LexusLS 500

　　

2023 Lexus LS 500 Review

byDan FrioReviews Editor

　　Dan spent many years covering the go-fast, look-good, get-loud corners of the automotive universe. First, he served as editor of enthusiast magazines AutoSound and Honda Tuning, then as executive editor at SEMA News, the publishing arm of the trade group that produces the annual SEMA Show (yes, that show). As a contributor to zzdcar, he now likes to keep the volume low and the speed limit legal, providing expert car-shopping advice to drivers looking for the perfect match.

　　Nearly 35 years after its arrival, the luxury sedan that launched Lexus in America still commands attention. That's no small feat given the endless permutations of today's SUVs, but the 2023 Lexus LS 500, like its predecessors, remains the automaker's canvas for tech, comfort and safety innovations.

　　

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2023 Lexus LS 500 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl Turbo 10A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.78 per gallon for premium unleaded in North Dakota.

Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota

　　$206/mo  for LS 500 Base

　　LS 500 Base

　　4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl Turbo 10A) (Most Popular) - $77,385 MSRP4dr Sedan AWD (3.5L 6cyl Turbo 10A) - $80,635 MSRPF SPORT 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl Turbo 10A) - $80,985 MSRPF SPORT 4dr Sedan AWD (3.5L 6cyl Turbo 10A) - $84,235 MSRP

　　vs

　　$198/mo

　　Avg. Large Car

　　The LS 500 carries over largely unchanged for 2023 with one notable exception: A revised infotainment system adds a new touchscreen (still sized at 12.3 inches) and finally dispenses with the clumsy touchpad control of earlier systems. Features are now accessed through the touchscreen or voice commands. The updated system adds a voice assistant, de rigueur among modern luxury cars, that can respond to natural speech and control media, navigation, climate and other functions.

　　The tech upgrades are complemented by Lexus' obsessive attention to detail. Ultra-fine metal foil trim called Haku, made by Japanese artisans and meant to evoke moonlight on ocean waves, is one optional way to class up the already decadent interior. There are also decorative cut-glass inlays (Kiriko glass) and hand-pleated fabric door trim. This level of refinement sets the LS apart from rivals like the Audi A8, BMW 7 Series and Genesis G90. The Mercedes-Benz S-Class once counted in this group, but its six-digit starting price now rises above the comparatively humble LS and its peers. Be sure to read our Expert Rating to see how the LS stacks up among the large luxury sleds.

　　zzdcar Expert Rating

　　Please note that this rating may change slightly once we test the LS 500's updated infotainment system for 2023.

　　Our VerdictThe zzdcar Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.

　　Good

　　7.7

　　out of 10

　　zzdcar TESTED

　　Rated for you by America's best test team.

　　

Performance

7.0/10

　　How does the LS 500 drive? You expect luxury sedans of this ilk to have decent power, and the LS 500's turbocharged V6 delivers. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes 5.7 seconds. That's an average time for a six-cylinder large luxury sedan. The 10-speed automatic shifts smoothly under hard acceleration but can be a bit slow to downshift if you suddenly go for a pass on the highway.

　　Braking is smooth and easy during casual cruising but doesn't quite offer the stopping confidence of competitors when slowing from higher speeds. The steering is appropriately light for a luxury sedan. You can dial in some extra heft by switching to a sportier drive mode. The latest LS has decent composure around turns, but it's still primarily a luxury cruiser.

　　

Comfort

8.0/10

　　How comfortable is the LS 500? The optional adjustable air suspension produces a cushy ride on almost any road. Speed bumps are hardly noticeable. Only on severely broken pavement can the ride feel a little choppy. Large pavement dips can cause noticeable body movement. Road, wind and engine noise is virtually nonexistent.

　　Seat comfort is excellent, with the front seats offering a wide range of adjustments in addition to heating, ventilation and massage. The middle rear seat is pretty stiff and uncomfortable, though it's suitable for short trips.

　　Continue reading zzdcar Expert Rating below