When did they stop making LS400?
The Lexus LS 400 was produced through the 2000 model year, after which its successor, the LS 430, took over as Lexus’s flagship for the next generation.
The LS 400 marked Lexus’s entry into its flagship sedan line, and its production spanned roughly the 1990s until the arrival of the second-generation model. This article outlines when production ended and how the transition to the new generation unfolded.
Timeline of the LS400’s production and replacement
Below are key milestones outlining when the LS400 was built and when it was replaced by the next-generation flagship.
- 1990 model year: The Lexus LS 400 goes on sale in the United States as Lexus’s first flagship sedan, launching the LS lineup.
- 2000 model year: Production of the LS 400 ends; Lexus prepares the transition to the next-generation flagship.
- 2001 model year (released in the United States): The LS 430 debuts as the successor, taking over as the new flagship and marking the end of the LS400’s production run.
In summary, the LS400’s production lasted from the 1990 model year through the 2000 model year, with the LS 430 launching for the 2001 model year to replace it.
Additional context and implications
What this means for collectors and buyers
For collectors, the LS400 represents the early era of Lexus’s flagship sedan lineage. As with many aging luxury cars, values and availability depend on condition, mileage, and maintenance history. Parts and service networks remain relatively robust for well-preserved examples, though certain components may be harder to source compared to more recent models.
Identifying the transition between generations
Akey way to tell the transition is the model year and generation badge: the LS400 is associated with the first-generation design, while the LS430 denotes the second generation that replaced it starting with the 2001 model year in markets like the United States. Visual cues and VIN information can help distinguish generations and production years.
Summary
The LS400 was produced from its debut in the early 1990s (selling as the 1990 model year in many markets) through the 2000 model year. It was then replaced by the second-generation LS 430, which began sales for the 2001 model year, signaling the end of the LS400’s production run.
How much did the 1989 LS400 cost?
In 1989, Lexus charged $35,000 for a base LS400, a figure which represents approximately $73,000 when adjusted for inflation.
What does LS 400 stand for?
Luxury Sedan
LS stands for Luxury Sedan. The original LS 400 – the car that launched Lexus back in 1989 – was the work of 60 designers, 1,400 engineers, 2,300 technicians and over 200 support workers. It was billed as the finest luxury car in the world by parent company Toyota as well as the motoring press.
Will there be a 2026 Lexus LS?
The 2026 LS 500 Heritage Edition continues this legacy of excellence. Its distinct Lexus-first Ninety Noir paint and darkened exterior finishes draw attention to each alluring line, while signature interior details accent the cabin's indulgent comforts.
What makes the LS400 so special?
LS400. So what made it. Great. It all starts with the original petrol V8 dual overhead cam. And just smooth as butter to drive it was made to a four-speed automatic transmission.
