Lexus LS 500h 2018 review: snapshot

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

Kicking off with a list price of $190,500 in F Sport trim, the sportier of the two LS 500h trim levels features a more stylised body treatment and 20-inch wheels, heated and perforated leather steering wheel, leather sport seats and F Sport instrumentation. The long list 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.

The Sports Luxury version of the LS 500h sits $5000 up the price scale at $195,500, which features a slightly more discrete body design than the F Sport with multi-spoke 20-inch wheels
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The Sports Luxury steps up the comfort game even further on the inside, with a wood-trimmed and heated steering wheel, semi-aniline leather seats, GPS analog 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 and dual rear 11.6-inch entertainment screens.

Both versions of the LS 500h are fitted with a 220kW/350Nm 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine and electric motor hybrid drivetrain, which is paired to a ten-speed CVT auto. Combined fuel consumption is rated at 6.6L/100km and Premium 95RON unleaded is required.