How much does a Lexus LS500 cost at a Japanese auction?

In the Japanese auction results we track for 2017–2023 models, a Lexus LS500 typically sells for ¥3,232,000 to ¥4,664,000 (median ¥3,759,000), FOB Japan: the auction price plus the Japanese-side costs to the port.

How much does it cost to import a Lexus LS500 to Brisbane?

About $41,630 drive-away for a median-priced Lexus LS500 at ¥110.46 per A$1 (typically $36,859 to $49,823): the import calculator's estimate, with shipping, transport, compliance, rego and the import service fee. An estimate, not a quote: the car, the hammer price and the exchange rate move it.

Is the Lexus LS500 a popular Japanese import?

About 38 sell each month at the Japanese auctions, so there is a steady choice of cars to pick from.

What is a common mechanical issue or watchout for the Lexus LS500?

Inspect the turbocharger oil supply lines and intercooler piping for signs of seepage or brittleness, as the 2UZ-FSA’s high-pressure oil system can develop leaks at the turbo manifold connections, leading to oil consumption and potential turbo failure if not addressed.

What else should I check on an imported Lexus LS500? (2)

Check the rear subframe and rear wheel arches for surface rust or undercoating damage, particularly on vehicles with high mileage or from regions with heavy road salt usage, as the rear suspension mounting points are prone to corrosion that can compromise structural integrity.

What else should I check on an imported Lexus LS500? (3)

Verify the operation of the Direct-Shift 10-speed transmission by monitoring for any hesitation or shudder during the 1-2 shift at low speeds, as early software glitches or fluid degradation can cause engagement issues that require specific T-IV fluid and transmission control module recalibration.

ROVER SEVS verified Live auction data connected

How to import a Lexus LS500 to Brisbane

The Lexus LS500 represents a paradigm shift in flagship luxury, replacing the V8 with a 3.5L twin-turbo V6 (2UZ-FSA) that delivers 416 horsepower and 500 Nm of torque.

Calculate landed cost Source this vehicle

About the Lexus LS500

The Lexus LS500 represents a paradigm shift in flagship luxury, replacing the V8 with a 3.5L twin-turbo V6 (2UZ-FSA) that delivers 416 horsepower and 500 Nm of torque. Its driving character is defined by the Direct-Shift 10-speed automatic, which offers rapid downshifts and a refined, linear power delivery that rivals European competitors. Factory options often include the Mark Levinson 19-speaker audio system, adaptive variable suspension, and the 22-inch wheel package. Enthusiasts value the LS500 for its superior NVH performance, the availability of the F Sport trim with unique aero and red stitching, and the robust build quality inherent to JDM specifications. The vehicle’s architecture prioritizes long-term reliability and comfort, making it a compelling alternative to the BMW 7 Series or Mercedes S-Class for those seeking understated performance and exceptional interior materials without the typical European maintenance costs.

Why import the Lexus LS500 to Brisbane & Queensland?

AI-generated insights

The 2UZ-FSA 3.5L twin-turbo V6 engine is mechanically robust with a forged crankshaft and high-tensile block, offering significantly better long-term reliability and lower maintenance complexity than the previous 4.6L V8 or competing European V8s.

The Direct-Shift 10-speed automatic transmission (A250F) features a dual-clutch-like engagement for the first gear, providing near-instantaneous launch response and smoother upshifts compared to traditional torque-converter units, enhancing both performance and fuel efficiency.

JDM LS500 models frequently come equipped with the Adaptive Variable Suspension and the Mark Levinson 19-speaker audio system as standard or low-cost options, providing a superior factory fit and finish that is often more expensive to retrofit on imported European counterparts.

Live Lexus LS500 auctions

Upcoming lots at the Japanese auction houses.

View all upcoming →

TomorrowGrade: R

2018 Lexus LS500

166,000 km

Starting bid

~ $12,674 AUD

(¥1,400,000)

Inspection watchouts & mechanical notes

Inspect the turbocharger oil supply lines and intercooler piping for signs of seepage or brittleness, as the 2UZ-FSA’s high-pressure oil system can develop leaks at the turbo manifold connections, leading to oil consumption and potential turbo failure if not addressed.
Check the rear subframe and rear wheel arches for surface rust or undercoating damage, particularly on vehicles with high mileage or from regions with heavy road salt usage, as the rear suspension mounting points are prone to corrosion that can compromise structural integrity.
Verify the operation of the Direct-Shift 10-speed transmission by monitoring for any hesitation or shudder during the 1-2 shift at low speeds, as early software glitches or fluid degradation can cause engagement issues that require specific T-IV fluid and transmission control module recalibration.

Japanese auction prices for the Lexus LS500

From 106 Japanese auction results for 2017–2023 models. Prices in Japan are FOB: the auction price plus the Japanese-side costs to the port. Landed estimates at ¥110.46 per A$1; past results, not a quote.

Median price in Japan: ¥3,759,000; about $34,030 at today's rate
Typical range: ¥3,232,000 – ¥4,664,000; the middle half of results
Estimated landed: about $41,630; typically $36,859 – $49,823
Sold a month in Japan: about 38; at the Japanese auctions

By model year
Model year	Results	Median in Japan	Est. landed (AUD)
2022	9	¥4,785,000	~$50,919
2021	20	¥5,489,000	~$57,292
2020	10	¥3,946,000	~$43,323
2019	16	¥3,430,000	~$38,652
2018	40	¥3,323,000	~$37,683
2017	8	¥3,400,000	~$38,380

Example results, cheapest to dearest by model year
Year / variant	Km	Grade	Price in Japan	Est. landed (AUD)
2023 LS LS500H · 3,500cc · AT	19,000 km	4.5	¥10,157,000	~$99,552
2023 LS LS500 F SPORTS 4WD · 3,500cc · AT	5,000 km	5	¥8,985,000	~$88,942
2023 LS LS500H · 3,500cc · AT	59,000 km	4	¥6,217,000	~$63,883
2022 LS LS500 VERSION L 4WD · 3,400cc · AT	30,000 km	4.5	¥6,905,000	~$70,111
2022 LS LS500H I PACKAGE 4WD · 3,500cc · AT	86,000 km	4	¥4,785,000	~$50,919
2022 LS LS500H · 3,500cc · AT	114,000 km	R	¥3,989,000	~$43,713
2021 LS LS500H F SPORTS 4WD · 3,500cc · AT	4,000 km	RA	¥7,526,000	~$75,733
2021 LS LS500 I PACKAGE 4WD · 3,400cc · AT	23,000 km	4	¥5,669,000	~$58,922
2021 LS 4WD LS500 I PACKAGE · 3,400cc · AT	160,000 km	3.5	¥3,656,000	~$40,698
2020 LS LS500H · 3,500cc · AT	78,000 km	4.5	¥4,819,000	~$51,227
2020 LS LS500 I PACKAGE 4WD · 3,400cc · AT	55,000 km	3.5	¥3,952,000	~$43,378
2020 LS LS500 VERSION L 4WD · 3,400cc · AT	137,000 km	4	¥3,005,000	~$34,804

Estimated landed cost breakdown (Brisbane, QLD)

Expected auction hammer & export docs: $29,259 – $42,223 AUD (typical)
Shipping (Japan to Brisbane): $4,000 AUD
Port to dealer transport: $250 AUD
Compliance & roadworthy: $1,500 AUD
Rego & stamp duty (approx.): $350 AUD
Import service fee: $1,500 AUD
Est. total drive-away: $36,859 – $49,823 AUD

At today's rate of ¥110.46 per A$1: the same estimate as the import calculator. Japanese-built cars are generally duty-free under JAEPA. An estimate, not a quote.

Approved SEVS register variants

From the federal ROVER register of published approvals (checked 31/08/2026).

1 approved entry

Chassis code	Variant / spec	Build range	SEV approval
VXFA55	VXFA55 (AWD) Only	10/2017 – 12/2026	SEV-001083

Browse other Japanese vehicle import guides

All Japanese import guides A–Z →

Important pricing and vehicle availability disclaimer

The figures, auction results, specifications and images on this page are for information and feasibility guidance only. They are historical Japanese auction data, compliance estimates and general market benchmarks. Unless a car is marked as in stock at CarStrike, the vehicles described here are custom import sourcing possibilities from licensed Japanese vehicle auctions. Final drive-away costs vary with the exchange rate (JPY/AUD), the hammer price, the condition grade and roadworthy requirements.