of a vehicle in this price range at a high level. In particular, the hybrid system’s fuel economy of 13.6 km/L is extremely excellent for a vehicle in this class, achieving both environmental friendliness and comfort.
We recommend that anyone considering purchasing one first take a test drive at a Lexus dealership to experience the high-quality driving feel offered by this flagship sedan. The Lexus LS is more than just a means of transportation; it will become a special vehicle that will give you joy and pride in owning it.
Lexus news release
