Sometimes, life is just too… perfect. And I mean too perfect. This is exactly how I felt after my first contact with the all-new hybrid limousine from Japanese automaker Lexus, the LS 600h L.
First, this particular model is based on none other than the LS 460, which offers surreal levels of luxury, technology and performance. You probably know it as the car with the executive rear seats complete with massage settings and a retractable ottoman. Obviously, these are also found in the hybrid variant.
Could there be a more perfect location for a test drive than right in the middle of the Arizona desert, on Toyota’s Proving Grounds? On the menu: a 3-lane oval speedway with steep banking. The 16-km track is actually the longest in the U.S., allowing drivers to reach unfathomable speeds. Of course, we were told not to exceed 160 km/h, a limit that some of my colleagues cheated with — but not me.
And if I say too perfect, it’s because this serene hybrid, unlike its gas-powered sister, is only available with extended wheelbase and, by selecting all the high-luxury options, the price skyrockets to no less than $158,700. In “base” trim, the LS 600h L will retail for $132,000.
Road monster
In the unique Arizona landscape, the big Lexus never ceased to showcase its plethora of technological advancements. By combining the gasoline V8 engine with Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive, engineers managed to raise the total output to 438 horsepower while lowering the fuel consumption to 9.8 L/100 km.
Under acceleration, all this power is transferred to the wheels almost intuitively, without the driver (or the chauffeur) ever noticing the slightest hesitation or torque steer. When the driver aggressively dips the throttle, a few vibrations can be felt at around 150 km/h, which is completely normal.
This incredible performance is particularly attributable to the next-generation, 8-speed Super Electronically Controlled Transmission (Super ECT). This automatic gearbox searches for the optimal engine speed based on a series of data that are analyzed by a powerful central computer to determine the load put on each powerplant. The electric motor and the V8 rarely work alternatively; rather, they operate in parallel. As a result, the car goes from 0 to 100 km/h in less than 6.3 seconds and sprints from 80 to 120 km/h in a blistering 4.3 seconds.
No need to be an engineer
Since the LS 600h L uses many of the most sophisticated electronic systems, one would believe that the car is a bit hard to get used to. Yet, all the systems prove to be seamless and extremely functional.
Taking advantage of Toyota’s facilities, I was able to put the electronic stability control to the test on a cone-marked, slippery track. After only a couple of controlled skids, I was fully convinced of the car’s safety.
Even emergency braking maneuvers are backed by an electronic system. The latter, using a series of sensors, literally sees the obstacles coming and automatically applies the brakes if a collision is unavoidable. With stereo cameras, the system not only detects other vehicles and pedestrians but also reacts when the obstacle is less visible.
The LS 600h L is also equipped with all-wheel drive technology; its seamlessness and quick power delivery are equally impressive.
Luxury and comfort
The LS 600h L might just become the very definition of “high luxury”. Wood accents are flawless, the Mark Levinson audio unit is delightful as always and the Advanced Parking Guidance System makes up for its slowness by being remarkably accurate.
Inside, the fit and finish is unparalleled and the soundproofing is similar to that of a concert theatre. The only real fault I could find is that the exterior styling is identical to the LS 460′s. A few distinctive design cues would have been nice.
The LS 600h L is not an everyday commuter, but it certainly represents the best in sophistication, refinement and build quality. If it were just a bit more exciting to drive, this car would be perfect. Maybe too perfect.
For pics and more info visit: http://www.auto123.com/en/info/news/roadtest,view,LEXUS.spy?artid=81099&pg=2