What engine is in the Lexus LS500?
The Lexus LS500 is powered by a 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine, delivering about 416 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque. This powerplant is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and is offered with rear-wheel drive as standard, with all-wheel-drive variants available for those seeking extra grip.
Engine details
Here are the core specifications that define the LS500’s engine and how it drives.
- Displacement: 3.5 liters (approximately 3,456 cc)
- Configuration: V6
- Induction: Twin-turbocharged
- Power output: about 416 horsepower (310 kW)
- Torque: about 442 lb-ft (600 Nm)
- Transmission: 10-speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive standard; all-wheel drive available
Note: Exact figures can vary slightly by model year, market, and tuning for specific trims.
Performance and technology context
Why this setup matters
The 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 in the LS500 is designed to deliver strong mid-range torque for confident daily driving while maintaining refined, high-end acceleration for highway merging and overtaking. The twin-turbo configuration helps reduce turbo lag and broadens the power band, complementing Lexus’ focus on luxury-sedans that feel poised and smooth at any speed.
How it integrates with the chassis
Linked to a 10-speed automatic transmission, the engine's power is distributed through a chassis tuned for comfort and composure. The LS500’s setup aims to balance serene highway cruising with responsive, confident handling—key traits for a flagship luxury sedan.
Context within the LS lineup
It's worth noting that Lexus also offers the LS500h, a hybrid variant that pairs the same 3.5-liter V6 with electric motors for a different performance and efficiency profile. The LS500’s focus, however, is on delivering strong, immediate performance from its twin-turbo V6 without the added complexity of a hybrid system.
Summary
The Lexus LS500’s engine is a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 that delivers strong, refined performance suitable for a luxury sedan. With around 416 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque, paired to a 10-speed automatic and available AWD, it provides the brisk acceleration and smooth, quiet operation expected from Lexus’ flagship model.
What is the difference between LS 460 and LS 500?
The LS 500 offers a more powerful twin-turbo V6 engine, better fuel efficiency, and newer technology compared to the LS 460's V8 engine. The LS 460 is the last of the V8 models and is praised for its ride comfort and reliability, while the LS 500 has a more modern design and interior with advanced features like a larger touchscreen and improved safety technology. The choice between them depends on whether you prioritize performance and modern tech (LS 500) or a proven V8 and a more budget-friendly price on the used market (LS 460).
You can watch this video to see a side-by-side comparison of the exterior and interior design: 59sPerformance LexusYouTube · Feb 10, 2024
| Feature | Lexus LS 460 | Lexus LS 500 |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4.6L V8 | 3.5L Twin-Turbo V6 |
| Horsepower | 386 hp (approx.) | 416 hp |
| Torque | 367 lb-ft (approx.) | 442 lb-ft |
| Fuel Economy | ~19 MPG combined | ~22 MPG combined |
| Price (Used) | Lower price range | Higher price range |
| Technology | Older infotainment system with a mouse-like controller | Modern infotainment with a larger touchscreen, smartphone integration, and advanced safety features |
| Interior | More spacious, though older design | More modern and luxurious, with advanced features and materials |
| Handling | Generally preferred for comfort, especially non-F Sport models | F-Sport model offers better handling; standard models may feel less comfortable due to a different suspension tuning |
| Reliability | Highly reliable, proven V8 | Generally reliable, but the twin-turbo V6 is more complex than the naturally aspirated V8 |
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This video explains the technical aspects of the engines used in both models: 56sThe Car Care NutYouTube · Sep 24, 2025
Do the IS500 and LC500 have the same engine?
So on my left side I have Shim with his LC500. We've done videos before uh today we're going to find out how these two compared i think it's a weird one but it's a good one at the same. Time.
Is Lexus discontinuing the LS 500?
Yes, the Lexus LS 500 is being discontinued after the 2026 model year, and Lexus is marking the end of the line with a limited-edition 2026 LS 500 AWD Heritage Edition. This special model will be limited to just 250 units in the United States as a final tribute to the flagship sedan that launched the brand.
This video shows the exterior and interior of the 2026 Lexus LS 500 Heritage Edition: 59sAntique TAGSYouTube · Sep 29, 2025
- Final Edition: The 2026 Lexus LS 500 AWD Heritage Edition serves as a special farewell model.
- Limited Production: Only 250 units of the Heritage Edition will be produced for the U.S. market.
- Tribute to the Brand: This edition honors the LS model's 36-year history as the brand's flagship sedan, which first debuted in 1989.
- Distinctive Features: The Heritage Edition includes unique design elements like Ninety Noir exterior paint and a Rioja Red interior.
- Engine: It will be powered by the same 3.4-liter twin-turbo V6 engine found in previous LS 500 models.
This video discusses the end of the Lexus LS model: 59sKirk KreifelsYouTube · Sep 26, 2025
What engine does the Lexus LS 500 have?
The 3.4-liter, twin-turbo V6 engine on the LS 500 offers the output one would expect in a flagship sedan: 416 horsepower and 442 lb. -ft. of torque.
