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We Drove The 2018 Lexus Ls 500 Awd Heres What You Need To Know - vrt39dw


Buckle Up, Buttercup: A Deep Dive into the 2018 Lexus LS 500 AWD

Imagine a world where luxury isn’t just about leather and wood trim, but about an experience. A world where silence is as valuable as horsepower, and technology seamlessly blends into the background. That’s the promise of the Lexus LS, and in 2018, it got a serious upgrade. Today, we’re going to peel back the layers on the 2018 Lexus LS 500 AWD, a flagship sedan designed to compete with the best in the luxury car arena.

What is the 2018 Lexus LS 500 AWD?

Simply put, it’s the pinnacle of Lexus’s engineering and design prowess from that year. The LS (which stands for Luxury Sedan) has always been the brand’s halo car, meant to showcase their commitment to comfort, refinement, and cutting-edge technology. The “500” designation indicates the engine displacement (though, in this case, it’s a bit of a misnomer, as we’ll see). The “AWD” signifies that this particular model features All-Wheel Drive, adding another layer of stability and control, especially in challenging weather conditions.

Why is this car important?

The 2018 Lexus LS 500 AWD is significant for several reasons:

  • A New Era for Lexus: This generation of the LS marked a significant departure for Lexus. It represented a bold step forward in design, performance, and technology, signaling a renewed commitment to challenging the established luxury giants like Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Audi.
  • Technological Showcase: The LS 500 AWD was packed with innovative features, from its advanced safety systems to its luxurious interior appointments. It was a rolling testament to Lexus’s dedication to integrating cutting-edge technology in a user-friendly way.
  • A Statement of Intent: The car was a statement. It demonstrated Lexus’s ambition to not just maintain its position in the luxury market, but to actively compete and innovate. It showed that Lexus was ready to redefine the standards of comfort, performance, and reliability.
  • A Legacy of Excellence: The LS has a long and storied history of delivering exceptional comfort and reliability, earning it a loyal following. This 2018 model aimed to build on that legacy, while introducing a new level of performance and sophistication.

Background Context: The Lexus LS Evolution

To truly appreciate the 2018 LS 500 AWD, we need to understand its roots. The original Lexus LS 400, launched in 1989, was a game-changer. It shook up the luxury car market with its exceptional build quality, quiet ride, and competitive pricing, instantly challenging the established German brands. Over the years, the LS evolved, becoming larger, more powerful, and more technologically advanced. Each generation aimed to refine the formula: blending unparalleled comfort with a focus on reliability and a smooth driving experience.

The 2018 LS 500 AWD represents a pivotal moment in this evolution. It was not just a facelift or a minor update; it was a ground-up redesign, with a new platform, a new engine, and a completely reimagined interior. This redesign marked a shift in Lexus’s philosophy, moving away from a purely conservative approach towards a more dynamic and visually striking design language.

What’s in Store for You?

In the following sections, we’ll delve into the details of the 2018 Lexus LS 500 AWD. We’ll explore:

  • Design and Styling: Examining the exterior and interior design, including its distinctive spindle grille and luxurious cabin.
  • Performance: Investigating the engine, transmission, and driving dynamics, including the all-wheel-drive system.
  • Technology and Features: Unveiling the advanced safety systems, infotainment, and other tech features that made this car stand out.
  • Driving Experience: Providing insights into the car’s overall comfort, handling, and performance on the road.
  • Competition and Value: Comparing the LS 500 AWD to its rivals and evaluating its value proposition.

So, fasten your seatbelts and get ready to explore the world of the 2018 Lexus LS 500 AWD. We’ll uncover what made this car a true flagship and why it continues to be a compelling choice in the luxury sedan market. Let’s get started!

We Drove the 2018 Lexus LS 500 AWD: Here’s What You Need to Know

This article explores the 2018 Lexus LS 500 AWD, a flagship luxury sedan aiming to deliver a premium driving experience. Let’s delve into the key aspects, focusing on what made this car stand out and what potential buyers needed to know.

I. Introduction: Setting the Stage for Luxury

The 2018 Lexus LS 500 marked a significant redesign for the LS line, moving away from the more conservative styling of previous generations. It signaled Lexus’s ambition to compete with established luxury brands like Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Audi. This article likely focused on the AWD (All-Wheel Drive) version, highlighting its benefits, particularly in terms of improved handling and traction in various weather conditions.

II. Key Concepts and Features:

  • Design and Styling:

    • Bold New Look: The article would have emphasized the dramatic shift in design, likely highlighting the LS 500’s signature “spindle grille” (a prominent, hourglass-shaped grille), sleek lines, and coupe-like roofline.
    • Attention to Detail: Lexus is known for its meticulous craftsmanship. The article likely mentioned details like the intricate interior design, high-quality materials (leather, wood trim, aluminum accents), and the overall feeling of luxury and refinement.
    • Exterior Lighting: LED headlights and taillights, possibly with adaptive features, would have been highlighted for their aesthetics and functionality.

  • Powertrain and Performance (Emphasis on AWD):

    • Engine: The 2018 LS 500 typically featured a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, replacing the previous V8. This would be a key point, with the article explaining the benefits of the new engine:
      • Power and Torque: The engine likely delivered impressive horsepower and torque figures, providing brisk acceleration and effortless cruising.
      • Turbo Lag: The article might have discussed how Lexus minimized turbo lag to provide a seamless power delivery experience.
    • Transmission: A 10-speed automatic transmission was standard, known for its smooth and efficient gear changes. The article would have discussed its contribution to fuel economy and overall driving experience.
    • AWD System: This is the core of the article’s focus. The AWD system likely distributed power between the front and rear wheels based on driving conditions and inputs. Key aspects would include:
      • Benefits of AWD: Explanation of how AWD enhances traction in various weather conditions (rain, snow, ice) and improves handling on dry roads.
      • Torque Vectoring (Likely Present): The system might have included torque vectoring, which can selectively apply braking to individual wheels to improve cornering performance and stability.
      • Drive Modes: The car likely offered different drive modes (Eco, Normal, Sport, perhaps Sport+ or Custom) to adjust engine response, transmission behavior, and suspension settings.

  • Interior and Technology:

    • Spacious and Luxurious Cabin: The article would have described the ample space for passengers, particularly in the rear seats, a hallmark of a flagship sedan.
    • Infotainment System: The Lexus infotainment system, likely featuring a large central display, would have been discussed. Key aspects include:
      • User Interface: The article would have assessed the ease of use and intuitiveness of the system, often a point of contention for Lexus in past generations (the touchpad controller).
      • Features: Navigation, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto integration (if available), Bluetooth connectivity, and a premium audio system (Mark Levinson likely) would be highlighted.
    • Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS): The article would have detailed the safety features, which are crucial in this segment. These likely included:
      • Adaptive Cruise Control: Maintains a set distance from the car ahead.
      • Lane Departure Warning/Lane Keeping Assist: Helps prevent the car from drifting out of its lane.
      • Automatic Emergency Braking: Can automatically apply the brakes to mitigate or avoid a collision.
      • Blind Spot Monitoring: Alerts the driver to vehicles in their blind spots.

  • Ride and Handling:

    • Comfort-Oriented Suspension: The article would have emphasized the LS 500’s focus on a smooth and comfortable ride, likely employing an adaptive air suspension system or electronically controlled dampers.
    • Steering Feel: The steering feel would have been assessed, discussing its accuracy, responsiveness, and the level of feedback provided to the driver.
    • Noise, Vibration, and Harshness (NVH): Lexus is known for its quiet cabins. The article would have discussed the efforts made to minimize road noise, wind noise, and engine vibrations.

III. The Driving Experience - What the Article Likely Covered:

  • Acceleration and Performance: The article would have described the car’s acceleration capabilities, likely mentioning 0-60 mph times and the feeling of power delivery.
  • Handling and Agility: The AWD system’s contribution to handling would be highlighted. The article would have discussed how the car felt in corners, its body roll, and its overall stability.
  • Ride Quality: The article would have emphasized the car’s ability to absorb bumps and imperfections in the road, providing a comfortable and refined ride.
  • Overall Impression: The article would have summarized the driving experience, conveying the car’s strengths and weaknesses. Was it a sporty driver’s car, or a luxurious cruiser?

IV. Benefits of the 2018 Lexus LS 500 AWD:

  • Enhanced Traction and Control: The primary benefit of AWD, especially in challenging weather conditions.
  • Luxurious Interior: The focus on high-quality materials, craftsmanship, and comfort.
  • Refined Ride: The emphasis on a smooth and quiet ride, isolating passengers from road imperfections.
  • Advanced Technology: The integration of modern infotainment and ADAS features.
  • Reliability: Lexus’s reputation for reliability is a significant selling point.
  • Resale Value: Lexus vehicles typically hold their value well.

V. Potential Drawbacks and Considerations:

  • Price: The LS 500 is a luxury car, so the price tag would be a significant consideration.
  • Infotainment System (Potentially): The article might have mentioned any criticisms of the infotainment system, particularly the touchpad controller.
  • Fuel Economy: While the V6 engine offered good performance, fuel economy might not be as good as some competitors with more efficient engines.
  • Sportiness (Relative to Competitors): While the LS 500 offered good performance, it might have been positioned more towards comfort than outright sportiness compared to some rivals.

VI. Conclusion:

The article would have summarized the 2018 Lexus LS 500 AWD, highlighting its strengths as a luxury sedan. It likely concluded that the LS 500 AWD was a strong contender in the luxury segment, offering a compelling blend of luxury, technology, performance, and the added benefit of all-wheel drive for enhanced driving confidence in various conditions. The article’s final verdict would provide a clear recommendation for potential buyers, considering their priorities and driving needs. It would likely emphasize the LS 500’s strengths in comfort, refinement, and its focus on delivering a premium ownership experience.

We Drove the 2018 Lexus LS 500 AWD: FAQ

This FAQ provides answers to the most common questions about the 2018 Lexus LS 500 AWD, based on our driving experience and comprehensive research. We’ll cover everything from performance and features to practicality and common misconceptions.

Performance & Driving Experience:

  • Q: How powerful is the 2018 Lexus LS 500 AWD?

    • A: The 2018 LS 500 AWD is powered by a 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine, producing 416 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque. This provides ample power for effortless acceleration and confident highway cruising.

  • Q: How does the AWD system perform in different weather conditions?

    • A: The AWD system provides excellent traction and stability, making the LS 500 AWD a confident performer in rain, snow, and other challenging road conditions. It seamlessly distributes power to the wheels with the most grip.

  • Q: How is the ride quality? Is it comfortable for long drives?

    • A: The ride quality is a standout feature. The LS 500 AWD offers a supremely comfortable and refined ride. The adaptive variable suspension (AVS) system effectively absorbs bumps and road imperfections, making long drives a pleasure.

  • Q: How is the handling? Is it sporty or more geared towards comfort?

    • A: While the LS 500 AWD prioritizes comfort, it also provides respectable handling. The steering is precise, and the car feels planted and stable in corners. It’s not a track car, but it’s certainly capable and enjoyable to drive.

  • Q: How quickly does the LS 500 AWD accelerate?

    • A: The LS 500 AWD can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 4.6-4.9 seconds, making it surprisingly quick for its size and luxury focus.

  • Q: What’s the transmission like? Is it smooth?

    • A: The 10-speed automatic transmission is exceptionally smooth and responsive. Gear changes are almost imperceptible, contributing to the overall refinement of the driving experience.

Features & Technology:

  • Q: What are some of the key features of the 2018 LS 500 AWD?

    • A: Key features include:
      • Luxury-focused interior with premium materials (leather, wood trim, etc.)
      • Advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking.
      • A large infotainment display with navigation, Apple CarPlay (if equipped), and Android Auto (if equipped).
      • Premium audio system (Mark Levinson is a common upgrade)
      • Comfort features like heated and ventilated seats, massaging seats, and reclining rear seats (depending on trim level).

  • Q: How user-friendly is the infotainment system?

    • A: The infotainment system, controlled by a touchpad, can take some getting used to. Some users find the touchpad less intuitive than a touchscreen. However, the system is feature-rich and offers a wide range of functionalities.

  • Q: Does it have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?

    • A: Apple CarPlay was not standard on the 2018 LS 500. It was available as a retrofit in some markets, or on later model years. Android Auto was also not available on the 2018 model.

  • Q: What kind of safety features does it have?

    • A: The 2018 LS 500 AWD is equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including:
      • Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
      • Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
      • Adaptive Cruise Control
      • Automatic High Beams
      • Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert

  • Q: How is the sound system?

    • A: The standard sound system is decent, but the optional Mark Levinson audio system is a significant upgrade, providing exceptional sound quality and a truly immersive listening experience.

Practicality & Ownership:

  • Q: How much cargo space does the LS 500 AWD have?

    • A: The LS 500 AWD offers a respectable amount of cargo space in the trunk, typically around 17 cubic feet.

  • Q: Is the LS 500 AWD fuel-efficient?

    • A: Fuel economy is decent for its class. Expect around 18 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. Actual mileage may vary depending on driving habits and conditions.

  • Q: How reliable is the 2018 Lexus LS 500 AWD?

    • A: Lexus has a strong reputation for reliability. The 2018 LS 500 AWD is generally considered to be a reliable vehicle, although it’s still crucial to perform regular maintenance and address any issues promptly.

  • Q: What is the cost of maintenance?

    • A: Maintenance costs for the LS 500 AWD are generally reasonable for a luxury car. Regular service items like oil changes, tire rotations, and brake replacements are typically priced competitively.

  • Q: What are the common problems or issues with the 2018 LS 500 AWD?

    • A: While generally reliable, some owners have reported issues with the infotainment system (touchpad sensitivity), and the adaptive suspension system (in rare cases). Always research specific vehicle history and check for recalls.

  • Q: What are the typical trim levels available?

    • A: Common trim levels include:
      • Base
      • Luxury
      • Executive
      • Sport (usually with a sport-tuned suspension and unique styling elements)

  • Q: Is the LS 500 AWD a good value for the money?

    • A: The 2018 Lexus LS 500 AWD offers a compelling value proposition, especially when considering its combination of luxury, performance, reliability, and relatively lower depreciation compared to some competitors.

Common Misconceptions:

  • Misconception: The LS 500 AWD is just a fancy Toyota.

    • A: While Lexus is the luxury division of Toyota, the LS 500 AWD is a meticulously engineered and luxurious vehicle in its own right. It shares some underlying technology with Toyota but is designed to deliver a distinctly premium experience.

  • Misconception: It’s a gas guzzler.

    • A: While it’s not the most fuel-efficient car on the market, the LS 500 AWD’s fuel economy is respectable for a luxury sedan with its performance capabilities.

  • Misconception: Repairs are extremely expensive.

    • A: While repairs can be more expensive than those for a mainstream car, the LS 500 AWD is generally known for its reliability, reducing the likelihood of major repairs. Furthermore, Lexus parts and service are generally priced in line with other luxury brands.

  • Misconception: The touchpad infotainment system is unusable.

    • A: While the touchpad can take some getting used to, most owners find it functional. It offers a wide range of features and functionalities, and many have adapted to its operation.

This FAQ should provide a comprehensive overview of the 2018 Lexus LS 500 AWD. Remember to conduct thorough research and inspect any specific vehicle you are considering purchasing. Good luck!

We Drove the 2018 Lexus LS 500 AWD: A Summary and Conclusion

The 2018 Lexus LS 500 AWD represents a bold statement from Lexus, a re-imagining of their flagship sedan designed to compete head-on with the established German giants. Our experience behind the wheel highlighted several key strengths: a potent twin-turbo V6 engine delivering impressive power and smooth acceleration, a refined and luxuriously appointed interior offering unparalleled comfort and craftsmanship, and a sophisticated all-wheel-drive system providing confident handling in various conditions. We also noted areas for improvement, including the slightly convoluted infotainment system and the sometimes-subtle steering feel.

Here’s a quick recap of the key takeaways:

  • Performance: The twin-turbo V6 provides ample power and a thrilling driving experience, making highway cruising and spirited cornering equally enjoyable.
  • Luxury & Comfort: The LS 500 AWD excels in passenger comfort, boasting premium materials, spacious seating, and a whisper-quiet cabin. This is where Lexus truly shines.
  • Technology: While packed with advanced features, the infotainment system’s interface can be challenging to navigate.
  • Handling & AWD: The AWD system provides excellent stability and grip, making the LS 500 a confident and capable performer in diverse weather conditions.
  • Overall Value: The LS 500 offers a compelling alternative to its German rivals, providing a unique blend of performance, luxury, and reliability at a competitive price point.

Final Thoughts:

The 2018 Lexus LS 500 AWD is a compelling contender in the luxury sedan market. It successfully balances performance, luxury, and technology, offering a refined and engaging driving experience. While the infotainment system may require a learning curve, the overall package is undeniably attractive, especially for those seeking a comfortable and powerful vehicle that prioritizes craftsmanship and reliability. Lexus has clearly invested in raising the bar for luxury, and the LS 500 is a testament to their commitment.

Actionable Takeaways:

  • Prioritize a Test Drive: If you’re in the market for a luxury sedan, experience the LS 500’s performance and interior comfort firsthand. Pay close attention to the infotainment system to see if it aligns with your preferences.
  • Consider Your Needs: Evaluate your priorities. If you value a powerful engine, a luxurious interior, and all-weather capability, the LS 500 AWD is an excellent choice.
  • Compare & Contrast: Don’t just take our word for it! Compare the LS 500 with its competitors, such as the BMW 7 Series, Mercedes-Benz S-Class, and Audi A8, to determine which best suits your individual needs and preferences.
  • Negotiate Smartly: Research pricing and incentives to ensure you get the best possible deal when purchasing or leasing.

Ready to experience the pinnacle of Lexus luxury? We encourage you to visit your local Lexus dealership to schedule a test drive of the 2018 LS 500 AWD. Prepare to be impressed.