2018 Lexus LS 500: Review, Specs, And Performance

Hey guys! Let's talk about the 2018 Lexus LS 500, a car that's all about luxury, performance, and cutting-edge technology. This isn't just any sedan; it's a statement. It's the kind of car that makes you feel like you've arrived, whether you're cruising down the highway or pulling up to a fancy dinner. In this in-depth review, we're going to break down everything you need to know about the 2018 LS 500: its specs, its performance, its design, and what makes it stand out in a crowded luxury car market. Buckle up, because we're about to take a ride!

Overview of the 2018 Lexus LS 500

The 2018 Lexus LS 500 marked a significant leap forward for the LS lineup. Lexus completely redesigned this flagship sedan, aiming to deliver a driving experience that blended opulent comfort with exhilarating performance. The goal? To compete head-on with established luxury giants like the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and the BMW 7 Series. And, let me tell you, they did a pretty darn good job! The LS 500 boasts a striking new design, a powerful engine, and a cabin that's a sanctuary of tranquility. It's a car that's designed to impress, from the moment you lay eyes on it to the second you settle into its plush seats. The 2018 model year was particularly important as it introduced a new platform, a new engine, and a host of innovative features that set the stage for future iterations of the LS. We're talking about a car that not only looks good but also delivers on the promise of a premium driving experience. The interior is a masterpiece of craftsmanship, with premium materials and meticulous attention to detail. Lexus clearly wanted to create a car that was both beautiful and functional, and they succeeded. The LS 500 is a car that you'll enjoy driving, and you'll love being seen in it.

Key Features and Highlights

The 2018 Lexus LS 500 comes packed with features, making it a true standout in its class. From its powerful engine to its advanced safety technologies, this car has it all. Here are some of the key highlights that make the LS 500 so special:

• Engine and Performance: A twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine delivers a thrilling 416 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque. It's paired with a smooth-shifting 10-speed automatic transmission, providing effortless acceleration and responsive handling.
• Design: The LS 500 features a bold and elegant design, with a sleek silhouette and a striking spindle grille. It's a car that turns heads wherever it goes.
• Interior: The cabin is a haven of luxury, with premium leather, wood trim, and an array of high-tech features. The attention to detail is truly remarkable.
• Technology: The LS 500 is loaded with advanced technology, including a large infotainment display, a premium sound system, and a suite of driver-assistance features. It's a car that keeps you connected and safe on the road.
• Ride Quality: The LS 500 offers a supremely comfortable ride, thanks to its adaptive variable suspension. It effortlessly absorbs bumps and imperfections in the road, providing a smooth and composed driving experience.

These features, combined with the LS 500's reputation for reliability and quality, make it a top contender in the luxury sedan market. It's a car that's designed to provide a truly exceptional driving experience.

Performance and Engine Specifications

Alright, let's get into the nitty-gritty and talk about what makes the 2018 Lexus LS 500 move. Under the hood, you'll find a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine. This isn't your average V6, folks. It's a powerhouse that produces a whopping 416 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque. That's enough to get this big sedan from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.6 seconds. That's seriously quick! This engine is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission that's incredibly smooth and responsive. It shifts effortlessly, providing seamless acceleration and a refined driving experience. You'll never feel a jerky shift; it's all about smooth power delivery. The transmission also helps maximize fuel efficiency, so you get the best of both worlds: performance and economy. The LS 500 offers both rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations, giving you options depending on your driving preferences and climate. The engine's responsiveness is immediate, and the power is always there when you need it, making it easy to merge onto the highway or pass slower vehicles. This engine truly elevates the LS 500 to a level of performance that's both exhilarating and refined.

Acceleration and Handling

The 2018 LS 500 isn't just about straight-line speed; it also handles beautifully. The car feels planted and composed, even when cornering at higher speeds. The adaptive variable suspension plays a huge role here, constantly adjusting to provide the optimal balance between ride comfort and handling. The steering is precise and responsive, giving you a good feel for the road. The brakes are strong and reliable, providing confident stopping power. Overall, the LS 500 is a joy to drive, offering a level of performance that will impress even the most discerning drivers. The acceleration is brisk, and the car feels surprisingly agile for its size. You'll find yourself looking for excuses to take it out for a spin.

Fuel Economy

While the LS 500 is a performance-oriented luxury sedan, it also offers respectable fuel economy for its class. The EPA estimates that the rear-wheel-drive model gets around 19 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway. The all-wheel-drive model sees a slight dip in those numbers, but it's still pretty good for a car of this size and power. Of course, your actual fuel economy will vary depending on your driving habits and the conditions, but overall, the LS 500 is a relatively efficient car. It's a great choice if you want a luxury sedan that doesn't guzzle gas like a monster truck.

Interior Design and Features

Now, let's step inside the 2018 Lexus LS 500, where luxury and craftsmanship take center stage. The interior is a true sanctuary, designed to provide a comfortable and refined experience for both the driver and passengers. From the moment you open the door, you're greeted with a sense of opulence and attention to detail. High-quality materials, such as premium leather, wood trim, and aluminum accents, are used throughout the cabin, creating an atmosphere of sophistication and elegance. The seats are incredibly comfortable, offering excellent support and plenty of adjustability. Whether you're embarking on a short commute or a long road trip, you'll feel relaxed and refreshed. The front seats feature heating, ventilation, and massage functions, adding an extra layer of comfort. The rear seats are equally luxurious, with ample legroom and headroom. Passengers in the back can enjoy their own climate controls, entertainment system, and even a massage function in some configurations. Lexus has truly thought of everything to make the LS 500 a haven of comfort and convenience.

Comfort and Space

The LS 500 is all about comfort and space. The cabin is spacious and airy, providing plenty of room for both front and rear passengers. The seats are generously sized and offer excellent support, ensuring a comfortable ride even on long journeys. The materials used throughout the interior are of the highest quality, creating a sense of luxury and refinement. The attention to detail is evident everywhere, from the stitching on the seats to the finish of the wood trim. There's ample legroom and headroom in both the front and rear, making it easy for passengers of all sizes to get comfortable. The trunk is also spacious, offering plenty of room for luggage and other cargo. Whether you're traveling with family or friends, or simply need to transport a lot of gear, the LS 500 has you covered. The car's sound insulation is also excellent, keeping road and wind noise to a minimum. This allows you to enjoy the car's premium audio system and engage in conversations without having to raise your voice. Overall, the LS 500 provides a supremely comfortable and spacious environment, making every journey a pleasure.

Infotainment and Technology

The 2018 Lexus LS 500 is packed with cutting-edge technology, enhancing the driving experience and keeping you connected. The centerpiece of the infotainment system is a large, high-resolution display that's easy to see and use. The system includes a variety of features, such as navigation, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a premium sound system. The sound system delivers crystal-clear audio quality, immersing you in your favorite music. The navigation system provides accurate directions and real-time traffic updates, helping you avoid congestion. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto allow you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone with the car's infotainment system, giving you access to your favorite apps and features. The LS 500 also comes equipped with a suite of driver-assistance features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. These features enhance safety and make driving easier and more enjoyable. The car's technology is intuitive and user-friendly, allowing you to easily access all the features and functions. Lexus has done a great job of integrating technology into the LS 500 without making it overwhelming or complicated. It's a car that's both smart and sophisticated, enhancing your driving experience in every way.

Exterior Design and Styling

Let's talk about the look, shall we? The 2018 Lexus LS 500 boasts a striking exterior design that's both elegant and bold. Lexus completely redesigned the LS for this generation, giving it a sleek, modern aesthetic that immediately grabs your attention. The car's silhouette is long and low, exuding a sense of athleticism and sophistication. The front end is dominated by the signature Lexus spindle grille, which is now even more prominent and distinctive. The grille is flanked by sharp LED headlights, giving the car an aggressive and futuristic look. The side profile is clean and uncluttered, with flowing lines that create a sense of motion. The rear of the car features a sculpted trunk lid and stylish LED taillights, completing the car's elegant and refined look. Overall, the exterior design of the LS 500 is a testament to Lexus's commitment to creating beautiful and well-crafted vehicles. It's a car that's designed to make a statement, turning heads wherever it goes.

Design Elements and Aesthetics

The design of the 2018 Lexus LS 500 is a symphony of lines and curves, creating a visual masterpiece. Every detail has been carefully considered, from the shape of the headlights to the placement of the exhaust tips. The car's proportions are perfect, with a long wheelbase and a low center of gravity. This not only enhances the car's appearance but also contributes to its handling and stability. The use of premium materials, such as chrome accents and high-gloss paint, further elevates the car's appearance. The LS 500 is available in a variety of colors, allowing you to customize the car to your personal taste. The overall aesthetic is one of understated elegance and sophistication. The design is both timeless and modern, ensuring that the LS 500 will remain stylish for years to come. The attention to detail is truly remarkable, showcasing Lexus's commitment to quality and craftsmanship. The LS 500 is a car that you can be proud to own and drive.

Available Colors and Trims

The 2018 Lexus LS 500 offers a range of colors and trims, allowing you to personalize the car to your liking. Exterior color options include classic shades like black, white, and silver, as well as more vibrant choices like red and blue. The interior is available in a variety of colors and materials, including leather, wood trim, and aluminum accents. You can choose from different trim levels, each offering a unique combination of features and options. The base model is well-equipped, while higher trim levels add even more luxury and technology. Some of the available features include a premium sound system, a panoramic sunroof, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems. No matter what your preferences are, you can find an LS 500 that perfectly suits your needs and style. The wide range of options allows you to create a car that's truly your own, reflecting your personality and taste. Lexus has made it easy to customize the LS 500 to create a driving experience that's tailored to you.

Safety Features and Technology

Safety is paramount, and the 2018 Lexus LS 500 is equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features and technologies to keep you and your passengers protected. Lexus has always been committed to safety, and the LS 500 is a prime example of their dedication. The car is built with a strong and rigid body structure, designed to absorb impact energy in the event of a collision. It comes standard with a full complement of airbags, including front, side, and curtain airbags. But it's not just about passive safety; the LS 500 is also packed with active safety technologies that help prevent accidents in the first place. These features use sensors and cameras to monitor the road and surroundings, providing assistance to the driver when needed. The goal is to make the driving experience as safe and stress-free as possible. Lexus wants you to feel confident and secure behind the wheel, knowing that you and your loved ones are protected. The LS 500's safety features are designed to provide peace of mind and enhance your overall driving experience.

Driver-Assistance Systems

The 2018 Lexus LS 500 is loaded with driver-assistance systems designed to make your driving experience safer and more convenient. One of the most important is the pre-collision system, which can detect potential collisions and automatically apply the brakes if necessary. It can even detect pedestrians and cyclists, helping to avoid accidents in urban environments. The lane departure alert system helps keep you in your lane by providing an audible warning if you start to drift out of your lane. The adaptive cruise control maintains a set distance from the vehicle in front, automatically adjusting your speed to match the flow of traffic. The blind-spot monitor alerts you to vehicles in your blind spots, making it easier and safer to change lanes. Rear cross-traffic alert warns you of approaching vehicles when you're backing out of a parking space. These are just some of the many driver-assistance systems available on the LS 500. They work together to create a safer and more enjoyable driving experience, reducing the risk of accidents and making long journeys less tiring. Lexus has truly thought of everything to make driving as safe and stress-free as possible.

Crash Test Ratings and Safety Ratings

In terms of safety ratings, the 2018 Lexus LS 500 performed exceptionally well in crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The NHTSA awarded the LS 500 with a five-star overall safety rating, the highest possible score. The IIHS gave the LS 500 its highest rating of “Good” in all crashworthiness tests and awarded it the prestigious Top Safety Pick+ designation. This is a testament to the car's strong body structure and advanced safety features. These ratings provide independent verification of the LS 500's safety performance, giving you added confidence in its ability to protect you and your passengers in the event of an accident. The LS 500's excellent safety ratings make it a smart choice for anyone looking for a safe and reliable luxury sedan. Lexus's commitment to safety is evident in the LS 500's impressive performance in these important tests.

Driving Experience and Handling

Let's get behind the wheel, shall we? The 2018 Lexus LS 500 offers a driving experience that is a perfect blend of comfort and performance. Whether you're cruising down the highway or navigating winding roads, the LS 500 delivers a refined and engaging driving experience. The car's adaptive variable suspension plays a key role here, constantly adjusting to provide the optimal balance between ride comfort and handling. It effortlessly absorbs bumps and imperfections in the road, providing a smooth and composed ride. At the same time, it keeps the car firmly planted, even when cornering at higher speeds. The steering is precise and responsive, giving you a good feel for the road. The brakes are strong and reliable, providing confident stopping power. The LS 500 feels balanced and controlled in all driving conditions, making it a joy to drive. It's a car that inspires confidence and allows you to enjoy the journey, whether you're behind the wheel or riding as a passenger.

Ride Quality and Comfort

One of the standout features of the 2018 Lexus LS 500 is its exceptional ride quality. The car's adaptive variable suspension does a remarkable job of isolating you from the road. Bumps and imperfections are absorbed with ease, providing a smooth and comfortable ride. The cabin is also very well-insulated, minimizing road and wind noise. This contributes to a sense of tranquility and serenity, making long journeys a pleasure. The seats are incredibly comfortable, offering excellent support and plenty of adjustability. They can be heated, ventilated, and even equipped with a massage function, adding an extra layer of comfort. Whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a cross-country road trip, you'll arrive feeling relaxed and refreshed. The LS 500's ride quality is truly exceptional, making it a car you'll look forward to driving every day.

Performance in Different Driving Conditions

The 2018 Lexus LS 500 performs well in a variety of driving conditions. In city driving, the car's smooth acceleration and responsive handling make it easy to maneuver through traffic. The car's compact size and excellent visibility make it easy to park and navigate tight spaces. On the highway, the LS 500 excels. The car's powerful engine provides effortless acceleration for merging and passing. The adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist systems help make long journeys more relaxed and less tiring. In wet or snowy conditions, the all-wheel-drive system provides added traction and stability, enhancing safety and control. The car's electronic stability control system helps prevent skidding, ensuring that you maintain control of the vehicle. Whether you're driving in the city, on the highway, or in challenging weather conditions, the LS 500 delivers a confident and capable driving experience.

Reliability and Ownership Experience

When it comes to luxury cars, reliability and the overall ownership experience are just as important as performance and design. Fortunately, the 2018 Lexus LS 500 excels in these areas, building upon Lexus's well-earned reputation for quality and dependability. Lexus vehicles are known for their reliability, and the LS 500 is no exception. Owners consistently report a positive ownership experience, with few issues and a high level of satisfaction. The car is built with high-quality materials and meticulous attention to detail, ensuring long-term durability and performance. Lexus also provides excellent customer service, making the ownership experience even more enjoyable. This includes a comprehensive warranty, responsive support, and a network of well-trained service technicians. The LS 500 is a car that you can rely on, knowing that it will provide years of trouble-free service. It's a car that's designed to be a pleasure to own and drive. Owning a Lexus means more than just having a luxurious car; it means having a reliable and well-supported vehicle.

Long-Term Reliability

Lexus has a long-standing reputation for building reliable vehicles, and the 2018 LS 500 upholds that tradition. The car is known for its durability and its ability to withstand the test of time. Owners often report that their LS 500s continue to perform well even after years of use. This is due to the car's high-quality construction, the use of durable materials, and the rigorous quality control standards that Lexus adheres to. The engine and transmission are particularly well-regarded for their reliability. With proper maintenance, the LS 500 is expected to provide years of dependable service. This makes it a smart investment for anyone looking for a luxury sedan that will last. You can rest assured that your LS 500 will continue to perform well, even as the miles add up. Lexus's commitment to reliability is a key factor in the LS 500's popularity.

Maintenance and Costs

One of the advantages of owning a Lexus is that the maintenance costs are typically lower than those of other luxury brands. Lexus vehicles are known for being relatively easy and affordable to maintain. The LS 500's maintenance schedule is straightforward, and the required services are relatively inexpensive. Lexus dealers offer a range of service packages to help you keep your car in top condition. Genuine Lexus parts are readily available and reasonably priced. Fuel costs are also relatively low, thanks to the LS 500's fuel-efficient engine. Insurance costs are typically moderate compared to other luxury sedans. Overall, the maintenance and ownership costs of the 2018 Lexus LS 500 are very reasonable for a car of its class. This makes it a practical choice for anyone looking for a luxury car that won't break the bank. You can enjoy the luxury and performance of the LS 500 without worrying about excessive maintenance expenses.

Conclusion: Is the 2018 Lexus LS 500 Right for You?

So, after all that, is the 2018 Lexus LS 500 the right car for you? Well, that depends on what you're looking for in a luxury sedan. If you value comfort, performance, and cutting-edge technology, then the LS 500 is definitely worth considering. It offers a refined and engaging driving experience, a luxurious and well-appointed interior, and a host of advanced features. It's a car that's designed to impress, from its striking exterior design to its whisper-quiet cabin. The LS 500 is also known for its reliability and excellent customer service, making it a smart choice for anyone looking for a luxury car that will provide years of trouble-free service. If you're looking for a car that offers both luxury and practicality, the 2018 Lexus LS 500 is a great option. It's a car that you'll enjoy driving, and you'll love being seen in it.

Pros and Cons

To help you make an informed decision, let's take a look at the pros and cons of the 2018 Lexus LS 500:

Pros:

• Luxurious and comfortable interior
• Powerful and efficient engine
• Advanced technology and safety features
• Excellent ride quality and handling
• High reliability and low maintenance costs
• Striking exterior design

Cons:

• Infotainment system can be complex to use
• Some may find the exterior design polarizing
• Rear seat space is adequate but not class-leading

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the 2018 Lexus LS 500 is a truly exceptional luxury sedan. It offers a winning combination of comfort, performance, and technology, making it a top contender in its class. Whether you're looking for a car for daily commuting, long road trips, or special occasions, the LS 500 is a great choice. It's a car that will provide years of enjoyment and satisfaction. If you're in the market for a luxury sedan, I highly recommend that you take the 2018 Lexus LS 500 for a test drive. You won't be disappointed! It's a car that's sure to impress, and one that you'll be proud to own. Go on, treat yourself to a touch of luxury – you deserve it!