Three and a half years since the fifth-gen model was introduced, the Lexus LS is getting a nip and tuck to better face the Germans, especially since there’s a new Mercedes S-Class around the corner. You’d be hard-pressed to notice the styling changes because the flagship luxury sedan hasn’t changed all that much. There’s a fancy new color called Gin-ei Luster, an “extraordinary silver” with a mirror-like smooth texture.

The headlights look a tad different than before because the LS adopts the adaptive high-beam system originally introduced in the 2019 RX. Lexus has also tinkered with the front bumper to add a vertical character line at both corners, while the spindle grille hosts a sizeable radar sensor module with its own washer.

The images released so far are showing the LS 500 in the F Sport specification and the LS 500h, with both featuring mildly updated taillights graphics and a Piano Black trim instead of the previous chrome trim. There are a couple of new alloy wheel designs to pick from, including a 20-inch set for the F Sport version.

While the interior has been largely carried over, the 2021 LS does have a high-resolution display for the digital rearview mirror along with a black finish for the controls on the steering wheel and center console. Speaking of which, the center console now hosts a switch acting a shortcut for the 12.3-inch infotainment system to provide quick access to the heated seats and steering wheel. The infotainment itself is characterized as being a new touch display, complete with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration.

These changes might seem minor, but that’s because Lexus’ main focus was on improving comfort. The adaptive suspension has been optimized to offer a silky smooth ride, further enhanced by revisions made to the stabilizer bars and the engine mounts. Even the seat coverings now have deeper stitch points along with low-resilience urethane for the seat pads to boost comfort. The seats are said to be softer than before and capable of better absorbing vibrations.

Lexus says the conventionally powered LS 500 has improved low-end torque and a quicker gearbox while the hybrid system in the LS 500h kicks in more often than before for better acceleration. Both utilize updated Active Noise Control and Engine Sound Enhancement systems for a quieter cabin.


Lexus Teammate is debuting on the revised LS as an array of driver assistance systems, including a Park Assist function by automatically controlling steering, acceleration, braking, and gear changes. Once you get going, the system with its cameras and ultrasonic sensors further assists the driver by keeping the car in the lane, changing lanes, maintaining a certain distance from the car in front, and providing assistance while overtaking other vehicles.

Lexus Teammate will get better with time as it supports software updates, thus bringing new functionality as soon as it becomes available.

Sales of the LS facelift will commence in Japan towards the end of 2020, with international markets to follow next year.