Audi A8 vs. Lexus LS: Complete comparison 2026

Audi A8, the flagship of the German automaker, represents the benchmark of technological progress and understated elegance, while on the used car market, you will commonly encounter its extended variant, the A8 L, or the top-tier sporty version, the S8. Standing against it is the Japanese perfectionist Lexus LS, also known specifically by its most common engine variants as the LS 500 or the hybrid LS 500h, which fascinates with its bold exterior design, legendary reliability, and masterfully crafted interior. Let's take a detailed look at which of these two luxury sedans offers a better combination of driving comfort, innovation, and everyday prestige to find out which model will be the right choice for your next purchase.

Exterior Dimensions and Proportions

When choosing a luxury sedan around four years old (the D5 generation for Audi and USF50 for Lexus), exterior dimensions play a crucial role in daily usability and overall comfort. Both flagships approach their proportions slightly differently. The biggest difference lies in the concept of the body style offerings. While the Audi A8 gives customers a choice between standard and extended versions (A8 L), the current generation Lexus LS is sold in only one length. However, with its generous wheelbase of 3125 mm and length of 5235 mm, it practically matches the extended version of its German competitor. This means that even the standard Lexus offers regal legroom for rear passengers, which you have to pay extra for at Audi by choosing the Long version.

Interesting differences can be found in width and height, where the different design philosophies of both brands are fully evident. The Audi A8, at 1945 mm, is a significant 45 mm wider than the Lexus LS (1900 mm). This gives the Audi a more majestic stance on the road and a sense of more shoulder room inside the cabin, but the wider body naturally requires more caution when parking in narrow underground garages or older developments. Lexus, on the other hand, bets on a silhouette that more closely resembles a luxury coupe, which is reflected in the lower body height (1450–1470 mm depending on equipment, compared to 1473–1488 mm for the Audi). The result for the Lexus is a more dynamic look, but the German competitor may be slightly more comfortable to get in and out of thanks to its higher roof.

In terms of exterior dimensions, it primarily depends on where you will be driving the car and which seat you will spend the most time in. The Audi A8 provides greater flexibility: the standard (shorter) version is more driver-friendly and agile in European cities, while the longer A8 L will satisfy those who primarily travel with a personal chauffeur. The Lexus LS, by contrast, offers huge interior space right in its standard version, which simplifies the choice, though at the cost of having to accept a body over 5.2 meters long every time you park.

While trunk space is not usually the most important parameter for most luxury sedan owners, it still plays a key role in everyday practicality and overall user comfort. When choosing a four-year-old used car in the form of the Audi A8 (D5) and Lexus LS (USF50) generations, it is good to realize that for managers and wealthy families, even a seemingly small difference of a few dozen liters can mean room for several extra suitcases. It is in the trunk where the balanced battle of these top-tier cruisers can tilt significantly to one side or the other, with the chosen type of powertrain having a major influence.

If we focus on classic internal combustion engines, the German representative offers more generous volume parameters. The Audi A8 in the mentioned D5 generation has a luggage compartment with a basic volume of 505 liters, making it perfectly sufficient for weekend shopping and longer vacations. Its Japanese competitor, the Lexus LS 500, offers a slightly more modest 480 liters in its basic configuration. Although this is not a massive difference, the Audi's trunk scores with a more regular shape, offering slightly better usability for bulky luggage or large golf bags.

However, a key turning point and role reversal occurs the moment you consider purchasing a modern electrified version. While in the plug-in hybrid Audi A8 (60 TFSI e version), the battery takes up a significant portion of the internal capacity and the trunk shrinks to just 390 liters, Lexus manages the battery installation much better. The traditional full hybrid Lexus LS 500h loses much less space compared to its purely internal combustion sibling and offers a solid 430 liters. In the world of used hybrid sedans, Lexus thus unexpectedly has the upper hand in terms of trunk volume. It should also be noted that the maximum volume after folding the seats is not standardly listed for either car, as this class of vehicle, with its emphasis on adjustable rear seats, generally does not offer a folding backrest function.

The ability to tow a trailer is not the most common requirement for luxury sedans, yet it can play a crucial role when choosing a used car. Whether it's towing a heavy caravan, a horse trailer, or simply attaching an e-bike rack for weekend activities, the differences between premium models can be quite vast in the four-year-old used car market.

Focusing on models from roughly 2021 to 2022, the German Audi A8 (D5 generation) demonstrates its immense versatility. This flagship can tow a braked trailer weighing an impressive 2300 kg. A key advantage is that this maximum value applies universally across the entire modern engine lineup. Whether you choose the more economical 50 TDI diesel V6, the powerful 55 TFSI petrol engine, or even the modern 60 TFSI e plug-in hybrid variant, the towing capacity remains undiminished. An unbraked trailer can then have the legislative maximum of 750 kg. In practice, this means great freedom for the owner – the car has more than enough power for a long holiday with a heavy caravan or for transporting a boat.

In contrast, the Japanese Lexus LS (USF50 generation) offers a completely different, strictly personal approach on the market. This model, most commonly available among nearly new cars in the sophisticated LS 500h hybrid version, has no towing capacity at all. The manufacturer does not envision the car being used for towing, and the technical specifications do not list any permitted weight. If you were looking for extra space in a Lexus by attaching a small utility trailer, or simply wanted to transport family bikes, you would run into its technical limits.

The conclusion when comparing this parameter is quite clear. If your future luxury sedan is also to serve as an occasional and powerful tow vehicle, the Audi A8 is the perfect choice, offering top-tier capacity without compromise even in its more eco-friendly hybrid versions. The Lexus LS, on the other hand, remains a strictly elegant cruiser for passengers, where towing cargo is simply not expected.

Trailer weight comparison (selected models around 4 years old)

Note: The Lexus LS (USF50) does not have a permitted towing weight, which is why it is not listed in the table.

When comparing the engine options of the Audi A8 and the Lexus LS, you quickly find that both brands approach the propulsion of their flagships quite differently. While Audi relies on a wide range of conventional and electrified powertrains for its D5 generation, Lexus takes a much more conservative, simplified path toward an advanced hybrid with the current USF50 generation. For a used car buyer, this means a fundamental decision: Audi will suit drivers who spend hours on highways (thanks to the economical 50 TDI six-cylinder diesels) as well as performance enthusiasts (the fierce 60 TFSI V8), while Lexus is built for calmer temperaments and focused on efficiency. Although its hybrid system doesn't reach such aggressive acceleration figures on paper, it rewards with absolute smoothness, unrivaled cabin quietness, and legendary Japanese reliability. High mileage on long routes is thus better absorbed by the German diesel approach, while sophisticated Lexus hybrid technology makes sense for refined commutes and smooth city driving.

Audi A8

Under the hood of the Audi A8, you'll find a diverse mix of engines, which in approximately four-year-old cars are standardly paired with advanced quattro all-wheel drive and an eight-speed tiptronic automatic transmission. The golden mean and also the most common used car version is the 50 TDI with a diesel six-cylinder producing 210 kW, which excels with a massive 600 Nm of torque and is ideal for economical highway travel. The petrol equivalent is the 55 TFSI with 250 kW. Those longing for uncompromising performance can opt for the 60 TFSI petrol V8 (338 kW) or the sophisticated 60 TFSI e plug-in hybrid, which offers a powerful system output of 340 kW and the possibility of purely electric driving. All common internal combustion variants today use a 48V mild-hybrid system to optimize operation and consumption. If you were looking for the diesel peak in the form of the 60 TDI V8 (320 kW), keep in mind that this majestic engine disappeared from the range at the end of 2020 and therefore won't be found in four-year-old cars anymore.

Lexus LS

Lexus LS, on the other hand, relies on a very narrow but perfectly tuned range, which is completely dominated in the nearly-new used car market by the advanced 500h powertrain. This full hybrid system combines a smooth, naturally aspirated 3.5-liter petrol V6 with two electric motors, delivering a system output of 264 kW. The technological gem is the unique Multi Stage Hybrid transmission, which cleverly connects a planetary e-CVT system with a conventional four-speed automatic, resulting in a smooth and efficient simulation of ten gear ratios. For connoisseurs, there was previously also a purely petrol, twin-turbocharged LS 500 variant (310 kW) equipped with a classic ten-speed automatic transmission. However, it definitively disappeared from the European market at the end of 2020, so if you are looking for a car with an average age of around four years, your choice will almost certainly lead to the exceptionally economical and quiet LS 500h version.

* The value indicates the torque of the internal combustion engine alone; the electric motors immediately add an additional 300 Nm for perfectly smooth take-off.

Choosing the right powertrain is absolutely crucial for long-term satisfaction, and our recommendations are based on performance smoothness, real-world fuel consumption, and proven mechanical reliability. While the Audi A8 (D5 generation) relies on advanced turbocharged six- and eight-cylinder engines with a perfectly tuned quattro all-wheel-drive system, the Lexus LS (USF50 generation) is a fascinating example of Japanese engineering, which in our market focuses almost exclusively on a naturally aspirated V6 paired with the reliable and highly efficient Multi-Stage Hybrid system.

For the Audi A8, we recommend: 50 TDI quattro (3.0 V6, 210 kW / 286 hp)

For roughly four-year-old used cars from the D5 generation, the 50 TDI diesel V6 is the best and most rational choice. Its greatest technical advantage is the massive 600 Nm of torque available from low revs, allowing the heavy limousine to accelerate with incredible ease, while real-world fuel consumption comfortably stays between 7 and 8 liters per 100 km. Mechanically, it is a very robust unit, but be very careful with the maintenance history of a used car – look primarily for vehicles where owners changed the oil every 15,000 km rather than following the long factory intervals (30,000 km), otherwise you risk premature wear of the timing chains. It is also necessary to keep in mind the risk of rapid diesel particulate filter (DPF) clogging during frequent city driving. For this reason, the Audi A8 50 TDI is absolutely ideal for drivers with higher annual mileage who spend most of their time on highways and require impressive range on a single tank along with crushing straight-line dynamics.

For the Lexus LS, we recommend: 500h AWD (3.5 V6 Hybrid, 264 kW / 359 hp)

In the case of the Lexus LS from 2021 to 2023, the 500h complex hybrid powertrain makes the most sense; it makes up the absolute majority of the available used car market in Europe and suits the car's character perfectly. The powertrain combines an excellent naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 with two electric motors and a unique multi-stage gearbox, ensuring silky-smooth pull and unrivaled cabin quietness. Although on paper it doesn't reach the aggressive dynamics of its turbocharged competitors, its huge technical asset is absolute mechanical indestructibility, the absence of sensitive turbochargers, and a very pleasant fuel consumption of around 8.5 liters of gasoline in combined mode. The risks associated with this engine are almost zero; when buying a used car, just check if the previous owner regularly changed the inverter coolant and if the traction battery cooling air filters (located directly in the interior by the rear seats) are not clogged. This engine will be fully appreciated by calmer and more composed drivers who use the car for maximum relaxed travel or smooth city driving and want to avoid the expensive service costs associated with traditional diesel engines.

While official fuel consumption figures (now measured according to the stricter WLTP cycle) often promise fabulously low numbers for luxury limousines, the reality of daily operation tends to be different. For vehicles weighing over two tons, physics cannot be cheated, despite advanced aerodynamics and modern electrification. To obtain the most accurate and objective picture of the actual appetite of roughly four-year-old used cars (current generation Audi D5 and Lexus USF50), we used long-term user data from the reliable crowdsourcing platform Spritmonitor.de.

Interpretation of Real-World Trends

From the collected data, it is evident that despite the massive onset of electrification, the diesel six-cylinder remains the most rational choice for highway mile-munchers. The Audi A8 in the 50 TDI version achieves a real-world consumption of around 7.6 liters per 100 km, which is a fantastic result for such a massive vehicle with permanent all-wheel drive. At the opposite end of the spectrum are the classic petrol engines – both the Audi A8 55 TFSI and the Lexus LS 500 model with its twin-turbocharged V6 will confidently demand values oscillating around the ten-liter mark.

The comparison of hybrid technologies is very interesting. For its flagship LS 500h model, Lexus relies on a sophisticated full hybrid system without the need for plug-in charging. In the city and on backroads, it can effectively recuperate and save fuel; however, on the highway, the naturally aspirated V6 must work at full capacity, resulting in an average of 8.6 l/100 km. In practice, this reveals a somewhat surprising finding: the assistance of an electric motor in such a heavy vehicle on long journeys does not save as much fuel as one might expect and cannot surpass the highway efficiency of diesel competitors. Conversely, the plug-in hybrid Audi A8 60 TFSI e can realistically drive for 5.5 liters, but strictly only on the condition of rigorous discipline in regular battery charging.

What Does This Mean for Users in Practice?

• Highway Drivers and Managers: If you spend most of your time on the highway during long trips across the country or Europe, the diesel Audi A8 50 TDI will clearly provide you with the lowest operating costs and a much longer driving range on a single tank.
• City and Suburban Drivers: If the vehicle primarily serves for representative trips around the metropolis and in suburban traffic, the complex hybrid system of the Lexus LS 500h will show its strengths in smoothness and effective recuperation in traffic jams.
• Buyers Regardless of Budget: Traditional powerful petrol versions like the 55 TFSI and LS 500 offer a classic premium experience and refinement, but you must accept more frequent visits to filling stations.

Final Verdict on Operating Costs

Fuel consumption for these premium cruisers can definitely be a deciding factor, and not primarily because of the fuel price itself. Although the budget of a buyer of a roughly four-year-old luxury used car is usually not threatened by a difference of two liters per hundred kilometers, it significantly affects the overall driving range of the vehicle. The diesel Audi wins decisively here in pure efficiency for swallowing highway kilometers, while the Lexus scores with quiet smoothness and a sophisticated approach to fuel saving more in slower, urbanized environments.

Used Car Market Price Comparison: Audi A8 vs. Lexus LS

When choosing a roughly four-year-old luxury limousine (ideally 2021 and 2022 models), you encounter two very different worlds. The German market giant versus Japanese exclusivity brings fundamental differences not only in the vehicle range itself but especially in their price development and depreciation.

Audi A8 (D5 generation): More attractive price thanks to steeper depreciation

The Audi A8 is a complete staple in European listings, meaning the used car market is excellently supplied. Typical corporate customers or first owners often release these vehicles into circulation after three to four years of operation.

• Price range: For used models from 2021 to 2022, prices commonly range between €47,000 and €62,000.
• Most common versions on the market: The popular 50 TDI diesel version has absolute dominance; occasionally, you'll come across the 55 TFSI petrol variant.
• Advantage for the used car buyer: Faster depreciation (amortization), which is typical for high-volume German premium cars, means that from a price-to-performance perspective, a late-model Audi A8 represents an exceptionally good deal with immense luxury for a fraction of the original price.

Lexus LS (XF50 generation): Stable value and absolute exclusivity

In contrast, the Lexus LS is a significantly rarer sight on European roads. A lower number of new units sold logically means a noticeably smaller selection in used car dealerships. This limited supply, combined with a global reputation for the superior longevity of the brand's hybrid powertrains, helps keep used car prices high.

• Price range: A similarly aged Lexus LS from 2021 and 2022 starts at significantly higher values. Most offers on the market fall within the range of €64,000 to €74,000.
• Most common versions on the market: The choice of engines is simpler; the LS 500h hybrid version almost 100% dominates the selection.
• Advantage for the used car buyer: Although the initial investment in a four-year-old used car is significantly higher, the vehicle holds its value better and more stably in the future. Furthermore, by purchasing it, you gain considerable exclusivity and a design gem that stands out from the mainstream German competition.

Overview of Prices and Availability (2021–2022 models)

In the case of luxury limousines and the model ranges of both manufacturers, a maximum five-star Euro NCAP rating is standardly expected in independent tests. Despite this general assumption, however, it is always necessary to emphasize the importance of context and the year of testing itself. Crash test protocols continuously evolve and become significantly stricter over time. Percentage scores from different years are thus not directly comparable, because the latest tests require the implementation of entirely new procedures – whether it's simulations of frontal collisions with a moving barrier, precise detection of cyclists, or evaluating risk scenarios and collisions directly at intersections. For the largest flagships, however, another crucial factor enters the evaluation: independent institutions often do not test them at all due to their extremely high purchase price and low-volume sales.

The current D5 generation Audi A8 (offered as a popular roughly four-year-old used car) has never been officially tested by the Euro NCAP organization. The absence of percentage data for adult, child, or assistance system protection is not a surprise in this class, and indeed, none of the previous generations of the A8 have undergone crash tests either. Even without a paper certificate, this model represents the absolute technological pinnacle of the brand. The missing point scores are compensated for by an extremely rigid construction using high-strength steel, aluminum, and carbon fibers, along with a wide range of assistants. A specialty of the car is the optional predictive active suspension, which can raise the body by up to 8 centimeters in a fraction of a second in the event of an imminent threat of a side impact, thus directing the destructive energy into the strongest part of the sills and floor.

An identical situation applies to the fifth-generation Lexus LS (XF50). This Japanese representative of the luxury segment has also not participated in independent European Euro NCAP tests, so there are no official percentage results assessed according to the latest protocols. However, Lexus is known in the industry for its obsession with maximum safety, which it makes available without the need for a long list of optional extras. Used models from roughly the 2021 or 2022 model year are standardly equipped with the improved Lexus Safety System+ package, which covers everything from smart pre-collision braking with precise pedestrian and cyclist detection to intelligent lane centering and advanced intersection monitoring. Furthermore, the interior hides a generous set of airbags comprising at least ten protection elements for the ultimate peace of mind of the occupants.

Although an objective winner cannot be declared based on clear percentage tables due to the lack of crash tests, in terms of safety, both of these limousines offer completely exhaustive and modern protection that meets the strictest contemporary standards. The Audi A8 can impress with unconventional suspension-raising functions during a collision, while the Lexus LS scores with the comprehensiveness of its safety equipment without the need to pay extra for additional features. Whichever of these roughly four-year-old flagships you choose, you will get a safety package that far exceeds the capabilities of common cars on the market.

Euro NCAP Results Comparison Table

In addition to standard equipment, each of the models offers several unique features that can be decisive for the customer, with both cars bringing their own distinctive approach to added value, innovation, and the overall concept of luxury.

Audi A8: Technological Innovation and Predictive Intelligence

The German flagship bets on absolute technological maturity, the integration of assistance systems, and a minimalist digital experience that facilitates daily use and maximizes safety.

• Active safety and smart chassis: The predictive active suspension uses a camera behind the windshield to scan the road and adjusts the damper settings for each wheel individually in advance. In the event of an imminent side impact, it can also raise the threatened side of the car by up to 8 centimeters within half a second, redirecting the impact energy into the strongest parts of the sills.
• Infotainment and controls: The interior is dominated by two large touchscreens of the MMI system with haptic and acoustic feedback. Audi has almost completely eliminated physical buttons, but thanks to the precise feedback of the screens, the controls maintain a high level of ergonomics and intuitiveness.
• Lighting electronics: Top versions feature HD Matrix LED headlights with laser high beams and digital OLED rear lights. These not only allow for a choice of several specific light signatures but also have a safety function – if another car approaches a parked Audi from behind within less than two meters, all OLED segments automatically light up as a warning.
• Rear passenger comfort: The optional equipment includes a relaxation seat that offers the rear right passenger an unrivaled feature – a heated foot massage integrated into the back of the front seat.
• Steering and maneuverability: Dynamic all-wheel steering (rear-axle steering) reduces the turning radius of the large sedan almost to the level of family hatchbacks, which significantly facilitates parking in tight spaces and increases stability at highway speeds.

Lexus LS: Japanese Hospitality and Master Craftsmanship

The Japanese sedan approaches the premium segment through traditional values. It focuses on a deep emotional experience, perfect craftsmanship, and the concept of Japanese hospitality called Omotenashi.

• Design and Takumi craftsmanship: The interior of the Lexus LS offers unique elements not found in European cars. These include door panels made of hand-folded fabric inspired by the art of origami or ornaments made of specially cut Kiriko glass. These details create a play of light and shadow depending on the time of day.
• Omotenashi hospitality in practice: The car welcomes its owner even before they sit behind the wheel. If equipped with air suspension, the Access Mode function slightly raises the car when unlocked for easier entry. Seat belts automatically extend toward the passengers, and the seats move back for maximum space.
• Powertrains and transmission: The innovative Multi-Stage Hybrid system in the LS 500h version combines a traditional hybrid powertrain with a multi-stage automatic transmission. This system eliminates the "rubber band" effect typical for hybrids, offers a more natural increase in engine speed, and allows for sportier manual shifting.
• Rear seats and physical well-being: While the front seats can be adjusted in up to 28 directions, the optional rear seats feature advanced Shiatsu massage. The system was developed in collaboration with Japanese acupressure experts and uses inflatable air bags combined with targeted heating of specific points on the back to relax muscles.
• Teammate assistance systems: Lexus offers the Advanced Park system. It uses memory functions and machine learning to park with absolute smoothness and precision without any jerky movements, thereby minimizing driver stress in cramped garages.

The Audi A8 is a perfect choice for buyers looking for maximum technological sophistication, unrivaled travel comfort, and a wide selection of powertrains. As a used car, it makes sense primarily for managers who appreciate understated luxury and the security of quattro all-wheel drive on long highway journeys.

The Lexus LS will appeal to individualists who desire distinctiveness, appreciate artistic craftsmanship, and rely on the legendary trouble-free nature of Japanese engineering. From a used car perspective, it is an ideal luxury cruiser for calmer drivers who prefer a refined and reliable hybrid powertrain.

Based on long-term user experience, service reports, and our own data provided by a comprehensive car audit, we have compiled an overview of the most common problems that buyers of used luxury sedans should watch out for.

Audi A8 (D5 generation)

The Audi A8 is a technological showcase for the brand, which, however, often translates into overall complexity and the cost of potential repairs for used cars.

• Electronics and mild-hybrid system: The most common and discussed problem is the failure of the 48V starter-generator (BSG). The fault initially manifests as a warning message about an electrical system failure (red battery icon) and gradually leads to the complete discharge of the car and its immobilization. The solution is to replace the unit and update the software.
• Engine and cooling: In the popular six-cylinder diesels (50 TDI) as well as petrol engines, gradual coolant leaks may occur. Typically, these happen in the area of the thermostat housing or the turbocharger cooling pipes. Dried traces of coolant on engine components are a frequent find during detailed inspections.
• Chassis: The standard adaptive air suspension provides top-tier comfort, but with increasing age and higher mileage, the risk of air leaks from the air bellows or compressor wear increases. A clear warning sign is if the car "sinks" to the ground on one of the axles after standing overnight.
• Infotainment: The dual touchscreen MMI system can suffer from occasional freezing, slow startup, or even a black screen. Fortunately, most of these errors can be reliably resolved by installing the latest software version at an authorized service center.

Lexus LS (XF50 generation)

The Lexus LS traditionally maintains a solid reputation as one of the most reliable cars on the market; however, even this flagship sedan from Japan has its specific weak points.

• Infotainment and controls: The biggest source of owner frustration is usually not the mechanics, but the onboard systems. In models manufactured until 2020, the system controlled by a touchpad on the center console is very unintuitive and distracting while driving. Newer versions equipped with a touchscreen are significantly better, but they occasionally struggle with the stability of wireless phone connections.
• Engine and transmission: In older model years with the purely petrol LS 500 engine, the ten-speed automatic transmission could occasionally hesitate when downshifting, which the manufacturer addressed with software updates. The much more widespread hybrid models (LS 500h) are mechanically extremely durable, and expensive powertrain failures usually avoid them entirely.
• Chassis and tires: The car is often factory-fitted with harder run-flat tires, which slightly worsen acoustic comfort on uneven surfaces. Due to high weight and high torque, the tires also suffer from very rapid wear, and cars often require a new set after just 30,000 kilometers.
• Electronics and sensors: External radar sensors for adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring are highly sensitive. Even a light "tap" on the bumper during parking can cause minor misalignment, which immediately triggers an error message and deactivates the systems. Rectification requires diagnostics and precise calibration.

When buying a used car, a thorough inspection is key. Here are some specific points to focus on for these two models, while it is always worth undergoing a used car inspection before making a final decision.

When choosing an Audi A8:

• Air suspension and active dampers: The Audi A8 (D5 generation) uses an extremely complex adaptive suspension system. During the test drive, try all driving modes and listen for any knocking or creaking from the axles. Notice if the parked car sinks on one side – this could indicate an air leak in the system, which a detailed physical inspection of the used car will also reveal.
• Mild-hybrid system and 48V network: Complications can occur with the belt starter-generator (BSG) in both diesel and gasoline engines. Check the service history to see if it has already been replaced as part of a recall or under warranty. A faulty starter-generator can manifest as error messages or jerky operation of the start-stop system when coasting.
• MMI infotainment response: The dual-display system is impressive, but older software versions could freeze or restart. Test the response speed, the functionality of the haptic feedback on the lower display, and carefully check if the system reports any errors with the assistance radars or LiDAR sensors.
• Battery condition in the plug-in hybrid (TFSI e): If you are choosing a PHEV, request a test drive with a fully charged battery and monitor the real-world pure electric range. The transition from electric drive to the gasoline six-cylinder must be perfectly smooth, without any jerking.
• Tiptronic gearbox performance: The eight-speed automatic must shift completely imperceptibly. Any hesitation when downshifting, slipping, or jolts when engaging reverse can indicate neglected service and an approaching costly repair.

When choosing a Lexus LS:

• Specific Multi-Stage Hybrid system (LS 500h): Lexus combines a planetary gearbox with a four-speed automatic to simulate 10 gears. During sharp acceleration, the car must not jerk or make loud mechanical noises. The interplay between the combustion engine and electric motors must be as smooth as possible.
• Infotainment control and touchpad: Fifth-generation Lexus LS models until roughly 2020 use the "Remote Touch" interface with a touchpad. Check if it responds accurately to movement. If you find this control unpleasant, it is better to focus on post-facelift models, which already feature a full touchscreen.
• Condition of unique interior trims: Thoroughly inspect the seats and door panels. Lexus offers extremely luxurious details like Kiriko glass or hand-pleated fabrics. Given the exclusivity of the materials, replacing scratched or torn parts costs astronomical amounts.
• Cooling and engine operation of the pure gasoline LS 500: The twin-turbocharged V6 requires perfect lubrication and cooling. Focus on listening to the engine immediately after a cold start – the RPM should not fluctuate. An independent technical inspection of the car will help reveal even the smallest oil or coolant leaks.
• Air suspension and run-flat tires: Try manually changing the vehicle's ride height. The compressor should not be significantly noisy, and the lifting process must be smooth. Also check the tires – if the car is fitted with harder original equipment run-flat tires, they can wear excessively on the inner edges and slightly worsen overall ride comfort.

Sources: ADAC, aktualne.cz, denik.cz, dopravniinfo.cz, autojournal.cz, autohit.cz

This article was prepared using artificial intelligence tools. The section guarantor is Petr Dušek.