Lexus LS vs Honda ZR-V
What's the difference?

Lexus LS

—

2023 price

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Honda ZR-V

$37,900 - $54,900

2026 price

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Maserati Quattroporte

Mazda 2

Mazda 6

Mercedes-Benz A-Class

Mercedes-Benz A35

Mercedes-Benz AMG GT

Mercedes-Benz C-Class

Mercedes-Benz C43

Mercedes-Benz C63

Mercedes-Benz CLA

Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class

Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class

Mercedes-Benz E-Class

Mercedes-Benz E53

Mercedes-Benz EQS

Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class

Mercedes-Benz S-Class

Summary

2023 Lexus LS

2026 Honda ZR-V

By Tom White

By Jack Quick

Safety Rating

Engine Type

Twin Turbo V6, 3.4L

Inline 4, 2.0L

Fuel Type

Premium Unleaded Petrol

Unleaded Petrol/Electric

Fuel Efficiency

10.0L/100km (combined)

5.0L/100km (combined)

Seating

Likes

Business class interior
Japanese feel and quality
Thumping turbo V6

Finally cheaper hybrid trims
Incredible fuel efficiency
Affordable servicing

Dislikes

Feels a bit old-fashioned to drive
The hybrid would be nicer to be driven in
Dated multimedia software

No spare wheel
Roof-mounted rear centre seatbelt
Small touchscreen

2023 Lexus LS Summary

Surprisingly, for people who would rather be driven than drive themselves, there are quite a few options available in the large luxury sedan market.

While on the whole sedans have fallen from favour, this niche corner of the market continues to let the three-box design thrive.

The options here have changed a bit in the last few years, though, so how does the Lexus flagship, the LS fit into the picture? I drove one around for a week to find out.

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2026 Honda ZR-V Summary

Honda used to be a big deal in Australia back in the 1990s and early 2000s but I wouldn’t be surprised if it’s moved off your radar in recent years.

The Japanese carmaker has seemingly fallen out of favour in the last few years following its move to an agency retail model which negates haggling on price with dealers.

However, Honda is making a resurgence and it’s putting a heavier focus on hybrid power.

The ZR-V small-to-medium SUV has been updated for 2026 and picks up new, more affordable hybrid trims, among other minor tweaks. Read on to see if this car should be on your shortlist.

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Deep dive comparison

2023 Lexus LS 2026 Honda ZR-V

Verdict

The LS500 is the least logical version of the most logical option in the ultimate luxury sedan segment in which logic doesn’t often apply at all.

Take from that what you will, but if it was me being driven around I would definitely be opting for the hybrid version of the LS instead for its smooth electrified driving characteristics and lower operating costs.

Verdict

The Honda ZR-V has always been an engaging and fun car that’s the right size for many people. The frugal hybrid powertrain has always been the pick too.

It’s great that Honda has finally introduced more affordable hybrid trims with this update which addresses one of my biggest criticisms of this car previously.

If you’re willing to forgo some luxury features, this entry-level hybrid trim is a fantastic car that still offers enough creature comforts to be driven daily.

Hopefully Honda has some renewed sales success with this car as I believe it’s a clear benchmark for the segment.

Lexus LS vs Honda ZR-V What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

Lexus LS vs Honda ZR-V
What's the difference?