2022 Lexus LS 500: What's New and Notable?

Few Changes

The current, fifth-gen Lexus LS launched back in 2017 for the 2018 model year, but the luxury brand's flagship sedan underwent a facelift for 2020. Thus, major changes are not in store for the 2022 model year, but Lexus has made some key changes to the LS 500 that consumers will certainly want to take note of if they're in the market for a large and supremely comfy new sedan. 

Photos: Lexus

Suspension Tweaks

Riding on the Lexus GA-L platform, the 2022 LS 500 receives a few changes underneath to improve handling and ride quality. Those include subtle tuning of its control surfaces, the steering, and the braking controls. Meanwhile, the suspension features revised spring and damper rates for improved damping performance. To better control vehicle body roll in turns, the diameters of the front and rear anti-roll bars have been optimized.

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Enhancements

For added suppleness and enhanced handling stability, the Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) employs revised linear solenoids and control valves designed to provide low damping force via their enlarged internal flow path. In addition, the operation of the LS's available ride-height-adjustable air suspension function that helps facilitate ingress and egress has been enhanced.

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Exquisite Craftsmanship

For 2022, a new Haku interior ornamentation option is available as an option on models equipped with the Luxury or Executive Packages. The creation of Haku foil is a Japanese technique that has been passed down over 400 years. It is made by meticulously flattening a piece of metal until it becomes as thin as one ten-thousandth of a millimeter. The Haku foil is so extremely thin that it must be applied by hand with exquisite craftsmanship, achieving a delicate shine reminiscent of moonlight reflecting over ocean waves.

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Cabin Changes

For 2022, the Mark Levinson 23-speaker, 2,400-watt Quantum Logic Immersion Reference Surround Sound Audio System is now available on base LS models, while the standard 12.3-inch multimedia touchscreen provides additional control options for both driver and passenger. All LS models come standard with Apple CarPlay compatibility that allows guests to access the same familiar interface of their iPhone through the LS’s 12.3-inch touchscreen display. It also features Android Auto compatibility, allowing guests to access their Android device interface via the multimedia system. The LS also offers Amazon Alexa compatibility, as LS owners can ask Alexa for the same access to information and thousands of skills available through Alexa at home. Users can also control compatible smart home devices such as lighting, thermostat, and security systems. Alexa can even sync to the navigation system to provide on-the-go recommendations.

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Powertrain Refinements

Under the hood, Lexus' 3.5-liter, twin-turbo V6 engine still puts out 416 horsepower and 442 pound-feet of torque, but the engine features a newly developed piston with a lip shape on the piston top to help lower emissions and lessen noise upon a cold start. The wastegate control has also been updated to provide a stable opening and closing of the valve to enhance performance efficiency. The 10-speed automatic transmission features re-calibrated shift points to keep the engine in the meat of the power band as well. In RWD form, the LS 500 will do 0-60 in 4.6 seconds. 

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Other Changes

For 2022, all LS 500 models will come standard with Lexus Safety System+ 2.5. On the outside, the 2022 LS features an updated front bumper with a redesigned front fascia, while the lower radiator air intakes are squared off. The color of the spindle grille has been changed to a dark metallic, while new three-projector LED headlamps to feature a vertically stacked layout. The 2022 LS 500 will be offered with nine exterior colors options depending on trim: Ultra White, Eminent White Pearl, Atomic Silver, Manganese Luster, Iridium, Obsidian, Caviar, Matador Red Mica, and Nightfall Mica. Pricing starts at $76,000, not including a destination charge of $1,075.

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