Lexus LS (00-06) - Review

Review by Simon Harris on
Still a less desirable brand in the luxury saloon sector behind the likes of Mercedes-Benz, Jaguar, BMW and Audi, but one of the best engineered cars of its time and owners love the treatment they receive from the dealer network. The options list is short because many of the items you'd expect to pay extra for on a Mercedes-Benz S-Class or Audi A8 are fitted as standard. The LS is roomy, comfortable and luxurious. Heavy-handed styling at the front, partly resolved by a facelift in 2003, spoils what would otherwise be an elegant luxury saloon.
3.5 out of 5

Other Lexus reviews

2.5 out of 5

Running costs

This is a car that competes with equivalent luxury saloons from Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Jaguar and Audi so while costs are high, they are relative. Depreciation is steeper than on these rivals, but the LS 430 has many items as standard that you'd have to pay extra for in the others. Fuel consumption at about 24mpg is fairly typical for a big V8 saloon, while insurance in group 17 is lower than BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Audi V8s.

Summary Running Costs

Servicing period

10,000 miles.

Warranty

Mechanical and paintwork three years; 12 years for bodywork.

Road tax (12 months)

£270.00 - £475.00

Vehicle excise duty (VED) varies according to the CO2 emissions and the fuel type of the vehicle. For cars registered after March 1st 2001 VED or road tax is based on the car's CO2 emissions. For cars registered before March 1st 2001 it is based on engine size.

Full running costs data

1.5 out of 5

Green credentials

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CO2 emission figure (g/km)

Fuel economy rating

The arrows indicate the best and worst CO2 bands for this model.

Emissions summary

LS is a polluting model. With an average of 276 g/km CO2 across the range, its emissions are high for an executive saloon. It's worth noting that the line-up does not feature any diesel models, which typically produce less carbon dioxide than petrol engines with similar power outputs. The range is disappointingly thirsty, averaging 24 mpg.

Find the exact engine and CO2