How fast is the Lexus LS 500?
In short, the LS 500 accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in roughly 4.8 to 5.0 seconds, depending on drivetrain and conditions, and is electronically limited to about 130 mph. Powered by a 3.5-liter twin‑turbo V6 producing around 416 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10‑speed automatic, the LS 500 blends brisk performance with luxury refinement. This article breaks down the numbers and what affects them.
Performance specifications at a glance
The following figures summarize the LS 500’s core speed-related metrics, including engine output, gearing, and top speed.
- Engine: 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6
- Horsepower: 416 hp (311 kW)
- Torque: 442 lb-ft (600 Nm)
- Transmission: 10-speed automatic
- Drive configurations: RWD standard; AWD available
- 0–60 mph: approximately 4.8–5.0 seconds (RWD typically) and 4.9–5.1 seconds (AWD)
- Top speed: electronically limited to about 130 mph (210 km/h)
Note: Figures vary slightly by model year, wheel size, tires, and testing conditions. Real-world times depend on launch technique and grade.
Real-world performance and driving experience
In everyday driving, the LS 500 delivers brisk acceleration for a full-size luxury sedan, with the turbocharged V6 providing strong midrange punch for highway merges and passing. The 10‑speed automatic helps keep the engine in its power band, while the ride quality and cabin refinement remain leading attributes of the model.
- 0–60 mph (RWD): generally around 4.9 seconds in recent testing
- 0–60 mph (AWD): typically around 5.0–5.1 seconds
- Top speed: limited to about 130 mph for both drive configurations
These results reflect typical independent tests from the past few years and can vary with tire choice, ambient conditions, and vehicle weight.
LS 500 variants and what that means for speed
The LS 500 lineup includes rear-wheel drive as the baseline and all-wheel drive as an option; sportier F Sport variants offer tuning that can affect handling and feel, though performance figures remain similar on the balance of power.
- RWD LS 500: quickest configuration in daily driving scenarios
- AWD LS 500: slightly slower from a standstill due to extra weight and drivetrain losses
- LS 500 F Sport: sport-tuned suspension and wheels may alter the perceived acceleration and handling
In practice, most buyers experience strong, smooth acceleration, with luxury and comfort prioritized alongside performance.
Summary
The Lexus LS 500 pairs a 416-horsepower twin-turbo V6 with a 10-speed automatic to deliver brisk acceleration for a full-size luxury sedan. Expect 0–60 mph in roughly 4.8–5.0 seconds, a top speed around 130 mph, and minor variations between RWD and AWD configurations. The focus of the LS 500 remains predomintly on refined speed, comfort, and quiet highway cruising rather than track-focused performance.
What is the 0-60 time for the LS 500?
The 2024 LS ranges in power from the LS 500h with 354 horsepower and a 0-60 time of 5.2 seconds to the LS 500 F SPORT with 416 horsepower and a 0-60 time of 4.6 seconds.
Could the Lexus LS 500 be considered a luxury car?
For 36 years, the Lexus LS has defined what a flagship luxury sedan should be: a perfect balance of performance, innovation, and timeless comfort. And the 2026 LS 500 Heritage Edition continues this legacy of excellence.
Is the LS 500 fast?
At the test track, the LS500 hit 60 mph in 5.0 seconds and managed a 13.3-second quarter-mile run with a 107-mph trap speed. Highway passing maneuvers are dispatched handily, with the LS500 jumping from 50 to 70 mph in just 3.8 seconds.
Is the 500 Lexus top speed?
Power and Performance
The 2025 Lexus IS 500 F Sport Performance comes with a 5.0-liter V8 engine that produces up to 472 horsepower and 395 lb-ft of torque. That means 0-60 in just 4.4 seconds, at a top speed of up to 149 mph.
