Lexus has given its flagship Lexus LS saloon a complete overhaul, including sharper styling, new tech and the addition of a more focused F Sport version. It has made its show premiere at this week's Moscow motor show.
Two engine variants make up the new LS line-up: the petrol LS460 and hybrid LS600h. UK sales begin later this year.
External tweaks include the introduction of Lexus’s spindle front grille design — first seen on the firm’s CT200h last year — plus the option of LED lights front and rear.
Under the LS’s skin, Lexus has revised the Adaptive Variable Suspension in an effort to “suppress roll, pitch and heave vibration”. Steering and braking systems have also been refined for better response and comfort.
Additional insulation from engine, road and wind noise aims to boost the luxury saloon’s refinement.
To inject more sporting flair into the marque’s flagship saloon, a new F Sport model features a 10mm reduction in ride height compared with the standard limousine, plus beefier, more aggressive exterior styling, six-piston brake calipers up front and a Torsen limited-slip differential.
The F Sport’s paddle-shift gearbox incorporates automatic throttle blipping when changing to a lower gear.
A first for Lexus is the inclusion of selectable driving modes, which include Eco, Comfort, Normal, Sport S and Sport S+.
The temperature of the heated/ventilated front and rear seats and heated steering wheel can be controlled automatically, in what Lexus claims is a world first.
The revised LS’s satellite navigation system — which is displayed on an extra-large, 12.3-inch screen — features internet connectivity, and all UK-spec LS models come equipped with a 19-speaker sound system plus upgrades to the rear seat entertainment package, which includes a Blu-Ray disc player.
Standard safety equipment comprises Lexus’s Advanced Pre-Crash Safety system with Collision Avoidance Assist and an upgraded Lane Keep Assist system.
Lexus is currently remaining tight-lipped about performance figures and pricing details.
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I like the look. Its going to
I like the look. Its going to better built than any other limo too.
I am not sure if there is a need for an F-Sport (if i were buying a limo for myself the word 'sport' in its name would be very off-putting) but its not as if they are forcing anyone.
Its a welcome left field choice for those who dont automatically buy German.
Frontal attack
I quite like the conservative look of the current LS460 in silver/ mica. My sense is that the new LS460 doesn't have the gravitas to match the appearance of the Mercedes S class, in view of the very unattractive front end of the new LS460.
It will no doubt be
It will no doubt be beautifully built, but there's just no need to try and out-Audi Audi with a front grille that size!