NEW FOR 2015:
- RWD models discontinued
- Trim and equipment level adjustments
For over 25 years, the Lexus LS has been challenging the world’s finest luxury sedans consistently and without compromise. From its ultra-smooth V8 engines, to its impeccable build quality and materials, it’s hard to ignore the LS even if it isn’t the fastest, best-handling, or most stylish model in the premium full-size class.
For 2015 Lexus has discontinued the rear-wheel-drive versions of the LS 460. All LS 460s come with a 360-hp V8 engine as standard, paired to an eight-speed automatic. While it may not have the same high-output figures as its turbocharged or supercharged European rivals, the big Lexus fires back with effortless wafting and a cushy, silent ride. Those desiring a slightly more engaging drive can opt for the LS 460 AWD F Sport which adds firmer suspension tuning, VGRS variable adaptive steering, six-piston Brembo brakes, as well as tasteful sporty design elements both inside and out.
The LS is Lexus’ technological tour de force; it boasts one of the largest infotainment screens on the market measuring 12.3 inches across, and, you’ll find such features as night-vision, infrared body temperature sensors, a driver monitoring system, radar cruise control with full auto brake and obstacle detection, and Climate Concierge as either standard or optional. What’s Climate Concierge, you ask? It uses 13 sensors plus the car’s heated and cooled seats, and heated steering wheel, to create the perfect interior climate. Long-wheelbase models (LS 460L, LS 600h L) can also be had with a first-class-style rear seat that boasts a power ottoman, power reclining rear seats, plus shiatsu massage.
All LS models receive premium leather upholstery, 19-inch wheels, bi-xenon headlamps, moonroof, power-assist doors, power trunk, 16-way power adjustable driver’s seat and 12-way power adjustable passenger’s seat, heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, navigation, heated wood steering wheel on a power tilt and telescoping steering column, 19-speaker Mark Levinson sound system, and more.
The Technology Package adds VGRS adaptive steering, adaptive air suspension, four-zone climate control, rear seat side airbags, radar cruise control with pre-collision warning, power rear seats with heating, air conditioning and massage, automatic high beam headlights, and a rear cooler box.
The LS 460 AWD F Sport adds F Sport specific steering wheel, shift-knob, metal pedals, F Sport suspension tuning, six-piston Brembo front brakes, forged alloy wheels, blind-spot monitor with cross-traffic alert, and an F Sport ground effects kit. For 2015 the F Sport package also receives radar cruise control with pre-collision warning, and automatic high beams.
The long-wheelbase LS 460L comes standard with the equipment found on the LS 460 AWD Technology Package, plus noise-dampening glass on the side windows. For those wanting the ultimate in Lexus luxury, there is always the Executive Package. It includes LED headlamps, advanced pre-collision warning system with obstacle detection and full auto-brake, night vision, driver monitor system, a power retractable ottoman for right rear passenger, rear-seat shiatsu massage, Blu-Ray entertainment system, infrared body temperature sensors, leather-wrapped dashboard, and walnut wood trim.
The LS 600h L swaps out its 4.6-litre V8 and automatic transmission for a bigger 5.0-litre V8 and a CVT. It may sound like an odd combination, but together they make the 438-hp 600h L is the most powerful luxury hybrid on the market. It comes with all of the above as standard, with the exception of night vision, full auto-brake, rear-seat entertainment, power retractable ottoman, and rear-seat shiatsu massage. These features are included as a part of the Premium Executive Package.
This vehicle has not yet been reviewed