What year did Lexus LS come out?
The Lexus LS first appeared in 1989, with the LS 400 making its public debut. The United States followed in 1990, bringing the flagship sedan to American showrooms.
Origins and launch of the Lexus LS
The LS line was conceived by Toyota as a new apex for its luxury brand, Lexus, to compete with Europe’s top sedans. “LS” stands for Luxury Sedan, and the car was engineered to emphasize quietness, refinement, and advanced technology in a full-size package.
First generation milestones
Key events marking the rollout of the initial LS generation illustrate how the model established itself in markets around the world:
- 1989: Debut of the LS 400 at the Tokyo Motor Show in October, signaling Lexus’s entry into the ultra-luxury segment.
- 1990: U.S. market introduction for the 1990 model year, making the LS 400 available to American buyers.
- 1994: End of the first generation as the lineup transitioned to the next generation, beginning the evolution of the flagship model.
The first-generation LS 400 was powered by a 4.0-liter V8 engine (the 1UZ-FE) and primarily featured rear-wheel drive, underscoring its emphasis on smoothness and performance for luxury buyers.
Impact and legacy
The debut of the LS helped define Lexus as a credible flagship brand in its own right, reshaping perceptions of Japanese luxury with a focus on ride quality, quiet interiors, and long-term reliability. The model set the template for subsequent generations that would expand the LS family and solidify its role in the automaker’s lineup.
Summary
The Lexus LS first came out in 1989 with the LS 400, and its U.S. market introduction followed in 1990. From that initial release, the LS has evolved through multiple generations to become a benchmark in luxury sedans, prized for refinement, technology, and a distinctive Lexus driving experience.
