Jun 19 2009
2009 LEXUS LS 600h L (hybrid) Review by Jeff Weidel
2009 Lexus LS 600h L (hybrid)
Power: 5.0-liter V8, combined 438 horsepower
Mileage estimate: 20-23 mpg
Price: $106,885
Standard features include: traction and stability control; power moonroof; parking assist with a back-up camera; navigation system with real-time traffic; leather-trimmed seats; heated steering wheel; 16-way power driver seat and 12-way power passenger seat with memory for both; heated and cooled front seats, heated rear seats; power rear sunshade; Bluetooth and 19-speaker Mark Levinson surround sound system (with six-disc CD/DVD changer, satellite radio, a music server with a 2,000-song capacity and an auxiliary input jack
By Jeffrey Weidel
Lexus continues to amaze with its ability to create lavish automobiles. Some of my favorite vehicles are the Lexus brand because they typically combine power, refinement, an unbelievable list of standard features, and have some very cool optional gadgets as well.
Yet the common man may also come to his senses when confronted with the price. In the case of the 2009 Lexus LS 600h L (the h stands for hybrid), it’s sticker shock and much more. How does $106,885 sound? Terrifying? Throw in the premium luxury package and a few other extras and the price climbs to a whopping $117,130.
Of course, the LS 600h L is a stellar model, the first luxury sedan to combine a V-8 gas engine with an electric motor. While the technology is to be applauded, the biggest complaint is Lexus has crafted a hybrid model that really isn’t anything special on gas, getting a mere 20-22 mpg. For around $40,000 less, one can drive home in the LS460, which gets 16-24 mpg and delivers basically the same performance as the LS 600h L.
If the pull is that strong to buy this unique Lexus hybrid and the bank account can accommodate, go ahead and pull the trigger, there’s little to regret. The LS 600h L features full-time all-wheel drive and has a terrific 5.0-liter, V8 engine with a combined 438 horsepower when teamed with the electric motor total output.
The performance is both inspiring and tantalizing, because going an effortless 80 mph on the freeway feels like 60 in a sedan that gobbles up the road, clocked at 0-60 in 5.5 seconds.
Besides incredible acceleration, the LS 600h L is simply the quietest car I have ever driven. One can hardly detect when the engine is turned on, it accelerates with barely a sound, and there is virtually zero wind, road or tire noise.
LEXUS LS600 Hybrid Interior
The LS 600h L features a distinguished exterior, while the interior is rich with classy leather and wood trim. It provides extreme comfort and tons of space. My daughter couldn’t get over the size of the backseat, where the legroom would please most NBA centers.
The standard equipment list is exceedingly long and decadent. It includes the parking assist with a back-up camera, where the driver literally hands over that tedious assignment to the vehicle.
This Lexus is a very classy car. Not sure I would buy the Hybrid model, but if I had the money, would definitely get the standard LS model.
Thanks for sharing such great post on lexus, the 2009 Lexus LS 460 luxury sedan offers comfort, exceptional refinement and true value for money spent. Lexus is a sedan car that provides good material quality. The steering is so comfortable to hold as it is sewn with ultra soft stitching. This model is a premium model and is designed for luxury rather than for holding cargo. However the trunk is adequate for most travel needs.