The 2025 Lexus LS 500h: A Final Bow for the Traditionalist’s Flagship
In an era where luxury sedans are increasingly becoming "computers on wheels," the 2025 Lexus LS 500h stands as a defiant monument to traditional craftsmanship. As of early 2026, we look back at the 2025 model as the definitive end of an era, as Lexus has officially discontinued the LS 500h for the 2026 model year. This flagship sedan didn't rely on hyper-futuristic cabin screens or aggressive minimalism; instead, it doubled down on the "Omotenashi" philosophy—Japanese hospitality that anticipates a guest's needs. While its rivals from BMW and Mercedes-Benz have chased digital transformation, the LS 500h remained refreshingly uncomplicated, though this commitment to tradition eventually highlighted its age in a rapidly evolving market.
KEYTAKEAWAYS
- End of the Line: The LS 500h has been discontinued for 2026, making the 2025 model the final opportunity to own Lexus’s hybrid flagship sedan.
- Refined Hybrid Powertrain: The 3.5-liter V-6 hybrid system delivers 354 total system horsepower and an EPA-estimated 25 mpg combined—superior efficiency compared to the gas-only LS 500.
- Tactile Luxury: Unlike competitors moving to all-touch interfaces, the LS retains physical knobs and buttons for essential climate and audio adjustments.
- Cost vs. Savings: With a starting price over $116,000, the hybrid carries a significant $35,000 premium over the standard gas model, a gap hard to bridge through fuel savings alone.
Four Reasons the Lexus LS 500h Remains a Masterpiece
Despite a design dating back to 2018, the LS 500h offers a unique driving experience that newer competitors often struggle to replicate. The cabin is a sanctuary of Old School Luxury, where every surface feels substantial and every stitch is deliberate. The 354-hp hybrid powertrain provides a "wafting" sensation; it is not meant for track days but for silent, effortless progress through city traffic, aided by standard All-Wheel Drive (AWD).
Furthermore, the Simple Tech interface is a relief for those tired of menu-diving. The 2021 update replaced the frustrating touchpad with a direct 12.3-inch touchscreen, yet kept the tactile buttons that allow for "muscle memory" operation while driving. This Throwback Appeal is the vehicle's greatest strength: it provides an isolated, luxurious environment for those who want their car to be a place of rest, not another source of digital notification fatigue.
The Compromises: Where the Lexus LS 500h Shows Its Age
Every flagship has its weaknesses. The Dated Look of the LS is perhaps its most glaring flaw; the once-polarizing "Spindle Grille" and "Z" headlights now feel familiar rather than vanguard. On the road, the Lexus Teammate semi-autonomous system—while standard—struggles to match the confidence and ease of use found in Ford’s BlueCruise or GM’s Super Cruise. It is a complex system that often feels more like a tech demo than a seamless assistant.
Financial logic also weighs heavily against the hybrid. Starting at $116,000, the LS 500h demands a massive surcharge over the gas-only LS 500 ($80,000+). While the 500h comes heavily optioned, the $35k price hike buys a lot of gasoline for the twin-turbo V-6 model, making the hybrid a choice of "conscience" or "smoothness" rather than a savvy financial investment.
| Feature | Lexus LS 500 (Gas) | Lexus LS 500h (Hybrid) |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 3.4L Twin-Turbo V6 | 3.5L V6 + Electric Motors |
| Horsepower | 416 hp | 354 hp (Total System) |
| Drivetrain | RWD or AWD | AWD (Standard) |
| Combined MPG | 22 MPG (Estimated) | 25 MPG (EPA-Estimated) |
2025 Lexus LS 500h FAQ
Q: If the LS 500h is discontinued for 2026, can I still buy a gasoline LS 500?
A: Yes. While Lexus has streamlined the lineup by removing the hybrid variant for 2026, the twin-turbocharged gas-only LS 500 remains in production, serving as the brand's primary luxury sedan offering until a full next-generation redesign is announced.
Q: How does the LS 500h compare to the Genesis G90 in terms of value?
A: The Genesis G90 is generally considered the more "modern" value play. While the LS 500h starts at over $116k, the Genesis offers a much newer design and more rear-seat tech for a similar or lower price. However, Lexus maintains an edge in long-term reliability reputation and the specific "buttery" feel of its hybrid power delivery.
Q: Is the 32 MPG highway rating realistic for this heavy sedan?
A: The EPA rates the LS 500h at 29 MPG highway. In real-world testing, many drivers report achieving near 30 MPG during steady-state cruising. While impressive for a 5,000-pound luxury car, it is the city efficiency (22 MPG) where the hybrid system truly proves its worth over the gas-only model.
The 2025 Lexus LS 500h is a car for the discerning driver who values peace, physical controls, and proven reliability over the latest tech gimmicks. While its high price and aging aesthetics make it a niche choice, its departure from the 2026 lineup leaves a void for those who appreciate "refreshingly uncomplicated" luxury. It is a quiet end for a car that excelled at being quiet.