2023 Lexus LS starting at $78,685 and featuring the latest technology

The Lexus LS enters the 2023 model year with a handful of updates aimed at improving the usability of its infotainment system.

The dashboard will come standard with a 12.3-inch infotainment screen, but the Lexus interface system, which debuted in the redesigned 2022 NX, will eliminate the traditional remote-touch interface trackpad and replace the previous wired wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity have been added in place of the traditional wired versions. Dual-phone Bluetooth pairing is also included.

The 2023 LS also adds a voice assistant that responds to the prompt "Hey Lexus." According to Lexus, it features natural language processing similar to what other automakers already offer and uses dual microphones and seat detection to maximize accuracy.

Powertrains will carry over into 2023; the LS 500 will stick with a twin-turbo 3.5-liter V-6 that produces 416 hp and 442 lb-ft of torque, mated to a 10-speed automatic with a choice of rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. An optional Dynamic Handling Package adds all-wheel steering and sportier suspension tuning.

The LS 500h combines a 3.5-liter V6 engine with two electric motors (one to start the engine and the other to drive the rear wheels) for a total output of 354ps. Like the gasoline vehicle, the hybrid can be selected between rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive.

The all-wheel drive LS 500h model can also be equipped with the Lexus Cheemate hands-free driver assistance system, introduced for the 2022 model year. According to Lexus, the system, also called Advanced Drive, can control acceleration, braking, and steering while driving on single-lane highways, as well as change lanes, navigate certain interchanges, and operate in traffic jams.

Other driver assistance technologies have also been carried over. The standard Lexus Safety System+ 2.5 suite includes driver assistance features such as forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane departure warning.

The 2023 Lexus LS is expected to be available at dealerships in late 2022. Pricing starts at $78,685 for the base LS 500 with rear-wheel drive, including a $1,150 destination charge. However, the LS 500h hybrid with Lexus Teammate is priced at $114,585.