Used 2020 Lexus LS

Japan has a tradition of mind-blowing craftsmanship with astounding attention to detail. The 2020 Lexus LS full-size luxury sedan is a prime example of such artisanal brilliance on wheels.

It’s also incredibly comfortable, supremely reliable, tremendously safe and holds its value to a level that makes German companies envious. Yet it’s priced competitively and even the dealer experience is more pleasurable than usual. There’s also a hybrid version, the LS 500h, for those seeking to rein in their carbon footprint.

Granted, the LS doesn’t appeal to driving fans as much as a BMW 7 Series (not even in F Sport form), nor does it have the cachet of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, while the Audi A8 is a technological powerhouse wrapped in cool style. But buyers seeking a luxury conveyance that doesn’t depreciate at the same rate as the typical German flagship sedan should definitely have the 2020 LS on their “must consider” list.

Power levels in the 2020 LS 500 and LS 500h hybrid are suitably authoritative for a full-size luxury sedan. Although some rivals offer V8 engines, the LS 500 performs perfectly well with a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6. Its 10-speed automatic transmission is beautifully refined, with shift actions that are barely perceptible.

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. Even the regular LS has selectable driving modes that include a Sport Plus setting that sharpens responses of the steering, throttle, transmission and suspension for extra liveliness while remaining essentially comfortable.

However, such sporty additions seem to take the LS into an area that isn’t its strong point. 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.

Previous LS generations have always enjoyed well-assembled cabins with quality materials, but this current LS adds a different 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 well and truly hushed.

Aside from the badge on the trunk, there isn’t much to separate the 2020 Lexus LS 500h from its non-hybrid counterpart. The Lexus LS 500 Inspiration Series is easier to spot. It comes with a bespoke deep red color and dark 20-inch alloy wheels.

All versions of the Lexus LS have triple-beam LED headlights as standard, which contribute to the striking front end. The other big ingredient here is a “spindle” grille. Let’s assume that everyone has seen it by now and has formed an opinion, positive or otherwise.

SUMPTUOUS INTERIOR
Inside the 2020 LS, the ultra-modern (like an ear-thrilling 23-speaker audio setup) blends with 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, and a reclining rear seat with an ottoman.

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.

Lexus makes a point of supplying lots of standard equipment for the price and the 2020 LS doesn’t deviate from that strategy.

Even at its entry level, the 2020 LS comes with a car-load 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 stick with it, since there are many useful aspects.

Both LS 500 and LS 500h versions offer the option of all-wheel drive (but not the Inspiration Series LS 500). And the non-hybrid also offers the F Sport package, which includes 20-inch alloy wheels, 28-way front sport seats, perforated-leather upholstery, and a sport-tuned variable suspension.

Delve deeper into the options list to find features such as the air suspension, massaging seats, Kiriko glass/folded-cloth door panels, reclining/heated rear seats, quad-zone automatic climate control, and a Mark Levinson 23-speaker/2,400-watt audio system.

Other options include a panoramic glass roof, 360-degree camera system, and adaptive LED headlights.

A twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 endows the 2020 LS 500 with a deceptively muscular (because power delivery is so smooth) 416 horsepower. A 10-speed automatic transmission sends that energy to the rear wheels (RWD) by default, or to an optional all-wheel drive (AWD) system.

The 2020 LS 500h also has a 3.5-liter V6, which is augmented by two electric motors for a total system output of 354 horsepower (Lexus doesn’t give torque figures for its hybrid vehicles). 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 hit the mark. Once again, RWD is standard, AWD is optional.

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)