Hey guys and gals, was thinking of purchasing an LS500 awd as a daily and wanted to know if you guys think the air suspension is a worthy option?

I specifically wanted one with the interior upgrade package, Mark Levinson stereo, and Air Suspension. I have test driven with the air, haven’t without. Also, the ones with air sit a little lower at driving height which looks better to me as well.

 

I drove F-sports (staggered), non-air, air, and the Inspiration as part of my 4 month search and didn't feel a significant ride difference in one over the other (or note a difference visually as far as height....they all ride a bit high). The majority of cars I encountered had air (it's more common than not) so odds are to get the other options you want you'll end up w/ air. I'm with you that the interior upgrade pkg (which negates F-sports) and ML are must haves. Personally, I also did not want the panorama roof, which to me is a quite strange design especially since the main roof doesn't open all the way.

GL w/ your search. It's a superb car that is both luxurious and fun.

 

My concern with the air susp. is repair cost. I suppose as long as it’s under warranty, that’s not a problem.
the interior would be my first option to choose. The optional wood and leather wheel would be next.
I have had my car 6 weeks. It’s a fantastic ride. It sits next to our LS430 in our garage. Two great cars, our neighbors are awe struck.

 

My LS500 had air suspension. I had times where the car would sit un-level especially when viewed from the rear. Many times the front end would be too low while driving and scrape on the road a few doors down from my place. Other times it would be fine at the same dip in the road. If given the choice, I would not want air suspension in the long run (5+ years). If you are under warranty air suspension is fine. If out of warranty it's eye wateringly expensive to fix.