2021 Lexus LS Review: Splendor That Lasts
In 1989, Toyota realized the need to establish a brand subdivision that could compete within the premium car market. Through this realization, Lexus was formed - a premium brand that quickly became respected throughout the USA with the introduction of the first-ever version of what the 2021 Lexus LS is today - the Lexus LS 400. The fifth-generation LS, like the LS 400 of old, still proves to the world that premium full-size sedans can be dependable and relatively affordable to maintain without any compromise on the splendor they should embody. And though it has taken a fair minute, the Lexus LS has become one of the finest full-size 4-door sedans in the classification, bringing the fight to the likes of the BMW 7 Series and the Audi A8.
Under the hood of the LS sedan is a polished twin-turbocharged V6 with 416 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque - a strong and reliable motor that lends to the LS's charm and long-term ownership quality. It's not all smooth sailing for the Lexus LS, however, with an overly firm F Sport version and some serious competition from the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, it's worth giving the 2021 Lexus LS an in-depth review.
2021 LS Exterior
Dimensions
| Length | Wheelbase | Height | Max Width | Front Width | Rear Width | Curb Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 206.1 in | 123.0 in | 57.1 in | 74.8 in | 64.2 in | 64.5 in | 4,696.0 lbs |
2021 LS Performance
2021 LS Interior
2021 LS Trunk and Cargo Space
Warranty
| Basic | Drivetrain | Corrosion | Roadside Assistance | Maintenance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 Years / 50,000 Miles | 6 Years / 70,000 Miles | 6 Years / Unlimited Miles | 4 Years / Unlimited Miles | 1 Years / 10,000 Miles |
Verdict: Is the 2021 Lexus LS A Good Sedan?
With its latest powertrain and suspension refinements, along with some welcome feature upgrades, the 2021 Lexus LS is better than it's ever been before and is finally even a step ahead of some of its esteemed competitors. In F Sport guise, the LS is a fun and capable sedan that boasts reasonably speedy acceleration and adroit handling dynamics, though at the compromise of some of its ride comfort. You're given the choice of either the athletic F Sport or the comfort-prioritized LS 500, the latter of which is a sublime luxury cruiser. The smooth and serene driving experience it delivers is augmented by its modern and opulent interior that's adorned with first-rate materials and an extensive array of comforts and conveniences. Lexus has turned the LS into a genuine Mercedes-Benz S-Class alternative with the added benefit of long-term dependability and better resale value. It looks and feels more contemporary than the now-dated Audi A8 and exudes a more exciting impression than the rather drab BMW 7 Series. Ultimately, the Lexus LS is a striking, polished, extravagant, and value-rich vehicle that will continue to please well into the future.
What Lexus LS Model Should I Buy?
When it comes to premium full-size sedans, comfort and refinement should be prioritized over straight-line performance and handling. With that in mind, we'd recommend going for the entry-spec LS 500 model and avoiding the performance-specialized LS F Sport, which, with all of its sport-tuned underpinnings, delivers an overly firm ride quality that detracts from the overall luxury feel. With its $76,000 starting price, this 2021 Lexus LS sedan can be kitted out with a good number of options before its price approaches that of its main competitors. We'd go straight for the adaptive variable suspension ($1,400) and the Executive Package with the Kiriko Glass cabin trim included ($23,630). This will essentially outfit the LS 500 with all of the best comforts, conveniences, and tech the line has to offer.