Which Lexus cars have air suspension?
Only two Lexus models currently offer factory air suspension: the flagship LS sedan and the full-size LX SUV. This article explains which Lexus models use air suspension, how it benefits ride quality and capability, and what to consider when shopping.
In model years 2024–2025, air suspension is advertised on LS and LX variants with height adjustment and smoother highway ride. Other Lexus models generally rely on springs with adaptive damping rather than air springs. Historically, air suspension appeared on some older LS and LX generations, but those models are no longer in production.
Current models with air suspension
The following production Lexuses currently offer factory air suspension or height-adjustable air springs as part of the vehicle package.
- Lexus LS — The flagship sedan includes air suspension with adaptive height control available on several trims, delivering a smoother ride and level stance under load.
- Lexus LX — The full-size luxury SUV uses air suspension (often labeled Active Height Control) across most trims, enabling variable ride height for comfort on highways and capability off-road.
These two models represent Lexus’ focus on combining comfort with capability in its top-tier lineup. Other models typically use conventional springs with adaptive dampers rather than air springs.
Historical context: older Lexus models with air suspension
Air suspension has a history within Lexus, chiefly in its larger vehicles. Older LS and LX generations used air springs with height control, contributing to a smoother ride and improved load handling. Note that these configurations pertain to earlier model years and may not reflect current production.
- Lexus LS 430/LS 460 (older generations) — Air suspension was available on certain trims or markets, enhancing ride comfort in large luxury sedans.
- Lexus LX 570 (earlier LX generations) — Featured air suspension with height control for better on- and off-road performance.
If you’re considering a used Lexus with air suspension, verify the exact year, trim, and regional specifications, as equipment can vary by market and year.
Summary
Today, Lexus restricts factory air suspension mainly to the LS sedan and LX SUV, reflecting a focus on premium comfort and versatility in its flagship models. Other Lexuses rely on conventional springs or adaptive dampers. For buyers prioritizing a smooth, adjustable ride height, LS and LX are the models to target, while checking specific year and market configurations for confirmation.
Which car has the most reliable air suspension?
Here are the ten best cars with air suspension to consider.
- Mercedes-Benz S-Class. Description: A legendary representative of the luxury class, the S-Class offers an impressive level of comfort and technology.
- Audi Q7.
- Range Rover.
- Porsche Cayenne.
- BMW X7.
- Tesla Model X.
- Volvo XC90.
- Lincoln Navigator.
Do all Lexus GX 460 have air suspension?
No, not all Lexus GX 460 models have air suspension; it is a feature typically found on the Premium and Luxury trims, and the air suspension is only on the rear axle. Lower trim levels may not be equipped with it. The air suspension is part of the Active Height Control (AHC) system, which helps with ride height and load leveling.
This video explains the Lexus GX 460's Active Height Control (AHC) system: 57sGX460 OFF-ROADYouTube · Jan 18, 2023
- Feature availability: Air suspension is generally available on the Premium and Luxury trims, but not necessarily on all models of those trims.
- Rear-only system: The GX 460's air suspension is only for the rear axle, replacing the traditional coil springs with airbags.
- Function: The system is designed to provide load-leveling and can adjust ride height for different driving conditions.
- Distinguishing features: If you are unsure if a specific GX 460 has air suspension, you can look for air springs on the rear suspension or check if it has features like Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) which is often paired with the air suspension on higher trims.
Does Lexus cars have air suspension?
The air suspension. The bag the airbag. Takes the place of the spring not the shock.
How reliable is Lexus air suspension?
For all its praises, Lexus' GX460 luxurious-yet-rugged SUV is notorious for one glaring problem-a faulty air suspension that, like all air suspensions, eventually breaks down. It's not just a Lexus problem-the reliability of air suspension systems has been questioned time and time again.
