The world of flagship luxury sedans is defined by a delicate balance. You need exceptional performance, timeless comfort, and cutting-edge innovation. For over 36 years, the Lexus LS has perfected this demanding formula. Now, for the 2026 model year, Lexus unveils a powerful farewell: the 2026 Lexus LS 500 AWD Heritage Edition. This special edition is a thoughtfully curated, mono spec model. It serves as a tribute to an icon that truly defined the luxury brand from day one. Limited to only 250 units in the United States, this sedan is a rare statement piece.
Ninety Noir: A Striking Exterior Finish
Starting with the outside, this limited edition immediately sets a commanding tone. Lexus debuts a new exterior color that is exclusive to this model: Ninety Noir. This is a deep, sophisticated black that pairs perfectly with dark exterior moldings and garnishes. The sedan’s presence is further enhanced by its 20-inch split-20-spoke alloy wheels. They feature a richer Dark Gray Metallic finish, adding a subtle visual weight. Significantly, these wheels incorporate noise-reduction technology for a quieter, more composed ride.
Rioja Red: An Exclusive Cabin Experience
Step inside, and the Heritage Edition truly separates itself from other LS models. You are immediately enveloped by an LS-first Rioja Red interior. This rich, vibrant upholstery wraps occupants in pure luxury. Subtle, exclusive details confirm this model’s lineage. An etched Lexus LS Heritage Edition emblem adorns the center console, featuring an elegant silhouette of the flagship. Furthermore, this design is echoed and embroidered onto the headrests, adding a refined touch of exclusivity.
A True Mono Spec Masterpiece
Lexus ensured this special edition is completely loaded with amenities. A panorama glass roof comes standard, bathing the exquisite cabin in natural light. For safety and convenience, a Panoramic View Monitor is included. The interior showcases Laser Special Black premium wood trim, refreshed with a new, contemporary pattern. You will also find an Ultrasuede-trimmed headliner and sun visors, elevating the overall tactile experience.
Luxury and Technology Features
Convenience is paramount in a luxury flagship like this. Additional features include heated rear seats and a power lift-up buckle. Music lovers will appreciate the incredible Mark Levinson 23-speaker, 2,400-watt Reference Surround Sound system. This system includes QuantumLogic Immersion technology for incredible audio fidelity. Advanced Park is also a standard feature on the Heritage Edition model.
Seamless Connected Technology
A standard 12.3-inch, high-definition touchscreen provides clear information to all front occupants. The glass screens use a high-adhesion, anti-reflective coating for a vivid display. Menu operations mimic those found on common smartphones and tablets. With an active Drive Connect subscription, the Cloud Navigation system integrates with Google points of interest. This provides faster, more accurate directions and alternate routes based on current traffic.
Advanced Voice Command System
The available Intelligent Assistant feature offers greater convenience for customers. By simply saying “Hey Lexus,” voice commands can operate navigation, multimedia, and climate control. The system uses dual microphones and enhanced noise cancellation for greater accuracy. Furthermore, with an active Remote Connect subscription, the Digital Key lets a compatible smartphone act as the vehicle key. This key can be shared with up to seven people for added convenience.
Standard Safety and Assistance
The LS 500 continues to offer peace of mind with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 suite. This comprehensive system includes numerous advanced features. Standard components include Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection and Lane Tracing Assist. You also get Automatic High Beam and Road Sign Assist. This suite also features Full-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control with Curve Speed Management. Proactive Driving Assist is another key feature that adds another layer of safety.
More on Safety System+ 3.0
The Pre-Collision System helps detect vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists, providing an audio/visual warning. If no driver reaction occurs, the system provides automatic emergency braking. Risk Avoidance Emergency Steer Assist can provide additional steering torque during an emergency maneuver. Left Turn Oncoming Vehicle Detection is designed to provide warnings and automatic braking in certain daytime conditions. If the system detects no driver input for some time, the Emergency Driving Stop System can bring the vehicle to a gradual stop.
Potent V6 Engine Performance
Beneath the sculpted hood lies the heart of the LS 500 AWD Heritage Edition. The 3.4-liter, twin-turbo V6 engine delivers the output you expect in a flagship sedan. It generates a robust 416 horsepower and 442 lb.-ft. of torque. A 10-speed automatic transmission works to keep the engine in a responsive part of its power band. The wastegate control on the twin-turbo engine enhances performance efficiency. The LS 500 can achieve a 0-60 time of just 4.6 seconds. Drivers can tailor the powertrain response through various modes, from Eco to Sport S+. The standard AWD system features a Torsen limited-slip center differential for enhanced grip and cornering stability.
The 2026 Lexus LS 500 AWD Heritage Edition truly marks the end of an era. It’s a beautifully executed send-off for a model that challenged the luxury world. Limited to just 250 units, this special model combines exclusive style and thoughtful substance. Its Ninety Noir paint and Rioja Red interior make it instantly recognizable. The Heritage Edition is a fitting tribute to the original flagship that launched the entire Lexus brand 36 years ago.
Disclaimer: Content on this site is for informational purposes only. Vehicle specs, pricing, and availability may change. Always verify details with official sources before making decisions. Opinions are those of the authors.
Source: Lexus
