Lexus LS 500 2018 review: snapshot

The LS 500 represents the more conventional side of the new LS flagship line-up, with the twin-turbo V6 model sitting alongside the identically priced LS 500h hybrid.

Kicking off with a list price of $190,500 in F Sport trim, the sportier of the two trim levels features a more aggressive body treatment and design for its 20-inch wheels, perforated leather and heated steering wheel, leather F Sport seats and F Sport instrumentation. A host of other luxury features includes power adjustable front headrests and a power rear sunshade.

Also specific to the F Sport is variable ratio steering and rear-wheel steer, active stabiliser bars, along with high performance brakes.

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Explore the 2018 Lexus LS Range

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Lexus LS 500 2018 review: snapshot

A Sports Luxury version sits $5000 up the price scale at $195,500, which brings a slightly less aggressive body design than the F Sport with more subtle multi-spoke 20-inch wheels.

On the inside, the Sports Luxury steps up the comfort game a couple of notches, with a wood-trimmed and heated steering wheel, semi-aniline leather seats, GPS analogue clock, four-zone climate control, powered front headrests with memory settings, power side sunshades, massage front seats and passenger-side rear seat, 22-way power rear seats with passenger-side ottoman, rear-seat cushion airbags, rear cooler box (LS 500 only) and dual rear 11.6-inch DVD screens.

Both versions of the LS 500 are fitted with a new 310kW/600Nm 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6 petrol engine, which is paired to a ten-speed torque converter auto. Combined cycle fuel consumption is rated at 9.5L/100km and Premium 95RON unleaded is required.