The Lexus LS 500h V6 (359 Hp) Hybrid AWD Automatic, representing the facelifted fifth generation (XV70) of the Lexus LS, began production in January 2021. This variant occupies the top tier of the LS lineup, offering a sophisticated blend of luxury, performance, and fuel efficiency. The XV70 generation, introduced in 2017, marked a significant departure from its predecessors, embracing a more modern and aggressive design language while retaining the flagship status Lexus had cultivated for the LS over decades. The 2020 facelift brought refinements to the exterior styling, interior technology, and driving dynamics, further solidifying the LS 500h’s position in the premium large sedan segment. This model is primarily targeted towards buyers seeking a luxurious and technologically advanced vehicle with a focus on hybrid efficiency and all-weather capability.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lexus |
| Model | LS |
| Generation | LS V (facelift 2020) |
| Type (Engine) | 500h V6 (359 Hp) Hybrid AWD Automatic |
| Start of production | January, 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | FHEV (Full Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 9.3-9.6 l/100 km (25.3 – 24.5 US mpg, 30.4 – 29.4 UK mpg, 10.8 – 10.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 211-218 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.2 l/100 km (23.1 US mpg, 27.7 UK mpg, 9.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.1 l/100 km (29 US mpg, 34.9 UK mpg, 12.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9 l/100 km (26.1 US mpg, 31.4 UK mpg, 11.1 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.7 kg/Hp, 149 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.9 kg/Nm, 145.2 Nm/tonne |
| Electric motor power | 179 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque | 300 Nm (221.27 lb.-ft.) |
| System power | 359 Hp |
| Engine Power | 299 Hp |
| Power per litre | 86.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 350 Nm (258.15 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 8GR-FXS |
| Engine displacement | 3456 cm3 (210.9 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.7 l (7.08 US qt | 5.9 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 11 l (11.62 US qt | 9.68 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2410 kg (5313.14 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2800 kg (6172.94 lbs.) |
| Max load | 390 kg (859.8 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 82 l (21.66 US gal | 18.04 UK gal) |
| Length | 5235 mm (206.1 in.) |
| Width | 1900 mm (74.8 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2160 mm (85.04 in.) |
| Height | 1460 mm (57.48 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3125 mm (123.03 in.) |
| Front track | 1633 mm (64.29 in.) |
| Rear track | 1634 mm (64.33 in.) |
| Front overhang | 940 mm (37.01 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1170 mm (46.06 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.28 |
| Minimum turning circle | 12 m (39.37 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE and electric motor drive rear wheels, front wheels engaged via clutch |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 10 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 400×36 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 335×25 mm |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 245/45 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Lexus LS 500h utilizes a 3.5-liter (3456 cc) V6 gasoline engine, designated the 8GR-FXS, coupled with a powerful electric motor. This engine employs D-4S direct injection and dual VVT-iE (Variable Valve Timing-intelligent Electric motor) technology for optimized combustion and efficiency. The engine produces 299 horsepower and 350 Nm (258.15 lb.-ft.) of torque. The electric motor contributes an additional 179 horsepower and 300 Nm (221.27 lb.-ft.) of torque. Combined, the system delivers a total output of 359 horsepower. The engine is longitudinally mounted at the front of the vehicle. The transmission is a sophisticated 10-speed automatic, designed to seamlessly integrate with the hybrid system and provide smooth, responsive shifts. The hybrid system is a full hybrid (FHEV) configuration, allowing for short periods of electric-only driving at low speeds. A key feature is the electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (ECVT) which works in conjunction with the 10-speed automatic to provide a wide range of gear ratios and optimize fuel efficiency.
Driving Characteristics
The LS 500h offers a remarkably smooth and refined driving experience. The hybrid powertrain delivers instant torque from the electric motor, providing brisk acceleration, especially from a standstill. The 0-60 mph sprint takes approximately 5.2 seconds. While not as overtly sporty as some of its competitors, the LS 500h prioritizes comfort and quietness. The 10-speed automatic transmission is generally unobtrusive, offering seamless gear changes. Compared to the non-hybrid LS 500, the 500h feels slightly heavier due to the added weight of the battery pack and electric motor, but the instant torque of the electric motor largely compensates for this. The all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction in various weather conditions. The steering is light and precise, contributing to a relaxed driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The LS 500h comes standard with a comprehensive suite of luxury features, including leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a 12.3-inch infotainment display with navigation, a Mark Levinson premium sound system, and a suite of advanced safety technologies (Lexus Safety System+). Available options include a rear-seat entertainment system, massaging rear seats, and a head-up display. The interior trim is typically finished with wood or aluminum accents. The 2020 facelift introduced updated interior materials and a more modern infotainment system interface. Exterior features include LED headlights, power-adjustable mirrors, and a power trunk lid.
Chassis & Braking
The LS 500h features an independent multi-link suspension at both the front and rear, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. The suspension is tuned to prioritize ride quality over outright handling prowess. The vehicle is equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The front brakes measure 400×36 mm, while the rear brakes are 335×25 mm. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard, along with other electronic stability control systems. The chassis is designed to minimize noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH), contributing to the luxurious driving experience.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Lexus LS 500h has been generally well-received by automotive critics, praised for its luxurious interior, smooth ride, and fuel efficiency. However, some reviewers have noted that its infotainment system can be complex to use and that its driving dynamics are not as engaging as some of its European rivals. Compared to the standard LS 500, the 500h offers superior fuel economy, but it comes at a higher price point. The LS 500h competes with other luxury hybrid sedans such as the Mercedes-Benz S 560e and the BMW 745Le.
Legacy
The Lexus LS 500h, particularly the facelifted 2020 model, represents a significant step forward in hybrid technology and luxury car design. The powertrain has proven to be relatively reliable, with few widespread issues reported. On the used car market, these models hold their value well due to the Lexus brand’s reputation for reliability and the LS’s luxurious features. The LS 500h continues to be a popular choice for buyers seeking a comfortable, efficient, and technologically advanced luxury sedan.
