So my 2003 RX300, among smaller issues, now is coding a bad knock sensor. So I think it's time to move on.

A long time ago I had a 1993 LS 400 and I loved it, (I still tell people it was the best car I've ever owned... and I've had a lot) so now I'm thinking of getting another LS. I tend to buy 10 year old Lexus and keep them for just a few years, so I'm now debating between the hybrid or not.

I've accepted that I may have to replace the hybrid battery... $3k aftermarket, fine (I think that is somewhat reflected in the used prices I'm seeing, so I get it).

I've got to get an AWD (it snows enough here). I love the features that come standard on the 600hL that are seemingly hard to find on the 460. (park assist, cooler compartment in the rear, rear entertainment system, etc). But I'm worried a little about other problems (and the expense I might have in fixing them) with the 600hL over the 460.

Thoughts?

 

Well, it depends on what options you want in the car aside from the AWD. The 600H L are usually fully-loaded with awesome options, while the LS460 AWD can be had from a bare-bones model to full loaded with almost everything on the 600. Not to mention you can get a newer year 460 compared to the cost of a 600. Many of the 600H L I saw on the market were close to $20,000 for an 08-09, which is 2010-2012 LS460 money. 2013 models if you get really lucky, or are okay with 100,000+ miles.

I was able to get a Comfort+ LS460 with no air and no rear entertainment/cooler, but that's because I couldn't find any without air suspension.

 

How old an LS are we talking about?

 

2008-2010 for the 600, could go a little newer for the 460

 

I would get a 460 then...

 

Get a 2010-2012 LS460. You won't regret it.

 

I'm a huge LS600hL fan, so I'm a bit biased, but I would definitely go the LS600 route vs an LS460. Here's why: As you pointed out, the LS600hLs are almost all fully loaded with nearly every imaginable option Lexus had to offer at the time. All of them are AWD, most have the rear entertainment system with reclining rear seats and cool-box between the seats. They are very unique/rare (I've never seen another one "in the wild"). They have options not even available in the LS460 like leather stitched dash and unique gauge cluster (2010-2012).

The LS600hLs are/were the ultimate LS, and were priced at a premium of roughly $30k over a similarly equipped LS460. Was this a good value? Probably not. But now, with the price difference shrunk down to a manageable $3-5k, I would argue they offer the best overall value to be had in the LS line.

I've owned two LS460s and two LS600hLs, and can state with confidence that the 600 is more powerful, quieter, more refined, more "planted," and overall a nicer ride.

The downside? Mostly the batteries (as you've noted). The rest of the standard LS issues are also found in the LS600s (front control arms, air ride suspensions, M/L Amp issues, Brake Actuators, etc.). You have to be willing to accept these issues if you buy an LS, whether it be the 460 or 600.

I bought my immaculate 1-owner 2010 LS600hL last year with 66k miles and a flawless Lexus service history. Original MSRP was $127k. I paid $27,500. Mine has the executive rear seat package with Shiatzu massage and ottoman. This always totally floors my passengers (I'm a real estate guy and love to let clients sit in the back and get a massage between home showings).

I'd recommend the 2010-2012 model years if you can find one, as many of the early issues (wind noise, front control arms, etc.) had been improved by those years. Plus I LOVE the unique dash cluster on those models.

Good luck!

 

I only have the 460ls. I do not know ho quieter a cabin can be. Mine has the Luxury Premium Package.
Since all my new dash pieces are in it is a beautiful piece of machinery. 94000 miles for 15 K. 2007.

 

What co. Are you with Rick

 

I'm actually retired military (Air Force) and I work for the government still as a civil service employee at Offutt AFB (my "day job"). I also own and operate three other companies: 1) A very busy photography business, 2) A rental property company, and 3) I'm a licensed real estate agent. I stay pretty busy! And I enjoy my two Lexus cars as my main "hobby."

 

Informative, thanks. I thought I read something about some error on a sensor that required replacing a good chunk of the exhaust on the hybrid models. Is that something you're aware of?

 

OK, I'll jump in and further confuse you Hepcat.

I vote for the LS 600hL.

If I were in your position, that is the car I would buy.

 

Based on what you're saying, I'd get a 2010-2012 or even see if you can squeeze out the money for a 2013. As nice as the 600H is, I think a newer vehicle is nicer. Especially if you can get the refreshed model.

 

Why not a ls460l that will be my option.

 

Agree the AWD is not a need in Texas!

JMO