Lexus LS (07 on) - Review

Review by Simon Harris on
Last Updated: 19 March 2010
The huge LS is the Lexus flagship - a luxury four-door saloon that's an alternative to cars such as the BMW 7-Series and Audi A8. The bluff styling is disappointing but the LS offers a superbly equipped and comfortable interior with acres of rear space. Unfortunately while the materials used are first class and the finish excellent, it lacks the style or sophistication of other cars that have a similarly high list price. The Toyota switches and column stalks are a big disappointment. That said, it is supremely comfortable on the move and cocoons passengers from the outside world with superb noise insulation and cosseting seats. It is also the first in its class to offer a fuel-saving petrol-electric 'hybrid' system giving Lexus LS buying an alternative to diesel in the LS600h.
3.5 out of 5

Other Lexus reviews

2.5 out of 5

Running costs

The LS is quite pricey when new, but much better equipped than its rivals. Fuel consumption at about 25mpg average is very good for a powerful V8, plus although servicing will be on the high side, it will be lower than Mercedes-Benz and BMW rates. Depreciation is expected to be steep throughout the car's life. Expect it to retain about one third of its original cost after three years.

Summary Running Costs

Servicing period

10,000 miles.

Warranty

Three years/60,000 miles.

Road tax (12 months)

£260.00 - £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

2 out of 5

Green credentials

  • A
  • B
  • C
  • D
  • E
  • F
  • G
  • H
  • I
  • J
  • K
    218
  • L
  • M
    261

CO2 emission figure (g/km)

Fuel economy rating

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

Emissions summary

The LS performs badly on the eco front. With an average of 261g/km CO2 across the range, its emissions are quite high for an executive saloon. There are no diesels in the line-up but the LS600h emits just 219g/km of CO2. That's impressive considering it has around 400bhp and weighs more than two tonnes. Economy is 30mpg.

Find the exact engine and CO2