Lexus has spent years trying to redefine modern luxury, but what it showed at last year’s Tokyo Motor Show may signal the biggest transformation in LS history.
Instead of presenting another elegant sedan, the Japanese brand revealed two unexpected concepts: a six-wheel luxury van and a crossover coupe.
That made one thing clear. The future of the LS name may no longer be tied only to a traditional luxury sedan.
For a model that has existed since 1989 as Lexus’ flagship rival to German luxury sedans, that would mark a major change.
LS Could Mean Luxury Space
The market around the LS has changed dramatically. Buyers are no longer choosing large sedans in the same numbers they once did.
Luxury SUVs and crossovers now dominate the segment, offering a higher seating position, more space, and greater everyday practicality.
Ian Cartabiano, president of Lexus’ design studio in California, described LS as a “family of models.” Lexus has also reinterpreted the name as “Luxury Space.”
That change suggests the LS badge may become a broader luxury idea instead of one specific sedan.
A Crossover Version May Already Be Planned
The most interesting information comes from Japan, where reports suggest Lexus has already approved development of an LS in crossover form.
According to Japan’s Best Car magazine, the next LS could abandon the traditional sedan shape completely and become a luxury crossover or SUV.
A reveal is reportedly possible between 2027 and 2028, although some sources suggest development could move faster.
Lexus has not officially confirmed those details, but the concept shown in Tokyo looked close to production. Its proportions, body details, and overall design gave the impression of a vehicle almost ready for the market.
Hybrid And Electric Versions Are Possible
There are also early rumors about future powertrains. Plug-in hybrid versions are being discussed, along with fully electric models that could use technology related to the Toyota Century luxury line.
Unofficial names such as LS600h+ and LS800e have also been mentioned, although Lexus has not released any technical details.
The move would make sense. The current LS has been on sale since 2017 and is now one of the oldest models in the Lexus lineup.
Although it has received updates over the years, it has struggled to regain the attention and status it once had.
A New Role For The LS Name
The luxury market has moved toward vehicles such as the BMW X7, Mercedes GLS, and Range Rover, which now play the role once held by large flagship sedans.
Lexus already has the LX, but that model is more focused on rugged capability than pure comfort and refined luxury.
A crossover LS could give Lexus a way to combine the comfort and prestige of its flagship name with the practicality and popularity of an SUV.
The question is how longtime LS sedan fans will react. After Tokyo, one thing seems clear: Lexus still wants the LS name to continue, but the shape of its future could be very different.
This article originally appeared on Autorepublika.com and has been republished with permission by Guessing Headlights. AI-assisted translation was used, followed by human editing and review.