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Karkrub Review

Specs of the Car:
The 2018 Lexus LS350 3.5 Luxury Sedan is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering smooth and refined performance. The engine typically produces around 311 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, it promises a seamless drive. The LS350’s interior is spacious, made with high-quality materials and detailed finishes, exemplifying luxury. With an array of safety features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and pre-collision systems, the car promises both luxury and safety.

History of the Model:
The Lexus LS line has been the flagship sedan for Lexus since its inception in 1989. It was introduced as a direct competitor to the European luxury sedans that dominated the market at the time. The LS has always been appreciated for its blend of performance, luxury, and reliability. The 2018 LS350 is part of the fifth generation of the LS lineup, showcasing the brand’s evolution in design, technology, and luxury.

Development of the Model:
The fifth-generation LS, including the 2018 LS350, marked a significant departure from its predecessors. Lexus embraced a more aggressive design, featuring the prominent spindle grille which became a defining trait for the brand. Additionally, this generation moved away from the V8 engines of the past, opting for the more efficient V6 without sacrificing performance. The development also focused on enhancing the luxury experience, incorporating advanced technology, both in terms of infotainment and safety.

Journalist Reviews at the Time of Release:
At its launch, the 2018 Lexus LS350 3.5 Luxury Sedan garnered praise for its redesigned, bold exterior and the refinement of its interior. Journalists appreciated its quiet and comfortable ride, often highlighting the meticulous attention to detail in the cabin. The advanced safety features and infotainment system were also noted as strong points. However, some critics pointed out that while the V6 was efficient and capable, it lacked the authoritative punch of a V8, which some competitors offered. The car’s infotainment system, despite its advancements, was occasionally critiqued for its complexity.

Types of Modifications Typically Done:
While the Lexus LS350 is a luxury sedan, and many owners prefer to keep its stock look and feel, there is a subset of enthusiasts who pursue modifications. Common modifications include:

• Wheels and Tires: Upgraded alloy wheels and performance tires are popular to enhance the aesthetics and road grip.
• Suspension Upgrades: Some enthusiasts opt for adjustable coilovers to lower the car and improve handling.
• Exterior Enhancements: This includes tinted windows, custom grilles, and aftermarket body kits to give the LS350 a unique appearance.
• Performance Upgrades: While less common given the car’s luxury focus, some owners might opt for exhaust upgrades, air intake systems, or even ECU tuning to squeeze out more performance from the V6 engine.
• Interior Customizations: From bespoke upholstery to advanced audio systems, there are enthusiasts who take the already luxurious interior of the LS350 a notch higher.

In conclusion, the 2018 Lexus LS350 3.5 Luxury Sedan offers a blend of modern design, technological advancements, and performance. It stands as a testament to Lexus’s evolution as a luxury carmaker, combining tradition with modernity. Whether kept stock or modified, the LS350 remains a standout in the luxury sedan segment.

Karkrub Score

Design: 8.5/10
The 2018 LS350’s design marked a bold move for Lexus. Incorporating the brand’s spindle grille, the sedan carries an authoritative and aggressive front facade. Sleek lines and a refined profile demonstrate Lexus’s commitment to modern luxury. However, while many find the design contemporary and stylish, others might view it as a tad polarizing, especially with the oversized grille.

Power: 7.5/10
Equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine, the LS350 delivers a decent 311 horsepower. While this is respectable and provides the car with a smooth ride, it does fall short when compared to some rivals that offer V8s in the luxury sedan category. The V6 is efficient but may lack the punch sought by some luxury car enthusiasts.

Fun: 7/10
The LS350 is more of a cruiser than a sporty sedan. While it offers a composed ride and can handle corners decently, it doesn’t quite give the exhilaration some might expect from a luxury car. The 10-speed automatic transmission is smooth, but the sedan leans more towards comfort than sheer driving thrill.

Comfort: 9/10
Lexus has always excelled in the comfort department, and the 2018 LS350 is no exception. The cabin is spacious, adorned with high-quality materials and meticulous finishes. The seating is plush, and noise insulation is top-notch, ensuring that occupants are treated to a serene environment even at highway speeds.

Reliability: 8.5/10
Lexus, being Toyota’s luxury arm, benefits from the brand’s renowned reliability. Owners can expect fewer visits to the workshop compared to some European rivals. While minor electronic glitches might surface, as with most modern cars, the LS350’s mechanical components are built to last.

Safety: 9/10
Safety is paramount in the 2018 LS350. The sedan boasts a plethora of advanced safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, pre-collision systems, and more. The robust build and attention to safety details ensure peace of mind for both the driver and passengers.

Value: 8/10
The 2018 Lexus LS350 3.5 Luxury Sedan, when new, carried a premium price tag, expected of luxury sedans. However, given its features, comfort, and reliability, it offers good value, especially when considering the potential long-term ownership costs. It may not have the brand cachet of some European rivals, but it makes up for it with its comprehensive package.

Average Score: 8.2/10

In summation, the 2018 Lexus LS350 3.5 Luxury Sedan is a well-rounded luxury car that excels in comfort, safety, and reliability. While it might not offer the ultimate driving thrill or the power punch of a V8, it provides a balanced luxury experience that many owners will appreciate. The score reflects its strengths and minor shortcomings in a highly competitive segment.