Lexus

LS

Don’t be put off by the powerful and larger than life appearance of the Lexus LS because this vehicle boasts incredibly low carbon emission figures and thus keeps costs down. However, there is no compromising when it comes to power and performance, as the LS delivers a fantastic ride packed with luxurious creature comforts.

Test Drive

Lexus LS 600 L Premier

Sometimes less is more and that’s certainly the case with the Lexus LS 600 because despite its £100k price-tag it goes about life in an unassuming way without any overstated fanfares and the razzmatazz often associated with premium cars.

In fact it would be fair to say that the LS 600 L Premier looks pretty normal when you first lay eyes on it yet it would also be true to point out that the long-wheel-based limo looks attractive from any approach but in a stylish and sophisticated manner. It’s not garish and is almost understated with LED daytime running lights, LED rear lights, sleek streamlining, smart 18-inch alloys and Bi-xenon headlamps with automatic high beam.

But, and it’s a very big but, the hidden treasures of this car are the awesome powertrain technology and the sublime luxury each occupant is guaranteed.

For the four-wheel-drive LS 600 L is fitted with a full hybrid V8 powertrain offering an advanced blend of a 5.0-litre 389bhp petrol engine and a 650v electric motor. Together they produce a whopping 439bhp and that results in a 0-62mph sprint time of just 6.1 seconds and a top speed that has been limited to 155mph.

At speeds up to 30mph the car can be driven in electric-only mode which means beautiful silence. And then when an instant blast of pace is needed the petrol engine kicks in and away you go accompanied by a roaring soundtrack from the engine.

The acceleration is blisteringly quick as the car shifts effortlessly through the electric CVT gearbox with a constant supply of power on tap at all times. Bumpy road surfaces are all ironed out by the LS 600’s outstanding suspension system so you can enjoy a coffee without risking an emergency visit to the local burns unit.

Tight bends can be attacked at pace because the road-holding is flawless and the car’s highly efficient insulation systems totally eradicate any road surface noise which means you can sit back and take advantage of some of the car’s techno treats and creature comforts (and there are many). Alternatively if you are being chauffeured to a business meeting you are guaranteed to arrive fresh and relaxed thanks to the outstanding comfort levels on offer.

On-board technology includes heated and air conditioned front and rear seats, an electric rear screen and side window blinds, a 19-speaker pitch perfect Mark Levinson sound system with DVD player, a DAB radio, a rear entertainment system with Blu-Ray DVD player, a rear seat relaxation package including massage function, LED interior lighting, 4-zone climate control, Bluetooth plus a voice command function for the audio, navigation, phone and climate control.

Comfort levels could easily be compared to those experienced in a favourite leather armchair that has been made to measure and there is ample space to stretch out in the back of the car where you can kick back, watch a movie and enjoy a gentle massage as you glide to your destination.

Storage limitations will never be a problem as the boot – which can be opened and closed automatically – will accommodate 420 litres of luggage, plus there are a number of useful, smaller storage compartments scattered throughout the cabin. I did find that if the boot lid was opened after a heavy downpour then water dripped in at the sides which is not good, but that was my only gripe after a week-long test drive.

And as one would expect, Lexus has kitted out the car with a comprehensive array of safety specifications. These include the likes of vehicle stability control, traction control, hill-start assist, anti-lock brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution and brake assist, tyre pressure warning, numerous airbags and plenty more besides.

An advanced safety package was included on the test car and that introduces blind spot monitoring, an advanced pre-crash system, driver monitoring, advanced obstacle detection and LED low beam headlights.

And never forget the LS 600 L has permanent 4×4 capabilities to keep you motoring during those cold winter snaps.

All in all, the Lexus LS 600 is a very impressive, elegant and remarkable piece of kit. Yes, it is expensive coming in just a fiver shy of £100k and the combined fuel efficiency of just 32.8mpg will mean regular trips to the petrol pumps. But when it comes to sublime luxury, outstanding driving dynamics and awesome power and precision, then the pound signs seem to become a triviality.