The flagship vehicle that introduced a brand and challenged an industry reignites to do it once again. Unveiled at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit in January 2017, the new sedan exemplifies Lexus’ Takumi craftsmanship.
A new driver-centric performance feel comes from building the LS on the company's all-new global architecture for luxury vehicles (GA-L).
This premium rear-wheel-drive platform, an extended version of the one used for the stunning new Lexus LC 500 coupe, will offer a more dynamic experience on the road while further elevating renowned Lexus comfort.
To be offered only as a long-wheelbase model, the 3,125mm wheelbase is 33mm longer than the current LS long-wheelbase model.
Helping to provide the optimum handling balance in the new LS is the latest generation of a chassis control technology known as Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM).
This system implements co-operative control of all vehicle subsystems - braking, steering, powertrain and suspension - to control basic longitudinal, lateral and vertical motion as well as yaw, roll and pitch. Optimal control of these motions helps to enable exceptional ride comfort, enhanced traction and safety and handling agility.
Handling is further enhanced by available features including active stabiliser bars and the Lexus Dynamic Handling (LDH) System with independent front and rear steering.
For both high power and excellent fuel efficiency, Lexus designed an all-new 3.5-litre V6 engine specifically for the new LS with all-new twin turbos developed through the company's F1 technology.
The new engine in the LS is indicative of the more dynamic approach being taken by Lexus, offering V8-level power without sacrificing fuel economy - all while minimising noise and vibration.
The outputs - 310kW of power and 600Nm of torque - offer sizeable gains over the current LS model's V8.
Lexus tuned the engine and transmission to deliver instant acceleration and a constant build-up of torque toward the engine's redline.
The driver will be able to tailor powertrain response and feel by choosing from NORMAL, SPORT and SPORT+ drive modes - and just enough of the exhaust note can be heard to enhance the sporty feel.
The first-ever 10-speed automatic transmission for a luxury sedan, having already debuted in the Lexus LC 500, is also used in the new LS flagship sedan.
It is a torque-converter automatic, yet with shift times that rival those of dual-clutch transmissions. The wide bandwidth afforded by 10 closely spaced ratios is ideal for all forms of driving, helping to provide an optimal gear for all conditions.
Shifting via paddles is available, yet many will prefer the advanced electronic control system that anticipates the driver's input. The system chooses the ideal ratio by monitoring the acceleration, braking and lateral-g forces.
Lexus has created a design offering the room and comfort of a prestige ‘three-box’ sedan, yet with the stylish silhouette of a four-door coupe that holds stronger appeal for younger luxury customers.
Lexus designers took full advantage of the new platform to give the new LS a stretched, ground-hugging appearance. Compared with the current LS, the new model is about 15mm lower, while the hood and boot are approximately 30mm and 40mm lower respectively. The new LS is the first Lexus sedan with a six-side-window design. Also a first for a Lexus sedan, the flush-surface windows smoothly integrate with the side pillar.
The unique rendition of the spindle grille mesh, with a texture that seemingly changes in different light, is the result of both intense CAD development and hand-adjusting thousands of individual surfaces.
Lexus tuned the LS exhaust to convey a more authoritative tone, yet also designed the cabin to ensure utterly quiet cruising.
Active Noise Control* quietens the cabin by detecting the sound of the engine coming into the vehicle and cancelling certain frequencies using antiphase sound from the audio speakers.
The serenity of the LS cabin provides an ideal stage for the standard premium audio system or the audiophile-worthy available 3D surround Mark Levinson audio package* with in-ceiling array speakers and inviting graphic user interface
In addition to its 12.3-inch wide navigation display, the LS incorporates a large colour head-up display (HUD)* that projects a variety of information onto the driver's forward view.
The Lexus LS will be available in Australia in 2018.
Images shown depict an overseas prototype and not the final, Australian model.
