![]() ![]() For more information about the LS's fuel economy, visit the EPA's website. An all-wheel-drive nonhybrid model managed 29 mpg. In our real-world testing, an all-wheel-drive LS500h managed a 30-mpg result on our 200-mile highway fuel-economy test. Whereas the rear-wheel-drive LS500 claims 30/19 mpg highway/city, the rear-wheel-drive LS500h earns 33/25 mpg ratings from the EPA. Lexus LS500h Struggles to Make Its Caseįuel-economy estimates for the hybrid are indeed better than the nonhybrid LS500's figures, so if you're looking to save a buck at the pump, we suppose that's the one redeeming quality of the LS500h's powertrain.The engine sounds raspy and coarse, and the transmission-a mashup of a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) and a regular four-speed automatic-steps through preset gear ratios with all the crispness of a soggy cornflake. While the standard twin-turbo V-6 operates smoothly, the hybrid arrangement feels unrefined and altogether not luxurious. Models badged LS500h feature a hybrid powertrain that uses a 3.5-liter V-6 and two electric motors to make 354 horsepower. Performance is more than enough for this car's luxury mission, but V-8-powered variants of the BMW 7-series and the Mercedes-Benz S-class proved to be quicker at the test track. A 10-speed automatic handles gearchanges unobtrusively. It sounds refined and powerful while under heavy throttle but hushed when cruising. The standard engine in the LS is a twin-turbocharged 3.4-liter V-6 that delivers a silky-smooth 416 horsepower. The optional adjustable air suspension, 20-inch wheels, a 360-degree camera system, real wood interior trim, and a wood- and-leather-trimmed heated steering wheel are all required to add the Luxury package. We'd spring for the Luxury package-it's expensive but worth it-as it adds heated-and-cooled front and rear seats with semi-aniline leather upholstery 28-way power-adjustable front seats with massage rear buckets a rear center console with touchscreen controls for climate, audio, and seat functions four-zone automatic climate control and power sunshades in the back. We'd stick with the standard twin-turbocharged V-6 engine and rear-wheel drive if only to reserve funds for optioning the LS's coolest features. While its rivals-such as the Audi A8, the BMW 7-series, and the Mercedes-Benz S-class-offer more well-rounded packages, the Lexus feels like it's maker has simply misjudged what’s needed to compete at the top of this expensive segment. That look, though, doesn’t match the LS’s soft-riding demeanor, and even the F Sport model doesn’t dial in any discernable athleticism. In the past, the LS has worn a conservative, businesslike set of clothes but this latest generation has gone with a more expressive and aggressive style. While most other large luxury sedans at least offer a V-8 engine, the LS does without-going instead with a twin-turbo V-6 and an unrefined hybrid powertrain option. Unlike that original LS, which aped a Mercedes-Benz S-class, this latest LS is a rugged individualist that has its own way of doing luxe. ![]() It’s been around since the dawn of the brand but its competitive edge and desirability have waned since the first LS disrupted the luxury-car market in 1990. No other car in the Lexus lineup has the heritage of the 2023 LS luxury sedan. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |