Why The Lexus LS Line is Failing
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 29 ก.ย. 2024
- A quick video discussing the failure of the Lexus LS line. I don't believe that the Lexus LS is a failure as a car, but as a business product, the LS is not doing so well. A new 2021 Lexus LS 500 got released, and I will talk about that here. See Kirk's Video: • The Rise and FALL of t...
Let me know in the comment section what you think about the Lexus LS line. What can Lexus do to salvage the LS and bring it back to its former glory, like when the LS400 first came out. What do you think about an all-electric LS? I would like to hear your thoughts as if you were the Lexus CEO for a day.
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#Lexus #LexusLS #LuxurySedan - ยานยนต์และพาหนะ
This is the most real car review I’ve ever had the honour of viewing on TH-cam. You literally call out the problems and the honest truth and reality of the culture mechanical/design problems with the LS while still respecting the unique market it occupies. You even compliment its positive qualities with your genuine opinions which only reinforces the idea of your fairness and straight forward thinking.
Really humbled that you appreciated my perspectives from all angles, thank you my friend! I def try to make reviews and provide a perspective the mainstream never does
I have been proudly owning LS500 for the past 3 years, everyday I appreciate my decision to go with it rather than any other car on the market.
Will look at the 2021 in 2024. Bought my GS 350 when it was 3 years old and it’s a fabulous car. Many people like reliability.
In my opinion, I think the Main reason the LS has lost market share is the change to V6 engines. The LS has always been known for its amazing V8 engine, so when you change an iconic trait of the car you lose buyers who can get a V8 from BMW or Mercedes.
I agree. V6 are not a good platform in general. It's more of an economy engine. There are exceptions like in the NSX, GTR or Ford GT but in general. No one likes V6s.
Idk why they couldn't downside the displacement and add turbos for economy. Look at the McLaren line up. 3.8L.
@@kendall9758 ls will be coming with v8 twin turbo soon.
@@kendall9758 No one like v6's? You guys no nothing about cars.
@@kensmechanicalaffair did you read my comment? I said there are exceptions but in general no one likes v6s. if you're some crazy diy mad scientist tuner you can make anything work.
when have you ever heard an American go you should swap a v6 into your build?
most of the European performance models all use twin turbo V8. m8, m5, sls, 720s, rs7 etc the list goes on
Exactly
I own a 2018 Lexus LS and have to say that your assessment is spot on. Nothing touches the Mercedes S Class in this class of vehicles but the LS' price point gives it a slight advantage (personally fit my budget better). Lexus is at a crossroad when it comes to the LS. It's still their flagship vehicle and must cost them a pretty penny to continue development on a car that is not selling well. Although it was their first car ever made and there are probably some sentimental reasons to continue its development, the bean counters at Lexus may have a different opinion. For my 2018, everything already said is absolutely true. Pros: Beautiful exterior and interior (the spindle grill remains polarizing); extremely quiet inside; mostly a luxurious ride (I have the air suspension option, interior upgrade option and the Mark Levinson stereo option); extremely comfortable seats and decent handling for a land yacht. Cons: Large road bumps are transferred to the vehicle too harshly (2018-2020), infotainment interface is cumbersome, even after owning it for a while; infotainment display no longer looks integrated (2021-present); personally would have preferred a V-8 to the TT 6. Given all of this, I truly love this car and look forward to driving it each and every time. Have driven the new ES 350 many times and it doesn't compare to the LS. I'm hoping that Lexus continues to evolve the LS, this latest generation has the most Lexus influence of all the LS generations.
Great video. Loved it. Most of what you said is true to me. It seems like in the last 20 years, Lexus got comfortable with where they were and stopped trying so hard. I’m a Lexus owner. I still view it as a prestigious brand, but 90’s Lexus was definitely a different experience from today’s Lexus. I’m not going to say bring back the V8 because I definitely don’t need one. I’m not going to say bring back the reliability because Lexus reliability hasn’t disappointed in three decades. But, I will say this...I’m not mega rich, but I’m certainly very financially comfortable. I’m not a common person because I chose Lexus. And I do care about reliability. I’ve owned three BMWs and I grew painfully weary of the service and the upkeep even while under warranty. And no one even comes close to Lexus for the customer service and dealership experience-those alone are prestigious. I’d say reliability matters (or it doesn’t) regardless of income bracket. I have no interest at all in owning a high-riding SUV. I never cared for them and I know few if any enthusiasts who do. But in general, the sedan is just failing because it’s failing. It’s time has, unfortunately, passed and people (apparently) love what an SUV can do for them. 🤷🏻♂️
Perfectly said 🤝😎
Very well said
Because you have class.
Most people dont so they will buy x7 or merc suv, because you know, prestige and all that bs.
As an owner that had two LS460s and a LS600...I cannot believe the new 500 has the same rear legroom as the new ES despite the new LS500 being longer than my LS460L. I'm kind of getting over the non V8 situation but the turbo lag is pretty noticeable. The LS500 is growing on me but I'll most likely hold on to my 460L and maybe add the LC down the road.
Nightclub lights and seizures, dude I laughed so loud to that. 🤣😂
😆
What is meant by that?
The LS is supposed to be an understated conservative car that is a technology leader and great value compared to BMW 7 series and Mercedes Benz S class. This LS is none of those things. Styling is a total disaster. It looks like a big Camry outside while the inside looks like it had 10 designers working on it in different location and in isolation then 10 different approaches where forced together at the last minute to make a deadline. The V6 is a step backwards going in the Honda direction which was also a failure with the end of the RLX on the brink. The best LS was the 04-06 overall but they did cut some corners and cheaped out on things compared to older models. When the 90-94 LS was around it embarrassed the competition by being 10 years ahead of them in tech and styling while undercutting them in price by over 30 grand. The Germans and even General Motors purchased several first gen LS cars and disassembled them to study what Toyota had done. GM concluded they did not have the ability to build a competitive Cadillac at the time using the tech they had on hand. That sort of thing is what made the LS iconic. No one is purchasing this LS to do any studies. Photos of it probably hang in the R&D centers of the competition as a reminder of what not to do.
They should've made a slightly below flagship SUV that can compete with the X5 and GLE/GLS. They have nothing for that. The RX is smaller and cheaper while the GX/LX are dinosaurs. They should have made a 62k to 75k SUV that is LS inspired modern and rich but undercuts the Germans bolstered by Lexus reliability.
I believe they are working on one
In my (humble) opinion, that's because the ES has just become too damn good. It's cannibalizing the whole Lexus sedan line-up.
Facts...if only they can make the rear seats fold down
True.. the es reminds me of the 3 series BMW. The bread and butter of its brand always there with minimal problems...
Excuses, excuses, excuses. Why are there sooo many excuses for Lexus? Can’t the same excuses be used for Lexus competitors? Can there be a Lexus review that doesn’t nail in on reliability and resale value? Two things that as a first owner of a brand new vehicle you aren’t very concerned about. What about the value proposition? The performance? The luxury? The technology? The handling? The design? Any of that worth a sale of the LS? Smh. Maybe Toyota has fallen for the mistake of catering to their own base and ignoring the market.
@@mybro727 I am afraid not Dude, I Sold cars for many years. Have been In sales for more than a 3rd of my life. And from different regions in the country. And I can honestly say that unless you making an upwards of a $100000 a year, your main objective is to highly considered And scrutinise the reliability of The purchase That you are trying to acquire. I've had dozens of customers over the years coming in My dealership with a copy of Consumer Reports under their arm Asking me How good is this vehicle and what do you think in respects to what Consumer Reports is reporting on the vehicle On its Reliability. So unless you are baller status and you can cast reliability to the wind then this is a huge pressure point with buyers that make under a 100 K. You forget The German European competitors, Audi, BMW, Mercedes, alfa Romeo, even saab in its day, rover,Jaguar, Have no subordinate brand With the exception of BMW having The MiniCooper. So the argument here is is Lexus keeping up with the big boys that do not have Subordinate brands and are still competitive? I do not add infinity/Nissan to this group because infinity really has gone downI The shItter..... And most of these guys on this thread don't even make $50000 a year but you have an opinion about the brand. And $80000 Lexus versus a $100000 plus Mercedes or BMW with the same or nearly the same tech with the best reliability on the planet? that's a no brainer. I remember a lady coming into my service department when I worked at BMW earlier this year and we were talking about cars while she was waiting to be seated and she was driving a 5 that needed some work. And I told her that I am probably going to go the way of Lexus And her eyes got as big as deer in headlights ! She told meShe has A Lexus that the only thing she does to Her 9 year old gx70 is brakes and tires Yet again, Her 5 is in service at least once a month! The person who is writing this doesn't even make $50000 a year lol lol? So we have to Aim our argument at and consider who we are talking to. Here we talking to people with big pockets or small pockets? And anyway, I believe, even though I myself agree with most of the people on this thread about Lexus cutting the V8, I believe that Lexus IS about To turn the corner on going fully electric and this is just stage one of that.Because at the end of the day in about 30 years many of us writing on this thread wont even be Alive, some will, there not going to be Any more V8 cars in production
Hi Kevin, I think that the LS is to expensive for normal people and to cheap for rich people where want´s more Performance more HP and a V8 TT with over 550 HP therefore they buy German Brands, who give rich customer what they want and the problem in Europe is the LS cost the same money like a S-class, 7.series or a A8 and in Europe is reliability for rich customer no problem.
Here in North America too, the Lexus LS costs about the same as a S-class similarly equipped outside of the absence of that V8 bi-turbo.
The LS series doesn't look like a luxury car anymore it look more like a sup up Toyota Avalon.
Sorry but you must be blind to say so.
I agree! it has many design queues from its mainstream bran or vice versa. The large mouth the longer, leaner , lower stance on the tnga platform has there large sedans looking exactly alike. The only difference is the premium materials they use and the smaller engine. The new Avalon and Camry's have just as much if not more tech than in a Lexus. its sad!
@@alib8396 I think you need to take a second look and plus it look like the LF
I gave a 2021 LS. It is a pleasure to drive and ride it. The interior is superb and and the fit and finish is superb 🏖
Lexus is only 30 years old ,it doesnt have the heritage of the germans and i get it there in the states you see a Lexus around every corner probably , here in Portugal and as a lexus owner i feel the exclusivity of owning one , my car is 14 years old and still gets the looks just because its rare (they sold on average 1.3k cars per year over its existence over here) . I could write a full article on this topic but i will not for my own sake
You're right about it being 30 years compared to the Euro companies that have been around for 100 years establishing itself
I used to want a Mercedes until I lived in Germany. They used them as taxis there, so they are automatically less attractive to me now. Just bought a 2020 GS 350
@@MizzAn63lin3 solid choice :)
This is the car I love owning and driving more than any car I've owned. S and E MB's just don't stack up. Love this car.
And don't see becoming best friends with the service rep, like MB.
What’s the point of buying an LS when your getting 80% of it in the ES for less than half the price
Yup
No Sir..LOL!! The LS is in a class by itself. Yes they just made the AWD ES, but it will not touch the LS. The LS will blow it off the road and most people downplay them because of the price..LOL!!
@@bredrickbussey7523 The new ES really is all that as a pure luxury experience the ES is identical and in some cases superior in comfort to the LS espeically since the LS has run flat tires that is not helping their cause. Mainly what LS has over the ES today is the sheer speed and longer body
@@MeynMotorGroup Exactly nothing else besides massaging seats, longer body, faster, better interior materials and the name comes with more prestige thats it.
My cousin has the ES f amd I have the LS 500 executive. Trust me they’re not the same!! Lol my cousin agrees 💯
They should of put the 5.0L V8 From the LC in the LS
This is one very nice looking and well built vehicle . It’s price is high and it pushes a lot into a lower priced car. Atomic sliver also rocks.
I am happy I was able to get one of the very few GS F Sport Blacklines recently. But I would have loved to have obtained the LS F sport .
Very nice review
Whats crazy is Lexus downsized engines but the car still weighs over 500lbs more than last gens model. Freakin boat
Well the TT V6 is significantly more powerful and like a full second faster to 60 than the old V8 460
Even if I had big $$, I’d never buy new. I’m too cheap, why buy new when I can have the same ride five years in? I’m just not a toy person. My 2010 ES has all the tech I need & it’s a great ride. As I approach retirement, maybe I’ll check out a used LS at some point. As for Genesis, it’s a glorified Hyundai. I hate Hyundai/Kia, no thanks!
Watch @producermicheal on youtube it will show you a new world
@@MeynMotorGroup I’ve seen him, he is in a different level of luxury. His watches are more expensive than my house.
It's idiotic some of the things in this world just insane. Compound interest treats the rich very nicely
You don't know what ur talking about... New cars make a lot of sense when youre loaded, financing on new cars is always way more attractive than on used ones.
Sometimes to the point that it even makes financial sense to get newest model over 2 years old, because monthly payments will be almost the same and you get newest crap and full warranty
Dumping the V-8 for one. I was looking at a LS and mistakenly thought “LS500” meant 5.0
V-8. I was seriously dismayed to learn it only had the 3.5 V-6 under the hood. Shouldn’t it then be a LS350?
Power and torque figures of the twin turbo V6 are the same of the NA V8. So they called it 500.
Excellent video. Thank you for sharing.
Great content again...the problem in my opinion for the LS is that Lexus did not stay ahead of innovation and technology with this model. They took so long to redesign the car that by the time it came out it is was already 2 generations behind the Germans. Buyers know this. Another issue that hear people complain about is the front grille. I don’t personally have a problem with it but most say it doesn’t have the classic Lexus look or it’s just ugly from the front. In my opinion, this full size luxury market is fading so fast I’m not sure if it will ever compete again with an S-Class. It’s not like you see a ton of 7-series and A8’s on the road either. This car should survive going forward as a halo/icon.
Thanks again and yea my friend you bring up some good points..not really sure what these companies can do with these cars but I guess at the end of the day...it doesn't matter what happens to these cars
The rich don’t care about a reliable, underperforming luxury car for six figures. They will trade their german cars before the first break down ever happens. This is a nice car and i love Lexus (used only). It’s name doesn’t command respect, it doesn’t gain looks, and it doesn’t feed anyone’s ego.
Shots fired at Team Scotty.
Team Scotty would run me over total stampede
The Ls500 is a nice car but priced far too high. and it never will compete with the mercedes, Audi, or BMW in any aspect, handling, looks, power, or quality, sad to say. the days where they could compete died with the ls400 and 430. the only thing it has going for it is reliability, which nobody in that market really cares about (and reading forum posts about this car, it definitely doesnt seem problem free) . i think this car will definitely be a hit in 10-20 years when the value tanks and people want a cheap luxury car that is fairly reliable thats my opinion. great review btw
KEVIN, I'm in agreement with all your comments on the LS. And I can't pronounce that dude Kirk [something] last name either. LOL Your reviews are top notch.
Haha appreciate it my friend
What would save the LS is if they keep the 5.0 V8 of the 600H but make it a plug in hybrid with longer range. Or better yet I would have no problem with the LS being a LS-E with a 90-100KW EV powertrain. People are wanting efficiency. Also I hate the new touch screen, they need to make it more flush. Also the insurance on them is trash. I recently got an Allstate quote and the LS500 brand new costs DOUBLE what it would cost to insure a new LC500, also a brand new Porsche 911 turbo S is only $18/mo more to insure over a LS500 and a EV is only $100/mo more to insure over the LS500 (aka the Taycan, teslas, for example).
The main reason of LS receding is the moronic tendency to make the flagship model looks similar to other models. The flagship should focus on highest luxury comfort and style.
An extreme case of this sin is what MB is doing to their cars since 2014, where the s-class (flagship) looks similar to the E-class and worse C-class! It is just bigger and hardly little bit more of rear light design.
The LS design in my opinion has lost its masculine stance of previous models. The unique high quality interior cannot hide the fact that it simply does not match or exceed German rivals in terms of ultimate comfort , refinement. It’s trying to be everything to everyone. In the past you bought an LS because you knew and the world perceived it as the ultimate in cosseting comfort. Now you can only proclaim to have bought a cheaper more reliable alternative.
i will never buy anything else than a Lexus and i dont care what other brands have or look like or whatever
You should def try some other brands every brand has something unique to offer
@@MeynMotorGroup but no other brand will ever be as reliable as Toyota/lexus, top of the game on that
I mean if that's all you care about than cool life has more to offer than just a Toyota however
@@MeynMotorGroup cant agree....nothing more coolness than in a old reliable, smooth and comfy Lexus
I don't know man. I think reliability is the only luxury that matters in the long run. Being able to fire up the car in the cold morning every morning....i'll take that over some fancy power gizmo...
Reliability is a necessity not a luxury. Economy cars are made to be reliable luxury cars are made for the 1%ers to lease and throw away. Heck the rich will just leave a six figure car on the side of the road when the gas runs out and buy another one. It's for the highest net worth individuals
It may be sacrilege but I suggest they make the LS electric. You see it now with the Taycan outselling the Panamera. People are buying EV sedans in spades
They lost me at Twin Turbo I hate downsized engines should have a V8 and Lexus killed the GS for a car that is exponentially more expensive that isn't worth the money
I don’t think this car would fail. It’s an S class beater
This segment is owned by Germany people, NO other brand will get even close sadly, including tesla..
Never understood why people blindly worship these Euro cars
Tesla is not a luxury brand and does NOT manufacture luxury cars.
They are failing bcuz too much useless electric components. I bought a used LS430, and that’s the last reliable LS model
Uninspiring inside and nothing special mechanically...car is just boring even with all the esthetic updates...the battle star Galactica design language just makes it look cheap.
I wonder what you're idea of a good car is
@@MeynMotorGroup To start the car needs to be engineered adhering to race car design principles. That includes everything the engine, transmission, suspension and design. Not to say it still can't be luxurious. Then the implementation of systems need to be impeccable within the industry. I find Lexus really lacks here. For example just how the abs system works in a Lexus seems to be inferior to what I have experienced from its competitors.
Lexus is failing because they don't market the thought process and japanese level craftsmanship that goes into each car. Lexus needs to bring back the wine glasses on the hood commercials.
Lexus is definitely not failing.
Mercedes fail all the way after 90k miles haha...engine lights on sensors die etc etc
I have a 2003 LS 430 I bought it Brand new ..i now have 12800miles and never had a problem. Best car ever
I can't wait for them to deprecate more and buy one used lol
The 460s are at a nice price!
Exhaust Sports Auto Yupp just saw a couple on Car Fax
The car may depreciate but maintenance wont.
@@rulerofall2320 yeah I would take an LS over a 7 series or A8
@@SpaceZeee Hell yea! Cause at least we know with Lexus, when you change it out or fix it, it will last you another 10-15 years. Not with the other brands.
If Mercedes, Genesis, and BMW can keep a v8 in their flagship vehicles so can Lexus honestly
Regulations will kill that off quick
@@MeynMotorGroup if that happens it will be quite unfortunate
It's happening at a rapid rate, next C63s amg will be a 4 cylinder turbo
@@MeynMotorGroup that’s just pure sadness lol
As much as I like v8e People just aren't buying v8 cars.....
The only disappointment about the LS, to me, is the no V8 option.
With regulations I don't think it will get any better
Totally agree, and if producing one was an issue due to costing, I'm sure they could have made some variant from what goes into a LC500 / GS-F
@@TheRedc0met, but the Mercedes Benz S500 is a V8 , so I don't understand why Lexus is now a V6 and MB is still a V8. Can you explain me that based on regulations ?
There's more to it than the simple speed you mention. V8s are smoother than V6s and sound better it is the correct engine for a flagship luxury car. Turbo 4 cylinders make near V8 power now but you would be missing the point, the power delivery and smoothness can never be replicated by these smaller motors. Throw the specs in the garbage, it's how the vehicle makes you feel that matters most.
Smdh 🤦♂️
The ES is pretty much as nice as of a car as the LS now a days. There’s really no reason to spend double the money ever sense they did away with that awesome NA V8.
They fucked up letting go of the gs
I took an ES as a loaner for the day. Not even close to my LS.
What are you talking about?
No flagship should have a CVT or a no V8 option ever especially a large sedan or sport coupe
i would work hard in life to get a Lexus.. in Asia, Lexus are as expensive as the Germans. and in the long run, holds its value, hence even more expensive than the Germans.
Yea cars are double and triple the prices in other countries
me too. I work hard to pay for my new GX, I would not touch a German with a 10 ft pole.
Lexus and Toyota hold their value more in America too! Even against the Germans!
They would have used the GS design on the LS instead of the es the GS looks way masculine & way better
I mean at first glance the ES looks like the LS for half the price.
It def does even the interior is very similar
Yea they said the same about the Chrysler 300 and the phantom. They look alike until they are next to each other. And the interior is not similar
The ES looks more like the new Camry than it does the LS...
I think you should try an ES and LS back to back a 300 can look like a phantom but never be one. An ES is still made by Lexus. Even the mainstream says they're similar despite the price difference
And that there lies your problem. It looks to much like its little brother thats $45,000 cheaper. The ES is actually roomier inside than an LS, so what sane person would shell out almost 50k for 1 inch bigger wheels that are identical to the ES F sport just smaller and just 114 more hp and the same outdated 12.3 inch infotainment system. No thanks!
To make the LS successful again, I think Lexus needs to go back to the original formula. Provide excellent value for the money for today's buyer. While it is an excellent car, there is no real "wow" factor. It might need some "gimmickry", but that is what sells. Also, make the car noticably longer to further differentiate it from the ES. Tone down the styling just a bit and make it look more "stately" (a little more squared off, less curves, etc). In my opinion, the "boring" LS of the 2000s sold because it looked stately. A v8 in top end models might help in the overall perception of prestige. Additionally, prioritize a modern and user friendly infotainment system that can be upgraded easily. Perhaps drop all pretense of a sporty character and go full pillowy luxury.
Own a 2004-2006 LS430, and you will understand why.
🤝😎
The last big body best looking LS ever made to me that’s why I own a 2006 LS430 and never getting rid of her she is a keeper 😎
LS430 will never be replicated again
Got a ‘04 LS as my first car at 16 with only 122k!
Exhaust Sports Auto Nope bro 👍🏾👍🏾
Good vid Kev, I agree with most of your points. People who buy S class will probably never leave that car and come to buy LS. Unless Lexus creates a new generation buyer market for LS, it will sadly start to end up like Infiniti’s. I do own a Lexus and I love it but I also know that in this age of “brandwhoring” especially in North America, people will not ditch those Germans big bodies to get this. It’s actually sad to see this happening to Lexus as my whole family loves Toyota/Lexus
Oh man I dont think it will be like Infiniti lol but yea the flagship cars people will be going Euro for the 6 figure stuff
I agree it is sad hope Lexus doesn’t fall off into that category that Infiniti did smh
Gas engines will become things of past soon be it German or Japanese. Lol
@@MeynMotorGroup I completely disagree with this! If you go into some of the most affluent neighborhoods where people can easily afford an S Class, including my neighborhood, most people do NOT own an S Class, they own a Lexus! That’s literally all I see these rich people driving here in the burbs in Houston and there is not a home over here less than $700K.
That wasn’t the point that I made. What I said was most people buying a 100k car will buy European.
A Lexus shopper hardly ever considers an LS because they can get an ES for almost half the price and it’s nearly as good in the real world.
That’s why you see so many Lexus cars in the burbs because Lexus’ bread and butter is 50-60k cars like the ES, NX, & RX. Not the LS, LX, or LC.
For the price of an LS, LX, or LC those 1% of the 1% will go Euro. 21 Million millionaires in America.
I've had my 2018 Lexus LS 500 F Sport AWD since March of this year (the only one in the Country when I bought it) and I agree that there is just something missing here - a loud exhaust note perhaps ? But on a Lexus LS ?. I'd say, you can't argue its power, the incredible handling with run flats (other owners have told me you can absolutely improve the ride by switching out for hi performance summer rubber), and the incredible interior. You would suggest that, just like with the Genesis, that the great features of the car don't equal the whole of the car. That reputation is king. But I am a rich person by today's standards, and I switched my Porsche for this car. And yes, the Porsche was fun to drive and growled nicely, but reliability was a huge issue. Two transfer cases in 12 months at $6,000 each. $695 Dealership oil changes. $2200 for brakes, and $1,850 for a blown thermostat. German cars as just as unreliable as I imagined, and even when they aren't, their high performance parts are astronomically expensive and wear out much faster. Also, the Porsche Macan S spent an inordinate amount of time in the shop. My neighbors have 2 Audis and a Porsche, and they too have lots of shop time repairing and maintaining these beasts. Yes, idiots buy expensive things that cost a lot to fix, but that doesn't make it right. And people believe in the folly of chasing emblems.
In 8 months of Lexus ownership, I changed the oil once for $88.. In 18 months of owning my Porsche, $18,000 was spent to keep it on the road, and 2 of those months were in the garage. My Lexus is faster, quicker, handles better, has a full size backseat and trunk, and I've received more raves from friends about it than I did the Porsche, amazingly enough. AND greater piece of mind ! Porsche also vomited up half its retail value the first year owning it ! So add another $25K to the bill. That doesn't happen with a Lexus. I could still sell my Lexus for what I paid for it, and both cars were used when I purchased them.. Your review, btw, was quite refreshing. I didn't love the premise, but unlike most videos it wasn't entirely one-sided. So, Well done ! To add context, I did own a 2006 LS 430, the last year before the 460, and I'd say that was the best car ever made. I generally own cars for 2-4 yrs, and I had that for 9. Than I got stupid, went for the hi line Porsche Macan S to get my feet wet, and came out with a light wallet and anxiety about what was going to break next when I drove it. The problem with German cars will always be world class design and the cheapest, shit parts that break and wear out. That's how they make profits off the original purchase, and than they have you addicted to maintenance and repairs to keep the money flowing in their direction. Lexus is failing because the cars keep running : )
Now this is a review, my wife still have her 2013 ls460 f sport and we have no intention of replacing it. I went to buy a sports car last year for my 40th on the test drive the 911 broke down we had to take an uber back to the dealership. I have a corvette now.
I currently have a 2006 black on black LS 430, bought new. Approx. 71K miles. Besides, tires, brakes and oil changes, no other repairs.
Solid and dependable. What a Lexus should be! And the V-8 is wonderful!!
High performance German luxury vehicles are engineered for people who can afford the high maintenance costs and can afford to purchase another brand new German vehicle after the warranty had expired. People who can’t afford the high maintenance costs and high repair costs after the warranty had expired should not be driving a German luxury vehicle. They are not known for their longevity and reliability. They are rich people’s toys meant to be replaced after reaching a certain years or mileage.
I’m changing my Cayman S for an LS500. I couldn’t say it better, you nailed it.
It s a no brainer ; the prices kept getting higher to the level people reconsider worth buying BMW and Merc.
Please price doesn't matter to people who are buying cars on this class period the Ls has made a long lasting name for itself in this class ...prices on the bmw and benz the class is going up too ..every car price is going up...SUVs and cross over are killing the sedan market period and that's it every sedan brand is suffering because of this..the numbers don't lie .
It’s not about the price, people who bought S classes never ditched that car to come and buy LS. it’s just people started losing interest as what Kevin said, Lexus wanted to stay true to the elegance and classiness instead of nightclub style with LED’s everywhere. Also, there are a lot of “new money” people and they obviously won’t get Lexus thanks to brandwhoring
Asian Fiji 🤝😎
@@linkylion9060 market speaks for itself, fanboy or not
@@TheShakir98 Maybe the Sclass and 7 series are just better... This new LS is pathetic with it's V6 engine too🤦
In my humble opinion, the problem with the LS started from the previous model (2007 to 2017) 10 years for any luxury platform is just too long! Mercedes had refreshed the S class twice during that period.
Lexus had neglected the LS for 10 years with no significant technology upgrades, no significant power increases and a basic design that stagnated for too long. I have not seen anyone yet that could explain to me what Toyota/Lexus were doing during that period. Were they asleep? Management problems?
Imagine you had bought an LS in 2007 and after 8 or 9 years you visited your dealer to look for an upgrade only to see the same car only pricier! Add to that Lexus had missed almost all Auto trends in the past 10 years like 4 door coups and coup SUVs instead they canceled the GS after 7 years with no updates and the IS might soon follow suit that and their F sub brand is dieing out with no new product for 5 years now.
To me, it looks like Toyota is not sure what to do with Lexus anymore. The new Toyota products are getting more luxurious and getting the new technology first in an effort to fend of Hyundai and that leaves Lexus as the Lame brand.
perfectly articulated
They redesigned it in the 2013 design
Damn you articulated my thoughts too the T! Lol 😆 awesome view point
Thanks for the video, not that I'm in the income bracket for getting a new LS. I'm quite tempted to get a 2013+ LS600. In my country we can get ex-Japan imports for 1/5 the new price with low mileage
I've got so many cars but the one that never sees a shop is the lexus. If you worked hard like my uncle who came from Italy and now has a masarati maybe lexus isn't for you. If you're worth millions but hate your lambo or audi being in the shop, like me, then maybe you try lexus. Lexus reliability sells the car. Mercedes and bmw are never going to try to be as reliable as lexus because they'll lose. Lexus is never going to try to be a "drivers car" like a bmw because they'll lose. These brands are sticking to what they're known for. As far as "what rich people want", rich people are as diverse as any other group of people and some want a reliable car. Side note, men don't seem to care if the cars in the shop as long as the works covered and they get a loaner, but as a woman I can tell you I want my car to run not be at the shop.
I actually listen to your entire review. I am a person who has owned 2-S CLASSES and 2-E classes my last E class was a 2018 E400 coupe’. I traded it in for a 2020 inspiration series LEXUS LS 500 AWD. I could drone on and on but I won’t. Everything and I mean everything you said in your review was 100% spot on so there is nothing for me to add. I turned heads with that $93k E400 but my Lexus not so much. Never mind the fact I saw my Mercedes’ service advisor more than my wife. The opulence in the Lexus IS on par with Rolls-Royce. I also owned a Genesis G80. The genesis is nice but as soon as you take it off the lot it’s worth $17.33. German cars are for flash not reliability. I honestly got tired of being stopped at the store with “Hey Buddy NICE CAR!” The Lexus is for old money like me. Lol. Thank you for the review.
How can lexus is have same quality as Rolls royce?
I like the LS but im not going to lie it doesnt have that old big body baller look that it use to have. Right now it just looks like a premium version of the Avalon. Also not having a V8 option kinda hurts it in my opinion, the hybrid should be the standard engine choice and the V8 could be optional
Yupp to me the 2006 Lexus LS430 was the last best looking big body Lexus that’s why I own a 2006 LS430 and never getting rid of her she is a keeper beautiful on the inside out 😎
🤝😎
I feel like it's got the look now more than ever 😆 but many of you guys seem to like the older designs way more
@@MeynMotorGroup i looks pretty good but it doesnt look expensive compared to the s class, 8 series or a8 imo.
Both the same model year so idk if we can say the LS is losing the trend of following the flagship (the IS headlights). I don't know what's up with Lexus really. It's such a hard brand to understand as an outsider. I think you said it best towards the middle of the video: they just don't have that prestige.
But the brand itself probably isn't going anywhere because Toyota just has ass loads of money. Just hope they keep improving, maybe they can become something bigger when we get into the EV future. They already look like spaceships... Not sure why there are still zero Lexus EVs
Yea im also shocked Lexus doesn't make a full EV since they are head over heels about making hybrids
@@MeynMotorGroup exactly and it's still a market that's almost exclusive to Tesla, with other brands only having one if any, and some of THOSE aren't even obtainable cars per say, like the Taycan. Volkswagen is the only other company that has the moolah to dive into EVs, and they're doing it. The other japanese, Nissan, Mazda, Honda, they ain't there yet. I don't think Nissan has even a HYBRID on sale as a 2020 model. They just have the shitty Leaf, and that can't be selling well cuz I don't see them... And where I live is where the Leaf should be thriving.
One thing I do think Lexus has over the other brands is the styling but that is very subjective. Not a huge fan of the rear end styling on Lexus right now tho
That's true styling is very subjective. I like it but many in the comment section don't and many hate the grill
The rear end is a continuation of the 460.
I wish we could see stats on lexus repeat buyers, i feel like alot of people drive their lexus longer so sales numbers per year aren't really telling the whole story...that being said my dream is for lexus to pair up the lc and ls, just have the ls be a lc 4dr grande coup with a v8 or full electric tesla killing drivetrain
The LS 500 from 2018 to 2020 has a better headlamp design before they did the redesign for 2021. the 2021's headlamp look like a IS. I don't know why they downgraded the design. At this point my 2012 LEXUS ls460L is still able to go head to head with the 2021 + LS500s ( in the term of looks ) . obviously, my LS460L It was defeated by the 2018 to 2020 LS because they had the better designed headlamps.
I would advise if you want to look majestic, please purchase a 2018 to 2020 LS500 anything beyond that is a design failure
Compared to what I paid for my GS the LS price made it look liked I bought a Corolla.
Lol
I can imagine bro
Facts lol
And it doesn't do but just a few things better than your GS. You actually made the smarter choice. Same looks, same reliability, same infotainment, agressive design, plush interior but you paid $35,000 less. Id say you're the winner 🏆
@@brandonclark1422 Agreed but the LS is on a different planet!
Lol, “Scotty Kilmer fans” they’re everywhere say anything bad about Lexus or Toyota they are on u
Can't stand brand freaks
@@MeynMotorGroup Really? Weren't you saying on the video that you dont want a Genesis G90 because youd rather have the Lexus anyway? Whatever...
Jove1155 cute little bastard brand freaks licking a companies feet and fanboying is different from simply being a brand whorre like me that wants a status symbol
@@MeynMotorGroup Ah, I see. Well, thanks for clarifying the difference. For me, I wont buy a Lexus again until that infotainment system goes out the window.
Glad I could clarify my preference to you happy that's crystal clear now
I’m a mechanic at Mercedes honestly they’re the biggest pieces of garbage I wouldn’t take one if you paid me because they’re just too expensive to repair and they’re just headaches after three years whether you have money or not.
LS has a very unique buyer. I am in my 40's and this car fits all my needs. I don't need/want a 911 or S-Class, something understated yet ultimate in reliability and luxury. Happy with my 2021 LS F-Sport AWD in USB
Nothing says German luxury like sharing your wealth with your mechanic.
That LS F Sport you’re highlighting in Atomic Silver is absolutely, off-the-charts stunning!! Outside, and inside, though I’d prefer the darker (‘20) interior over the red with that car. I’ve owned a GL550, 911, BMW M5, and the LS500 just checks so many blocks for me in terms of styling, driving dynamics, and yes, reliability😂. If I wanted the S550, etc., I’d go get one. Quite honestly, I’ve found the Mercedes Benz and BMW dealership experiences suck a dead-dogs ass, at least locally. The Lexus dealership experience is far superior. Lexus needs to continue the LS and innovate the way they have w/ the current model. Had the V8 been an option (had one in my ‘08 LS, I prob would have selected that, but to your astute point, the lack of one is not a showstopper. Will prob be driving my ‘20 LS F sport for years to come - absolutely love it!! Head-turner too👀
That is sad bro that Genesis can’t get the love it deserves it really looks like a big body powerful engine car with that being said I can only imagine all the electrical problems that will occur On a Mercedes with all the Gagets it comes with but eventually just like on any other car and as u always preach Get A Warranty 😂👍🏾👍🏾
Oh yea bro gotta go CPO on that benz. Genesis will unfortunately be loved only at the lower price points around 40-50k. Their resale is also terrible
Exhaust Sports Auto Yeah bro and wow about the Genesis but it’s definitely understandable
Tbh, I think the LS interior and exterior is leagues under the Mercedes S Class.
In the interior - the back row seating comfort suck compared to the TV screens/buttons you get in S Class.
On the exterior...it just looks like a Toyota Avalon rebranded. S Class is just much better looking with the logo that pops out of the hood....etc. My problem is Maybach Benz is not much nicer than S class....while the Rolls Royce is leagues above the BMW and Benz/Maybachs.
About reliability which was told in the video it is pointless: well, in fact was the reliability what made and makes Lexus being what it is.
Pointing an exemple, if Fiat would make a car better than a S-class, it would be classified like a 👎🏼 car because of bad grade historic reputation. But Lexus entered in 1989 on a right foot, raised by a already reliability hands from Toyota.
Now see if a Mercedes would make a car like fiat. Would sell like cookies as well, only because the brand and reputation. Actually there are other brands who make cars better than the Germans, and Lexus is one of them, despite the brand philosophy.
Lexus is not listening to its customers. #1 On the street, look at an ES vs. LS.. you can't tell them apart at first glance. That's why Lexus can't sell the LS. #2 As a LS400 owner, I am the target demographic. No V8. Not buying it. Twin turbo causes the transmission to hunt. No Lexus owner wants this hunting regardless of ride. #3 LS500 tried to change to a sporty BMW handling/ride...and Lexus created a hard riding car instead of what affluent buyers wanted. #4 Nobody except owners knew this but the V6 cold start was awful which is why the engine changes. #5 No spare tire but the cutout in the trunk is still there so it saved the weight of a spare but all of the early models had terrible sidewalls on the run flats. Owners want the spare and want the comfort of real tires. How many mistakes 🤔 do they need to send buyers fleeing away from a LS500.
I absolutely love LS but it just needs superb infotainment with easy usability and better tuned air suspension. I hate fancy toys and night club lighting. The LS is the only car excites me with it's design, both exterior and interior.
Lexus is just classic car . Benz and BMW is commercial car everyone have or want it. Lexus or Hyundai equus for me that G90 look like stupid looking bmw
Prestige is what YOU make of it. No one force you to think an S class is more prestige than the LS. You have been conditioned so and too prideful to change. I’ll keep driving my F sport in manual and power mode without turbo lag and leaving S class in rear view mirror all day long.
it didn't fail. People still want a big sedan. The dealerships elevated the prices. They can't sell the new cars. YOU have created your own problem. Fix it. What happens when your ambitions scorch what you want to protect. Who wins then?
They have remarkable reliability!!! But they need to bring they styling to the next level!!! We want head turning styling!! We want the future now!! Why keep waiting!!! Stop acting like Apple phones and being the future now!! Be the leader, not the follower!!!
Lexus Definately should’ve made a V8 version of LS !!! Since traditionally it was invented a First Lexus Vehicle 🚗 Ever with a V8!!!! For the Enthusiasts especially
Yea but we will never get another V8 lexus again
The shout-out to Scotty Kilmer was an unexpected but good one 😂
It failing because of exterior styling. I swear somebody that use to work for madza styled this LS
How do you like the Benz Bimmer and Audi?
if that is the case, i feel Mazda designers are everywhere. especially infiniti. or vice versa
@@MeynMotorGroup merc styling is nice but not for me. The boxy styling from lexus and BMW work for me but only the 3 series. Lexus though have found a way forward with the new IS in terms of styling so i say if they stick to the styling of the IS for their new models it will work out
Agreed looks too much like the es,is mazda 6 , maxima etc. It just no longer stands out in any category.
Wow...I said the same thing... it looks like the Mazda 929....
Freaking love Lexus LS models. Reliability and luxury for the cheap in the used market. Hell yeah listening to scotty kilmer on this one. Correction to what you were saying, people want to go broke to look rich, most people arent rich they just like to look like it lol. All style no substance.
See Kirk's Video: th-cam.com/video/xUHvvR8rbSM/w-d-xo.html
See my Lexus LS Playlist: th-cam.com/video/JFO3jG73gFU/w-d-xo.html
Yeah Kirk is my guy, love his videos. I come here and to his channel daily
You see the S Class everywhere. I chose the LS because you rarely see them. I get so many compliments from all age groups.
Do you think it would help Lexus if they come out with that LQ flagship SUV or LF-1 LIMITLESS they teased a few years back with an all turbocharged engine lineup and an interior that is similar to that concept?
Yes that LQ is in the works I heard should def help for sure. But I don't believe it should replace the LS it should be sold along side it but who know maybe they can't afford to keep both
I have a LS 500. Far better than the German crap. Fit and finish superb the is cloud like 🏖
Lexus lost their way awhile ago.....when they first came out they targeted the german 3, and as their tagline the relentless pursuit of perfection is what they were about...but they didnt keep up and update their lineup fast enough to keep up. Hence the loss of the GS. While the Germans continue to sell cars, Suv's in all sorts of configurations Lexus seems content to ride their hobby horse of the RX, ES, and NX
One of the reasons i think its failing is that they sacrificed too much interior space / volume for proportions / design. Its so claustrophobic inside for a full size sedan
That's a good point!
In my opinion the biggest problem with Lexus as a brand over the last decade is that they've been far far too slow to update their cars with modern tech (i.e. new propulsion, car play, android auto, touch screen, shitty track pad, etc...) . These recent changes to the LS should've happened in the last refresh, and the hybrid should be a plug-in hybrid for sure with more performance and better economy to make the hybrid worth it! Take the IS300h here in the UK which they've now discontinued. Crazy decision really, as there are thousands of IS300h on the road here with people wanting to update, but now... no such luck. And the reason given is that they're not selling, but what the hell do they expect when the last refresh was 4 years ago with no new propulsion or infotainment tech. These are the biggest reasons why various models are really struggling in the Lexus lineup! Apart from the LC500, at this point it just feels like Lexus is always playing catch up with the Germans.
Cool video and great commentary. I'm not rich, but members of my family owned Miller Beer Distribution in the upper midwest and through Chicago. They have more money and cars than anyone I know. My aunt and uncle use to purchase Mercedes S class new, but they now hate mercedes benz because their new Benz products were always in the shop. Their time is more valuable to them than money so they now purchase much more reliable cars that aren't in the shop often. I've also worked for the Mills family, who own General Mills cereal in Minneapolis Minnesota. Mr. Mills drives an older LS430 standard trim. Judith R. Faulkner lived down the street from me in Madison, Wisconsin and she drove an older 2008 or 09 Audi S4 and she is one of the wealthiest women in the USA. Many wealthy people in the upper midwest that I've worked for don't like new cars, they like the old classic reliable ones that fly under the radar. I think if they knew that the LS500 was as good as you say, they would purchase it as well. Young rich people may like the fancy stuff in their cars, but older wise rich i work for like the reliable older cars that aren't in the shop much at all because being at the board room meeting on time is more important than looking cool in the latest crappy S550 Benz. Great video though. I like your content.
Wow this is one of the most unique and insightful comments I've ever gotten, thank you so much for taking the time to share your experiences with us!
I'm not sure if many of these wealthy folks are taking into consideration crash test safety of old vs new cars but regardless, it is interesting to know.
Once again, thank you for stopping by and for your kind words. God Bless!
Good analogy on the Seiko and Rolex. And to be honest most people who go for high end sedans dont care as much about reliability. especially if the car is leased. I am more of a long term owner person so the Lexus appeals more to someone like me.
I loved the gs series but sad that it went away 😔. Still rocking my 2010 gs350.
You didn't buy the 2013-20 so it doesn't matter
No the V8 is not going to cut it either. Never underestimate the halo of V12's on the German flagships. Decade after decade generation after generation of S-Class flagships culminating in todays Maybach elevated S-Classes beyond the weaker competition. What was Lexus thinking comparing themselves to Mercedes with just a Turbo 6? The best S-Classes always came armed with Twin Turbo V12's which blessed the entire class with an aura of dominance. Where Mercedes flagships exude swaggering machismo, Lexus flagships reflect a restrained masculinity.
An LS V6 was meant to compete with 6 cylinder offerings from Germany...not 200k Maybachs tho
@@MeynMotorGroup if only it had the V12 halo blessing the entire class then a V6 Lexus could compete with the S-Class. There’s just a certain V12 mystique gracing identical looking 6cylinder S-Classes. They might be the 12 cylinder flagships. But everyone knows an LS500 is just a 6 because no Lexus has the V12 swagger.
Well couple things... you OWN a Lexus you don’t Own a Mercedes or bmw, people want the German cars but 90% LEASE THEM, in the Lexus market they mostly own them. So I’m a way Lexus kinda wins
It's a shame that no one cares about reliability, because I can tell you, while German cars are amazing at first with all the tech, there's no doubt that 100%, that tech will fail after a shorter time period. It's not that Europeans build terrible cars, it's that they're putting too much ambition and specialization into cars that will not work very well in terms of powertrain problems, tech problems, all of that. Lexus has that advantage. It's Toyota for crying out loud, which in my book, is the textbook definition of a reliable car in this world. If there was two luxury brands that are known and proven to last, Acura and Lexus are the two that come to my mind. Doesn't matter how much money you got, I'd certainly want my luxury car to be damn reliable as possible, and not break. It's just a messed up world, where no one even considers reliability important. HOW??? I'd 100% buy Lexus or Acura products not only for their value over European brands, but the fact that their quality and reliability is very solid and perfect for those wanting a luxury car. And I also agree that Lexus and Acura cars are just as amazing to drive in terms of dynamics and overall comfort. It's very sad that Lexus is not getting the credit they deserve, because to me, I want Lexus and Acura to continue to succeed and give us great vehicles, more so than the European brands.
Well most people that love cars have figured out how to buy them which is through lease hacking but yea I guess people don’t love cars or driving as much as I thought because no matter how many times I mention it in videos nobody seems to care oh well.
I’ve owned Mercedes, too many repairs. I prefer reliability.
I leased an LS for about 3 months, but it was simply missing some key features I expected at a car of this price, such as a smoother infotainment system. I test drove the the new Porsche Taycan and Panamera and was pleasantly surprised. I have been able to switch my lease over to a Panamera and am very happy.
According to Consumer Reports the latest reliability survey on the 2020 Lexus LS shows it's reliability has dropped to MUCH WORSE than average, which is shocking for a Lexus.
I think this is the reason
The ls460 and ls600hl I think we’re the pinnacle of Lexus. The latest LS w the turbo v6 etc could alienate buyers who want traditional engines
The LS legroom haas shrunk vs the last gen so that could be part of it as well. And also the price tag
Well I do want a g90 (and this is coming from an s class owner.) I think the new LS is failing because it abandoned its market, and if there was a Lexus badge on the G90, THAT would sell. Instead Lexus chose to chase "the cool kids" and go with a sportier car; yeah well that ain't who has the cash. Personally I think Toyota should bring a slightly de-contented Toyota Century (with the NA 5.0 V8 that the LC has) and sell that as the new LS. Now THAT would be the LS I've been waiting for (and would buy.)