Lexus LS Review

The 4th generation of the fabled Lexus LS is, as always the flagship in the Lexus line up which serves as a showcase for the best tech Lexus has to offer plus exceptional levels of refinement and detailed luxury. This revised model the Lexus LS is an improvement on its predecessor with the reintroduction of V8 power. It isn’t an obvious choice within the large luxury saloon segment, but that might just be exactly the reason the new Lexus LS might be a great choice to buy or lease.

This Lexus LS has clearly developed its individual appeal with distinctively Lexus design cues. It has a long aerodynamically savvy profile and a muscular bonnet capped by the Lexus style front. There is some lovely detailing here and the lights stick out due to the distinctive ‘L’ shaped daytime running strip and indicators made of no less than 12 LED lights. The sheer level of refinement as you enter this Lexus LS suggests this will be something very special and is certainly a luxurious place to be. The cabin reeks of extremely high quality that leaves you 100% certain that you’re in a top of the line car. The details such as the classy analogue clock, the beautiful wood veneer trim and the light up information/instrument display really enhance this factor.

The seats (which are wonderfully supportive) and the steering wheel are electrically adjustable and even assist in getting in and out of the car. The huge 12.3” infotainment display dominates the dash, allowing you to control all car settings, multimedia, climate, navigation and phone features through a mouse like instrument located by the handbrake button. This control takes a bit of getting used to but once you do it’s a wonderful control device that allows you to surf through the options with ease. The back is where most board room buyers will be spending their time so it’s as expected; a plush place to be. There is no more space than the previous Lexus LS model due to sharing the same big 5 metre wheelbase. It’s still spacious and airy with plenty of room for passengers to stretch out on the extremely comfortable ottoman style reclining chairs. Those asking for a more limo-like quality can stretch up to the longer wheelbase model and enjoy the extra 120mm available.

One of the best features is the wonderful Climate Concierge system. This allows you perfect temperature control in every part of the car separately through the vents dotted around the cabin. In the air, nanoe particles work to clean the air in the Lexus LS to the point that they can even moisturise your skin and hair. How cool is that? Boot space was a bugbear with the previous model and thankfully they have improved it to a capacity of 560ltrs with a nice underfloor compartment for storing valuables and contraband alike. Being behind this wheel the Lexus LS certainly doesn’t disappoint. The engine starts with a startling quietness that you wouldn’t expect from a beefy V8. This is a trend carried forward from the original model that was officially the quietest car in the world at the time.

The Lexus LS is privy to some serious speed with the RWD LS460 model power to the tune of 382bhp with its 4.6ltr 32 valve V8. As such it rockets to 62mph in under 6 seconds up to the sensible artificial restriction of 155mph. The hybrid exploits its electric motor for extra power to get a whole 439bhp, although when you consider it’s got a heavy battery to lug around with it you’ll understand that it affects the 0-62mph factor slightly so it hits it on 6.1 seconds. Not that most people will care. The electronic braking has been improved to handle this immense power and ensure you’re always in control.

The Lexus LS LS features the Drive Mode Select feature for the first time, allowing you to configure the throttle response, steering and suspension how you like at any given time. In the two sports orientated modes the instrument display lights up in red and gives your Lexus LS a much more fun drive than before. The AVS adaptive suspension and air suspension work together to greatly reduce body roll and optimises the suspension for the speed you’re going while the steering sharpens. It’s all very good, but at the end of the day it just isn’t quite enough to square up to its European rivals in this class.

This shouldn’t bother the traditional boardroom buyer who will have a focus on comfort and refinement, but if you are one of the ones who want a sporty drive then you’re advised to look at the Lexus LS460 F –Sport variant. This model isn’t more powerful, but it is optimized for a sportier, more dynamic feel with features such as a meaty intake sound generator, paddle shift gears, lowered suspension and torque sensing limited slip differential for superior cornering stability. It’s basically a way to give the Lexus LS an even more enjoyable experience. If that’s your priority then definitely get this model.

All in all, what’s the lowdown with the Lexus LS? Lexus is well known in the luxury sector for defining the benchmark for the level of refinement that a full size luxury saloon should have. This new model might not be a class leader, but it’s certainly a beautiful car which has improved vastly and will make a bold and unique choice for buyers willing to step out of line in favour of something a little bit different.

If you want to get hold of the new Lexus LS then don’t hesitate to leave us a message on our contact us page or give us a call on 01903 538835 to find out about our Lexus lease deals.