LS

Make
Lexus
Segment
Sedan

The 2009 Lexus LS 600h Hybrid was unveiled by Lexus at the time as the only luxury V8 hybrid car in the world. Although it is pricey, the Lexus LS 600h offers a rare combination of luxury, power, and environmental cachet. The 2009 Lexus LS 600h Hybrid is almost identical to the 2008 model year, with only one minor change to the passenger's side front seat, which now is equipped with a memory function.

The Hybrid was designed to outperform its gasoline powered sibling, squeezing V12- like performance from the combination of a V8 and an electric motor. We've heard that the two work together seamlessly, but some say the combination falls a little short of the manufacturer's claims. The car handles comfortably, with speed sensitive steering. Its adaptive suspension also allows the driver to select levels of athleticism. The 2009 LS 600h combines a 5.0-liter V8 engine with an Electric-Drive Motor. The system delivers 438 horsepower, which results in V12-like power.

Power is sent through a Continuously Variable Transmission. The 600h's fuel economy numbers reflect its designers' intentions too. The EPA gives it a fuel economy rating of 20 mpg in the city and 22 on the highway. The 2009 LS 600h's exterior differs little from the standard gasoline powered LS. The only real difference is the handful of exterior badges. Inside, the LS 600h offers one of the finest sedan interiors in the world. The 600h L seats four in comfort, and the front seats are 16 way power adjustable, heated, and cooled.

The interior also includes everything from power door closers to a voice activated navigation system with real time traffic reports and an internal hard drive.