What is the fastest Lexus LS?
The fastest Lexus LS in production today is the LS 500, including the all-wheel-drive variant, powered by a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 with about 416 horsepower. It typically reaches 0–60 mph in roughly 4.8–5.0 seconds depending on drivetrain and testing conditions.
Current fastest LS and how it achieves speed
The LS 500 uses Lexus’s latest 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, offered in rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. While the LS 500 F SPORT emphasizes handling and styling upgrades, both trims share the same engine and acceleration potential. Hybrids in the LS lineup, such as the older LS 500h, are not as quick to 60 mph as the current LS 500 variants, and the high-powered but discontinued LS 600h L sits outside today’s lineup.
Historical context: fast LS models over time
Throughout the model’s history, a few LS variants stood out for speed on paper. The most powerful in the recent past was the LS 600h L, a flagship hybrid with a 5.0-liter V8 paired with electric motors. In today's market, however, Lexus has prioritized balanced performance, refinement, and efficiency, so the modern LS 500 remains the quickest in acceleration among active LS models.
Notable fast LS variants (historical context):
- LS 600h L (2007–2010): flagship hybrid with a 5.0-liter V8 and electric motors; no longer in production.
- LS 500 (2018–present): current performance benchmark with a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 producing about 416 horsepower; available in RWD and AWD.
- LS 500h (hybrid, older generation): earlier hybrid option with less power and slower acceleration than the current LS 500 family.
In practical terms, the modern LS’s speed is framed by refined, comfortable acceleration rather than extreme straight-line numbers, aligning with Lexus’s luxury-market focus.
Summary
Across today’s Lexus LS lineup, the fastest model is the LS 500, powered by a 416-horsepower 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6. Older high-horsepower variants like the LS 600h L are out of production, and the current LS concentrates on balanced performance, luxury, and efficiency. For those seeking the quickest acceleration in current testing, expect roughly 4.8–5.0 seconds to 60 mph with the LS 500, depending on drivetrain and conditions.
