The Lexus LS, the flagship sedan that heralded the luxury brand's entry into the UK market in 1990, has quietly exited the British market after more than three decades of presence. Declining sales, coupled with evolving market trends and regulatory challenges, have led to this decision.
With the discontinuation of the LS, the ES sedan remains the sole sedan offering in Lexus's UK lineup. The brand has increasingly focused on SUVs and crossovers, with a diverse portfolio now encompassing the LBX, UX, NX, RZ, and RX models. Additionally, the introduction of the LM minivan has effectively catered to a segment of the market previously served by the LS.
Sales figures for the LS in the UK have been consistently underwhelming in recent years. In 2024, a mere three units were sold, highlighting the model's diminishing market share. Since 2020, a total of only 39 LS models have been registered in the UK, underscoring its marginal contribution to the brand's overall sales volume.
Beyond sluggish sales, Lexus cited several factors contributing to the LS's departure from the UK market. Homologation challenges, the complex process of ensuring compliance with evolving emissions regulations and safety standards, presented significant obstacles. Furthermore, the rise of the LM minivan, catering to a similar clientele with its luxurious and spacious interior, further diminished the need for a dedicated flagship sedan in the UK market.
The UK-spec LS models were exclusively offered as the LS500h, featuring a sophisticated self-charging hybrid powertrain combining a 3.5-liter V6 engine with dual electric motors. All-wheel drive was available as an option.
While the LS will no longer be available in the UK, it continues to be offered in other key markets, including Japan, North America, and select regions in Europe. The fifth-generation LS, introduced in 2017 and subsequently updated in 2020, continues to compete with established rivals such as the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, BMW 7-Series, and Audi A8 in these markets.
The discontinuation of the LS in the UK marks the end of an era for Lexus. While the brand continues to evolve and adapt to the changing demands of the luxury automotive market, the LS will undoubtedly be remembered as a cornerstone model that played a pivotal role in establishing Lexus's reputation for innovation, luxury, and performance.