Lexus updates LS luxury flagship

LEXUS has updated its LS limousine for 2023, scoring new technology and equipment alongside price increases that now see the range begin at $195,920 before on-road costs – some $2172 more than in 2022.

Still undercutting the BMW 7 Series (from $268,900 plus on-road costs) and Mercedes-Benz S-Class (from $240,700 + ORC) it rivals, the updated LS500 and LS500h variants benefit from updates than Lexus says provide owners with “an even more refined luxury experience than before”.

Included in the update is an expansion of Lexus’ Connected Services technology and multimedia and remote functions, while wireless Apple CarPlay connectivity is now standard alongside wired Android Auto.

Lexus says its revised multimedia system enables occupants to interact via an updated touchscreen display – still measuring 12.3 inches – which replaces the previous centre console touchpad.

A smartphone storage receptacle replaces the touchpad in the reshaped centre console.

Further, Lexus’ multimedia system is updated with the “Hey Lexus” voice recognition function, which is activated via a steering wheel mounted button, or through the microphone icon on the HMI display.

Lexus says the system is set up to “recognise prescribed standard phrases through conversational language”.

The flagship model now also incorporates Automatic Collision Notification, SOS Emergency Call and Stolen Vehicle Tracking as part of its extensive set of standard safety and security technologies.

Additionally, Lexus Multimedia Connect now synchronises with the Lexus Connect smartphone app to offer owners with cloud-based access to navigation with live traffic, weather, parking, map updates, location searching, and first- and last-mile routing.

Lexus Status Connect is further able to provide drivers with access to vehicle data and information including odometer and fuel level readings, remaining range, the vehicle’s last known location, vehicle diagnostics, and recent trip details.

Owners may also remotely check door, window and boot status and receive alerts if the vehicle is left unlocked.

Tyre pressure can also be monitored remotely, while the hazard lights can be activated via an owner’s smartphone. An owner may also start their vehicle remotely and lock or unlock the doors.

Finally, Lexus has incorporated a new transparent underbody view as part of the model’s standard Panoramic View Monitor (360-degree camera technology).

Otherwise, the Lexus LS range is unchanged from 2022 with both variants’ powertrains unaltered. 

The LS500 variants continue to be powered by a 3.5-litre twin-turbocharged V6 petrol engine producing 310kW and 600Nm, while the LS500h combines a naturally aspirated V6 engine of the same capacity with a multi-stage hybrid system offering a combined output of 264kW.

Lexus says “these subtle but significant enhancements to the LS500 and LS500h follow a comprehensive update in February 2021 and culminate to ensure the flagship Lexus sedans maintain their position as leaders in full-size rear-drive luxury”.

Lexus sold 28 examples of the LS nationally in 2022, matching the Audi A8 but falling well short of the BMW 7 Series (66) and Mercedes-Benz S-Class (167).

2023 Lexus LS pricing*:

*Pricing excludes on-road costs