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Is the Lexus LS 500 a luxury car?

Yes. The Lexus LS 500 is a full-size luxury sedan and the flagship model in Lexus' lineup, built to emphasize refinement, materials, and technology in the premium segment.


As a detailed look, the LS 500 combines a potent twin-turbo V6, a quiet, feature-rich interior, and a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance and comfort technologies that place it squarely in the luxury-car category alongside rivals like the Mercedes S-Class and BMW 7 Series.


Defining a flagship luxury sedan


The LS 500 is marketed as Lexus' top-tier sedan, designed to deliver high-grade materials, meticulous craftsmanship, and a serene, comfortable ride. It sits in the premium segment where buyers expect quiet cabins, refined powertrains, and advanced technology, and it is widely categorized by reviewers as a true luxury automobile.


Performance and ride


Powertrain and dynamics


The LS 500 is powered by a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 that produces about 416 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Rear-wheel drive is standard, with all-wheel drive available as an option. The setup emphasizes smooth, refined acceleration and a composed ride rather than sporty aggression.


Key attributes that contribute to its luxury ride and comfort include:



  • Premium suspension tuning that prioritizes ride comfort and sound isolation

  • Quiet, refined power delivery with near-silent operation at cruising speeds

  • Subtle, linear throttle response and smooth gear changes

  • Adaptive suspension and drive modes to tailor comfort for different roads


Concluding: The LS 500’s performance and ride are engineered to deliver serenity and refinement, core hallmarks of a luxury sedan rather than a performance-first sport sedan.


Interior and technology


The LS 500’s cabin is built around high-quality materials, comfortable seating, and advanced technology. Expect premium leather or synthetic alternatives, real wood or metal trim, multi-zone climate control, and ergonomic front seats with heating and ventilation. Tech features typically include a modern infotainment system, smartphone integration, a strong audio system, and a broad suite of safety and driver-assistance features that evolve with model year updates.


Key interior and tech features that reinforce its luxury positioning include:



  • High-grade interior materials and craftsmanship

  • Quiet, spacious cabin with effective sound insulation

  • Advanced infotainment and connectivity options

  • Comprehensive safety and driver-assistance systems


Concluding: These elements collectively reinforce the LS 500’s status as a luxury sedan, prioritizing comfort, refinement, and user-friendly technology.


Market position, pricing, and rivals


In the luxury-sedan market, the LS 500 competes with flagship models from European brands, such as the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, BMW 7 Series, and Audi A8. Pricing typically sits in the premium tier, with the base model starting in the upper portion of the $70,000s and options pushing the price higher. Lexus adds value here with a strong reliability record and a generous warranty program, which many buyers consider part of the luxury ownership experience.


Lead-in: A quick look at how the LS 500 stacks up against rivals in key luxury-vehicle criteria.



  • Comfort and ride quality often cited as standout strengths compared with rivals

  • High-quality materials and cabin craftsmanship

  • Competitive ownership costs and reliable brand reputation

  • Extensive standard safety features and driver-assistance tech


Concluding: While the LS 500 may not match every rival in raw performance or latest high-end tech across all years, its luxury credentials—comfort, refinement, and build quality—keep it competitive in the premium segment.


What about the LS 500h?


Note that the Lexus lineup also includes the LS 500h, a hybrid variant available in some markets. The hybrid ranks as a different powertrain option within the same luxury flagship family, offering a different balance of efficiency and performance while maintaining luxury levels inside the cabin.


Bottom line and summary


In short, the Lexus LS 500 is a luxury car. It is designed as a flagship sedan with an emphasis on interior quality, comfort, sophisticated technology, and a smooth, quiet ride. Its competition includes the top-tier sedans from European brands, and it remains a strong choice for buyers prioritizing luxury, reliability, and a serene driving experience.


Summary


The LS 500 embodies Lexus’s definition of luxury: premium materials and craftsmanship, cutting-edge technology, and a focus on comfort and refinement. It competes with the best-in-class luxury sedans in the market and remains a flagship that signals Lexus’s commitment to the high end of the automotive spectrum.

Could the Lexus LS 500 be considered a luxury car?


For 36 years, the Lexus LS has defined what a flagship luxury sedan should be: a perfect balance of performance, innovation, and timeless comfort. And the 2026 LS 500 Heritage Edition continues this legacy of excellence.



What is the luxury package on Lexus LS 500?


The Lexus LS 500 luxury package adds high-end interior features such as semi-aniline leather, 28-way power front seats with a massage function, and 18-way power-reclining rear seats. It also includes premium amenities like a four-zone climate concierge, an ultra suede headliner, Mark Levinson audio, and soft-closing doors. 
You can watch this video to see a walkaround of the Lexus LS 500 with the luxury package: 53sKenny VacekYouTube · Dec 13, 2024
Interior and comfort

  • Seating: Upgraded semi-aniline leather seats with a quilted-stitch pattern. 
  • Front seats: 28-way power-adjustable front seats with a multi-function massage feature. 
  • Rear seats: 18-way power-reclining rear seats with heating and ventilation, and memory function. 
  • Headliner: Ultra suede headliner. 
  • Climate control: A Four-Zone Climate Concierge that automatically monitors and adjusts temperature for each occupant. 
  • Trim: Art organic trim and a wood and leather-trimmed center console. 
  • Doors: Soft-closing doors. 

Entertainment and technology
  • Audio: An 18-way power-reclining rear seats with memory function. 
  • Audio: A 23-speaker Mark Levinson audio system. 
  • Rear screens: Rear entry screens and a rear-seat control panel. 

Other features
  • Doors: Soft-closing doors.
  • Suspenstion: Air ride suspension. 



What is the best luxury Lexus?


The best luxury Lexus depends on your needs: the LS is the flagship luxury sedan, while the RX is the best-selling midsize SUV known for its balance of comfort and practicality. For ultimate off-road capability, the GX is a strong choice, and for pure performance, the high-performance F models like the LC 500 are top contenders.
 
This video reviews the 2025 Lexus LX 700H, a highly luxurious SUV: 1mToyotaJeff ReviewsYouTube · Nov 2, 2025
Overall best

  • Lexus LS: The flagship sedan, known for its balance of performance, innovation, and comfort. 
  • Lexus RX: The most popular model, widely praised as a best-selling midsize SUV that offers a premium interior, comfort, and practicality, making it a great all-around choice. 

Best for performance
  • Lexus F models: These are the highest expression of performance, featuring exhilarating power and advanced technology. 
  • Lexus LC 500: A coupe with a powerful V8 engine and a lowered, stiffened chassis for a visceral driving experience. 

You can watch this video to learn more about the 2025 Lexus RX and its features: 1mMicah MuzioYouTube · Oct 5, 2025
Best for off-road
  • Lexus GX: A body-on-frame SUV that is a favorite for its durability and off-road capability. 

Best for affordability and reliability 
  • Lexus ES 350: Offers affordable luxury and a reputation for high durability and low ownership costs.
  • Older LS models: Specifically the LS 430 and LS 460, are praised for their bulletproof reliability and luxurious interiors. 

This video discusses the best and worst Lexus SUVs to consider in 2025: 43sCarLandTVYouTube · Nov 1, 2025



Is the Lexus LS 500 being discontinued?


Yes, the Lexus LS500 is being discontinued, with the 2026 model year being its final run. Lexus is releasing a limited-edition, 250-unit LS 500 AWD Heritage Edition in the United States to serve as a final tribute to the flagship sedan. 
You can watch this video to learn about the Lexus LS 500's discontinuation: 59sAntique TAGSYouTube · Sep 29, 2025

  • Final Model: The 2026 LS 500 Heritage Edition is the last model of the LS line, which was introduced in 1989. 
  • Limited Production: Only 250 units will be produced for the U.S. market as a special, all-wheel-drive, fully-loaded version. 
  • Reason for Discontinuation: The decision is attributed to declining sales of the full-size sedan. 


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

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Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.