2024 Lexus LS500h Tested: Keeping It Older School
The 2024 Lexus LS500h stands as a testament to classic luxury with a contemporary twist. In an automotive world increasingly dominated by the push towards complete electrification, the LS500h maintains a hybrid approach, gracefully balancing the old and the new.
Under the hood, it persists with Lexus’ tried-and-true formula: a potent V6 engine paired with two electric motors, delivering seamless acceleration that marries responsiveness with whisper-quiet operation. The hardware is familiar but updated; the 3.5-liter engine and Lexus Hybrid Drive system combine for a total output that brings the LS500h into modern contention without losing sight of its heritage.
The exterior exhibits subtle evolution rather than revolution. Conveying an air of understated elegance, Lexus’ flagship sedan retains its poised stature with refined lines and an imposing grille. The classic silhouette is punctuated by modern touches such as sleek LED lighting signatures and dynamic alloy wheel designs.
Inside, Lexus does not stray from its philosophy of opulence and comfort. Supple leather upholstery, artisan wood trim, and meticulously crafted metal accents testify to the brand’s commitment to luxury. The cabin remains a serene oasis from the outside world, with technology integrated in intuitive ways to enhance rather than detract from the driving experience.
On the road, the LS500h delivers a driving experience that is as composed as ever. The adaptive suspension deftly smooths out imperfections, whilst maintaining enough firmness to keep the driver connected to the road. Steering is precise if not overly sporty; after all, this is a sedan more attuned to majestically cruising highways than carving back roads.
Critics may point to its lack of complete electrification as a miss in trendsetting – but for loyalists and those who appreciate the enduring appeal of a luxury hybrid sedan, the 2024 Lexus LS500h proves that there’s merit in keeping it older school. It respectfully nods to both its lineage and future direction – offering a compelling choice for buyers who seek refinement, sustainability, and performance in one distinguished package.