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For the U.S. model-year chronology, the Lexus LS has five generations: LS 400 (1990–1994), LS 400 (1995–2000), LS 430 (2001–2006), LS 460 (2007–2017), and LS 500/LS 500h (2018–2026). The first LS went on sale in 1989, but Lexus’s historic archive identifies 1990 as its first model year—two different dates, not a contradiction.
What are the Lexus LS generations and model years?
This table follows Lexus USA’s model-year labels. The years identify each generation’s U.S. model-year span; they do not necessarily match the calendar year when a redesign was announced or a car first went on sale.
| Generation | Model designation | U.S. model years |
|---|---|---|
| First | LS 400 | 1990–1994 |
| Second | LS 400 | 1995–2000 |
| Third | LS 430 | 2001–2006 |
| Fourth | LS 460 | 2007–2017 |
| Fifth | LS 500 / LS 500h | 2018–2026 |
The chronology is U.S.-focused because its generation labels and year ranges come from Lexus USA sources. Model availability and launch timing can differ in other markets.
How each Lexus LS generation is identified
First generation: LS 400, 1990–1994
Lexus says the LS 400 premiered in Detroit in January 1989 and went on sale in September of that year. Its archive assigns the first generation to model years 1990–1994. The launch version had rear-wheel drive and a 4.0-liter V8. Lexus’s LS 400 retrospective and historic-vehicle entry describe the launch and model-year span, respectively.
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Second generation: LS 400, 1995–2000
The LS 400 name continued into the second generation, which Lexus’s archive lists for model years 1995–2000. Lexus’s brand history says the redesigned car went on sale in 1994; that calendar-year event precedes the archive’s 1995 first model year. Lexus’s historic-vehicle entry identifies the model-year range, while its brand history describes the redesign and sale timing.
Third generation: LS 430, 2001–2006
The third generation changed the designation to LS 430. Lexus lists it for model years 2001–2006. Lexus’s historic-vehicle archive identifies this generation and span.
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Fourth generation: LS 460, 2007–2017
The fourth-generation designation applies to the LS 460. Lexus’s archive identifies 2007–2008 LS 460 models and separately identifies 2013–2017 LS 460 F SPORT models as fourth generation; together, those entries support the 2007–2017 U.S. generation chronology. Trim and variant availability can differ by year, so the generation label does not mean every configuration was offered throughout the span. See Lexus’s entries for 2007–2008 and 2013–2017 LS 460 F SPORT.
Fifth generation: LS 500 and LS 500h, 2018–2026
Lexus introduced the fifth generation for the 2018 model year. Its launch information described gasoline LS 500 models with rear- or all-wheel drive and a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6. The generation includes the LS 500 and LS 500h designations; check the specific year’s specifications for the powertrain and configuration of an individual car. Lexus’s 2018 announcement identifies the fifth-generation launch and LS 500 details.
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On November 26, 2025, Lexus announced a 2026 LS 500 AWD Heritage Edition as a final-year tribute and said the U.S. edition would be limited to 250 units. This describes Lexus’s announced U.S. edition and final-year positioning, not a verified statement about future plans in every market. Read Lexus’s announcement.
What year did the Lexus LS 500 start?
The fifth-generation Lexus LS began with the 2018 model year, including the LS 500 designation. Lexus’s launch announcement identifies the car as its fifth-generation flagship for 2018. Calendar-year announcements or sales dates may differ from a vehicle’s model year.
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- COLLECTIBLE: Number 44 out of 125 in the series, making it a valuable addition to any Matchbox or automotive collection
- DISPLAY READY: Compact size perfect for showcasing alongside other die-cast models in your collection
What to check when identifying or comparing an LS
The generation and model name are a useful starting point, but they do not establish every vehicle’s equipment or configuration. For a specific car, confirm its exact model year and trim, then compare:
- Powertrain and drivetrain, including rear-wheel or all-wheel drive where offered.
- Standard- or long-wheelbase body configuration, where offered.
- Safety and infotainment equipment for that model year and trim.
- Maintenance history and the vehicle’s condition.
Use year-specific specifications and the vehicle’s own records to verify those details; a generation-wide label is not a substitute for them.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Product size: 6.3*2.4*1.8 inches Weight: 0.5 pounds Outer packaging: exquisite color translucent packaging box.
- Material: Die-cast car model, made of zinc alloy, with plastic parts, rubber tires, detailed interior and exterior decoration.
- Function: Press the two wheels of the front car to trigger the sound of the engine and lights. The interior details are realistic. Put the car on the flat ground, press the body and pull it back, and the car will move forward. (Back pull function)
- This LS500H 1/32 car model pull back car is very suitable for children to play with. The paint is exquisite and feels good, and it is heavy to hold. It is also very suitable for car model enthusiasts as a decoration.
- Accessories and collections: This product is very suitable for static accessories and can be used as an accessory next to a computer. For those who are passionate about collecting model car models, this is a great art collection.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
