Reviews - Lexus

Overall Rating

The Lexus LS entered the German-dominated luxury saloon market as an outsider in 1990. It earns respect as a thoroughly convincing and keenly priced alternative to 7-Series and S Class.

• Luxury for less than 7-Series or S Class
• Extremely spacious, comfortable and refined
• Very well built, outstandingly reliable

• Driving experience falls behind 7-Series
• Lexus badge is deemed arriviste by some
• Interior finish lacks subtlety

Toyota took a gamble in creating the Lexus luxury brand from scratch in a sector where heritage adds to perceived value. Some critics scoffed that it might fool US buyers but wouldn't work here; how wrong they were! LS400 does virtually everything right. It's a classically styled, sophisticated yet discreet enough to please its conservative market. It panders to buyers' desires for comfort with a roomy cabin, excellent ride and low noise levels. It's compliant, well mannered and effortless to drive. And its big V8 engine ample power for smooth, swift acceleration and stress-free high-speed cruising. Throw in lots of equipment and superb reliability, and only the quality of the driving experience and slightly off-the-mark interior details like cheap-looking wood trim come between LS400 and its German rivals. If your budget runs to it, choose the heavily revised 280bhp car from 1998. It has better driving dynamics plus satellite navigation.

NCAP: Not tested

Best Models: LS400 from 1998

Worst Models: None

Replacement: by current Lexus LS430 in 2000

• BMW 7-Series (1994-02)
• Jaguar XJ (1994-03)
• Mercedes-Benz S Class (1991-99)