jck1973

I've never owned an LS before, ,but I'm looking at a few low mileage 2012's. My budget will allow me to go up to a 2013, but I'm not sure if the upgrades from 2012 to 2013 justify the price difference. I'd appreciate any feedback. Thanks.

sktn77a

iTrader: (2)

I suspect they will be equally reliable so it boils down to esthetics - which one do you like the looks of and features best?

jrmckinley

Tons of posts on this topic, would suggest searching the forum to find the threads. The interior is completely re-designed in 2013 - some folks like it, others don't (mainly the nav joystick in '13 vs. touchscreen in '12). Obviously you see the exterior styling changes as well. There were lots of other changes outside of styling, but I don't recall the specifics - to me, it seemed like it was virtually identical engine but I may be wrong on that. I was focused on buying a '10-'12 because I prefer the exterior styling over the '13 facelift so didn't spend much time researching '13 and beyond. But there are lots of threads on this very topic of people debating what to do between the '07'-'12 to the '13 and beyond. Good news is you can't go wrong. 2012 has all of the bugs worked out, 2013 has added gadgets and a huge improvement in interior layout IMO. Will likely come down to what exterior & interior you prefer and how you feel about the joystick on the '13 to control the nav, etc.

jck1973

I like the styling of the 2012, but if there's any improvement on handling I'd probably prefer the 2013. Having driven both I can't tell much of a difference

jrmckinley

I don't think there would be a noticeable change in handling unless you went with the Sport model. I have no interest in driving my LS to challenge the handling so really can't comment (others can). I stay loyal to LS due to the serene driving/riding experience and great reliability I have experienced. There is no better car to have on a long road trip.

comotiger

Here's a review of the 2013 redesigned LS that notes some of the changes and improvements over the 2012 model. I am sure you can find a more comprehensive listing with a diligent on-line search. Briefly, you get a much stiffer body with lots of redesigned components, the new spindle grille and new dash with 12 inch Nav screen, blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert. Other safety features like DRCC and LKA were available on 2010-2012 models too, but such cars are extremely rare, unless you consider the 600hL also.
https://www.edmunds.com/lexus/ls-460/2013/review/

sktn77a

iTrader: (2)

I went from an '07 to a '14. If you close your eyes (don't recommend this ), you wouldn't know the difference!

lizhekb

I am also in the market searching a good deal on a 2012 or 2013.

Except the very distinctive exterior and interior redesign, the main difference are the blind spot monitor and cross traffic alert. Those are not available before 2013.

PRSUIT460

iTrader: (3)

I had a 2007 and now a 2013 F-Sport. I love the 2013!

Gbp

If one is fine with the grill, the remote touch infotainment interface, having a single CD/DVD player instead of a multi-disc changer, and one likes the interior appointments, go for the 2013 over the 2012. The 2013+ has a very cool wood option, Shimamoku 3xpress. 2013+ also has BSM (blind spot monitoring) and cross-traffic alert. If you go for the ex3cutive seating package in the LWB, it comes with a RSE (rear seat entertainment system) that includes a Blu-ray player. (It’s a four-seater rather than five-seater configuration.

2013 LS 460 brochure:

http://toyotacar-co.com/wp-content/u...2016/05/LS.pdf

Mbbarron

I'm also trying to decide between a 2012 v 2013. Would like some feedback on preference between touchscreen or remote touch? Can BSM be added aftermarket, and do you lose RCT? About a 4-5K cost difference and not sure I can justify when a 2013 is stretching my budget.

sktn77a

iTrader: (2)

Touchscreen was WAY better. The mouse is incredibly distracting!

Mbbarron

So if Blind spot/rear cross traffic is the one feature that I really wanted that I'd be giving up by going with a 2012, is it worth giving up that feature for the preference of the touchscreen? I love the idea of the larger 12.3 inch split view screen on the 2013, but if it's not functional then why bother.

Next question would be if anyone has experience using a Vaistech nav unlock system for smartphone integration? Is touchscreen or remote touch easier with this system? Probably same answer but would like someone's input on their actual experience with this. Thanks!

SW17LS

I personally don’t have an issue with the remote touch at all.

wjlim22

I read a lot of reviews from big publications saying that the mouse system was annoying in the 2013+, but I like it much better than the old touchscreen. I think 90% of the reviews I read said that the mouse system was not easy to use, but I have never had a problem with it. It works fine and also has feedback in the mouse to guide your direction a little. I think if you are good with a desktop mouse, you will be fine with the mouse system. Rear cross traffic alert system is one of my favorite features.