The Lexus LS is starting to show its age, but that hasn’t stopped the company from freshening things up for 2023.
The biggest update occurs in the cabin as the model adopts the all-new Lexus Interface system that debuted on the redesigned NX last year. Thanks to the change, owners can interact with the vehicle using either their voice or the 12.3-inch touchscreen display.
Like the Toyota Audio Multimedia system, the Lexus Interface system offers cloud-based navigation as well as integrated Apple Music and Amazon Music streaming. They’re joined by an Intelligent Assistant that responds to the “Hey Lexus” wake word and this enables users to control an assortment of vehicle functions simply by speaking.
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The rest of the sedan largely carries over, but Lexus noted the car now has wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay as well as additional USB ports.
Engine options include the usual suspects with the base model featuring a twin-turbo 3.4-liter V6 producing 416 hp (310 kW / 422 PS) and 442 lb-ft (599 Nm) of torque. It’s connected to a ten-speed automatic transmission, which enables the sedan to accelerate from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in 4.6 seconds.
Customers can also opt for a hybridized powertrain that features a 3.5-liter V6, two electric motors, and a small lithium-ion battery pack. This setup enables the 500h to produce a combined output of 354 hp (264 kW / 359 PS) and accelerate from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in 5.2 seconds. While the hybrid is slower than the regular model, it offers an improved fuel economy rating of 22 mpg city, 29 mpg highway, and 25 mpg combined.
The 2023 Lexus LS 500 starts at $77,535 while the range-topping LS 500h begins at $113,435 and comes standard with the Teammate semi-autonomous driving system. Both variants are expected to arrive at U.S. dealerships late this year.
