Lexus Discontinued LS Sedan in United States
The luxury flagship model has been retired from the American market following a sustained decline in annual sales.
Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in Car Types
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Lexus has ended production of the LS sedan for the United States market, concluding the flagship model's run at the end of the 2026 model year. The decision follows a significant drop in consumer demand for full-size sedans in the region.
Why it matters
The removal of the LS from the American lineup reflects a broader shift in consumer preference toward SUVs, as the Lexus LX has seen higher sales volume. Lexus will continue to offer the sedan in the Australian and Japanese markets.
Lexus reported 1,082 sales of the LS in the United States in 2025, compared to 7,464 sales for the LX SUV during the same period. The original development of the Lexus brand was supported by a $1 billion budget.
The players
Lexus
Lexus is the luxury vehicle division of the Japanese automaker Toyota.
Toyota
Toyota is a global automotive manufacturer that oversees the Lexus brand.
The details
The LS sedan originally debuted in the United States in 1989 as the cornerstone of the brand's luxury lineup. The model's discontinuation mirrors the 2020 retirement of the GS mid-size sedan in the U.S. market.
Timeline
1989: The Lexus LS sedan model first debuted in the United States.
2007: Lexus recorded its peak U.S. performance with over 35,000 units sold.
2020: Lexus officially discontinued the GS mid-size sedan in the U.S.
2025: Annual sales for the LS dropped to 1,082 units in the United States.
2026: Production of the LS sedan for the U.S. market concluded.
Roadmap
This move follows the pattern set by the 2020 discontinuation of the Lexus GS, signaling a continued consolidation of the brand's sedan portfolio. Automakers are increasingly shifting resources toward SUVs to maintain market share as sedan demand wanes.
Drivers in the United States will no longer be able to purchase new LS models as inventory clears through 2026. Owners of existing vehicles can expect standard service and maintenance support, with estimated five-year maintenance costs for the LS 500 at roughly $2,300.
The takeaway
The end of the LS sedan marks a milestone in the transition of American luxury preferences toward utility-focused vehicles. Consumers interested in legacy luxury sedans may now look to the pre-owned market for potential long-term value.
Further reading
For more information on luxury vehicle trends, visit the Car Types section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by CarBuzz.
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