The Middle Way | 2020 Lexus LS 500

The Lexus LS has always intrigued me. I credit the original LS 400 for starting my interest in cars, and it certainly shook up the luxury landscape back in the 1980s, but the last few generations of LS have honestly felt a little behind the times. Lexus is trying to change that with a new LS which give us the brand's first twin-turbo V6, seats that move in more ways than Shakira's hips and the most aggressive version of the spindle grille design. But like the LS sedans that came before, Lexus is still trying to chart a course between the "value" options like the G90 and the opulent price tag on the Mercedes S-Class. Does that leave the LS 500 in the sweet spot or stuck in the middle?
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[@jeffamburgey7485]

Excellent and accurate review. I bought my LS 500 prior to seeing this video. I have about 7k miles of driving this car, and much like my last Lexus, they just seem to get better as you acclimate. The 3.5 twin turbo and 10 speed are excellent. Fuel mileage, especially highway is phenomenal and well exceeds EPA numbers. The only pick I have is the touch pad, while I have become accustomed to it, it could be better. Biggest remark I agree with is the difference between buying and leasing, if buying especially if planning to drive beyond warranty, buy the Lexus, hands down. I have played the BMW and Mercedes game of out of warranty roulette, BUY THE LEXUS.

[@bwatt1383]

Any issues so far, how's the ownership been?

[@jeffamburgey7485]

Well I still own it. The car now has about 22k miles on the clock. I did under warranty have a bladder replaced in the driver seat. Other than that the car is spectacular. I usually don't keep cars this long, but my wife and I both love it. I have read some negative reviews about the ride, turbo lag, etc., but our experience has been very good, and we cannot and do not intend to let the car go. It continues to grow on me, and I think the interior is still the best on the market. Service in my area of Southwest Florida is also above top notch.

[@bwatt1383]

@@jeffamburgey7485 great to hear, I've noticed that car owner forums skew towards complaints but the happy buyers seem to be the actual majority

[@jeffamburgey7485]

If the people making the complaints actually own one and are having a bad experience or issue I get it. If somebody doesn't like the looks of the car I get it. The saloon is not in style anymore, which is fine, but I love them, and I think this is the best for the money.

[@bobbyb.1743]

Just purchased a 13K mile, 1 owner 2020 LS500 F Sport, after totaling ‘my 08 LS 460 (not my fault). This new one is everything my old one was, but w/ tighter, more precise handling, increased HP, and loads more tech. Absolutely love the lines on this car and it’s gorgeous in atomic silver. Couldn’t be happier! Super, super value!

[@Tsond123]

This is a solid car. Great to buy 2-4 years old. Can last 10+ years easily.

[@mingli9563]

What point? It only drops $10000 to $15000 in 2-4 years.

[@thejake8099]

And this is why people buy these luxury vehicles and can't afford maintenance or repairs on them.....keeping up with the Jones' can be expensive

[@kens97sto171]

@@mingli9563 Most people would consider 10 to $15,000 in savings to be rather significant. You can probably buy a certified used one which will have an even better warranty than new. Seems smart to me.

[@Nightbird.]

@@jonathanbenitoandrew3933 My friend..it's not your fault for believing what Lexus tells you. All of the previous Lexus LS's were indeed magnificent cars that seemed to last forever. I still see people driving the original LS400 from 1989 and they say they cannot kill the car..that it still rides beautifully..and that it is more dependable than the new ones. I come from a family that has always purchased Mercedes Benz S Class vehicles. And like you..we believed they were the best cars on the road and would last forever. Indeed..the older S Classes did last forever and were the best luxury vehicles of their time. Which is why heads of state and royalty always had them. I still have one from the 80's that is still as beautiful as when it was made..is super reliable..and still feels wonderful to drive. But it was the last S Class made by hand and that model ended in 1992. Then..the electronic nightmares began. MB outsourced their electronics to save money and it created huge problems for owners who were spending over $100k on a vehicle and then being stranded on the highway. Cars today are too complicated..too electronic..and not made to last. And that's exactly how car manufacturers want them. It's like disposable razors. If they don't lose their sharpness in a few uses..nobody will buy new ones..and companies don't make money. Toyota learned this the hard way. They built cars so well there are millions of used ones available for cheap and so in order to increase their sales quality has gone done..innovation has gone up to attract buyers with new features old cars don't have..and their cars are now becoming as disposable as American cars have always been. C'est la vie..such is life.

[@barbecuetechtips6024]

And you can pick an LS 500 & LC 500 for 60k CPO with low miles right now.

[@omgitsme435]

The only flagship sedan that can make it to 100k miles without major issues.

[@naveenthemachine]

Ace ehh I’d wait it out. The Lexus twin turbo is way too new. We don’t know if it’ll be reliable. Plus unlike the NX turbo the ls turbo is quick and powerful. If it’s faster than the base engines from the Germans then it could put more strain on the power train

[@byronnasem4110]

Ace The Genesis G90 says hello.....

[@Nightbird.]

@Robert Blackford Very true. Unlike the garbage from Hyundai.

[@Natethegreat200c]

You’re all blind to think allllll these elections will hold up. It doesn’t matter who makes it. This has a trunk charger , air suspension, and much much much much much much more ! Stop pretending a Lexus can’t be unreliable, because this is one just that!

[@Nightbird.]

@@Natethegreat200c Only someone with no experience with electronics would think they would hold up forever. Nothing lasts forever. Go find a Lincoln with a digital dash from 1982 and see how much of it is still working. It's not about it lasting forever. It's about enjoying it for as many years as possible..and then doing repairs. We do that with houses. We do that with our bodies. No different with a car my friend. Nothing lasts forever.

[@siquanwu3131]

I just love the look of this car

[@johnhenrymcmahon6878]

I love the design of the LS. Wonderful how Lexus is embracing their Japanese heritage. Unapologeticaly Asian, and I love it. Like a dragon.

[@jermainec2462]

Lol so ppl ... Learn to appreciate the older lexuses... you complained about Lexus being too quiet in two plain looking so they switch the design up and now you say it's funny looking and you wish you had a V8 and all this well next time complain wisely lol ... Lexus LS was always a good car from the jump but people complain too much ...

[@Nightbird.]

Well said. When the LS400 came out..even though it was clearly a copy of the Mercedes Benz W126 model (which Lexus admitted to and were proud of) many complained it was too cheap looking in and out..even though it outperformed the MB in terms of value and reliability. Then the LS430 came out..which copied heavily from the Mercedes Benz W140 (again Lexus admitted this)..and German car lovers again said it was too plain inside and out. Even though it was very elegant and tops in build quality and reliability. When the LS460 came out..they said it looked like a pregnant older Honda Civic (I agree with them there..especially from the rear) and was too Japanese and totally ignored it. And now Lexus goes all the way with creating something unique looking..and the damn thing has transmission and other problems and for the first time in decades is no longer the top luxury vehicle for Consumer Reports. Sadly..this is what happens when you lose your way due to listening to others.

[@jermainec2462]

@@Nightbird. they not that cheap because i still see them today with the interior still looking good ... thats what's wrong with ppl complained too damn much ...

[@747-pilot]

Jermaine Crump, you need to realize that a *_majority_* of Lexus owners (like me) did not complain that it was too quiet or "too boring". That is EXACTLY what we *_loved_* about Lexus. It is the mentally deficient nutters, the so called *_"automotive journalists",_* who complained about these things, and Lexus listened to them, hook, line and sinker!! What the idiotic nutjobs at Lexus do not realize (especially their mentally deficient current CEO), is that these journalists are not the ones who give them their bread, butter ...and cake!! 🙄

[@luxurreview]

I don’t like automotive journalists because they complain that everything from a Suburban to an S-Class isn’t sporty enough. Why do they do that? Top Gear may be the blame.

[@jermainec2462]

@@747-pilot this is tru ...

[@ruzzelladrian907]

Range Rover Velar, Porsche Cayenne, and Genesis GV80 are the most beautiful crossovers right now. Don't know why Lexus refuses to have a special crossover in their lineup. The only special cars Lexus has are the LS and the LC - the LFA is not really there anymore.

[@johnholst]

ruzzell907...Excellent point. Every other car in the Lexus lineup just isn't competitive with German rivals or even Genesis vehicles. Only the LS/LC are true luxury cars.

[@markdschedler]

Well written and presented. Comprehensive. I like the segment at the end about what you’d do with your money and comparing buying with leasing. I could build my shopping on this one video and be very confident.

[@weirdshibainu]

I just wish this had the V8 from the LC500.

[@instasingingvids3529]

Me too

[@InvestBetter.]

@@instasingingvids3529 They didn't add it because it is not a very torquey engine, and it is designed to be revved, the opposite of what you want in a luxury sedan. There are no naturally aspirated engines in this class for a reason.

[@naveenthemachine]

Agreed. It may be slower but it sounds so good

[@naveenthemachine]

Woke AF there is one which has a naturally aspirated engine. The genesis g90 w the 5.0L V8

[@weirdshibainu]

@@naveenthemachine And that's a problem for lexus. This is several thousand more and using a v6.

[@Jaymac720]

I love the kiriko glass and hand pleated cloth that you get with the executive package

[@kpnitrl38]

I wish the glass was a separate option tho.

[@chengyoujiang6076]

Sadly that executive package could almost cost you a second hand car

[@Jaymac720]

Troy Howard it’s kinda sorta an option. You can get the executive package without it and save several grand, but you can’t get it without the executive package

[@Jaymac720]

Chengyou Jiang if you’re considering a full size luxury sedan, that doesn’t mean all that much

[@TalismanPHX]

Yes, really stunning craftmanship. Just reeks 💵💵💵💵

[@bradcolby3624]

Excellent review...beautiful vehicle

[@jp3872]

I have this car and I love it. I will say though, I got one without the wood/leather steering wheel. Compared back to back, the non-wood wheel is much softer and feels better in the hand. My older ES350 has the wood/leather steering wheel that is all wood and all leather respectively. Although it isn't as modern looking, the older wood/leather steering wheel is much better. Other than that, no complaints. You actually get used to the infotainment quickly enough. The 2021 has a touchscreen which looks a tad out of place to me. Great review, I've been a subscriber for a while.

[@kr46428]

I really the design of the LS, interior and exterior, but I wish Lexus would get rid of that terrible touchpad infotainment system. The usability of those things is just awful.

[@naveenthemachine]

kr46428 the refreshed ls will fix that. The touchpad will still be there but fortunately they’re adding a touchscreen

[@stephendibari5010]

I have a 2013 ES350 and the mouse pad setup is annoying. Can’t be used easily while driving ... if you’re parked its actually easy to use. 100% touchscreen is the way to go.

[@davida9276]

It’s a deal breaker. That’s why I didn’t buy one. Went with a BMW

[@stephendibari5010]

@@davida9276 not for me, it’s not bad. I sold my BMW because they are empty $ pits as they age with high mileage (over 50k miles and about 50-75k miles ).

[@jove1155]

It's part of why I'm going with the G90, liked the Genesis system a lot better.

[@Kromer0]

Alex for the Car length, @3:16, is each bubble inches? Can we get an estimate for the scale? Because it currently tells us just which one is bigger but not by how much so it could be 1" between the cars or multiple inches. Great video as always!

[@joepeluso3864]

Your probably the best car reviewer ever, you tell buyers what they want to know and you always make commonsense comments based on reality.

[@InvestBetter.]

The LS500 has a lot going for it. It looks better, IMO, than any of the German competition, while priced much less. It is also quicker on its feet than any V6 competitor. And its quality and resale are stellar. The downsides include a somewhat dated interior design and tech, and a smaller interior than the competition. If you keep the price tag under $90k, this is a smart buy in the prestige sedan class, as you'd expect

[@Nightbird.]

The interior of a MB S Class makes the Lexus LS interior look positively plebian. And MB quality for the S Class is currently above average according to the latest quality surveys. Not to mention proven active safety systems that still outperform those from Lexus..such as autonomous driving. The LS is a great car and more reliable than an S Class..but the S Class is still king when it comes to luxury, refinement, and features.

[@InvestBetter.]

@@Nightbird. Agreed, but the LS really doesn't even compete with the S-Class anymore. Comparably equipped, the difference is in the $30-40k range. My point is for under $90k, good luck finding a better sedan in America. Lexus is really going after people who don't want to spend $100k on a luxury sedan. Mercedes is going for those where price is not a factor, they want the best money can buy.

[@Nightbird.]

@@InvestBetter. Agreed. When you put it that way..it really is true. I personally would drive a Lexus LS as a dependable daily driver instead of my current MB S Class if I wasn't retired. I have so many issues with people vandalizing and trying to steal my S Class it's not even funny. And then you have the jealous folks who feel the need to key your vehicle just because they aren't driving it. There has been a real shift in our society where many people feel the need to punish those who may have more than them..even if the "more" was earned through hard work and long hours..as in my case..and not inherited. So..just because of that it would be wise for someone to purchase the LS if they want daily luxury in their drive times without societal repercussions.

[@americanegale697]

@@Nightbird. i own both and its the other way around. Nothing comes close to japanese craftsmanship

[@coryw.9086]

Definitely the best choice if you want quality and reliability. Think the Lexus would be my pick overall.

[@lrosengreen]

mostly unrelated, but I really enjoy your Mountain Garden videos! You are working on some neat projects!

[@Nightbird.]

I really enjoy them too! Alex and his husband are pretty daring to take on such tough projects.

[@dionb6147]

Cool, great video

[@s87583]

Thankful.

[@trulyhari]

hey alex great video as usual. question - does the increased cabin noise is it a major issue.also is it almost same as the 2018 lexus LS.i heard the rear seats cannot be folded to create more cargo room temporarily.also the crazy touch pad systems with two level menu's to change heated and cooled instead of a simple switch..can all this be forgiven for a great ride and luxurious seats..since the engine is more powerful ful than the base S class and base 7 series.and whats the difference between standard lexus safety system and the add on lexus safety package?

[@normt5463]

Lexus is swinging near the bottom today!

[@yass123]

Thanks for the review Alex. I'm looking to replace my GS-F with this. I prefer this pre face-lift to the 2021 LS 500. It gets a bigger instrument cluster like you wished, but they tacked on the infotainment screen on the dash like the ES, since it's a touch screen.

[@normt5463]

Save yourself allot money and gain almost 200 lb-ft of torque with a CTS-V.

[@normt5463]

@Der Schwindel yes, I like AWD better at that power level!

[@Jaymac720]

If I were leasing in this segment, it’d be the S class all day. But buying, I’m pretty torn between the LS and G90, though I lean a bit toward the Lexus as an established player (and those million way seats)

[@normt5463]

Definitely the sales S-class. The sales support it too!

[@guizarbg]

2020 Genesis G90 would be my choice. Looks much better inside and out and offers a better value and warranty with a V8 option. The K900 for even better value for non brand snobs would be a great and reliable choice as well.

[@normt430]

We bought a CT6 instead.

[@Aschoolbusandsimulatorfan2219]

This is the only sedan I must get one Alex.

[@VXAce]

>LS Time I came here for LS swapped Nexo, what did I expect...

[@AbsolutMassager]

@alex you see all the news for the rework they did for the 2021 LS500? Looks nice and apparently a new interior trim to go against the Kiriko trim which has Meteorite inserts instead of wood and velvet door paneling instead of alcantera... both powertrain a get a bump as well.

[@davidmagen415]

I have a beautiful 21 Ls500. Mica blue with white leather interior. The car is actually huge. It is the best riding car I ever had. Well worth it 🏖

[@kyle223cat]

When are you going to review the Lincoln Aviator and Lincoln Corsair?

[@Natethegreat200c]

Alex , have you seen the Nissan shareholders meeting that was held at the end of June?

[@klausnielsen7102]

Makes me wonder , where do all the 7-series and S go where the lease is up?

[@markhesse2928]

I like the idea that Toyota is putting hybrid power trains in more and more vehicles. But I must confess that there's an old, skinflint who dwells deep in the ancient, lizard part of my brain that screams: "Who would buy a $100,000 car and put a fuel saving engine in it? I can buy a car for $70,000 less and have enough left over to buy enough gas for 40 years." I've learned to ignore that voice however.

[@ModernDayMixtapes]

15:55 The heads up display is not "one of the largest available." It is, in fact, the largest currently available.

[@naveenthemachine]

For reference the hud in my Camry is more half the size But the new Mirai has the same 24in hud

[@JohnSmith-nz4bn]

From memory, there is over 5,000 facets on that variant of the grill. Lexus had little vignettes on design features when it first launched.

[@angelurena2767]

That is exactly what i did a few months ago i bought the LS500 2020 great review the way..

[@Nightbird.]

Are you having the transmission and other issues Consumer Reports is talking about?

[@angelu003]

No not at all everything has been awesome so far

[@Nightbird.]

@@angelu003 I'm glad to hear it, Angel! If anything feels wrong..don't wait and get it looked at quickly because transmission problems go from bad to horrible in a minute. I was looking at getting the LS500 but I think I will get another Mercedes Benz S Class until these issues are resolved for sure.

[@juanmacias4854]

Looking to buy a new car, my GS300 is going to be 16 years old, great car only changed batter (once), tires and regular maintenance. I do a lot of travelling with my wife, thinking of getting the 2021 LS500 or the Audi SQ8. But I'm leaning to the LS500, very nice car and if it gives me 30 to 35 MPG going 80 to 90 on the freeway like my GS300 does, I will be very happy. The 2021 will have a touch screen, reason I'm waiting. Thinking of getting the overhead projection with turn by turn guide, that should be great in new and undiscovered cities. Of question is the rear drive or AWD, pretty sure the AWD will give less mpg but not sure what value it brings other than in cold weather or rain. Living in San Diego, lol, we get neither other than when we travel. Let me know if you think AWD is a good option to get.

[@AntLive29]

Lexus makes great used cars

[@ArnoldPranks]

They refreshed it for 2021

[@ModernDayMixtapes]

Lexus updated the instrument cluster in the 2021 LS. There are 3 clusters available, 1 of which is an all-screen setup, similar to what other manufacturers are doing.

[@naveenthemachine]

I don’t think we get it in the US though. I did see the new cluster designs but the biggest one is on the hybrid with the self driving package which we won’t get in the us

[@WaheedKhan-ly9xh]

Where did you get 75.5 combined legroom number for s class

[@wannabedal-adx458]

But what about the K900??? Isn't it more of a value option then then G90!!! Certainly cheaper than this Lexus LS 500!!!

[@Nightbird.]

To compare a KIA to a Lexus is like comparing a cheap burger to filet mignon. Yes..it may have many options and features..but the build quality will not be the same..nor the quality of the materials..nor the longevity. It's like buying a fake Louis Vuitton bag. It may look nice and serve a function..but it won't last as long..the pieces will start falling apart..and has terrible resale value. And..you will be driving a KIA..lol.

[@wannabedal-adx458]

@@Nightbird. LoL have you seen his review on the K900!!!!! You must like the badges on the hood!!

[@Nightbird.]

@@wannabedal-adx458 I have seen more than one review on it. But most importantly..I have read reviews from owners..and many of them say that the material quality is not that great nor ages very well. And just like Genesis owners..they complain that Hyundai customer service is horrible when they have issues or problems.

[@hassansmw5634]

@@wannabedal-adx458 This is a Lexus and that means world class craftsmanship and unmatched quality and comfort..a kia is nowhere near a Lexus

[@Wasabi9111]

I used to love the LS w it’s refined ride and ultra quiet interiors. It’s so disappointing these are no longer quiet anymore.

[@747-pilot]

Absolutely 100% correct!!! They have completely lost their way, and are doing a phenomenal job of driving away _traditional_ Lexus owners like myself, who have bought nothing but Toyota and Lexus products in the past due, not only to their hyper reliability, durability and dependability, but also because they were super comfortable and practical, beautifully engineered machines. And no, as someone in my early 40s, I'm not some 90 year old geezer, either 🙄. Wanting supreme comfort and quietness (everything else be damned), away from the stresses of the outside world does not make you a geezer! 🙄 I'm actually looking at Genesis products (like the G90). Yes, I'll have to sacrifice some reliability and durability (not anywhere near as bad as the Germans), but you have one life to live, and the G90 hits the right spots, where older LS's like the LS 400 and LS 430 *_used to,_* in the past!! Just for the record, I still have my *2000 LS 400* in mint condition. That vehicle is an obsession for me! *Nothing in the universe comes close to it, in terms of **_ENGINE QUIETNESS AND REFINEMENT_** and a CRAZY-PLUSH RIDE!!! It is like sheer DEAD silence floating on ice-cream.* Yes, it has become very dated now, and does not even have some of the tech found in a base model Corolla today, but that thing is going with me to my grave!!

[@omgitsme435]

@@747-pilot The major issue with Lexus is their infotainment. It is just leagues behind Genesis and the Germans. 90k car with 20k car software is a huge negative.

[@Wasabi9111]

747-pilot I loved the 2000 LS. I’m the same age and I also love ultra quiet and refined rides. We ended up getting a 2020 x5 w the options to make it the most comfortable ride possible - smallest wheels, acoustic glass and air suspension. I know it’s not going to have the reliability of the Lexus, but it was the most comfortable crossover ride I could find for the price. The Audi etron was nicer being electric, but it was just too expensive last fall when they wouldn’t discount.

[@747-pilot]

@@Wasabi9111 Yes, it is funny how BMW and Lexus have gone in totally opposite directions on this!! I test drove a BMW 7 series (and it even has a "ultra comfort" or "super comfort" mode or something like that). And that car was so insanely quiet and refined in those modes. Lexus is even afraid to say the word "comfort" anymore in their vehicles!! It's crazy!! It's just that with the German vehicles I'm a bit concerned about the maintenance and long term dependability, as I tend to keep my cars for the long term (at least 10 years or more!).

[@747-pilot]

@@omgitsme435 Yup, I agree with that too. Their infotainment systems are also lagging behind severely!

[@juelzm149]

Those knob things on the dash remind me of old Chevy Corsicas 😂😂😂

[@bird718]

i went suv last year, it was a quick random decision. just wanted to go to the dealer to check out the Hyundai palisades and liked it, then went to a few other dealerships over 2 days and ended up trading up at bmw. i see Lexus as outdated and they need a big refresh the reliability is hurting them because they are falling behind everyone else. i would go G90 over LS and have no desire to go back to sedans. i find it more interesting to look at the new Q8 on the road then the porsche tycan thats next to it at the light.

[@corpnupe85]

I am a former genesis 3.8 customer. I migrated to a 2017 BMW X5 and I love it!

[@bird718]

@@corpnupe85 i went from the e90 to g01

[@cjrciadt]

That engine/transmission combo in the next gen Tundra/SUVs will achieve 22+mpg hopefully!

[@Nightbird.]

You do have to wonder how smart it is to include glass in a door interior and how it will perform in a crash though..?

[@ALMX5DP]

@@Nightbird. Undoubtedly that has been tested at length. I would have no hesitation given Toyota and Lexus' reputation.

[@Nightbird.]

@@ALMX5DP I have no doubt you're right..but still..real life situations can be quite different from testing facilities. All carmakers make mistakes..so..

[@ALMX5DP]

Nightbird sure I guess if you’re very risk averse this might not be the car for you. Me though, I’d have no problem as most other luxury manufacturers now have glass, crystal or other hardened materials inside as well.

[@normt5463]

@@ALMX5DP Japanese apologists...

[@lawrencefearon6830]

The best selling car in this segment is the S-Class, which picks up where this Lexus ends [more than V6 performance]. That matters because it feels like a 6. If we never ventured onto the high speed interstates over 45mph maybe it wouldn't matter. But America is a BIG country and we drive faster over longer distances where autobahn breeding does matter in the cut and thrust combat of highway travel at speed. This is a stay in your lane car.

[@normt5463]

The S-class has been sales king for a while now. The Cadillac CT6 right behind it and ahead of 7-series and LS.

[@rondail5675]

Lexus, quite a luxury car, maybe the best for the money.

[@Natethegreat200c]

Not the BEST but close.

[@normt5463]

Lexus is not the best but a 2020 CT6 Platnium would be more feature packed and cost less today. Plus the CT6 has better residual value than LS.

[@gregsullivan7408]

Not very impressed with the trunk - it fails my "two very large suitcases" test. (two Antler Titans, which I simulate with taped up boxes). The overall smaller and much cheaper Audi A6 does pass this test. As a chauffeur, being able to fit two large suitcases is more important than lots of small bags. Travellers don't have lots of small bags, and any that don't fit can be quite easily put in with the passengers.

[@MistSoalar]

14:35 "bolts on Frankenstein's monster's neck"

[@CalvinHikes]

I thought this since the very first design Lexus went with this. I can't believe people tolerate it. I can't believe that Lexus decided to design them this way. Just looks like Frankenstein to me.

[@suspiciousminds1750]

Reminds me of my tricycle handle bars from the 60s.

[@LionRunner]

Though I'm a huge Toyota (Lexus) fan in this segment I'm more lean towards the Genesis G90 with non turbo 5.0L AWD. Not a fan of turbo gas engines or Hybrids with CVTs (or e-CVTs).

[@byronnasem4110]

Same here, something has to be said for the N/A V8 in the Genesis

[@Nightbird.]

Good luck. Many G90 owners who have issues with their cars are complaining about very poor Hyundai customer service responses. At least with Lexus customer service is the best in the industry.

[@LionRunner]

@@Nightbird. I agree. Customer service at Hyundai is bad. It was quite a pain to get a test drive as they was not willing to give test drive without a credit run. Vs as Toyota dealer they never ask me to run credit even for the limited quantity Land cruiser 200.

[@Nightbird.]

@@LionRunner How absolutely ridiculous and insulting to ask for a credit run for a test drive. And on a Hyundai?! I would have walked out and written a very bad review for them on Yelp. And if you are non-caucasian..I sincerely hope they do this to everyone..otherwise I would contact a lawyer for discrimination. I can walk into my Mercedes Benz dealer and test drive the latest Maybach with only a smile and a handshake. I hope you didn't give them your business..because what they did was truly shameful. At my Lexus dealership..they offer me Starbucks coffee and fresh pastries just for walking in and looking around..and will let me take an LS home overnight..and only ask to copy my drivers license. That's how your supposed treat a customer. Thanks for the warning!

[@LionRunner]

@@Nightbird. nope, I did not buy Hyundai as I'm not 100% sure to buy a Hyundai yet. I did post a bad review on Google reviews and the owner had apologized. Anyways, that's past and forgotten. Yes the customer service at Lexus near me is far better.

[@1127brighton]

I don't know Alex, you looked pretty comfortable in that back seat! 😂

[@kens97sto171]

Too bad there's no V8 option. I imagine the twin turboed v6s are going to end up being much less reliable long-term. Also unfortunate that they built a big long luxury sedan and then didn't put much room inside of it? Seems kind of stupid to me. The whole point of one of these things is to have interior space so that it's comfortable.

[@thinking500]

that was the last gen G90 you showed

[@WysteriaGuitar]

Or you could just buy a low mileage 2017 LS 460 V8 like I did...my second 460 actually...love it...I'll wait until the LS500 is more "proven."

[@Nightbird.]

My main complaint with the LS 460 was the lack of active safety features in comparison to Mercedes Benz. You can easily find a 2014-16 MB S Class with all the active safety features in the world. Not so with an LS 460 of the same years. This is what Alex meant when he said Lexus was behind the times in the past.

[@naveenthemachine]

Nightbird sure the ls460 didn’t offer a HUD or 360 cam, but most of them were there. Radar cruise lane keep assist auto high beams parking sensors, pre collision system, etc

[@Nightbird.]

@@naveenthemachine I didn't mean the non-essential stuff like HUD or 360 cam. I was talking about the active safety features like PreCollision automatic braking (not just warning and not just the radar cruise control), active lane steering, etc. I couldn't find any with the active safety features for the years I mentioned. But very easy to find with MB S Class.

[@naveenthemachine]

Nightbird I see what you mean. Previously Lexus hid their safety features in a hard to find package meaning you had to special order the model w the package

[@Nightbird.]

@@naveenthemachine Exactly! Or..the features weren't offered. And I didn't know that..lol. I would call up these used car dealers and they would get really annoyed with me and say "Man..I have no idea what this car has..and I don't have the time to go through it's menu nor do I know HOW to go through the menu..there's too much stuff on it!"..lol.

[@LeoTheShortGuy]

I like Lexus. Luxury is good. The spindle grille is eye catching for sure.

[@nicolasmikah4168]

I’ll take this LS over the competition simply for its exterior, interior looks, reliability and build quality. On a different note, the review is well detailed and the reviewer is very professional.

[@normt5463]

Doesn't look like anyone is buying it. Even Consumer Reports puts the Lexus LS last in segment. Dis you see Everyday Driver review of the LS500h? It was brutal!

[@dr-ok3sn]

when are you finally reviewing the 7-series? even just the 740i?

[@hassansmw5634]

This is a world class luxury sedan the best.. nothing beats Lexus craftsmanship it is insanely on another level. Costs much less than the germans and has all the features and much higher quality inside and out and much better than the korean car

[@kristians2704]

This is just as expensive as the Germans and it doesn’t have the tech or the performance from the Germans

[@hassansmw5634]

@@kristians2704 no its not as expensive.. base mercedes s class is 15k more than a base LS and the base LS has more features than the base s class. Go compare them

[@Mountain413]

Spider on the vanity mirror at 9:52

[@silentrefusal9911]

I would take the 2021 Genesis G80 any day over it. Smaller exterior, almost same interior space, much more modern and you save tons of money. So... Why not?

[@stevysan420]

Twin turbo v8 they say imagine that

[@actionguy87]

$100,000+ and it doesn't have a touch screen 🤔

[@LilRick96]

The new face lift does but it's ugly

[@davidwolf226]

Alex, wouldn't you be able to mitigate the headroom in that front seat by lowering the seat-pan? Anyway, I'm a long time Lexus owner and the LS is supreme in nearly every other way.

[@normt5463]

Not sure if it is supreme that Consumer Reports ranks it last?

[@Jacobk66]

Those drive mode knobs always remind me of the later model Chevy Corsica’s windshield wiper/light controls. i.pinimg.com/originals/cb/fb/a6/cbfba6b9b558e06b5b7a0723a1273346.jpg

[@Ficon]

It’s even older than that. 1982 Celica had these pods on the binnacle.

[@KirkKreifels]

Love the LS...but those optional wheels need to die...the 20" vaporchrome are the way to go! Thanks Alex

[@naveenthemachine]

Kirk Kreifels I’d go w the g90 wheels

[@Justkevin377]

Needs a V 8 at the that price. Headroom should not be compromised in a car like the LS. This is going to make the G90 a much better car if you are considering a lease car. Genesis service does not match Lexus dealership at all. Genius service is terrible.

[@Nightbird.]

Exactly! Many G90 owners who have issues with their cars are complaining about very poor Hyundai customer service responses. At least with Lexus customer service is the best in the industry.

[@TalismanPHX]

Such a beautiful elegant machine, but I think that the G90 V8 wins. The Genesis is just so frigging imposing, especially when painted black or that deep ocean blue.

[@barbecuetechtips6024]

Its crazy how the ES 350 or 300H is a better car than the LS500 this generation. On a side note, I am torn between a 19 ES 350 ultra luxury or a 18 Lincoln mkz black label currently.

[@normt5463]

Definitely look at CT6 used for value and looks over the Lincoln.

[@barbecuetechtips6024]

@@normt5463 I'm not a GM fan and the CT6 is too long for me.

[@mfmf100]

The fact that the CT-6 and Continental didn’t rate a mention is why the CT-6 and Continental are dead. Too bad, I thought they deserved a look.

[@byronnasem4110]

The Genesis G90 would be my pick, the LS just doesn’t do it for me, especially with their infotainment. Plus the G90 comes with a naturally aspirated V8 which is better then the twin turbo setup here. Reliability should also be great since the TAU V8 has been in production for over a decade

[@Kromer0]

I have the same reasoning. Also I personally like a car that stands out a bit from the pack. A G90, even if cheaper than competition, stands out in the over-saturated crowd of S, 7 series and A8 world.

[@rightlanehog3151]

Alex, Thanks for standing up for #tall drivers. How can a miniature, $17,000, Econo-box Hyundai CUV have more headroom than a huge $100,000 Luxury sedan? Toyota New Jockey Architecture (TNJA) strikes again. Akio Toyoda needs to hire some designers over 6 feet tall ;)

[@Nightbird.]

Just another reason why I enjoy the MB S Class.

[@747-pilot]

@Robert Blackford You are obviously clueless! Try sitting in one of Lexus's own older vehicles, such as the LS 430, or even in something like the new Genesis G90 (as Alex correctly pointed out in this video), and see the insane amounts of room available 🙄 Just for the record, last time I checked, those are not CUVs. This is supposed to be a *LUXURY* sedan, not a sports coupe 🙄 The reason it is so compromised on interior room is because Lexus has gone off its rockers trying to turn everything they make, into a "sporty" sports coupe (which is the definition of insanity). Selling a so called "luxury" sedan under the guise of a make-believe "sports coupe-ish sedan" (or whatever 🙄), is why this vehicle has such awful interior space!

[@Nightbird.]

Does anyone remember the days when you could voice your opinion and people could respectfully disagree and not insult you for it?..lol.

[@cargueone1971]

Exactly. I’m 6’3”, and the new global platforms are very tight in headroom.

[@rightlanehog3151]

@@cargueone1971 I have used this example before but I think it perfectly sums up the problem with TNJA: the old design Yaris hatch, which ended sales in 2019, has more headroom than the new RAV4.

[@Molloy1951]

The day Lexus realise they don’t need hideous exterior design, will be the day Mercedes will fear for their S class.

[@edysinsimon8646]

Welp....Looks like the S-6 is still my favorite sedan.

[@normt5463]

Our CT6 is golden!

[@noahmcclure2515]

We just got a CT6- how has yours held up?

[@normt5463]

@@noahmcclure2515 we picked up a 2018 CT6E with 500 miles in March 2020. So good, so far at 3,500 miles.

[@JDMSwervo2001]

Waiting on Kirk Kreifels to comment.

[@normt5463]

Or Honda Pro Jason!

[@nateavery2875]

Most adjustable front seat ever. Lincoln: Hold my beer.

[@8aravindk]

Although they’re the most reliable, their grill designs are just a deal breaker, their entire lineup is screwed in the looks dependent, Sharp angles may cut it in the budget space, premium buyers look for subtlety and style, not striking visual looks.

[@normt5463]

Consumer Reports puts it at the lowest for relibility at 1 out of 5. It would get a zero for the transmission problems but 0out of 5 is not possible

[@mgjmiller1995]

Whether explicit or implicit approach to NOT have a pure EV* in Toyota's lineup yet [I agree with premise many hybrids + plug-ins avoid greater emissions than fewer pure EVs], I HOPE someone pitched "our pure EV should be the Lexus flagship first." I WANT a more truly mass-market EV for the masses, BUT knowing Toyota's recent design language...funky design shouldn't be foisted on the poor, but rather the rich who can afford to change it 😂 (a decision that hasn't always been applied to workforce/affordable housing, unfortunately 😔) *I know Toyota has a Rav4 EV. I rarely hear of it.

[@normt5463]

That's why we went with a Cadillac CT6E Plug-in PHEV!

[@JejblessAnointed]

Lincoln Continental & K900 got no love. The only reason I am saying this is, He put the Genesis g80 and CLS in this comp, And maybe most importantly the Cadillac CT6. Which is supposedly what would most likely get cross shop with the car that didn't get listed.

[@Nightbird.]

People are complaining that the Lincoln Continental looks great in pics and videos..but in real life the seats are not comfortable for more than just a few minutes and the interior materials feel cheap and borrow too much from lesser Ford vehicles. Alex already knows this. He also knows the build quality and materials used in the KIA are cheap as well..so that's probably why he omitted them from this review.

[@byronnasem4110]

Nightbird Wrong again clown

[@dredawg679]

Toyota/Lexus seems lost right now like why have a 100k plus car that has no touch screen option it's so dumb time for a remodeling great job Alex

[@naveenthemachine]

dredawg679 the ls refresh coming soon will fix it W a touchscreen

[@dredawg679]

@@naveenthemachine yea I hope so it's a must

[@ALMX5DP]

@@dredawg679 touch screen is a must? I prefer an interface that doesnt require as much distraction when trying to operate.

[@dredawg679]

@@ALMX5DP 100k I should at least have to option to control my car the way I wish

[@ALMX5DP]

@@dredawg679 certainly, but that's why this is just one of many options out there for customers. People can pick and choose what type of car they want. Audis are near 100% screen, BMW and Mercedes have a combination, and this has the other end of the spectrum. No matter your preference, there's a car for you.

[@whoeverwhoever400]

Wealthy people dont buy for reliability. That's why you don't see celebrities, athletes and super rich drive Lexus. This is a Nice car but can't beat the MB S class and BMW 7 series.

[@oldtwinsna8347]

Many "super wealthy" I know of drive cars like the Camry and maybe at most, an Avalon.

[@jermainec2462]

And that's fine ... Let them waste there money ...

[@natnut2008]

With this generation of LS, Lexus went for style and sportiness rather than a soft silent ride. Think Panamera rather than S class. It's more a GS Grancoupe rather than a traditional flagship sedan.

[@naveenthemachine]

Well that’s what happens when automotive journalists say Lexus is boring and uninspiring

[@scottstewart5784]

I'm 6'3" - NEXT!

[@rightlanehog3151]

Ditto.

[@whoeverwhoever400]

I am 7'3. Beat ya.

[@scottstewart5784]

@@whoeverwhoever400 Wow! What cars are comfortable for you to drive without modification?

[@whoeverwhoever400]

@@scottstewart5784 Any convertible

[@scottstewart5784]

@@whoeverwhoever400 Miata?

[@Emurselovic]

I'm not the only one who thinks those stupid knobs look like Frankenstein's Monster homages!

[@phillm156]

That was Frankensteins trade mark😎

[@naveenthemachine]

I love the new LS. The technology offered is really impressive from the overkill 28 way massaging seats to the largest head up display ever produced Lexus is killing it. Sure the rear seat room isn’t as high as the 7 series but it’s not like it’s cramped by any means. And with the executive package it’ll definitely fix that with the ottomans. At the lower end trims I’d get a g90 w the v8. But if I were to add options, the ls would hands down be my winner.

[@Nightbird.]

Many G90 owners who have issues with their cars are complaining about very poor Hyundai customer service responses. At least with Lexus customer service is the best in the industry.

[@byronnasem4110]

Nightbird Troll alert I see, source for that description?

[@Nightbird.]

@@byronnasem4110 Again, young man: If you can't interact with others without name calling and insults..kindly go away. Thank you.

[@seikocitizenwatches]

LS is the best in its segment regardless of price.

[@normt5463]

With a 52 out of 100 in Consumer Reports rankings it is actually last place today.

[@dudebro2049]

This and the G90 both need to come in a crossover PHEV flavor! I would also like to see smaller wheels and cushier tires but the trend the past 2 decades has been bigger wheels and thinner tires unfortunately :(

[@normt5463]

That's why we went with a Cadillac CT6 plug-in. The +40 miles on battery seldom has us using gas. But it is always there if we need it. The discount on a 2018 we picked up in March 2020 of 50% off MSRP was the real kicker!

[@tedward123]

The side profile design looks much like a Mazda.

[@DrAdd1999]

Graphics on the entertainment screen look last gen graphics

[@normt5463]

The whole is from a few gems back for the Germans!

[@steve11263]

That infotainment system ruins it for me.

[@naveenthemachine]

steve11263 the refreshed ls should hopefully fix that because they’ve added a touchscreen

[@barbecuetechtips6024]

Kinda sad how a Lexus ES or Toyota Avalon are a quieter vehical than the LS 500. Begs the question why not just buy one of those cars and throw on some bridgestone quiet track tires with a 225 tire contact patch and save your money.

[@naveenthemachine]

A Camry XSE v6 Alex tested for reference is only 0.5db louder than the LS

[@tokyozip]

Same HP as AMGs 2 liter turbo at 416. Yeah, they’re late to the turbo wars

[@ALMX5DP]

Hard to compare two vastly different engines. Heck even AMG's own 4.0 V8 would fall short with that metric.

[@dantfc7681]

What a dumb comparison 🤦‍♀️

[@bobcortez4427]

What is the torque comparison? Where is the horsepower and torque delivered? How linear is the power made? How are the transmissions compared? Gear ratios? Power loss in the drive train? And finally, how long will Mercedes make this power before it lands in the shop for repairs?

[@hwd71]

Only 720p. What gives?

[@Ficon]

I see Lexus decided to join Alfa in sending journalists 3-year-old cars to boost sagging sales

[@markovwms]

Your slacks were distracting me LOL

[@ShowMeWhatINeedToKnow]

Were you looking at the package?

[@Osmosis909]

How come Lexus can get away with a ginormous grille (which imo looks worse), BMW change their grille design and the whole world goes mad?

[@khkckhkc]

Lexus gets a C for cabin noise, what's going on?!

[@normt5463]

Obviously no sou d deadening. Everyday Driver said similar in their LS500h review.

[@blegi1245]

As compared to other sub 100k luxury cars. Remember that alex does not use universal scoring system. It's always in relation to the other entries in the same class of vehicles.

[@philipclock]

Run/flat tires??

[@Nightbird.]

Consumer Reports gave this new LS500 a really bad review..which is the first time they do this for an LS since it came out in 1989. They said the LS500: 1. Doesn’t feel powerful in everyday driving. 2. Has frustrating controls. 3. Too firm a ride. Impact from bumps is too hard. The LS500 lacks the plush ride owners should expect. 4. Has tighter interior space. The sleek styling and lower stance have cut into its usable interior space and made it more difficult to climb into than rivals. 5. And cabin controls are so complicated that new owners should budget time at the dealership to configure the settings. This is killing their sales..and it should..because they were more concerned with styling than with function. Consumer Reports doesn't take advertising money like JD Powers does..so their opinion is always unbiased, fair and honest..unlike JD Powers who are payed to say good things. I'm no longer considering purchasing this vehicle and will go back to shopping for another MB S Class. I would rather pay for higher maintenance and repairs on a MB S Class that still performs like a luxury car than buy a Lexus LS that feels like a Toyota Corolla.

[@normt430]

See Everyday Driver review on YT of the LS500h. It was not good for $100K car!

[@Nightbird.]

@@normt430 That's really sad to hear. I still can't believe how badly Lexus dropped the ball on this new LS. But I'm sure the Mercedes Benz S Class will profit from it.

[@normt430]

@@Nightbird. The LS has never matched S-class in sales at least for a long time. Now the Lexus ES gets a RAV4 and Camry 2.5l coarse engine...Lexus is really going to the bottom quickly.

[@Nightbird.]

@@normt430 I didn't know that about the engine for Lexus ES. You are right..Lexus is sinking faster than the Titanic at this rate. It's no wonder Genesis is selling so well..even though their active safety features are unreliable according to the latest Govt testing.

[@naveenthemachine]

Welp as I thought rip Lexus... genesis has ended the Lexus brand. Oh well 😔.

[@nexusebtuoy]

More LCD LOL this is the type of reviewers we are dealing here, LOL learn than discern PERIOD!!!

[@Nightbird.]

The Lexus LS500 looked absolutely stunning to me in person..especially in the beautiful Nebula Gray Pearl color. But the interior looks cheap compared to the latest MB S Class..especially the front dash design which lacks beautiful wood as the MB S Class has. As for Hyundai..they just don't do a good job with luxury. Their Sonata is wonderful for a practical sedan..but their last luxury vehicle I drove..the Equus..was complete garbage: Cheap interior materials...maddening controls..and uncomfortable seats that hurt my back after a 20 minute test drive. And many G90 owners are complaining of terrible customer service from Hyundai when they do have problems with a vehicle. I've only heard good things about Lexus..but I'm old school..and will stick with Mercedes Benz S Classes..which never fail to impress..even if they have higher maintenance/repair costs. Filet Mignon ain't cheap..but I'd rather have that than a burger.

[@Nightbird.]

@@byronnasem4110 When you can type like an adult in a respectful manner without cursing like a 10yr old boy..then I'll take your opinion seriously. But for now..your opinion..just like your vehicle..is worthless.

[@Nightbird.]

@@byronnasem4110 I never cursed nor called you a liar. We are not the same at all. Educate yourself on how to respect others young man. Then maybe your opinion will be worth something.

[@jay3744]

Lexus.. Getting behind from competition

[@naveenthemachine]

And worse. Their mainstream parent Toyota is beating them in innovation now