10 Best Years for the Lexus LS (UPDATED!)

Intro

A number of years ago we put together a list of the best years for the Lexus LS. As we kick off 2024 we felt that it was time to revisit that list and look at what LS model years we thought were the best so far. The LS is of course the Lexus flagship sedan and none of them are bad cars by any means. But some are a perhaps a little bit better than others. With this list we try to split hairs and come up with the ten best years for the Lexus LS. Read on to see if you agree with our list.

10. 2007 LS 460

As we said, there are no Lexus LS models. The 2007 LS 460 is a wonderful car. However, they can be very expensive to repair. If the regular maintenance has not been kept up with, then this is a model that you are going to want to avoid on the used market.  

9. 2016 LS 600h L

When this car was new it cost over $120K. And for that you got a long wheelbase Lexus with a hybrid powertrain and all-wheel drive. It is a complex car with a lot of technology. But the LS 600h L is like a private jet for the road. Comfortable, quick, and luxurious. But it is also big, heavy, has just OK fuel economy and expensive to repair. That is why it doesn’t rank higher on our list.

8. 2003 LS 430

The third generation Lexus LS was built from 2001 to 2003. They are all great cars but by 2003 any teething pains with the new model were fully worked out. The 4.3L V8 made a smooth 290 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque. The look of the LS was also updated for this generation and although it kept the same basic shape, it did look more modern and unique.

7. 2012 LS 460

The 2012 LS 460 is basically the same as the 2010 and 2011 version. But again, we are picking the final model year in the generation as the best bet. The car used a 380 horsepower 4.6L V8 engine that could propel the car to 60 mph in about 6 seconds. But the LS was more about the comfort than the speed and this LS 460 has plenty of comfort.

6. 2017 LS 460

Lexus continues to improve the flagship LS sedan. Power from the previous generation LS 460 is increased by just a handful. But the big changes for the car came on the inside. The interior of the 2017 LS is significantly improved compared to the 2010 – 2012 generation cars. The centerpiece is a new 12-inch widescreen display. If you are looking for a somewhat modern LS in the used market, the 2017 model is an excellent choice.

5. 1998 LS 400

As we get into the top five, we go back in time a bit. The 1998 LS got a revised engine and transmission that made for a better performing and more efficient car compared to the earliest LS models. However, these cars still have that classic LS shape that many people love.

4. 1990 LS 400

The LS that started it all. An argument could be made that this is the best LS ever. While it certainly is the most important as it effectively launched the Lexus brand, it is not the best ever. Although it is still damn good. The looks have aged well, and these early Lexus models have proven to be quite reliable. On top of that, these cars are done depreciating at this point. You can buy one today, drive it for a few years and likely sell it for what you paid for it.

3. 2024 LS 500 F Sport

At the other end of the spectrum, we have the newest Lexus LS model. The new LS no longer uses a V8 engine and that is sad. However, the twin-turbo V6 cranks out a stout 416 horsepower and 442 pound-feet of torque. Combined with the modern 10-speed automatic transmission the car will get you to 60 mph in a little over 5 seconds. And while that is impressive that is not what this car is about. It is jam packed with technology and if you load it up with the Luxury Package you are getting a downright decadent automobile.

2. 2006 LS 430

The 2006 LS 430 is widely regarded as one of the most reliable cars ever made. Not just by Lexus, but by anyone. It is still plenty comfortable, and performance is fine for a large luxury sedan. You can pick up one of these today for very reasonable money, and put another couple hundred thousand miles on it easily.

1. 1996 LS 400

If there is any Lexus even more reliable than the 2006 model, it would be the 1996 model. Matt Farah clocked over one MILLION miles on one a few years ago. And while one example could be considered an anomaly, that is not the case here. The 1996 LS 400 is a fantastically reliable car that remains powerful and comfortable 28 years after it was produced.

Images: Lexus