2022 Lexus LS

Lexus, Toyota’s upscale sub-brand, is among the few luxury automakers that successfully merges technologically-advanced designs with consistently great reliability. Interiors are quiet and finished with finely-crafted materials. The engines are generally smooth and powerful. Many of its cars and SUVs are available with more fuel-efficient hybrid powertrains. Lexus continues to sell sedans, with its ES, IS, and top-shelf LS models. Most of its SUVs have done well in our testing, including the NX, RX, and TX. The brand’s first all-electric vehicle, the RZ, is a luxury version of the Toyota bZ4X EV. Lexus also sells two-door coupes and convertibles, the RC and LC. Multiple Lexus models have earned Consumer Reports’ recommendation for used cars.

The fifth-generation LS strays from its historic place as the embodiment of stress-free comfortable motoring by piling on complicated controls, a less cushy ride and compromised seating. This redesigned flagship brings lots of tech and more dynamic styling. Available with rear or all-wheel drive, the standard drivetrain is a 416-hp, 3.5-liter V6 turbo engine coupled to a 10-speed automatic transmission, but despite good measured acceleration times, the car doesn't impart a powerful impression due to some hesitation at low speeds. (A hybrid is available.) The wide car is too bulky to feel nimble. The optional air suspension keeps the Lexus steady but bumps punch through more often than they should. The cabin is nicely trimmed and luxurious but the controls are extremely convoluted and frustrating; it can take several steps to perform simple tasks.