My wife has the rx400h hybrid and it's and amazing Suv. But this new tech is more advanced than hers in every way. I also drive a lexus, and will continue to only buy lexus vehicles. The quality is unmatched by and other manufacturers, plus nothing drivers like a lexus NOTHING.!
Yes I would pick this hybrid version over the twin turbo for several reasons. Primarily the serenity of the driving experience. Buyers of these larger cars love V12's because of the quiet, smooth driving experience. The hybrid offers a similar wafting experience to a V12 in this respect. Secondly, the improved running costs, albeit somewhat marginal. Thirdly, the inherent reliability of a N/A engine over a twin turbo. Fourthly, in the UK, far better residuals for the hybrid so financially this would be less of a hit on the wallet.
phymat1 Finally, someone who gets what big hybrids are about. I'm also a hybrid driver and I love the silent low and medium speed cruising. Hybrids also get tank ranges similar to diesels but without the clatter and NOx emissions.
One of my favorite things about my Lexus ES300H is the lack of a normal transmission, there's no shifting, no delay, no unnecessary drama, just smooth instantaneous power.
Australian Lexus LS430 owner here. Would happily consider the hybrid, now it has two modes of fun and sensible. Quick note - the German cars in Australia are considerably more expensive and in my experience considerably less reliable. Glad Lexus are starting to make cars that are not only super reliable and well built, but FUN!
The LS 430 has become very valuable in the United States the engine is impeccable. Don’t sell it keep it when you buy your next car that’s what I did because I read about so many people being disappointed after they sold their LS 430. So my daily driver is a 2001LS 430 ultra premium luxury package and similarly I picked up a used LS 460 LAWD 2010. Ultra premium luxury package.
I currently drive a 2017 BMW X5 and I would have the LS 500 with F Sport Package. I love a comfortable ride but enjoy having a little fun every now and then.
The interior of this car is just simply amazing, can't wait to see this in white and blue or any lighter colour on the dashboard plus other colour on the leather seats combo. The interior is just stunning
Used to have a LS500 as a company driver. As quiet and refined as it was, hated the CVT ‘drone’. This looks more promising. Just wish Lexus would drop the ‘who can make the biggest grill’ competition against Audi.
Stephen Hitchens The new battery on this model is 20% smaller than the LS600h. The ECU is now separated from the battery pack. Also the blower is SMALLER (Lexus own press release). So no, the large radiator has nothing to do with cooling batteries, etc. It’s more style than function. Look at super powerful hyper cars - do they have grills that big?
I currently own a 08’ LS600HL. I test drove the new LS500 recently and was very disappointed that I didn’t have the instantaneous off the line power in the non-hybrid model. It also didn’t have nearly the rear leg room either. However from my experience with my 600HL. I would personally take the new LS500h over any of the other models.
I am driving LS since 2005. I was BMW guy before and when 5 series changed body style and interior - I hated it and I found my first 2001 LS430 that I fall in love with, then in 2008 I bought new LS 460 , then in 2013 bought another 2010 LS460 and now driving 2015 LS 460 F Sport Crafted Line - bought it brand new. I love Lexus and honestly I am not still convinced if I want to drive Hybrid... Not even sure if I will like V6 in Lexus. To me V8 is a right engine in this type of car. I am thinking to keep my 2015 LS460 Crafted Line ( only 750 made Worldwide) for ever and probably go for new LC500 V8 as a second car. Those cars are the best. And I am saying that because I had as a second cars: Porsche Macan bi turbo ( it was a small toy that reminded me VW) , Range Rover Sport V8 ( Poor finishes and big delays on display screen and Auto Start that was making me nuts! ) The only thing I liked about Range Rover was powerful engine nothing else - I got rid of it last March. Looking forward to get that LC - I should not even try with any other brands anymore - I am done trying. Lexus is the way to go. Never had ANY problems with any I owned. Love them all and had a hard time to trade them in for the new ones.
Charles It's an evolution of the GS450h drivetrain instead of the bonkers cost-no-object LS600hL system. The 3.5 non-turbo V6 has been around for ages and the electric bits also aren't new.
True-Hybrid rule. Owned a Prius, and now an RX450H. I really enjoy those numbers and hyper milling in ev mode. I can see how I will ever drive a car without those regenerative feature. It's unfortunate here in South Africa the don't have the NX 300h F-Sport
i think this hybrid setup is the future of automotive propulsion especially performance and big luxury cars. i like the idea and you cant fight the future ;) i think i 5 or 6 years you wont be able to find a high end lux or sports car without this setup.also i think they will be better for it.
Excellent review!!! Late to this party. Our local dealership has a 2018 LS500h (w/luxury package and other bells n' whistles) marked down for end of year (it's getting stale on the lot), and I am aching to trade in my 2018 RX450h. My wife thinks it is too soon. Big hit on the trade-in. Still aching for this LS500h, as I'm kind of bored of the RX model, this one being the 4th RX hybrid since 2006. She drives a 2013 GS450h, which is a pleasure and a speedster. Really like the brand. Thanks for the review - great presentation and commentary! // Terry
I’m on my 3rd LS 460 and would consider a hybrid. I have heard they can be quite expensive if there are issues to fix. The LS500 will definitely be my next car in 5 years so we’ll see how they compare in the next couple of years in reliability and if they build a V8.
I'd totally consider the hybrid. I have a 2008 Highlander, and, it's got lots of shortcomings. But what it has taught me, is that the driver can adapt, easily.
I think a regular LS500. I love the Fsport look and hybrid MPG but its price worth the extra MPG. People love hybrid but looking at my wifes NX200t vs NX300h the price is much more than the actual gas she will spend. Same for the LS500h. Right now I own a 2010 LS460 sport with air ride and I am not a fan of Lexus going more sport. I prefer the luxury soft ride. But I will upgrade eventually to the 2018 LS500 and I will go with the Fsport just because I am young love the look. But Lexus may come out with the LS-F now that will be a game changer. Even tho a LS is more than enough. And I wonder if LS500 Fsport will come with an option for wood trim steering wheel, its one thing I love and hate about my LS, kind of miss the wood trim on the wheel. Just gives it a more luxury feel. P.s we met at the lookout point when you were testing out the I8, I had my LS460 from AZ there. Great meeting you.
Backstory - Owned mostly Toyota SUVs(1997 4Runner Limited, 2002 Sequoia Limited) and a 2008 Camry Limited the past 2 decades and currently own a 2013 Highlander Hybrid Limited. I always buy new and usually drive vehicles for more than 10 years. I am currently seriously considering a 2018 Lexus LX570 with 3rd row but this LS 500h has got me thinking about a test drive.
I drive a 2008 ls600hl. Love it. Fun to drive. The new design has a pretty interior and exterior. So many great freatures like pano roof finally, massage seats, mark levinson 3d system, blueray, and many others. Can't wait to drive them both but I think the ls500 would be more fun to drive than ls500h because it gives v8 like performance. The old hybrid drivetrain with boost to v8 and 15% gas savings acts like performance hybrid. Now for the most disappointing part of the redesign the interior. If you ever sat in the rear of ls460l or ls600hl you already know what I am going to say. The claim is the car is longer than previous gen. Look at the rear seat in the video its too close to front seat. It has short wheelbase interior leg room in front and back. I sat in one at a launch event and immediately told executives the interior space is gone. The pod seats in the rear and front seat designs have killed interior room. The lack of interior space in this segment is highly disappointing for me.
I have an IS 300h at the moment and I will keep it as long as it serves well. But I've already taken seat in the new LS500h and it was amazing. I had a lot of different cars in the past, but this one definitely got my attention. See you on the roads.
Since we bought an RX450h, there is no way I'd drive anything but a hybrid. Personally, I don't think the LS500h is enough; I want to see a Plug-In Hybrid and hope that by 2020, that will be the case!!!
Akshay Mahesh Toyota is really, really conservative when it comes to new tech. It took them a decade to start putting hybrid tech into the ES, GS and LS. Who knows, the next ES and GS could have plug-in hybrid variants. And yes, once you go electric in whatever form, you never want to go back to a normal gasser.
Lexus has repeatedly said they will not go down the plug in route, in Europe at least. If they continue to refine the battery/motor and importantly, the ability to recover the energy back to the battery, I think it will negate a lot of the benefits of a plug in. Further down their range they really should be integrating the better system which is now in the Prius (better as in more efficient) although you can see how the system in LS will eventually trickle down the range in the next few years.
Good for you Akshay Mahesh for going hybrid and good to know ownership has given you the hybrid mentality. I hope it grows on your family & friends that ride with you! :-) I 100% agree with you about a plug option. Just traded my ES 300h for an LS 500h yesterday and if available as a plugin, that's what I'd of bought. I hope Lexus/Toyota will offer a 40+ miles-in-winter PHEV with a heat-pump option for the LS 500h, the new ES 300h and the Camry h in 2019! Ya listenin' Toyota/Lexus!?! ;-)
I'd definitely get the hybrid and it looks like Lexus have finally nailed the hybrid set up. I'd love one, but it's way more expensive than my Golf GTE.
Evan! You do a GREAT job . . . And as you can see, in the two instances we used your music - they have worked very well. Thank you! For those of you wondering the music under the two Lexus episodes, have a look at soundcloud.com/evanschaeffer . . . Great indie artist from one of my favorite places - Nashville.
I drive a 2013 LS 600h L and love it. It has the bamboo wood accents and steering wheel, which is beautiful and will be hard for me to give up. It's my second LS hybrid, the first was a 2008 LS 600h L. For some reason, when they switched from touch screen to that god-awful joystick, they removed a lot of the voice commands and added a layer of Yes/No commands, which I find obvious and distracting. But other than that, I love my LS 600. Not sure I'd like the LS 500h (why the demotion from 600???). But after watching your video, I've decided that maybe this car is for me.
I currently drive a Nissan Frontier Pro4x, but I could see myself maybe purchasing a used LS when I retire. The twin turbo 3.5 is sublime, so it would be tough to pass on that, but even though you give up a bit of performance with the hybrid, it's minimal given the well implemented sport modes. More importantly, you gain about 6 MPGs which is substantial. I would definitely consider the hybrid over the twin turbo. In all honesty, I also plan to purchase a used 911 when I retire, so if I'm in the mood for a more sporty drive than the LS can give, I'll always have the 911 to fall back on.
I'm currently driving 2015 Lexus NX 200t. I would choose the gasoline over the hybrid because the 10 speed automatic transmission which is smoother than the 4 speed auto+CVT in my opinion and the weight advantage which mean the hybrid version is also heavier than the gasoline version.
It seems like the Same car just a hybrid. But i think you left out the BEST part especially for a CHEAP SKATE like MYSELF how far can i go with out REFUELING in the Hybrid
As a limo driver, I would only choose the hybrid if it didn't rob any trunk space. Not that I'm going to get an LS though - way too expensive. I'm in Australia and drive the *excellent* Holden Caprice, which is the perfect budget limo. It's out of production now, and I honestly have no idea what I'll get next - there's no other sedan here as big for the price.
Well, 4 speed conventional automatic is strange choice for hybrid, but I get it actually. Conventional gears in conjunction with CVT should spare wear-n-tare, thus giving it a long-life throughout years of use, for which they strive to be and perceived as. But I wonder of why they didn't split first gear for thirst 4 gears mimicking, and then second should have had 3 splits, then third is 2 gears mimicking and final ratio for single final ratio ( at lowest possible load for strained CVT chain ). Those choices would have been more logical and more durable accordingly, which would have let chain to run evenly throughout range of cones, covering all different positions with more distribution. Conventional CVT has one draw back which is it had to tend to hang on final ration too often thus wasting mid cone's range or, in another way, chain barely use some range of cones.
symmetry08 The planetary gear transmission - the first trans - isn't a CVT like a cone and belt system used in cheaper cars. Toyota calls it an e-CVT but it's just a set of ring, planet and sun gears. The second trans is a torque converter auto that runs off the ring gear from the e-CVT. It allows fixed ratios so you don't get the high rpm droning from a Camry or ES hybrid. So Toyota, please don't call your gearset an e-CVT because it has nothing to do with conventional CVTs.
the correct way to think about what they did here is that the dual electric motors act as a super advanced and super high performance torque converter and the 4 gears are the 4 gears. they call this torque converter "electronically controlled continuously variable transmission" in the Prius because that's kind of what it does there - but in here, the same exact system is really performing the function of a torque converter but with a much bigger torque multiplier than a normal torque converter would have. the reason they don't use this setup on the Prius is obvious - too expensive ! but really it has nothing to do with giving the car character - it's just the right way to do it in the first place - they simply couldn't afford to do it this way on the Prius and Camry Hybrid.
The Hybrid costs more to repair. for the generator instead of an alternator and the battery. And it takes about 70k-80k miles to get your money back in fuel savings vs cost of Hybrid vs LS500 non hybrid.
I drive a 2016 es300h and my next car will either be a LS500h or the next es hybridDrove a P100D model X and my es300h drives smoother and is more comfortable and has better fit and finishI am a Lexus owner wife has a NX300hI like you reviews very cool
I drive a 2013 avalon love it, but love the LS MORE. I'm not in the market for another car at the moment as I just obtain my Avalon in April but when the time is right I would probably not go with the hybrid only because I traditionally prefer a sportier Drive in something luxurious. I have driven hybrids in the past and no matter how small their engineer who still a little bit of clunkiness to them.
Keen eye! That is on all Toyota and Lexus vehicles at launch. It is a notice that reminds the driver that the car you are driving is a PRE PRODUCTION unit and some items (colors, fit/finish) may not be up to production spec.
ok, the message i received is- this is definitely a driver's car. Its has a great and unique interior (front dash reminds me a piano). It has a pretty agressive v6 roar (does it sound like a chainsaw on each overtaking manoeuvre on b roads?)
For a host of reasons, the Audi is far down on the list. For me, it's design but from an unbiased point of view the S Class wipes the floor with the Audi in terms of driving dynamics, power delivery and overall comfort. You will see a 2018 S63 TECH REVIEW & FIRST DRIVE REVIEW early in Season 9 with more detail.
We are on same track, had the (2nd generation)1.5hybrid prius, and (3rd generation)2010 Prius, and now drive the mighty RX450H.Lots of torque, very comfortable and not that too great on fuel especially when u push it!Best, reliable as ever!
I drive a 2006 gs 300, I would own the hybrid, but only because I want my own driver, I'm tired of having to deal with the idiots on the road these days. A half second in quickness means nothing to me if I'm sitting in the back reading. But if I was driving, I'd go with the 2018 bmw m5, and wish it could fly so I don't have to deal with all the idiots driving $2000 cars without insurance constantly tailgating, cutting people off, and acting like the world is going to end if they don't get there two seconds faster.
Good question: The embargo lifted on Tuesday - which is when we premiered the LS500 Twin Turbo episode (ua-cam.com/video/ugSoW_uJrQE/v-deo.html) but you may notice that we premiere all episodes at 1:00 PM CET/7:00 AM EST/4:00 AM PST on their respective days. We do this to give the algorithm enough time to get our newest episode into search for peak traffic in time zones key to the majority of our viewers . . .
Adil Waseem Actually, they did the opposite of what would be expected: the hybrid is the sporty version, and the gas/petrol only version is just like it was before. It works pretty well, the electric motor adds enough low-end torque to make it as fast as most German competitors. Electric motors can be used purely to increase fuel efficiency, like the Prius, or they can make an otherwise slow car fun at everyday driving speeds, like Tesla and now Lexus.
The fuel economy in hybrid cars still does not blow me away. We are facing a future of cars that is technologically a nightmare to maintain when they get older. Meaning, we are facing a future of even earlier trashing of cars, because they are impossible to keep running. How environmental is that? I would choose an electric car any time. Never a hybrid.
i would go for the hybrid in this case. Purely because the smoothness of the hybrid system is hard to resist for me. I currently drive multiple cars depending on whats left for me to use, a Lexus RX350, Toyota Landcruiser, Suzuki Kizashi sports and a peugeot 207 cc. I test drove the Lexus RX450h because after owning my lexus for a couple of months, we had to get another and since the peugeot was throwing codes at me, we wanted to get rid of it. Loved the RX450h and seriously wanted to buy it, but it was way over my budget so we decided to buy the Kizashi instead since we had a nice deal for it. Love the Kizashi, but hate the CVT in it.
I have been driving CT200h for the last 2 years here in nyc and have only two month to go before i return it to the dealer. Already got my next car. Its sitting in the garage next to CT. And no it is not a hybrid. Its a fully loaded Alfa Romeo Giulia and i cannot express how happy i am about this fact. Yes toyota knows what they are doing when it comes to hybrids and yes it was as reliable and as consistant as it gets however there is a VERY HEAVY counter argument against hybrids that all of my fellow hybrid owners agree with me on and its that they dont have a soul. Dont get me wrong i trust you when you say that this new lexus is as sporty and as fun as a gasoline version but i doubt that many owners of the hybrids will agree with you. So yeah would pass on this LS.
I cannot wrap my mind around paying more and having more complexity for such a tiny amount of extra fuel efficiency. It's just not worth it. My opinion, of course.
So why do you buy this hybrid, for the gas mileage,,,what is the mileage? If I want mileage and performance in a large car why not just buy the Tesla. I just don't see the hybrid thing in this category.
carman geek Tesla’s are a geek’s dream. I personally love the spartan interior, but it is a far cry from luxurious. Many shopping in the luxobarge sedan class have a sumptuous interior as a main criteria when choosing a car. The Model S can’t hold a candle to anything in this class when it comes to the interior. In terms of the hybridizing these sedans, it doesn’t make much sense given the price honestly lol. From what I’ve seen though, most buyers who get the LS hybrid choose it for its quiet, serene ride, and effortless power (the past LSh anyways). The smaller carbon footprint makes them feel good too I guess lol.
Saying Lexus is a Toyota is stupid like saying Bentley are upgraded Seat.. same group.. different sectors. Jalous haters will always cry.. Lexus keep rullin'.
Car is completely underpowered. Handling and steering is numb. Why in the World would Lexus not use the wonderful v8 from the LC500? Sorry Lexus get back in line.
Absolutely nailed it. Good job, Lexus!
My wife has the rx400h hybrid and it's and amazing Suv. But this new tech is more advanced than hers in every way. I also drive a lexus, and will continue to only buy lexus vehicles. The quality is unmatched by and other manufacturers, plus nothing drivers like a lexus NOTHING.!
Yes I would pick this hybrid version over the twin turbo for several reasons.
Primarily the serenity of the driving experience. Buyers of these larger cars love V12's because of the quiet, smooth driving experience. The hybrid offers a similar wafting experience to a V12 in this respect.
Secondly, the improved running costs, albeit somewhat marginal.
Thirdly, the inherent reliability of a N/A engine over a twin turbo.
Fourthly, in the UK, far better residuals for the hybrid so financially this would be less of a hit on the wallet.
phymat1 Finally, someone who gets what big hybrids are about. I'm also a hybrid driver and I love the silent low and medium speed cruising. Hybrids also get tank ranges similar to diesels but without the clatter and NOx emissions.
Is it 2gr v6
Bought one and love it. Traded a current model Audi A8L I hope the Lexus service experience will be as good as what Audi provided.
I own a 2013 es300h, it's my daily and I love it. Looking to upgrade to this soon, I sat in one today and I was blown away.
One of my favorite things about my Lexus ES300H is the lack of a normal transmission, there's no shifting, no delay, no unnecessary drama, just smooth instantaneous power.
Australian Lexus LS430 owner here. Would happily consider the hybrid, now it has two modes of fun and sensible. Quick note - the German cars in Australia are considerably more expensive and in my experience considerably less reliable. Glad Lexus are starting to make cars that are not only super reliable and well built, but FUN!
The LS 430 has become very valuable in the United States the engine is impeccable. Don’t sell it keep it when you buy your next car that’s what I did because I read about so many people being disappointed after they sold their LS 430. So my daily driver is a 2001LS 430 ultra premium luxury package and similarly I picked up a used LS 460 LAWD 2010. Ultra premium luxury package.
I cant wait to get mine I currently have a 2016 ES300H ULTRA LUXURY Hybrid and really love it
I currently drive a 2017 BMW X5 and I would have the LS 500 with F Sport Package. I love a comfortable ride but enjoy having a little fun every now and then.
The interior of this car is just simply amazing, can't wait to see this in white and blue or any lighter colour on the dashboard plus other colour on the leather seats combo. The interior is just stunning
wow. didn't know about the Hybrid and gear technology in this car.
all i can say it's an AMAZING Car. LOVE it.
I like the non-panoramic sunroof!
What a superb car! Very nice interior and exterior.
Jesus that is a stunning car to look at. And yes, it's going to be hard to avoid the Hybrid.
Used to have a LS500 as a company driver. As quiet and refined as it was, hated the CVT ‘drone’. This looks more promising. Just wish Lexus would drop the ‘who can make the biggest grill’ competition against Audi.
Clive Sinclair All them batteries and elec motors need huge amounts of air cooling. It needs the big grill.
Stephen Hitchens The new battery on this model is 20% smaller than the LS600h. The ECU is now separated from the battery pack. Also the blower is SMALLER (Lexus own press release). So no, the large radiator has nothing to do with cooling batteries, etc. It’s more style than function. Look at super powerful hyper cars - do they have grills that big?
You've got great in cabin camera angles, unlike the other reviewers were you only see the person's head.
Your reviews are some of the best!
Absolutely a stunning luxury sedan that put everyone back to the drawing board.
I currently own a 08’ LS600HL. I test drove the new LS500 recently and was very disappointed that I didn’t have the instantaneous off the line power in the non-hybrid model. It also didn’t have nearly the rear leg room either. However from my experience with my 600HL. I would personally take the new LS500h over any of the other models.
I am driving LS since 2005. I was BMW guy before and when 5 series changed body style and interior - I hated it and I found my first 2001 LS430 that I fall in love with, then in 2008 I bought new LS 460 , then in 2013 bought another 2010 LS460 and now driving 2015 LS 460 F Sport Crafted Line - bought it brand new. I love Lexus and honestly I am not still convinced if I want to drive Hybrid... Not even sure if I will like V6 in Lexus. To me V8 is a right engine in this type of car. I am thinking to keep my 2015 LS460 Crafted Line ( only 750 made Worldwide) for ever and probably go for new LC500 V8 as a second car. Those cars are the best. And I am saying that because I had as a second cars: Porsche Macan bi turbo ( it was a small toy that reminded me VW) , Range Rover Sport V8 ( Poor finishes and big delays on display screen and Auto Start that was making me nuts! ) The only thing I liked about Range Rover was powerful engine nothing else - I got rid of it last March. Looking forward to get that LC - I should not even try with any other brands anymore - I am done trying. Lexus is the way to go. Never had ANY problems with any I owned. Love them all and had a hard time to trade them in for the new ones.
you must be rich if you can just buy cars like that. good for you
Since you have owned all of the 21st century LS cars, curious to know if you had to pick a favorite what it would be...
Sounds like a puke lmao
(Would definitely tell you to buy the twin turbo but not the hybrid 👎)
I really like the way you do the review. And what a awesome car.
Drive an LS460, wouldnt be able to resist the LS500h.
u don't know how good is u are! love your reviews.
Thank you, Sarmad, for the kind words . . . Appreciate you watching . . .
As long as the new LS hybrid is more reliable than the previous one then I would go for the hybrid. I currently have a CT200h. Hybrids rule. :)
Charles It's an evolution of the GS450h drivetrain instead of the bonkers cost-no-object LS600hL system. The 3.5 non-turbo V6 has been around for ages and the electric bits also aren't new.
True-Hybrid rule. Owned a Prius, and now an RX450H. I really enjoy those numbers and hyper milling in ev mode. I can see how I will ever drive a car without those regenerative feature. It's unfortunate here in South Africa the don't have the NX 300h F-Sport
i think this hybrid setup is the future of automotive propulsion especially performance and big luxury cars. i like the idea and you cant fight the future ;) i think i 5 or 6 years you wont be able to find a high end lux or sports car without this setup.also i think they will be better for it.
Yes unfortunately we will end up with shitty engins :(
Excellent review!!! Late to this party. Our local dealership has a 2018 LS500h (w/luxury package and other bells n' whistles) marked down for end of year (it's getting stale on the lot), and I am aching to trade in my 2018 RX450h. My wife thinks it is too soon. Big hit on the trade-in. Still aching for this LS500h, as I'm kind of bored of the RX model, this one being the 4th RX hybrid since 2006. She drives a 2013 GS450h, which is a pleasure and a speedster. Really like the brand. Thanks for the review - great presentation and commentary! // Terry
I’m on my 3rd LS 460 and would consider a hybrid. I have heard they can be quite expensive if there are issues to fix. The LS500 will definitely be my next car in 5 years so we’ll see how they compare in the next couple of years in reliability and if they build a V8.
I'd totally consider the hybrid. I have a 2008 Highlander, and, it's got lots of shortcomings. But what it has taught me, is that the driver can adapt, easily.
I think a regular LS500. I love the Fsport look and hybrid MPG but its price worth the extra MPG. People love hybrid but looking at my wifes NX200t vs NX300h the price is much more than the actual gas she will spend. Same for the LS500h. Right now I own a 2010 LS460 sport with air ride and I am not a fan of Lexus going more sport. I prefer the luxury soft ride. But I will upgrade eventually to the 2018 LS500 and I will go with the Fsport just because I am young love the look. But Lexus may come out with the LS-F now that will be a game changer. Even tho a LS is more than enough. And I wonder if LS500 Fsport will come with an option for wood trim steering wheel, its one thing I love and hate about my LS, kind of miss the wood trim on the wheel. Just gives it a more luxury feel.
P.s we met at the lookout point when you were testing out the I8, I had my LS460 from AZ there. Great meeting you.
Backstory - Owned mostly Toyota SUVs(1997 4Runner Limited, 2002 Sequoia Limited) and a 2008 Camry Limited the past 2 decades and currently own a 2013 Highlander Hybrid Limited. I always buy new and usually drive vehicles for more than 10 years. I am currently seriously considering a 2018 Lexus LX570 with 3rd row but this LS 500h has got me thinking about a test drive.
I drive a 2008 ls600hl. Love it. Fun to drive. The new design has a pretty interior and exterior. So many great freatures like pano roof finally, massage seats, mark levinson 3d system, blueray, and many others. Can't wait to drive them both but I think the ls500 would be more fun to drive than ls500h because it gives v8 like performance. The old hybrid drivetrain with boost to v8 and 15% gas savings acts like performance hybrid. Now for the most disappointing part of the redesign the interior. If you ever sat in the rear of ls460l or ls600hl you already know what I am going to say. The claim is the car is longer than previous gen. Look at the rear seat in the video its too close to front seat. It has short wheelbase interior leg room in front and back. I sat in one at a launch event and immediately told executives the interior space is gone. The pod seats in the rear and front seat designs have killed interior room. The lack of interior space in this segment is highly disappointing for me.
I have an IS 300h at the moment and I will keep it as long as it serves well. But I've already taken seat in the new LS500h and it was amazing. I had a lot of different cars in the past, but this one definitely got my attention.
See you on the roads.
Glass door trim? Crazy sushi carving exterior design? LFA-inspired dashboard? This is the new Lexus and I love it!
Right now I drive a Lexus Gs350 fsport . My next car I want is the Lexus new LS 500 fsport .
A perfect review. Awesome.
Thank you . . . and thank you for watching!
Since we bought an RX450h, there is no way I'd drive anything but a hybrid. Personally, I don't think the LS500h is enough; I want to see a Plug-In Hybrid and hope that by 2020, that will be the case!!!
Akshay Mahesh Toyota is really, really conservative when it comes to new tech. It took them a decade to start putting hybrid tech into the ES, GS and LS. Who knows, the next ES and GS could have plug-in hybrid variants.
And yes, once you go electric in whatever form, you never want to go back to a normal gasser.
Lexus has repeatedly said they will not go down the plug in route, in Europe at least. If they continue to refine the battery/motor and importantly, the ability to recover the energy back to the battery, I think it will negate a lot of the benefits of a plug in. Further down their range they really should be integrating the better system which is now in the Prius (better as in more efficient) although you can see how the system in LS will eventually trickle down the range in the next few years.
Good for you Akshay Mahesh for going hybrid and good to know ownership has given you the hybrid mentality. I hope it grows on your family & friends that ride with you! :-)
I 100% agree with you about a plug option. Just traded my ES 300h for an LS 500h yesterday and if available as a plugin, that's what I'd of bought. I hope Lexus/Toyota will offer a 40+ miles-in-winter PHEV with a heat-pump option for the LS 500h, the new ES 300h and the Camry h in 2019! Ya listenin' Toyota/Lexus!?! ;-)
You are right besides hybrids are as quiet as they come if they found a way to get performance out of a hybrid system there is no way back from there.
I'd definitely get the hybrid and it looks like Lexus have finally nailed the hybrid set up.
I'd love one, but it's way more expensive than my Golf GTE.
I abseloutely love this car over the new 7 series, Jag xj, s class and A8
Hey, glad you could use my music in your video. Great channel -- subbed!
Evan! You do a GREAT job . . . And as you can see, in the two instances we used your music - they have worked very well. Thank you! For those of you wondering the music under the two Lexus episodes, have a look at soundcloud.com/evanschaeffer . . . Great indie artist from one of my favorite places - Nashville.
Very nice of you to say, thanks! And by the way, my music is available now for streaming on Spotify, for anyone who listens that way ...
Lexus pioneered the 8 speed trans the multi stage is equally as impressive
I drive a 2013 LS 600h L and love it. It has the bamboo wood accents and steering wheel, which is beautiful and will be hard for me to give up. It's my second LS hybrid, the first was a 2008 LS 600h L. For some reason, when they switched from touch screen to that god-awful joystick, they removed a lot of the voice commands and added a layer of Yes/No commands, which I find obvious and distracting. But other than that, I love my LS 600.
Not sure I'd like the LS 500h (why the demotion from 600???). But after watching your video, I've decided that maybe this car is for me.
Definitely was a fan of the Bamboo wood accents . . .
I currently drive a Nissan Frontier Pro4x, but I could see myself maybe purchasing a used LS when I retire. The twin turbo 3.5 is sublime, so it would be tough to pass on that, but even though you give up a bit of performance with the hybrid, it's minimal given the well implemented sport modes. More importantly, you gain about 6 MPGs which is substantial. I would definitely consider the hybrid over the twin turbo. In all honesty, I also plan to purchase a used 911 when I retire, so if I'm in the mood for a more sporty drive than the LS can give, I'll always have the 911 to fall back on.
I'm currently driving 2015 Lexus NX 200t. I would choose the gasoline over the hybrid because the 10 speed automatic transmission which is smoother than the 4 speed auto+CVT in my opinion and the weight advantage which mean the hybrid version is also heavier than the gasoline version.
you didn't talk about the fuel economy at all :/
google
Hybrid, if it's that good. I like the sole idea of efficiency.
Beautiful car
It seems like the Same car just a hybrid. But i think you left out the BEST part especially for a CHEAP SKATE like MYSELF how far can i go with out REFUELING in the Hybrid
Awesome video 📹
As a limo driver, I would only choose the hybrid if it didn't rob any trunk space. Not that I'm going to get an LS though - way too expensive. I'm in Australia and drive the *excellent* Holden Caprice, which is the perfect budget limo. It's out of production now, and I honestly have no idea what I'll get next - there's no other sedan here as big for the price.
amazing reviews man .. best car reviewer in UA-cam
Thank you . . . Really appreciate your kind words . . .
This car is just fantastic.
Well, 4 speed conventional automatic is strange choice for hybrid, but I get it actually. Conventional gears in conjunction with CVT should spare wear-n-tare, thus giving it a long-life throughout years of use, for which they strive to be and perceived as. But I wonder of why they didn't split first gear for thirst 4 gears mimicking, and then second should have had 3 splits, then third is 2 gears mimicking and final ratio for single final ratio ( at lowest possible load for strained CVT chain ). Those choices would have been more logical and more durable accordingly, which would have let chain to run evenly throughout range of cones, covering all different positions with more distribution. Conventional CVT has one draw back which is it had to tend to hang on final ration too often thus wasting mid cone's range or, in another way, chain barely use some range of cones.
symmetry08 The planetary gear transmission - the first trans - isn't a CVT like a cone and belt system used in cheaper cars. Toyota calls it an e-CVT but it's just a set of ring, planet and sun gears.
The second trans is a torque converter auto that runs off the ring gear from the e-CVT. It allows fixed ratios so you don't get the high rpm droning from a Camry or ES hybrid.
So Toyota, please don't call your gearset an e-CVT because it has nothing to do with conventional CVTs.
the correct way to think about what they did here is that the dual electric motors act as a super advanced and super high performance torque converter and the 4 gears are the 4 gears. they call this torque converter "electronically controlled continuously variable transmission" in the Prius because that's kind of what it does there - but in here, the same exact system is really performing the function of a torque converter but with a much bigger torque multiplier than a normal torque converter would have. the reason they don't use this setup on the Prius is obvious - too expensive ! but really it has nothing to do with giving the car character - it's just the right way to do it in the first place - they simply couldn't afford to do it this way on the Prius and Camry Hybrid.
More exciting to drive than the Genesis G80 Sport?
The Hybrid costs more to repair. for the generator instead of an alternator and the battery. And it takes about 70k-80k miles to get your money back in fuel savings vs cost of Hybrid vs LS500 non hybrid.
Yeah it's more of a Tech show off. Lexus was the first In the world to make a hybrid for extra power and not MPG.
The Grandma part just crack me up
I drive a 2016 es300h and my next car will either be a LS500h or the next es hybridDrove a P100D model X and my es300h drives smoother and is more comfortable and has better fit and finishI am a Lexus owner wife has a NX300hI like you reviews very cool
I drive a 2013 avalon love it, but love the LS MORE. I'm not in the market for another car at the moment as I just obtain my Avalon in April but when the time is right I would probably not go with the hybrid only because I traditionally prefer a sportier Drive in something luxurious. I have driven hybrids in the past and no matter how small their engineer who still a little bit of clunkiness to them.
I too like the glass thingy. I have to ask, What's with the In route to Perfection paper at the right visor?
Keen eye! That is on all Toyota and Lexus vehicles at launch. It is a notice that reminds the driver that the car you are driving is a PRE PRODUCTION unit and some items (colors, fit/finish) may not be up to production spec.
Hybrid for sure just for more miles without stopping at the ya station
I am considering one. I drive a pickup.
Where is the 24 inch HUD???
ok, the message i received is- this is definitely a driver's car. Its has a great and unique interior (front dash reminds me a piano). It has a pretty agressive v6 roar (does it sound like a chainsaw on each overtaking manoeuvre on b roads?)
Shockingly, NO - it sounds halfway decent when pushed on B Roads . . .
thank you for the detailed review
my buggest question is is it a modern 4 speed?
Where would you rank the Audi A8? I love Lexus and Toyota. I'm on my second Prius and I'm looking at the Lexus RX450h sport for my next car.
For a host of reasons, the Audi is far down on the list. For me, it's design but from an unbiased point of view the S Class wipes the floor with the Audi in terms of driving dynamics, power delivery and overall comfort. You will see a 2018 S63 TECH REVIEW & FIRST DRIVE REVIEW early in Season 9 with more detail.
We are on same track, had the (2nd generation)1.5hybrid prius, and (3rd generation)2010 Prius, and now drive the mighty RX450H.Lots of torque, very comfortable and not that too great on fuel especially when u push it!Best, reliable as ever!
why overcomplicate things and not just put the 10gear-gearbox they already have? Maybe for size, but are 2 gearboxes smaller than one?
What's the color code for this car?
I'm here just to look at what could possibly be the new Tundra powertrain.
Great
I drive a 2006 gs 300, I would own the hybrid, but only because I want my own driver, I'm tired of having to deal with the idiots on the road these days. A half second in quickness means nothing to me if I'm sitting in the back reading. But if I was driving, I'd go with the 2018 bmw m5, and wish it could fly so I don't have to deal with all the idiots driving $2000 cars without insurance constantly tailgating, cutting people off, and acting like the world is going to end if they don't get there two seconds faster.
Would you review the e63s already?
not sure if posting time is to comply with embargo but seems like an odd time for peak traffic
Good question: The embargo lifted on Tuesday - which is when we premiered the LS500 Twin Turbo episode (ua-cam.com/video/ugSoW_uJrQE/v-deo.html) but you may notice that we premiere all episodes at 1:00 PM CET/7:00 AM EST/4:00 AM PST on their respective days. We do this to give the algorithm enough time to get our newest episode into search for peak traffic in time zones key to the majority of our viewers . . .
I drive a Nissan Patrol, Infinti Q70S 5.6 , so they made the Lexus LS into a sporty car instead of luxury car?
Adil Waseem Actually, they did the opposite of what would be expected: the hybrid is the sporty version, and the gas/petrol only version is just like it was before. It works pretty well, the electric motor adds enough low-end torque to make it as fast as most German competitors. Electric motors can be used purely to increase fuel efficiency, like the Prius, or they can make an otherwise slow car fun at everyday driving speeds, like Tesla and now Lexus.
So there was no point of making the gasoline engine if the Hybrid can do both of the stuff be sporty and fuel efficient.
Adil Waseem it's not instead of the luxury. It's an excellent very high quality luxury car that actually it's also very pleasant to drive.
0-60? 1/4 mile?
braking? handling? epa?
I thought you were going to do a full review on the f-sport
Coming.
MotoManTV yay
Get about the same mpg as my matrix !
sounds good
What is the total length of the vehicle?
The fuel economy in hybrid cars still does not blow me away.
We are facing a future of cars that is technologically a nightmare to maintain when they get older.
Meaning, we are facing a future of even earlier trashing of cars, because they are impossible to keep running.
How environmental is that?
I would choose an electric car any time. Never a hybrid.
i would go for the hybrid in this case. Purely because the smoothness of the hybrid system is hard to resist for me. I currently drive multiple cars depending on whats left for me to use, a Lexus RX350, Toyota Landcruiser, Suzuki Kizashi sports and a peugeot 207 cc. I test drove the Lexus RX450h because after owning my lexus for a couple of months, we had to get another and since the peugeot was throwing codes at me, we wanted to get rid of it. Loved the RX450h and seriously wanted to buy it, but it was way over my budget so we decided to buy the Kizashi instead since we had a nice deal for it. Love the Kizashi, but hate the CVT in it.
Yes - the hybrid would be hard to resist.
I have been driving CT200h for the last 2 years here in nyc and have only two month to go before i return it to the dealer. Already got my next car. Its sitting in the garage next to CT. And no it is not a hybrid. Its a fully loaded Alfa Romeo Giulia and i cannot express how happy i am about this fact. Yes toyota knows what they are doing when it comes to hybrids and yes it was as reliable and as consistant as it gets however there is a VERY HEAVY counter argument against hybrids that all of my fellow hybrid owners agree with me on and its that they dont have a soul. Dont get me wrong i trust you when you say that this new lexus is as sporty and as fun as a gasoline version but i doubt that many owners of the hybrids will agree with you. So yeah would pass on this LS.
I cannot wrap my mind around paying more and having more complexity for such a tiny amount of extra fuel efficiency. It's just not worth it. My opinion, of course.
hey where did u shoot this review?
Skywalker Ranch north of San Francisco.
So you say your aunt would not find the Lexus comfortable?
She drives an ES350 . . . As such, that edge I mention would not be her cup of tea. Fun Fact: She had an Oldsmobile Aurora back in the day.
Yeah you're right it's not an AMG it just runs better than AMG
Compared to the V8, it’s only 5 mpg better in Eco, and still not better in performance in Sport+.
😩
But it is 5 mpg better with slight compromise
test drive. the. f sport please
We'll get that locally in LA and shoot an episode. Just was not enough time in one day to shoot all three.
So why do you buy this hybrid, for the gas mileage,,,what is the mileage? If I want mileage and performance in a large car why not just buy the Tesla. I just don't see the hybrid thing in this category.
carman geek Tesla’s are a geek’s dream. I personally love the spartan interior, but it is a far cry from luxurious. Many shopping in the luxobarge sedan class have a sumptuous interior as a main criteria when choosing a car. The Model S can’t hold a candle to anything in this class when it comes to the interior. In terms of the hybridizing these sedans, it doesn’t make much sense given the price honestly lol. From what I’ve seen though, most buyers who get the LS hybrid choose it for its quiet, serene ride, and effortless power (the past LSh anyways). The smaller carbon footprint makes them feel good too I guess lol.
Some of us don’t want range anxiety tho. Sorry.
Saying Lexus is a Toyota is stupid like saying Bentley are upgraded Seat.. same group.. different sectors. Jalous haters will always cry.. Lexus keep rullin'.
I would consider it... But I won't, cause I drive a Giulia
👏👏👏
Car is completely underpowered. Handling and steering is numb. Why in the World would Lexus not use the wonderful v8 from the LC500? Sorry Lexus get back in line.
This new cvt still shifts and sounds like shit
four-on-the-floor 😂
6:39 - i beg to differ, the LS600h's interior was perfect. this interior is awkward.
LS>>>German car.
cant make the jump from gs300h to ls. too much money
His pacing back and forth is distracting.
Great technology, nice interior but that front end is UGLY !