2020 Lexus LS 500h Review

　　

2020 Lexus LS 500h 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.

　　Some of Lexus' best traits are on display in the hybrid version of its flagship sedan, the LS 500h. For starters, it offers a stunningly crafted and artfully finished interior with a suitably big rear seat. The LS also hovers down the road with a ride so smooth that it can feel like it's riding on clouds.

　　

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2020 Lexus LS 500h 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid EVT) 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

　　$165/mo  for LS 500h Base

　　LS 500h Base

　　4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid EVT) (Most Popular) - $80,010 MSRP4dr Sedan AWD (3.5L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid EVT) - $83,230 MSRP

　　vs

　　$197/mo

　　Avg. Large Car

　　The LS comes with most of the in-car technology we expect in a premium luxury sedan. Apple CarPlay smartphone integration is standard, as is a Lexus+Alexa app that delivers the voice-activated features of Amazon's Alexa into the LS 500h. Lexus' infotainment interface, however, is problematic. Many of the car's controls are buried within the infotainment system's complex menu structure, and the touchpad controller is hard to use while driving.

　　The LS 500h has one of the most complex transmissions sold today, and its occasionally ill-timed shifts aren't befitting of a luxury car. We prefer the regular LS 500 in this regard. Overall, though, the LS 500h is worth checking out if you want a smooth-riding luxury sedan that also gets high fuel economy.

　　

Which LS 500h does zzdcar recommend?

The LS 500h comes with most of the standard equipment we expect in a flagship sedan. Several packages are offered to add to its amenities, however. If the LS' 16-way power-adjustable front seats aren't enough for you, then the 28-way seats offered with any of the three primary option packages should suffice. We also recommend getting the Safety System+ A package for its enhanced adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking systems.

　　

2020 Lexus LS 500h models

As Lexus' flagship sedan, the 2020 LS 500h comes loaded with a variety of luxury, technology and safety features. Several option packages are available to further add to the LS experience.

　　Available in a single trim level, the LS 500h combines a 3.5-liter gas V6 with two electric motors to produce a combined output of 354 horsepower. Power is routed through a unique transmission that combines a continuously variable automatic and a conventional four-speed automatic into a single unit. Rear-wheel drive is standard, and all-wheel drive is optional.

　　An impressive array of tech is deployed on every LS 500h, including a 12.3-inch infotainment screen that includes navigation. All seating surfaces are leather-covered. A variety of interior wood trims are available, including a herringbone pattern and Agathis wood, as is Kiriko glass, which is an etched pattern glass used in the LS' door trim.

　　A range of packages are available to push the LS from luxurious to opulent. The Luxury package, for instance, adds an adaptive air suspension, upgraded front seats with quilted leather upholstery, power-reclining rear seats and more. There's also the Safety System+ A package that equips the LS 500h with enhanced driver safety systems.

　　

2020 LS 500h Highlights

　　

Base MSRP	$80,010
Engine Type	Hybrid
Combined MPG	28 MPG
Cost to Drive	$165/month
Seating	5 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	15.2 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	rear wheel drive
Warranty	4 years / 50,000 miles