Do luxobarges and mechanics mix? In her latest video, automotive YouTuber Sarah reviews a 2020 Lexus LS500h on her Sarah-n-Tuned channel. Known for hands-on mechanic work and resuscitating once-dead project cars, she explores the Lexus flagship sedan. Redesigned for 2018, the LS series represents the pinnacle of Toyota’s technological excellence. Interestingly, the original LS, introduced in 1989, was positioned as a value-oriented alternative to Germany’s premier sedans. With the video’s test vehicle offering a $116,000 sticker price, the hybrid LS is advocating refinement over price.

Sophisticated Exterior Design

The review begins with an exterior tour of the Matador Red Mica sedan. Sarah points out the unique configuration of the headlights and accompanying accent lights.  She has an eye for noticing details other reviewers are likely to overlook.  For example, when pointing out  the impressivley large brake calipers on the front wheels, she remarks how other manufacturers might powder coat these in a bright color, but LS styling dictates subtlety and refinement instead, so they basically disappear behind the 20-inch wheels, which are part of the equipment as well. At the back, she calls out the unique smoked-pink color used in the taillights

RELATED:  2021 Lexus ES 350: Here's What We're Expecting

Resort Seating Front And Back

Sarah-n-Tuned Review Of Lexus LS500 Hybrid
YouTube

The interior review begins with the trunk and Sarah commenting that this space, likely impacted by batteries and hybrid equipment, is especially small given the size of the vehicle. Moving into the cabin and it's clear to see why this sedan has a six-figure price tag.

The most extreme form of this car is the Executive Package. For $23,000, or about about the price of a Honda Civic Sport, passengers are pampered with indulgences.  Front occupants are ensconced in 28-way massaging power seats that provide a heated or cooled experience. If rear passengers start to doze off, then the 22-way, rear power reclining seats can help encourage nap time. These seats, of course, also offer a massage feature with heating or cooling. The right rear seat incorporates a power ottoman as well.

Hand-pleated fabric adorns the door panels. The door handle areas are treated with Kiriko glass highlights—Kiriko glass originated in 17th century Japan.The 23-speaker, 2,400-watt Mark Levinson sound system is not to be forgotten about either.

A Hybrid With A Unique Transmission

Sarah-n-Tuned Review Of Lexus LS500 Hybrid
YouTube

At 5,200 pounds, the LS500h is no svelte German sports sedan. It’s a large sedan designed to coddle the driver and passengers into tranquility. The rear-wheel-drive LS hybrid— AWD is an option—is propelled by ICE/hybrid system generating 354 total horsepower. The accompanying transmission blends a standard 4-speed with a CVT for a unique power transfer setup. The car moves effortlessly while offering stellar fuel economy MPG of 25 city, 33 highway, and 28 combination. The hybrid drivetrain no doubt having a significant impact on efficiency.

Sarah closes out the video by summarizing that while the LS hybrid is an exceptional vehicle in quality and equipment, it doesn’t really stand out for the money. She remarks, “It’s basically an elongated ES350.”

Source: Lexus, Britannica

NEXT:  Somebody Please Bring This E-Type Jag Project Back To Life