The LS is the flagship of the Lexus brand. It’s one of the most popular luxury sedans on the market. However, it’s far from the only option. The LS is known for a smooth ride and a luxurious interior, but is it the best buy?
The Lexus LS provides true luxury In terms of its interior. It has a quiet smooth ride, and a spacious interior that easily accommodates 4 adults.
If you are looking for high performance, you may be disappointed. However, if you are seeking an enjoyable ride, the LS is a great choice.
Quick Facts
- $76,000
- 3.4 liter V-6
- 416 Horsepower
- 10 speed automatic transmission
- 30/19 mpg
Powertrain and Performance
The standard engine is a twin turbo gas powered V-6. The 3.4 liter engine provides 416 horsepower. It has a 10 speed automatic transmission.
The LS500h doesn’t perform as well. It is a hybrid model, with a 3.5 liter V-6, along with two electric motors. These provide a total of 354 horsepower.
The engine is not as quiet as the standard V-6. The transmission isn’t particularly appealing either. It’s a CVT combined with a 4 speed automatic, which doesn’t provide the crispness you’d expect from a luxury car.
Gas Mileage
The LS gets 30 mpg on the highway, and 19 mpg in the city. The hybrid performs better, with 33 mpg highway and 25 mpg highway.
Interior and Features
The infotainment system isn’t as streamlined as others on the market. Functions including seat heating must be accessed through the 12 inch info screen.
However, the Lexus does provide a luxurious interior. The rear seats are available as a three-person bench seat, but the rear bucket seats provide a better riding experience.
The rear seats do not fold down, but it offers generous trunk space. It can hold 6 carry-on-sized suitcases.
If you want to up the luxury interior, opt for real wood trim, glass inserts, and pleated door panels.
What Got Cars Onto the List
Before we get into cars similar to the Lexus LS, let’s take a moment to discuss why these cars are on the list. All of the cars included are in the full-size luxury sedan category, but what exactly does that mean?
Full size refers to the size of the car. Full size sedans are larger than midsize sedans, and typically provide a roomier and more comfortable ride.
Luxury cars provide high end features that aren’t available on lower end vehicles. These can include the latest technology, comfort, performance, and styling.
A sedan is defined as a four-door passenger vehicle with a trunk that is separate from the passenger compartment. In simple terms, if a car has four doors and a trunk, it’s a sedan.
1. 2021 Audi A 8
The Audi A 8 is considered the largest and most luxurious sedan on the Audi lineup. It comes standard with the latest tech features, and does a great job of blending comfort and performance. Its styling isn’t eye catching. However, the understated look works for the car, the same way a classic tuxedo always looks great.
Quick Facts
- $86,500
- 3.0 V-6
- 335 horsepower
- 8-speed automatic
- 26/17
Powertrain and Performance
The base model 55 TFSI packs a turbocharged 3 liter V-6 that gets 335 horsepower. If you want more power, the 60 TFSI is supplied with a 453 twin turbo V-8. Both models have a 48-volt hybrid system.
The 60 TFSI e is a hybrid model. It has a V-6 with an electric motor, as well as a rear mounted 14.1 kwh battery. It’s rated at a surprising 443 horsepower.
The models come standard with an all wheel drive 8 speed transmission that helps put the power to the ground.
Gas Mileage
The base model A 8 gets 17 mpg city and 26 mpg highway. The V-8 model is rated for 15 mpg city, and 23 mpg on the highway. The hybrid model has a combined mileage of 23 mpg, and can go 18 miles powered by electric only.
Interior and Features
Like the Lexus LS, the Audi A 8 offers plenty of interior space. The standard model seats 5, but you can trade the rear bench seat for a pair of bucket seats.
In addition to power adjustment, heating, and cooling, which you would expect to find in this class, the seats provide massage and foot massage.
Trunk space is smaller than most, at 13 cubic feet. Like the exterior, the interior is understated yet luxurious. Extended leather and wood inlays are options worth considering.
2. 2021 BMW 7 Series
The BMW 7 series isn’t quite as much fun to drive as most BMW models. Still, if a luxurious, relaxing ride is at the top of your must have list, you should give it a look. Despite it’s laid back nature, it offers a wide range of power train options.
Quick Facts
- $86,000
- 3.0 I-6 turbo
- 335 hp standard
- 8 speed automatic
- 29/22
Powertrain and Performance
Today, it’s rare to find a luxury sedan in a V-8 model, let alone a V-12. The base model, 740i, has a 3.0 in-line 6 cylinder. The turbo charger gives it 335 horsepower. This is more than enough for the average driver, especially given the relaxed feel of the 7 series.
It also offers a hybrid model, which pairs the 3.0 with an electric motor. This version has 389 horsepower.
We’ll give an honorable mention to the two V-8 powertrain options, and take a look at the massive V-12. The 6.6-liter twin-turbo engine gets 601 horsepower. Of course, it’s severely lacking in the gas mileage department.
All models come with a responsive and smooth 8 speed automatic transmission. All wheel drive is optional on the base model, and standard on all other options.
Gas Mileage
The standard model gets 22 mpg city, and 29 mpg highway. The hybrid offers 19/26 mpg, and 17 miles on electric only power. The V-12 model only gets 13 mpg in the city, and 20 mpg highway.
Interior and Features
It features more trunk space than most luxury sedans, with 18 cubic feet of cargo space. However, when it comes to utilizing space, it’s a different matter. It will only hold 3 carry-on suitcases.
The driver assistance features are top of the line, with semi-autonomous self-steering cruise control, which allows the car to do some of the work. Pedestrian detection, blind spot monitoring, and lane departure warning are also available.
3. Maserati Ghibli
German luxury sedans may have the majority of the market, but don’t count out the Italians. The Maserati Ghibli combines luxury with speed, making it an interesting and fun ride.
It’s clearly Maserati, with the trident logo and sleek lines. It’s eye catching without being over the top, which makes it a perfect fit for older well to do drivers who still have a need for speed.
Quick Facts
- $74,700
- 3.0 V-6 Twin Turbo
- 345 hp
- 8 speed automatic
- 17/25 mpg
Powertrain and Performance
The base model has a twin turbo 3.0 v-6 with 345 hp. The Moderna model features 424 horsepower. The largest engine, the Trofeo model, has a twin turbo 3.8 liter V-8. The Trofeo gets 580 horsepower, making it a thrill to drive.
Rear wheel drive is standard, but all wheel drive is also available. All models have an 8 speed automatic transmission.
Gas Mileage
The base model V-6 gets 17 mpg in the city, and 25 mpg on the highway. The V-8 Trofeo gets 13 mpg with city driving and 20 mpg on the highway.
Interior and Features
The Ghibli offers plenty of trunk space, at 17.7 cubic feet. Unfortunately, this seems to be gained by sacrificing leg room. The Ghibli has about 3 inches less legroom than similar sedans.
Mazarati did skimp on some interior features. They sourced window switches from the Jeep Cherokee, for example. However, optional upgrades include leather and silk seats, and a wood trimmed steering wheel.
Driver safety features are standard. These include adaptive cruise control and automated braking.
4. 2021 Genesis G 90
The Genesis G 90 doesn’t have the name recognition of others on the list, but it does provide a unique driving experience. Both the 6 and 8 cylinder engines have great performance, and it’s interior is comfortable and refined.
Quick Facts
- $74,000
- 3.3 liter V-6 twin turbo
- 365 hp
- 8 speed automatic
- 17/24 MPG
Powertrain and Performance
The Genesis G 90 is available in a V-6 or V-8. Both offer similar acceleration from 0-60. The V-6 features a 3.3 liter V-6 twin turbo, with 365 horsepower.
For those who enjoy an old school driving experience, the 5.0 V-8 offers 420 horsepower.
Both models are available in rear or all wheel drive, and feature an automatic 8 speed shiftable transmission.
Gas Mileage
The V-6 model gets 17 mpg in the city, and 24 mpg highway. The V-8 model does almost as well, with 16 mpg in the city, and 24 mpg with highway driving.
Interior and Features
The Genesis provides a rear passenger mode that gives rear passengers a more comfortable riding experience. The interior is understated but luxurious.
Nappa leather seats and wood and brushed metal trim make it highly attractive. Unlike most sedans in the class, it offers a rear fold down armrest which is useful when carrying long slim cargo items.
It has a wireless charging pad, a 12 inch infotainment system, and hard buttons that are lacking on many competitors. This makes the system easy to navigate.
Related: 12 Cars Similar to Genesis G90
5. Alfa Romeo Giulia
Alfa Romeo is well known in the racing world. This makes it no surprise that the Giulia provides a sporty feel. It’s one of the most fun to drive sedans on our list.
This car was built for drivers, but passengers will also have a pleasant ride. If you are looking for a car that combines luxury with performance, consider the Giulia.
Quick Facts
- $42,950
- 2.0 4-cylinder
- 280 horsepower
- 8 speed automatic
- 24/33 mpg
Powertrain and Performance
The base model has a 2.0-liter four-cylinder. It only gets 280 horsepower, but it’s surprisingly punchy in spite of the limited power.
If you have a need for speed, the Giulia Quadrifoglio model has a 505-hp twin-turbo V-6.
It is lively and handles well. It has three driving modes, which are dynamic, natural, and advanced efficiency. These affect the performance and steering feel of the car. Nimble and aggressive, or relaxed and comfortable, the Giulia is at home either way.
It’s available in both rear wheel drive and all wheel drive. Both models come with an 8 speed automatic transmission.
Gas Mileage
The base model Giulia gets 24 mpg in the city, and 33 mpg on the highway. The turbo V-6 gets 17 mpg in the city, and 25 mpg on the highway.
Interior and Features
The Giulia’s interior doesn’t disappoint. The large dashboard provides shade for the infotainment system. The interior features leather, and textured metal or wood trimming.
Its trunk holds 5 carry-on bags. With the rear seats folded, you can fit 14 carry-on suitcases. If cargo capacity is high on your list, the Romeo is a good choice.
The infotainment system is small, with an 8 inch screen. However, it is intuitive and easy to navigate.
6. 2020 Mercedes Benz S Class
The Mercedes Benz S class is the flagship for the Mercedes brand. Not surprisingly, it provides a luxurious driving experience and great performance.
Quick Facts
- $94,250
- Twin turbo 3.0 6-cylinder
- 362 horsepower
- 9 speed automatic
- 19/28 mpg
Powertrain and Performance
The S class offers two powertrain options. The S450 has a twin turbo 3.0 liter V-6 with 362 horsepower. The more powerful s560 option is a twin turbo V-8 that gets 603 horsepower.
It offers a 9-speed automatic transmission with overdrive. It’s available in rear wheel and all wheel drive models.
Gas Mileage
The base model S450 gets 19 mpg in the city, and 28 mpg highway. The S560 gets 17 mpg in the city, and 27 mpg with highway driving.
Interior and Features
The trunk of the S class can hold 5 carry on bags, putting it on par with other sedans in the class. The cabin is very luxurious, featuring leather, wood, and stitching accents that raise the overall appeal of the interior.
It features power seats, and massage functions for front and rear passengers. One of the most notable features is the air-perfuming system, which will ensure you never need to buy another car air freshner.
7. Rolls-Royce Ghost
Our list wouldn’t be complete without the newcomer, the Rolls-Royce Ghost. It’s by far the most expensive vehicle on this list, at over 3 times the msrp of many of its competitors.
It’s the entry level vehicle for the Rolls-Royce brand, but it offers the ultimate in luxury and performance.
Quick Facts
- $343,000
- Twin turbo 3.0 6-cylinder
- 362 horsepower
- 9 speed automatic
- 19/28 mpg
Powertrain and Performance
The Ghost delivers in performance, handling, and comfort. It has a stunning 6.7 liter V-12 engine that provides 563 hp. The optional Black Badge model has an over the top 592 horsepower.
All wheel drive is standard, and the 8 speed transmission allows you to focus on driving rather than shifting.
It has an adaptive suspension that provides a very smooth ride. It has a camera that allows the vehicle to adjust for road irregularities like potholes.
Gas Mileage
The Ghost gets the worst gas mileage of any car on our list, coming in at 12 mpg in the city and 19 mpg on the highway.
Interior and Features
You expect real wood, metal accents, and fine grain leather in a Rolls Royce interior. What might surprise you, however, is the optional led headliner. It’s designed to simulate a starry sky, which is a sight you may not see often.
Of course, it has massaging seats and plenty of rear legroom. Automatic braking, lane keep assist, and adaptive cruise control are standard. It also has a generous infotainment system. Rear passengers are treated to their own entertainment system.
Lexus LS Faqs
How reliable is the Lexus LS?
The Lexus LS ranks number 10 out of 30 luxury full size sedans, which makes it more reliable than the average sedan. It has a reliability rating of 3.5 according to Repairpal, while the verge is 2.5
What does LS stand for?
The LS in Lexus LS stands for luxury sedan. It’s not the most exciting name meaning, but it certainly makes sense.
Is the Lexus LS worth the purchase price?
Yes, the Lexus LS is considered to be worth the price. However, there are a few factors to consider. It provides a smooth ride, but not a particularly exciting driving experience. It’s comparable in price to most other luxury sedans.
Is the Lexus ES better than the LS?
It depends on what you are looking for. The ES gets better gas mileage, while still providing plenty of power at 302 hp and 22/33 mpg.
The LS gets 416 hp thanks to it’s twin turbo engine, but only gets 19/30 mpg. The LS does offer some tech features that aren’t available on the ES, including massaging seats with 7 massage modes.
