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How much horsepower does a 2008 Lexus LS 600h L have?

The 2008 Lexus LS 600h L has a combined horsepower rating of 438 hp when equipped with its factory hybrid system.


The LS 600h L represents Lexus’s flagship hybrid sedan for the 2008 model year. It pairs a 5.0-liter V8 with a hybrid electric drive to deliver a total system output of 438 horsepower. The gasoline V8 alone is typically cited around 380 hp, with the electric motors adding torque-assisted power to reach the higher combined figure.


Powertrain overview


The horsepower figure for the 2008 LS 600h L comes from the combination of the V8 engine and the hybrid electric drive. The car uses a 5.0-liter V8 paired with an electrified powertrain to deliver the 438-horsepower rating to the wheels as a combined output. The exact numbers may vary slightly depending on market and testing standards.


Breakdown of the horsepower figures:



  • Gasoline V8 engine: approximately 380 horsepower (engine alone)

  • Hybrid electric motors: contribute additional power to the system

  • Combined system output: 438 horsepower


In short, the official combined rating for the 2008 LS 600h L is 438 horsepower, reflecting the hybrid system's contribution beyond the V8's natural output.


Notes for context


Horsepower figures for vehicles from this era are SAE net numbers and can vary by measurement method and market. For buyers comparing to non-hybrid models or newer hybrids, the 438 hp figure represents the total available power from the hybrid drivetrain, not just the gasoline engine alone.


Summary


The 2008 Lexus LS 600h L combines a 5.0-liter V8 with a hybrid electric drive to deliver a total of 438 horsepower. The gasoline engine itself is around 380 hp, with the electric motors boosting the overall output to the hybrid system rating. This places the LS 600h L among high-performance luxury hybrids of its time, offering strong acceleration for a vehicle of its size.

What are common problems with the Lexus LS600hl?


Top Lexus LS600h Problems

  • Clicking/Knocking Sound From the Brake Actuator.
  • The Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) Warning Light May Illuminate.
  • Check Engine Light Due to Code P1423.
  • The Inside Rear View Mirror May Become Discolored.
  • Check Engine Light With Code P0867 and/or P0990.



What is special about the Lexus LS600hl?


The Lexus LS600hL is special for being a technologically advanced, long-wheelbase luxury hybrid flagship sedan that aimed to rival the V12-powered German sedans of its era. Its key features include a powerful 5.0L V8 engine paired with a hybrid system for a combined 438-440 horsepower, and a focus on exceptional comfort, refinement, and advanced technology like LED lighting and a high-end audio system. It offers a smooth and quiet ride, especially at lower speeds, and was considered a unique and powerful alternative in the luxury market.
 
You can watch this video to learn more about the Lexus LS600hL's features: 57sJayEmm on CarsYouTube · Apr 23, 2021

  • Powerful Hybrid Powertrain: It combines a 5.0L V8 engine with an advanced hybrid system, generating a combined 438-440 horsepower. This setup provides powerful acceleration and allows for near-silent operation at low speeds using electric power. 
  • Advanced Technology: The car was equipped with cutting-edge technology for its time, including LED headlamps and tail lamps, a hard-drive-based navigation system, a 19-speaker Mark Levinson audio system, and an Adaptive Front Lighting System. 
  • Luxury and Comfort: As the "L" designation indicates, it has a long-wheelbase body for increased rear legroom, and the long-wheelbase hybrid is equipped with a number of luxurious features. It boasts features like a leather-covered dashboard, heated and cooled rear seats, and an optional rear-seat entertainment system. 
  • Smooth Ride: The hybrid powertrain and air suspension system contribute to a remarkably smooth and quiet ride, even at highway speeds. 

This video provides a detailed review of the Lexus LS600hL's performance and features: 59sazizdrivesYouTube · May 20, 2025



What is the 0 60 time for a 2008 Lexus LS600h?


5.5 seconds
Lexus proudly claims a 50-to-70-mph time of 3.5 seconds, and we beat that by 0.4 second at the test track. We also beat the company's 0-to-60-mph forecast of 5.5 seconds by a 10th and matched its quarter-mile claim of 13.8 seconds.



How much does it cost to replace LS 600h battery?


between $439 and $459
The average cost for a Lexus LS600h Battery Replacement is between $439 and $459. Labor costs are estimated between $42 and $62 while parts are typically priced around $396.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.