2023 Lexus LS 500h

Luxury · 3.5L V6 Hybrid · AWD

87/100

AutoVault's overall score, weighted for what a luxury is actually for — performance, technology, comfort, reliability, safety and value.

Specifications

Engine	3.5L V6 Hybrid
Horsepower	354 hp
Torque	221 lb-ft
0–60 mph	5.4 sec
Top speed	155 mph
Drivetrain	AWD
Seats	5
Combined MPG	27 mpg (24 city / 31 hwy)
Range	442 miles
MSRP	$87,500
Body style	Luxury

The verdict

What's good

Hybrid powertrain gives the LS a meaningful fuel economy edge over German rivals
Lexus reliability on the 500h hybrid system is exceptionally well-documented
Standard AWD traction reassures in cold climates without an upcharge
Near-silent low-speed glide on electric power reinforces the flagship luxury feel

What's not

Hybrid system adds weight, making the 500h heavier than the straight V6
Infotainment interface still trails Audi and BMW in responsiveness
Trunk space is reduced by the hybrid battery pack
Resale depreciation still steeper than equivalent Mercedes or BMW flagships

The engine

Multi Stage Hybrid

3.5L V6 Hybrid

The naturally aspirated V6 stays smooth and refined while the Multi Stage Hybrid system layers in electric torque, giving the LS 500h effortless, stepped acceleration that mimics a conventional gearbox rather than the rubber-band feel of older hybrids.

Built around the 8GR-FXS V6, a member of Toyota's GR engine family, paired with Lexus's Multi Stage Hybrid system first developed for the LC 500h flagship coupe.

Its standout trick is a four-speed automatic nested inside the CVT, giving the hybrid 'steps' that behave like a 10-speed automatic.
It runs a 13.0:1 compression ratio with VVT-iW intake timing, blending the Atkinson and Otto cycles for efficiency without sacrificing refinement.
Its lithium-ion battery is about 20 percent smaller and roughly 44 pounds lighter than the nickel-metal-hydride pack used in the earlier LS 600h.

See the rest in AutoVault

The six sub-scores behind the 87 — performance, tech, comfort, reliability, safety and value
Market value today and year-by-year value history
All 5 trims with pricing
Studio photography — exterior, rear and interior
Side-by-side comparison with up to four cars

Open in AutoVault