2010 Lexus LS 600h L

Review

The much-anticipated 2010 Lexus LS Hybrid is set to enter production by late 2009. But those in the know are already getting hints about new features, a slightly new look and the quality performance that is expected of Lexus vehicles. While Lexus is expected to maintain much of the LS's popular luxury features and performance capabilities, there are some slight changes anticipated for the 2010 incarnation of the LS hybrid. No matter what, the 2010 version will keep the same design and features that make it one of the most premier "super luxury" cars on the road today.

Changes in appearance for 2010

According to car enthusiasts and Lexus watchers, the LS 600h L has a slightly re-tooled exterior look and, similarly, few changes to the interior. Among some of the updates and additions to the 2010 version of the hybrid LS include:

• Front and rear appearances will feature different cosmetic features, such as a much-awaited new front grille and a different rear bumper
• New headlights and taillights
• Turn signals mounted to the side mirrors
• New wheels
• A night vision system for the interior

Rumors and other ideas about 2010

Surprising and pleasing many Lexus watchers, it appears that the 2010 Lexus LS hybrid will offer a sport package. That means, in addition to swanky wheels and an even sportier exterior, drivers will enjoy the benefits of a black/saddle leather interior and Brembo brakes.

Regardless, the Lexus LS hybrid for 2010 will offer similar features and specifications that are presented in non-hybrid versions of the LS. The hybrid and all-wheel-drive versions of the LS run on the nearly identical drivetrains, which are heralded for offering particularly stellar traction and stability.

The Lexus LS hybrid in the past

One of the best ways to assess the LS hybrid is to look at previous versions, including the very popular 2009 LS hybrid. In fact, some car analysts ranked the 2009 LS hybrid one of the best overall luxury cars - placing this hybrid among the ranks of the Audi A8, S-Class Mercedes and 7-Series BMW.

The LS has achieved a niche in the marketplace. While there are many small hybrids on the market, there are very few luxury hybrids available - and just one V8 hybrid, the Lexus LS. Because of this distinction, Lexus has achieved quite a feat: delivering luxury and performance at the peak of the marketplace, but also offering much-desired fuel efficiency and environmental responsibility. In fact, Lexus designed its V8 to compete (and succeed against) gas-guzzling V12s often equipped in its competition. And the success of the LS hybrid is catching on - Mercedes is expected to offer a counter in 2010, in a hybrid version of its S-Class sedan.

Of course, all of the performance and handling does come with a price. An extremely hefty price. Anyone who buys the Lexus LS hybrid can expect to pay an additional $40,000 for the privilege of driving a hybrid. The standard-fuel LS sells in the mid-$50,000s; you can expect to pay from the mid-$90,000s to even above $100,000 for an LS hybrid. In 2009, the LS hybrid averaged 20 mpg city/20 mpg highway.