In search of a substitute for the automotive that began all of it.
Having shared information that 2026 would be the final mannequin 12 months for the model’s LS flagship sedan, Lexus is testing the water for a substitute automobile, exhibiting three fascinating idea designs at this 12 months’s Japan Mobility Present. The biannual occasion changed the Tokyo Auto Present in 2023, and has confirmed a hotbed for cutting-edge design.
Lexus LS Van Idea
Lexus LS Legacy
Lexus launched the model within the U.S. 1n 1989 with two fashions, the full-size LS sedan, and the smaller ES 250. But it surely was the LS that formed customers’ opinion of the model, immediately difficult Mercedes-Benz with a automotive that was higher outfitted, cheaper, and arguably of higher high quality than the German maker’s commemorated S-Class sedan.
The recognition of the LS has fallen over time, nonetheless, and different Lexus fashions have claimed the lion’s share of name gross sales. Even the expensive LX massive SUV outsells the LS by greater than 3-to-1.
Changing the Lexus LS
Lexus appears eager to model a substitute for the outgoing automotive utilizing the identical LS moniker, although, based mostly on the idea reveals in Japan this week, that mannequin is not going to be a sedan.
The Japanese luxury-vehicle maker revealed three LS ideas this week, and we definitely respect the creativity in play. The ideas:
Lexus LS Coupe Idea
Of the three LS substitute candidates seen in Tokyo this week, it’s the Coupe Idea that’s principally prone to see manufacturing. Have been such a automobile to be produced, we’d count on it to be priced properly above the model’s LX large SUV.
And, like so many crossovers known as coupe lately, the LS Coupe would characteristic a coupe-like fastback roofline, however would really be fitted with 4 typical doorways. If Lexus chickens out on the van (See beneath), count on to see a model of the Coupe Idea in showrooms comparatively quickly.
Lexus LS Micro Idea
As a single-passenger “pod” is totally antithetical to the unique Lexus LS mission, we are able to assume that this idea is a product of name designers having a bit enjoyable. We respect the cool look, and see a distant future that features hansom-cab model small luxurious shuttles, however the Micro Idea is NOT the subsequent Lexus LS.
Lexus LS Van Idea
At first look, this 6-wheeled mega minivan could seem absurd, however we’re betting that an LS substitute alongside the traces of a giant, snug folks mover is into account. Be aware that Lexus already sells a premium minivan in different markets, and that occupant coddling has largely changed driver engagement as a luxury-vehicle precedence. We’d count on to see two wheels disappear earlier than manufacturing, however we are saying this can be a idea to observe.
LS Van Idea Particulars
Whereas Lexus stored mum on doubtless LS Van Idea powertrain choices, they did clarify the six-wheel association. Apparently, by retaining the rear wheels small, designers have been capable of restrict wheel intrusion into the cabin, thus preserving inside area.
Inside, the premium LS Van Idea Van cabin is lined with bamboo, and comes off—a minimum of in photos—as ultra-premium.
We suspect {that a} manufacturing model of the LS Van Idea can be battery powered, and outfitted with the newest autonomous driving system. We are able to’t hazard a guess as to the value of a van-like, flagship Lexus, however we’re fairly positive that the LS Van Idea received’t arrive in showrooms with all six wheels.
CG Says:
Provided that luxury-vehicle customers are more and more expressing a need for consolation over sporty character, a premium minivan is sensible as a continuation of the LS legacy. Not solely would such a van serve rich households and high-end limousine companies properly, it will even be a extremely seen halo mannequin for the model, recognizable at a distance, not not like the Cadillac Escalade. If we had a vote as to which idea would see manufacturing, we’d select the van,
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Lexus LS Van Idea Footage
Click on beneath for enlarged photographs
