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Is the Lexus LS 500 turbocharged?

Yes. The Lexus LS 500 is powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine.

This article explains how the LS 500’s turbocharged powertrain works, how it compares with the hybrid LS 500h, and what that means for performance and efficiency in Lexus’ flagship sedan.

Engine powertrain overview

Below are the key specifications and distinctions of the LS 500’s turbocharged setup, as well as how it sits next to the hybrid variant in the same lineup.

Engine: 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V6

Output: about 416 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque in current US-spec models (numbers can vary by model year and market)

Transmission: 10-speed automatic

Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive (RWD) is standard; all-wheel drive (AWD) is available on some trims/markets

Note on a hybrid variant: The LS 500h is the hybrid version that uses a non-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 paired with an electric motor for improved efficiency

Together, these specifications confirm the LS 500’s turbocharged powertrain, which sets it apart from the hybrid LS 500h that relies on a gasoline-electric setup without turbocharging.

LS 500 vs LS 500h: Turbocharged vs Hybrid

Key differences in powertrains

The LS 500 is built around a turbocharged gasoline engine designed to deliver strong, immediate acceleration and a spirited driving feel. The LS 500h, by contrast, blends the same base V6 with an electric motor to boost efficiency and reduce emissions, without turbocharging.

LS 500: Turbocharged 3.5L V6; emphasizes performance and rapid response

LS 500h: Hybrid system with a 3.5L V6 plus electric motor; emphasizes efficiency and refined, quiet operation

In practical terms, the turbocharged LS 500 tends to deliver quicker straight-line performance, while the hybrid LS 500h prioritizes fuel economy and a smoother, near-silent driving experience at low to moderate speeds.

Shopping considerations

When choosing between the turbocharged LS 500 and the hybrid LS 500h, buyers should weigh priorities such as performance versus efficiency, daily driving needs, and total ownership costs.

Performance vs. efficiency: If you want brisk acceleration and a traditional turbocharged feel, the LS 500 is the choice; if you prioritize fuel economy and a quieter ride, the LS 500h is compelling.

Fuel economy: The hybrid typically offers better city and overall efficiency, especially in stop-and-go driving.

Costs and maintenance: Turbocharged engines and hybrid systems have different maintenance profiles and potential long-term costs; consider warranty coverage and potential incentives in your region.

Ultimately, the decision comes down to whether you value outright turbocharged performance or the efficiency and smoothness of a hybrid powertrain within Lexus’ luxury sedan framework.

Summary

The Lexus LS 500 is indeed turbocharged, employing a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 that delivers strong performance. Its counterpart, the LS 500h, uses a non-turbocharged hybrid powertrain that combines the same base V6 with electric assist for improved efficiency. Both variants share the same luxury-focused philosophy and chassis, giving buyers a choice between turbocharged performance and hybrid efficiency within the same flagship lineup.

What Lexus models are turbocharged?

EXPLORE OUR TURBO SUVS

NX 300. Compact Luxury SUV.
NX 300 Premium. Compact Luxury SUV.
NX 300 F SPORT. Compact Luxury SUV.
RX 300. Mid-size Luxury SUV.
RX 300 Luxury. Mid-size Luxury SUV.
RX 300 F SPORT. Mid-size Luxury SUV.

Is the LS500 twin-turbo?

The Lexus LS500 is powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.4-liter V-6 rated at 416 horsepower and 442 pound-feet of torque. Rear-wheel drive is standard, and all-wheel drive is optional; a 10-speed automatic transmission is standard.

What engine does a Lexus LS 500 have?

The 3.4-liter, twin-turbo V6 engine on the LS 500 offers the output one would expect in a flagship sedan: 416 horsepower and 442 lb. -ft. of torque.

Is the LS500 a V8?

No, the Lexus LS 500 does not have a V8 engine; it is powered by a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 engine. The LS 500 replaced the V8 engine with a more fuel-efficient, but still powerful, V6 when it was redesigned for the 2018 model year.
You can watch this video to see a review of the Lexus LS500: 57ssavagegeeseYouTube · May 21, 2021

Engine: The LS 500 uses a 3.5-liter, twin-turbo V6 that produces 416 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque.
Performance: This V6 engine provides strong performance, achieving a 0-60 mph time of around 4.6 seconds.
Historical context: While the name "LS 500" might suggest a V8, the "500" originally correlated to the previous 5.0-liter V8, which was retired in favor of the new V6 for the fifth generation of the car.

This video discusses the end of the Lexus V8: 56sThe Car Care NutYouTube · Nov 15, 2025

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.