Used 2019 Lexus LS

Having debuted last year as an all-new generation, the 2019 Lexus LS large-luxury sedan comes with a conundrum. On one side of the argument are impeccable build quality, wonderful materials, bet-your-life-on-it reliability, attention to detail, convenience features, safety equipment, space, comfort, technology, golden resale values, relatively reasonable pricing, and pleasurable dealer experience. For those with the funds, a new LS should be a no-brainer. The reasons why are a lack of driving feel (even the optional F Sport package for the non-hybrid LS 500 doesn’t improve matters much) and the designs — both exterior and interior. We’re not saying these are bad things, but each buyer has to decide whether such aspects are acceptable. Many people will find the pros outweighing the cons.

The turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 in the new LS has more than enough muscle, which is evident when accelerating off the line or executing a passing move. The 10-speed automatic transmission is beautifully refined, its shift actions barely perceptible. Even though the 2019 LS isn’t particularly sporty, among the selectable driving modes is a Sport Plus setting that sharpens responses of the steering, throttle, transmission and suspension for extra liveliness while remaining essentially comfortable. The F Sport treatment in the LS 500 doesn’t add power but includes a firmer suspension, quicker transmission shifts, and stronger brakes that feel confident without being grabby. For ultimate comfort, an adjustable air suspension is available. The LS 500h hybrid is almost as quick as its regular counterpart, but has the advantage of lower fuel consumption and fewer emissions.

Allow us to expand upon one of our favorite features. While previous LS generations have always enjoyed well-assembled cabins with quality materials, the new LS brings a certain character. Instead of imitating European marques, there’s a justifiable pride in its nation of origin, fusing traditional values with modern high-tech features. The LS offers Kiriko cut-glass/hand-pleated origami-inspired cloth panels in the doors. Alternatively, the more conventional wood trim is exceptionally classy. In addition to exemplary construction, the cabin also features Active Noise Control to keep sound levels subdued.

Considering the 2019 LS is a large flagship sedan, a class whose customers tend to be on the conservative side, Lexus is taking quite a risk with this latest (and what seems like largest) iteration of its “spindle grille” design feature. Then again, it’s one of those situations where playing it safe would also draw criticism. Working on the premise, then, that not all people can be pleased all the time, perhaps some will find that the seemingly contradictory elements of jagged, angular headlights and smooth curves down the sides combine to form a pleasing whole.

SUMPTUOUS INTERIOR
The interior of the 2019 LS is full of details inspired by traditional Japanese craftsmanship, while making occupants feel like the most important people in the world. Options include 28-way power-adjustable front seats, Shiatsu-influenced massage functions, a reclining rear seat with an ottoman, and an ear-thrilling 23-speaker audio setup.

HYBRID POWERTRAIN
Hybrid cars make sense in stop/go traffic, not just for saving fuel (although the LS 500h can average a respectable 28 mpg) but also in reducing emissions. The other hybrid advantage is that the LS 500h’s total output of 354 horsepower brings a useful turn of speed — standstill to 60 mph in just 5.1 seconds.

Even the entry-level 2019 LS comes with a ton of features. The range begins with rear-wheel drive, 19-inch alloy wheels, adaptive suspension, leather upholstery, heated/ventilated front seats, heated steering wheel, soft-close doors, hands-free trunk lid operation, navigation, Wi-Fi, 12.3-inch infotainment screen, parking sensors front and rear, adaptive cruise control, forward-collision mitigation with pedestrian detection, lane-keeping assistance, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, rain-sensing wipers, and automatic high beams. The infotainment system’s interface is a touch pad and can be a minor distraction while learning to use it (it’s not particularly intuitive). But don’t be put off, since there are many handy functions.

This is where things like the 28-way front seats, Kiriko glass/folded-cloth door panels, massage functions, reclining/heated rear seats, quad-zone automatic climate control all come into play. A more sophisticated driver-aid package includes front cross-traffic alert, active steering, road-sign recognition, Lane Trace Assist (bringing partial autonomy) and the aforementioned lane-change function. Things like all-wheel drive, air suspension, and the F Sport package (including 20-inch alloy wheels, rear-wheel steering, variable-ratio steering, and active anti-roll bars) seem more prosaic, but still have their appeal.

The 2019 LS 500 employs a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 that develops a forceful 416 horsepower. Drive goes through a 10-speed automatic transmission to the rear wheels (RWD) in basic form, or all four when all-wheel drive (AWD) is optioned. The 2019 LS 500h augments its 3.5-liter V6 with two electric motors for a total system output of 354 horsepower (Lexus doesn’t give torque figures for its hybrid vehicles). In this instance, a continuously variable transmission (CVT) is matched with a 4-speed automatic gear set. It’s been engineered to simulate the feel and response of a conventional 10-speed automatic, but doesn’t quite convince.

3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V6
416 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm
442 lb-ft of torque @ 1,600-4,800 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 19/30 mpg (RWD), 18/27 mpg (AWD)

3.5-liter Atkinson cycle V6 + 2 electric motors
354 total system horsepower
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 25/33 mpg (RWD), 23/31 mpg (AWD)