Lexus LS 500 goes hybrid-only for Australia by year's end
Lexus replaces the petrol LS 500 with a 3.5-litre V6 hybrid model arriving in Australia by late 2026.
Lexus is retiring the twin-turbocharged petrol V6 engine from its flagship LS sedan, shifting to hybrid power only in Australia. The new LS 500h pairs a 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine with an electric motor.
The car produces a combined 264 kilowatts of power through a 10-speed automatic. The Japanese luxury brand has also reinforced the LS's structure and retuned the suspension and steering.
High-frequency vibrations have been reduced for better handling and comfort. The updated model gains an opening panoramic sunroof as an option and replaces the Lexus 'L-mark' boot badge with the Lexus wordmark.
Inside, the 12.3-inch infotainment screen remains unchanged. Australian deliveries are expected in the final months of 2026.
Lexus Australia previously confirmed it would drop petrol-only versions of both the RX and LS in response to customer demand for hybrid options.
- 264 kilowatts
- Combined power output
- 3.5-litre V6
- Engine size
- 10-speed automatic
- Transmission type
- Late 2026
- Delivery window
Why it mattersBuyers wanting a new Lexus LS in Australia must now choose hybrid power, signalling the luxury brand's shift away from traditional petrol engines.
AustraliaAustralian customers looking at the LS 500 will see only the hybrid model when it launches, with no petrol-only option available.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 13 d ago
