Lexus may be signalling the end of its flagship luxury sedan with the new Lexus LS500 “Heritage Edition“. While it was not officially confirmed, the press release for the new special edition model does mention that it’s the “final year tribute” to the iconic nameplate, hinting at the oft-rumoured demise of the luxury sedan. Offered exclusively in the US and limited to just 250 units, this special edition starts from USD99,280 (approx. RM418k).
Launched 36 years ago in 1990, the original Lexus LS was the model that launched the brand and redefined what Japanese luxury stood for. With meticulous craftsmanship and refinement that sometimes eclipsed its German rivals, the Lexus LS challenged the dominance of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and BMW 7 Series at nearly half their price. It was the model that defined what the brand stood for, and set the standard for all future Lexus models.
Nearly 10 years since the current generation model’s debut, the Lexus LS continues to radiate unmistakable luxury with its sleek, elongated silhouette and signature smoked-out spindle grille. Specific to the Heritage Edition are the 20-inch split-20-spoke alloy wheels featuring a richer Dark Grey Metallic finish. The car is also finished in a new colour, Ninety Noir, which Lexus says “offers a deep sophisticated black that effortlessly complements dark exterior moldings and garnishes.”
Inside, the car is kitted with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support. For the first time in a Lexus LS, it features Rioja Red upholstery for a brighter contrast. Other exclusive interior editions include a “Lexus LS Heritage Edition” emblem etched on the centre console, the car’s silhouette embroidered on the headrests, and a newly refreshed Laser Special Black premium wood trim.
Along with the Ultrasuede-trimmed headliner and sunvisors, expect to receive the usual luxuries in a Lexus LS, which include a 2,400-watt 23-speaker Mark Levinson surround sound system, heated rear seats with a power lift-up buckle, and a Panoramic View Monitor for added convenience.
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The Lexus LS500 Heritage Edition is powered by a 3.4-litre twin-turbo V6 engine, producing 416 hp and 600 Nm of torque. Power is sent to all four wheels via a 10-speed automatic transmission, which propels the car from 0-96.6 km/h (0-60 mph) in just 4.6 seconds.
While the farewell to the LS may be bittersweet, Lexus fans can still look forward to the long-awaited LFA replacement. Rumoured to be called the “LFR,” it’s expected to feature a V8 powertrain and debut in 2026. Expected to cost no more than USD140,000 (approx. RM591k), the new supercar promises to be far more accessible than its legendary predecessor — proof that as one era ends, another begins.
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