2011 Lexus LS: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2011 Lexus LS sees only minor trim changes following its modest model-year 2010 freshening. Three versions of this brand's flagship sedan are offered: The 460, and extended 460 L, and gas/electric hybrid 600h L that add about 5 inches of wheelbase and overall length. Rear-wheel drive is standard on the 460 and 460 L. All-wheel drive is standard on the 600h and available on the 460 and 460 L. All 460 models have a 4.6-liter V8 and an 8-speed automatic transmission. Rear-drive versions have 380 horsepower, and AWD models have 357. The 600h pairs a 5.0-liter gas V8 with an electric motor for 438 horsepower total. The hybrid uses a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that behaves much like an automatic. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, an antiskid system, front-side airbags, rear-side airbags, curtain-side airbags, and front-knee airbags. Available features include a lane-departure warning system that alerts the driver and can correct the vehicle's path if it drifts out of its lane, and Lexus' Enform system with Safety Connect, an assistance system with convenience, safety, security, and emergency-response features. An air suspension with driver-selectable firmness is available on all AWD LS models and available on the rear-drive 460 L. Steering-linked headlights, satellite radio, and keyless entry/engine start are standard on all. Available only on the rear-wheel-drive 460, the Sport Package includes steering-wheel paddle shifters, sport-tuned air suspension, 19-inch wheels, Brembo-brand brakes, and unique trim. Other option groups include the 460's Comfort Package with heated and cooled front seats, heated rear seats, heated steering wheel, and rear power sunshade. The 460's Comfort Plus Package adds power rear seats and rear-side airbags. Available for 460 L is a Rear Seat Upgrade Package that includes a cooled rear console and four-zone climate control. Also offered on 460 L and 600h is an Executive Class Seating Package that changes the seating configuration to 4 passengers and adds a retractable table, DVD entertainment, and a reclining, massaging right-rear seat. A navigation system is optional on 460 and 460 L and standard on 600h. A rearview camera and a wireless cell-phone link are standard on all LS models. Lexus' Pre-Collision Safety System is available. Packaged with adaptive cruise control, it automatically tightens the seatbelts and readies full braking power when sensors detect an imminent collision. Also available is Lexus' Advanced Parking Guidance System which provides hands-free parallel parking.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Premium-Large Cars are top-of-the-line sedans in size and luxury. Many are manufacturer flagships and/or showcases for the newest automotive technology. Some have six-figure price tags. Our Best Buys are the Hyundai Equus, Hyundai Genesis, Lexus LS, and Mercedes-Benz S-Class. New or significantly redesigned models include the Audi A8, Fisker Karma, Hyundai Equus, Jaguar XJ Series, and Mercedes-Benz CL-Class. The BMW 7-Series gains a new gas/electric hybrid model and the Mercedes-Benz S-Class gains a new diesel model for 2011.