Lexus LS Hybrid Underrated Luxury

The first-generation Lexus LS defined the term “market disruption”.  Its combination of size, power, craftsmanship, and above all, quality, simply provided more of what a luxury car buyer wanted in their automobile, and it sent luxury car makers around the world back to their drawing boards. That dedication to excellence is why Lexus of Las Vegas exists.

In the subsequent 33 years and across five model generations, the brief for Lexus LS has never changed. It has always been dedicated to being the finest and highest quality luxury sedan money can buy. In that time, however, the luxury automotive world has had its attention turned elsewhere.  New brands, luxury SUVs, and of course, EVs have all captured the market and media’s attention, leaving the LS somewhat overlooked.  Enthusiast site TopSpeed.com took notice.  They published an article in July with the headline “Why The Lexus LS Hybrid Is Criminally Underrated”.  The article that follows devotes few words to the “why” and much space to “Why it shouldn’t”.

Size and Style

TopSpeed quickly points out how the LS continues to offer everything a luxury sedan buyer is looking for.  To start with, it is large with 206.1 inches in length, 74.8 inches in width, and 57.5 inches in height, and provides all the gravitas and interior space those figures imply. “Its sleek lines, aerodynamic contours, and distinctive styling elements all contribute to its eye-catching design.” 

Opulent Interior

TopSpeed then describes the interior as being just as, if not more impressive.  “The cabin is trimmed in high-quality materials, including leather, wood, and aluminum. It seats five adults comfortably, with heated and ventilated front seats and plenty of legroom and headroom in both rows.” Indeed, the style, materials, and overall plush ambiance of the LS interior are second to none. While exceptional audio systems are the norm in this category, they point out that the 17-speaker Mark Levinson surround sound system is still a standout.  Even the 15.19 cubic foot trunk is praised. 

Impressive Performance

True to its name, TopSpeed saves its most energized words for the LS Hybrid’s performance.  Much of this is due to the hybrid system being combined with the already robust 3.5-liter V-6.  While a combined 354 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque may not make headlines, they point out that the 0 to 60 mph time of 4.6 seconds should, as it makes the LS Hybrid one of the “quickest hybrid luxury sedans on the market”.  At the same time, the hybrid system keeps things efficient with an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 22 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. “This means you can enjoy the exhilarating performance of the LS Hybrid without having to worry about making frequent stops at the gas station.”

An Over Three-Decade Heritage of Excellence

TopSpeed doesn’t overlook the important if less exciting, subject that is an LS hallmark.  “While it may not have the same level of name recognition as its competitors, the LS benefits from the reputation and track record of reliability associated with Lexus vehicles and hybrids.”  They go on to point out that the hybrid system can actually “reduce wear on components such as brakes and transmissions, which can lead to potential long-term savings.”

Combine space, gravitas, sybaritic opulence, and refinement, add the performance and efficiency of the hybrid drivetrain, and overlay it with the highest levels of craftsmanship and reliability, and this points to the LS Hybrid as still being the smart person’s choice of a luxury sedan. See if you agree with TopSpeed.com by paying a visit to Lexus of Las Vegas and spending an indulgent time with the 2023 Lexus LS.