Unlike more typical hybrid powerplants, the activation and deactivation of the gas engine is barely detectable, such that it's very easy to forget you're driving a hybrid vehicle when behind its wood and leather-wrapped steering wheel.
Engine noise and associated vibration issues were obsessively addressed by Lexus engineers, resulting in an ultra polished drivetrain. This vehicle is spectacularly quiet and refined, especially on the highway where its true speed (generally well over the legal limit) is masked by a remarkably smooth, near silent operation. Yet when power is summonsed, it presents with overwhelming authority.
From departure to take-off, the LS 600h L pulls unfalteringly. The vehicle's continuously variable transmission (CVT) holds the big V8 in its sweet spot of 5,000 or so RPM while the high-torque motor adds icing. Acceleration is relentless and swift. 0-96kph (0-60) reportedly consumes no more than 5.4 seconds. An all-wheel-drive (AWD) configuration ensures endless traction when the right shoe drops.
Lexus claims the sophisticated hybrid drivetrain delivers the performance of a V12 engine while returning the economy of a V6. That's a true statement if one considers 12.7 litres of fuel per 100K of heavy-footed city driving commensurate with a V6- and I do. I have no reticence in accepting the V12 power claim either. I would expect a conventionally powered vehicle of this weight and capability to consume at least 16 litres per 100K of hard driving.
Perhaps more important than just economy is the corresponding reduction in pollution. The LS 600h L meets a class-leading Tier 2, Bin 3 emissions rating. That aids in coping with the, "it's all about me" guilt.
Ride and handling impress
I certainly expected the big Lexus to ride with royal poise, and I wasn't disappointed. In its 'comfort' setting, the car does everything mechanically possible to prevent cabin intrusions. However, my expectations were far exceeded when I began mercilessly forcing the plush sled around clover leafs and through bends.
Without switching to 'sport' mode, the LS 600h L hung tenaciously to the tarmac, exhibiting very little body lean or undesirable handling dynamics. The four-corner grip of its AWD system undoubtedly contributes to its impassioned road manners.
Engine noise and associated vibration issues were obsessively addressed by Lexus engineers, resulting in an ultra polished drivetrain. This vehicle is spectacularly quiet and refined, especially on the highway where its true speed (generally well over the legal limit) is masked by a remarkably smooth, near silent operation. Yet when power is summonsed, it presents with overwhelming authority.
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| The LS 600h L is fitted with many gadgets like the Thin Film Transistor (TFT) Multifunction Display. |
From departure to take-off, the LS 600h L pulls unfalteringly. The vehicle's continuously variable transmission (CVT) holds the big V8 in its sweet spot of 5,000 or so RPM while the high-torque motor adds icing. Acceleration is relentless and swift. 0-96kph (0-60) reportedly consumes no more than 5.4 seconds. An all-wheel-drive (AWD) configuration ensures endless traction when the right shoe drops.
Lexus claims the sophisticated hybrid drivetrain delivers the performance of a V12 engine while returning the economy of a V6. That's a true statement if one considers 12.7 litres of fuel per 100K of heavy-footed city driving commensurate with a V6- and I do. I have no reticence in accepting the V12 power claim either. I would expect a conventionally powered vehicle of this weight and capability to consume at least 16 litres per 100K of hard driving.
Perhaps more important than just economy is the corresponding reduction in pollution. The LS 600h L meets a class-leading Tier 2, Bin 3 emissions rating. That aids in coping with the, "it's all about me" guilt.
Ride and handling impress
I certainly expected the big Lexus to ride with royal poise, and I wasn't disappointed. In its 'comfort' setting, the car does everything mechanically possible to prevent cabin intrusions. However, my expectations were far exceeded when I began mercilessly forcing the plush sled around clover leafs and through bends.
Without switching to 'sport' mode, the LS 600h L hung tenaciously to the tarmac, exhibiting very little body lean or undesirable handling dynamics. The four-corner grip of its AWD system undoubtedly contributes to its impassioned road manners.
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| Even with its 438 hp the LS 600h L is still an Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV II). |