The Lexus LS 600h L V8, produced from July 2007 to October 2009, represents Lexus’s initial foray into the luxury hybrid sedan market. Positioned as the flagship of the fourth-generation LS (XV40) series, the “600h L” designation signifies its 6.0-liter V8 engine combined with a hybrid powertrain, and the “L” denotes the long-wheelbase variant offering increased rear passenger space. This model aimed to deliver both the refinement expected of a Lexus luxury vehicle and improved fuel efficiency compared to traditional large sedans. It was primarily marketed towards affluent buyers seeking a technologically advanced and environmentally conscious luxury experience, primarily in North America, Japan, and select European markets.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lexus |
| Model | LS |
| Generation | LS IV Long |
| Type (Engine) | 600h L V8 (445 Hp) Hybrid AWD e-CVT |
| Start of production | July, 2007 |
| End of production | October, 2009 |
| Powertrain Architecture | FHEV (Full Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 4-5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 11.3 l/100 km (20.8 US mpg, 25 UK mpg, 8.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 8 l/100 km (29.4 US mpg, 35.3 UK mpg, 12.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 9.3 l/100 km (25.3 US mpg, 30.4 UK mpg, 10.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 219 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph), Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.1 kg/Hp, 194.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.4 kg/Nm, 227.5 Nm/tonne |
| Battery voltage | 288 V |
| Battery technology | Nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) |
| Battery weight | 67 kg (147.71 lbs.) |
| Battery location | Inside the trunk |
| All-electric range (NEDC) | 3 km (1.86 mi) |
| Electric motor power | 224 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque | 300 Nm (221.27 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor location | Integrated into the transmission |
| Electric motor type | Synchronous |
| System power | 445 Hp |
| Power | 394 Hp @ 6400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 79.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 521 Nm @ 4000 rpm (384.27 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 2UR-FSE |
| Engine displacement | 4969 cm3 (303.23 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 94 mm (3.7 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 89.5 mm (3.52 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection and Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, Dual VVT-iE |
| Engine oil capacity | 9 l (9.51 US qt | 7.92 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 11.1 l (11.73 US qt | 9.77 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2290-2375 kg (5048.59 – 5235.98 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2755 kg (6073.74 lbs.) |
| Max load | 380-465 kg (837.76 – 1025.15 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 420 l (14.83 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 84 l (22.19 US gal | 18.48 UK gal) |
| Length | 5150 mm (202.76 in.) |
| Width | 1875 mm (73.82 in.) |
| Height | 1480 mm (58.27 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3090 mm (121.65 in.) |
| Front track | 1610 mm (63.39 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1610 mm (63.39 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 135 mm (5.31 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.27 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.6 m (41.34 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) and the electric motor permanently drive the four wheels of the car with the ability to work in full electric or mixed mode. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | automatic transmission e-CVT |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer, Air suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Air suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 235/50 R18; 245/45 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 18; 8J x 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The LS 600h L’s powertrain centers around the 2UR-FSE 4.6-liter (4969 cc) V8 engine. This engine utilizes D-4S direct injection and multi-port fuel injection, along with Dual VVT-iE (Variable Valve Timing with electric motor) for optimized combustion and efficiency. The engine produces 394 horsepower at 6400 rpm and 384.27 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm. Crucially, it’s paired with a nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) battery pack and a powerful 224 hp electric motor. The electric motor isn’t simply an assist; it’s integrated into the transmission and can drive the vehicle on its own for short distances at low speeds. The e-CVT (electronically controlled continuously variable transmission) manages power delivery seamlessly between the engine and motor, offering a unique driving experience. The system operates as a full hybrid, meaning it can run on the gasoline engine alone, the electric motor alone, or a combination of both. The battery is located in the trunk, reducing cargo space compared to the standard LS 460.
Driving Characteristics
The 600h L delivers a remarkably smooth and quiet driving experience. The e-CVT, while lacking the traditional gear changes of a conventional automatic, provides seamless acceleration. The combined system output of 445 hp allows for brisk performance, with 0-60 mph times around 5.5 seconds. However, the added weight of the hybrid system (approximately 300 lbs more than the LS 460) is noticeable. Compared to the standard LS 460 with an 8-speed automatic, the 600h L feels less overtly sporty, prioritizing refinement and efficiency. The electric motor provides instant torque, filling in gaps in the gasoline engine’s power delivery. The long wheelbase contributes to a comfortable ride, further enhanced by the air suspension system.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The LS 600h L came exceptionally well-equipped as standard. Features included leather upholstery, wood trim, a premium Mark Levinson audio system, navigation, adaptive cruise control, power-adjustable and ventilated front and rear seats, and a rear-seat entertainment system. Optional extras included massaging rear seats, a refrigerated rear console, and advanced parking assistance features. The interior design emphasized luxury and comfort, with a focus on high-quality materials and meticulous craftsmanship. The long wheelbase provided generous rear legroom, making it a popular choice for chauffeured transport.
Chassis & Braking
The LS 600h L utilizes an independent multi-link suspension system at both the front and rear, coupled with an air suspension system for a smooth and controlled ride. The air suspension allows for adjustable ride height and damping settings. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, assisted by an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). The regenerative braking system captures energy during deceleration, recharging the NiMH battery and improving fuel efficiency. The steering is a rack-and-pinion system with electric power assistance.
Market Reception & Comparison
The LS 600h L was generally well-received by critics, who praised its luxurious interior, smooth ride, and innovative hybrid technology. However, its high price tag and relatively modest fuel economy gains compared to the standard LS 460 were points of criticism. Compared to the LS 460, the 600h L offered a more environmentally friendly image and a unique driving experience, but at a significant premium. Against competitors like the BMW 7 Series Hybrid and the Porsche Panamera Hybrid (later models), the LS 600h L offered a different blend of luxury, technology, and efficiency.
Legacy
The Lexus LS 600h L was a pioneering vehicle, demonstrating Lexus’s commitment to hybrid technology in the luxury segment. While the initial hybrid system was complex and relatively expensive to maintain, it laid the groundwork for future Lexus hybrid models. Today, used LS 600h L models represent a relatively affordable entry point into the world of luxury hybrid motoring. The powertrain, while requiring diligent maintenance (particularly the hybrid battery), has proven reasonably reliable for many owners. The car remains a comfortable and well-equipped grand tourer, offering a unique blend of luxury, technology, and efficiency.
