Lexus LS (07 on) - Review

Review by Simon Harris on 08 December 2006

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

5 out of 5

Safety

The Lexus LS460 has 10 airbags (front, side and knee airbags in the front, side airbags in the rear, plus curtain airbags), front-seat head restraints that reduce the risk of whiplash injuries in a crash, Isofix child seat mounting points and a tyre pressure warning system. There is also a sophisticated stability control system that helps correct the car's line during a skid. Adaptive cruise control and pre-crash safety systems are available as options on the standard car and on the SE. Both are included in the Advanced Safety Pack fitted as standard to the SE-L. Adaptive cruise control is able to maintain a set distance between the vehicle in front while Lane-keep assist monitors the road ahead and will keep the car within the lane by steering itself. In conjunction with the lane departure warning, if the car veers close to the markings or the driver tries to drive hands-free there is a warning alarm.