Lexus LS
Ratings
4 stars
Summary
Recommended. Technically this is probably the most accomplished mega-exec yet - it's just a shame Lexus left out its soul.
Review
Could this be the LS that finally catapults Lexus into the big time? The all-new fourth generation car is a big step forward over its predecessors, especially the slab-sided model it replaces. Now the design is flowing and organic rather than brutish, while the outstanding build quality and comprehensive spec levels remain.
External styling is handsome enough, this LS looks like a scaled-up version of the current GS and IS. The cabin is spacious and predictably packed with kit, but it's hard not to feel let down by slightly unadventurous design, and some very cheesy-looking wood trim. Fortunately the driving position is supremely comfortable, as are the seats for other occupants, and the LS absorbs long journeys like almost no other.
The dynamic experience has been engineered around comfort and waft, something the LS delivers supremely well. The cabin is whisper quiet at cruising speeds, with soft air suspension to smooth away road imperfections. Even with the adaptive dampers turned up to their firmest setting it never manages to feel particularly keen or sporty - but most occupants will appreciate the comfort more than they rue the lack of tyre-squealing back road dynamics.
Only one engine is available from launch, a silken 4.6 litre V8 which delivers its creamy-smooth urge via the world's first production eight-speed automatic gearbox. Other high-tech features include a battery of standard safety equipment, plus a sensor that detects when the driver loses attention and sounds an alarm.
Relentlessly competent across the board - there's just one thing the LS misses - a sense of occasion to rival that delivered by the altogether grander Mercedes S Class.
Ratings Breakdown
Styling
3 star
Far more discreet than the XXL previous generation model, but the back end lacks character.
Handling
3 star
Handling came a distant second to comfort on the dynamic brief. The LS is grippy, safe and predictable - but it never feels as taut or responsive as sportier rivals.
Comfort
5 star
If you were to spend the rest of your life in a car, this would be the place to come. Supremely comfortable over longer journeys, and packed with standard-fit kit.
Quality & Reliability
4 star
We've no complaints about the way it's screwed together, but the unconvincing looking wood trim in the cabin (which is actually real) isn't what we expect from a car in this segment.
Performance
4 star
The 4.6 litre V8 delivers strong urge, although it's not in the same league as brawnier German rivals. Forthcoming hybrid version should be even faster.
Roominess
4 star
Generous space for all four occupants and a decently proportioned boot to boot.
Running Costs
3 star
Steepish depreciation and a serious thirst for unleaded mean you need a deep wallet to keep an LS on the road. Lack of diesel version limits appeal to higher mileage drivers.
Value for money
4 star
Near comprehensive standard kit means the LS looks like excellent value compared to German rivals.
