In the driver's seat, however, the Lexus LS 600h L seems to outperform its stats. We haven't yet had the opportunity to do serious track testing on this vehicle, but we were impressed by its powerful takeoff (thanks to the deliciously torque-y electric motor) and confident handling (thanks to full-time all-wheel drive). Lexus cars have long had a reputation for handling that seemed buttery and soft in comparison to their German counterparts, but the LS 600h L felt downright aggressive. That said, it was definitely the strong, silent type. The hybrid engine was remarkably quiet, even by Lexus standards. If there was a rumble or whine to be heard from either the gasoline or electric motors, you couldn't tell from inside the vehicle.
The lesson I take from this car is that the German luxury brands have little to no competitive advantage over Lexus anymore. The super-luxury segment is the closest thing to an arms race that the automotive industry has. And in the battle of the Germans vs. the Japanese, the Lexus LS has matched or exceeded every refinement found in Mercedes’ and BMW's big sedans. Now Lexus has closed the engine gap by using hybrid technology to turn a V8 into a virtual V12. It's almost enough to make a wealthy car buyer want to save $20,000 to $40,000.
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