Lexus LS600h L
Price $394,000 with COE
On sale Now
Tech Highlights V8, 4,969cc, petrol/electric, 389bhp (438bhp system total), 520Nm, 0-100km/h 6.3sec, 250km/h
What’s new?
This is the mid-life update for Lexus’ largest and most comfortable hybrid model, the LS 600h L. As the brand’s luxury limo flagship, it also happens to be their most expensive and powerful car around, at least until the limited-run LFA supercar gets here. As far as tweaks go, they’re minor but appreciated – there’s a new grille, foglamps and full-LED headlamps which complement the car’s high-tech theme. The cabin also gets a little freshening up, although this isn’t particularly noticeable. Five new colour options give more to crow about.
What’s it like?
Sure it’s a hybrid, but this ain’t no wallflower either. The mechanicals are still the same, so a big 5.0-litre V8 with 389bhp provides plenty of punch, even without the hybrid system as a performance booster.
300Nm of torque is served up by an additional electric motor, so while the LS is a big and heavy car (in excess of two tonnes and five metres in length) it hits 100km/h in only 6.3 seconds.
It’s also very, very refined. Thanks to the usual hermetically-quiet Lexus cabin and air suspension it wafts across all road conditions leaving you to enjoy the sumptuousness of the rear Ottoman seat, which not only reclines, but has a foot rest, plus massage and cooling functions too.
Should I buy one?
It’s luxury with a capital ‘L’ and nigh on unbeatable in that respect. However, keen drivers should look elsewhere as the Lexus isn’t the best handling machine in its class. Plus the interior is looking a little dated compared to the latest German offerings.
Justin Lee