2015 Lexus LS
New for 2015
Changes for 2015 are relatively minor, including a new multimedia systems, updated Lexus Inform App Suite and rearview camera, and changes to the F Sport model’s equipment.
The Very Definition of Quality
The original LS launched the Lexus brand as a credible alternative to storied-but-unreliable standards like Mercedes-Benz and Jaguar, and for the 2015 model year it’s still growing strong. The LS continues to offer a luxurious driving experience, extensive technology, and the quality it and parent company Toyota are known for.
Powertrains and Performance
Under the hood, the 2015 Lexus LS conveys Lexus’ philosophy of combining luxury-car dynamics with high-tech efficiency. LS 460 models are powered by a 4.6-liter V8 that develops 386 horsepower and 367 pound-feet of torque. It’s mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission, with a choice of standard rear-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive.
With rear-wheel drive, both the LS 460 and long-wheelbase LS 460 L will do 0 to 60 mph in 5.4 seconds, while the all-wheel drive versions take 5.9 seconds to reach 60 mph. The top speed of all models is electronically limited to 130 mph. EPA fuel-economy ratings are 19 mpg combined (16 mpg city, 24 mpg highway)* with rear-wheel drive, and 18 mpg combined (16 mpg city, 23 mpg highway)* with all-wheel drive.
Befitting a luxury brand from the company that brought you the Prius, Lexus’ flagship model is the LS 600h L hybrid. This version features a 5.0-liter V8 and continuously-variable transmission (CVT) working with an electric motor and nickel-metal hydride battery pack.
Total system output is 438 horsepower, which gets the LS 600h L from 0 to 60 mph in 5.5 seconds, and on to the same 130-mph electronically-limited top speed as the non-hybrid models. Available only with all-wheel drive, the LS 600h L gets an EPA-rated 20 mpg combined (19 mpg city, 23 mpg highway)*, proving that big sedans can be thrifty.
Features and Trims
The 2015 Lexus LS is a four-door, five-seat full-size luxury sedan, available in both standard and long-wheelbase configurations. Pricing starts at $72,520**.
Standard equipment on this most luxurious of Lexus models includes 18-inch alloy wheels, LED daytime running lights and fog lights, rain-sensing wipers, leather interior, a 16-way power driver’s seat and 12-way power passenger’s seat, navigation, the Lexus Enform Remote app (for iOS and Android) Apple Siri Eyes Free voice recognition, and much more.
In addition to the generous list of standard equipment, individual options include a heated wood and leather-padded steering wheel, five-mode adjustable air suspension, and a Mark Levinson Reference surround-sound system with 19 speakers.
There are also several option packages, including the Comfort package (climate-controlled front seats, open-touch power trunk, power rear sunshade), Semi-aniline Leather and Alcantara Upgrade package, and the Ultra Luxury package (four-zone climate control, power rear seats with climate control, lumber massage, and butterfly headrest, rear air conditioning, rear audio controls, and rear side airbags).
The Executive-Class Seating package transforms the interior of the LS into something like the cabin of a private jet. In addition to the features of the Ultra Luxury package, it includes leather door trim, leather glove box, and instrument panel, a power ottoman seat with massage and ottoman knee airbag, and a rear-seat entertainment system.
If you plan on spending more time driving your LS than being chauffeured, there’s also the F Sport package. Available only on the non-hybrid, standard-wheelbase LS 460, it adds a bit of sportiness with 19-inch forged alloy wheels, a limited-slip differential (for rear-wheel drive models), sport suspension, sport seats, paddle shifters, Brembo brakes, and model-specific styling.
Exterior/Interior
The 2015 Lexus LS features a handsome exterior livened up by Lexus’ latest design language. At the front, the brand’s “spindle” grille gives the car a recognizable face, as do sleek headlights with a unique LED signature. At the back, the taillights feature lighting elements arranged in an eye-catching “L” pattern (naturally), and the entire car has clean, sophisticated lines.
The interior offers a pleasing blend of luxurious design and technology, from the grain-matched wood trim and soft leather seats to the electroluminescent gauges and central display screen with infotainment controller. And if you don’t feel like driving, the long-wheelbase LS models boast an expansive 36.7 inches of rear legroom.
Safety
Standard safety equipment on the 2015 Lexus LS includes anti-lock brakes, stability and traction controls, Lexus Inform Safety Connect with a one-year trial subscription, and a full array of airbags.
Optional features include a rearview camera with dynamic grid lines, blind-spot monitor with cross-traffic alert, pre-collision system with dynamic radar cruise control, and an advanced pre-collision system with driver attention monitor and collision avoidance assist.
Bottom Line
The 2015 Lexus LS combines world-class luxury with Toyota-level efficiency and reliability.
Be sure to contact us online or visit us at MotorWorld | MileOne Autogroup to schedule your test drive.
*EPA estimates. Your mileage may vary depending on driving habits and conditions.
**Prices list are the Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price for the vehicle and options chosen by you. These prices do not include transportation, taxes, title, other options, dealer installation costs, or other charges.
Image: Lexus