2007-2008 Lexus LS: Road Test

Smooth, ample power arrives at any speed. A test base sedan took only a brisk 5.6 seconds to reach 60 mph. Lexus' silky automatic transmission is generally responsive, but a deep stab on the throttle pedal is required to coax a downshift low enough for maximum acceleration. Because the hybrid-powertrain LS 600h L is heavier, it's only slightly quicker than the gasoline-engine LS 460. Fuel economy is unimpressive with a gasoline engine, but better in the city with the hybrid-though not necessarily better in highway driving. A test base sedan averaged 22.7 mpg in mostly highway driving, 15.1 mpg in a test that included gas-eating performance runs. A test LS 460 L averaged a thirsty 13.7 mpg in mostly city driving. Lexus requires premium-grade gasoline. Ride comfort is a big bonus, but not perfect. The base suspension is pillowy on most surfaces, with noticeable highway float. The available air suspension's Sport setting induces some body jiggle. Steering is light, though direct, and the turning circle is impressively tight. An LS is no sport sedan, of course. The base suspension permits marked body lean. So does the air suspension's Comfort setting, and its Sport mode is slightly sharper overall. Lexus's Advanced Parking Guidance System is a marvel for parallel parking, and works as advertised, though not everyone is likely to use it much. It can also back the car into a parking-lot space, but that function takes too long to program. One of the quietest cars around, an LS is nearly silent at idle. The engine emits a subdued growl under aggressive acceleration. Virtually no tire, road, or wind noise is noticeable. Controls are mostly handy and logical. Lexus earns praise for foregoing a complicated central control system, and for keeping basic audio and climate controls separate from the navigation screen. Note that the premium audio system's hard drive can download music files from CDs, though a USB port would make loading the hard drive a faster process. Test cars have exhibited top-quality materials with numerous soft-touch surfaces. Spacious for adults, the front seat may be short of headroom for taller drivers. The power tilt and telescoping steering wheel and wide, supportive seats with multiple power adjustments make it easy to find a comfortable driving position. Visibility is fine all around. Adult-size roominess is evident in back, too, though foot space is tight with front seats pushed fully back in the standard-wheelbase model. The long-wheelbase sedan adds its length in useful rear legroom. Backseats blend fine support with soft padding. If installed, the Executive Seating Package combines upgraded leather with indulgent amenities, such as a massaging right-side seat and body-temperature sensors linked to the climate control. For some passengers, the Executive Seating Package's leg rest can lift the occupant's feet into the seat ahead. Also, note that with the leg rest extended, the front passenger seat cannot be occupied. Cargo space is sufficient for most travel needs, but rear air conditioning trims trunk volume by a full 6.0 cubic feet. Trunklid hinges further steal useful space. In-cabin small-item storage is good.

Value for the Money
Gasoline-engine LS base prices when new started below those of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and Audi A8. Lexus's top sedan is less sporty and more comfort-oriented than those German rivals, but this Best Buy is outstanding in its own right in terms of power, refinement, standard features, and available gadgets. The hybrid LS 600h L ranks as a technological tour-de-force for Lexus, but in its lofty price range, most European competitors offer the cachet of a V12 powertrain.