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2018 Lexus LS 500 still sets the course for Japanese flagships

Despite a frustrating infotainment system, the Lexus LS continues to be the flagship luxury sedan that reigns over its Japanese counterparts.

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andrewkrok.jpg
Andrew Krok
Cars are Andrew's jam, as is strawberry. After spending years as a regular ol' car fanatic, he started working his way through the echelons of the automotive industry, starting out as social-media director of a small European-focused garage outside of Chicago. From there, he moved to the editorial side, penning several written features in Total 911 Magazine before becoming a full-time auto writer, first for a local Chicago outlet and then for CNET Cars.
Andrew Krok
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If there's one thing Lexus has perfected over the years, it's the luxury experience.

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But if there's one area where Lexus continues to fail, it's with infotainment. 

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Both of these attributes come to a head in the 2018 LS 500.

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Lexus' latest big-body sedan is so good in so many ways, but I feel it's being held back from its full potential.

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I can't lay all the blame on the infotainment, mind you -- just most of it.

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If you want a large car with character, the expressive design will work in your favor. 

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If the Lexus F Sport trim were merely an appearance package with bigger brakes, that'd be fine. But it also adds sport-tuned adaptive dampers that actually prevent the LS 500 from showing off its max potential.

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Even with the F Sport trim, the LS 500 is plenty plush, soaking up bad roads with nary a peep making its way through to the occupants.

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I find that the best way to drive the LS 500 is to ignore the sportier drive modes and just leave it in Comfort all the time.

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Keep on scrolling to check out even more pictures of the Lexus LS 500, and don't forget to read our full review!

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