See Photos of the 2020 Lexus LS500h
Lexus's hybrid flagship sedan costs nearly $5K more than the standard model yet delivers less performance and only marginally better fuel economy.
The 2020 Lexus LS500h employs a 3.5-liter Atkinson-cycle V-6 and two motor-generators that route a combined 354 horsepower through a novel transmission that pairs a continuously variable automatic (CVT) with four fixed gears. However, the hybrid is slower than the conventional LS500, commands a $4560 premium, and only returns marginally better fuel economy. Math like that explains last year's take rate for the hybridized LS: about three percent. Read the full story here.
The LS500h replaces that standard model's 416-hp twin-turbo 3.4-liter V-6 with a 295-hp Atkinson-cycle 3.5-liter V-6 and two motor-generators. Total system output is 354 horsepower.
With all-wheel drive, a previous 2019 LS500h test car weighed 5,115 pounds. That's likely a big reason it averaged just 19 mpg while in our care.
The LS500h's interior is usual LS fare, which is to say beautifully executed but saddled with a confounding touchpad infotainment controller on the center console.
Does the LS500h use a CVT or a fixed-gear transmission? Yes. Lexus bolts a four-speed automatic to the back of the CVT to provide some actual, rather than simulated, shifting. The two transmissions together emulate a 10-speed automatic.
With only 1.1 kWh from the lithium-ion battery, the LS500h's EV mode is pretty weak sauce. You might be able to use it to creep around the country club, but it won't work on the open road.
The LS500h's air springs deliver a cushy ride, yet inflict an additional weight penalty on an already beefy car.
Lexus paint: As deep as Narcissus's pool.
Due to the placement of its battery, the LS hybrid sacrifices two cubic feet of trunk room to the LS500.
The LS500h can be equipped with a massive, 24.0-inch head-up display.
Speaking to the longevity of Lexus LS cars, the complimentary intro subscription for the LS500h's Enform roadside assistance/SOS service lasts 10 years.
2020 Lexus LS500h
2020 Lexus LS500h
2020 Lexus LS500h
2020 Lexus LS500h
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