Lexus LS updated with major facelift

The new Lexus LS made its global debut recently, and amazingly, its chief engineer has stated on record that this is not an all-new model. We repeat, not an all-new model. Honesty is a rarely appreciated virtue in the world of product advertising, and Lexus’ remarkable restraint from over-declaring the credential of its flagship is refreshing and very praiseworthy.

Speaking at the recent global launch of the new LS in Palo Alto, California, Hideki Watanabe, Chief Engineer of the LS, said, “We do not want to call it an all-new model simply because it is not, this Lexus LS is an extensive improvement over the previous LS but it still shares some parts. When we do release an all-new model, you can expect it to be much better than even this model.”

Now six years in its model cycle, the time is indeed ripe for the arrival of a new LS, but Watanabe’s frank admission was that, “We are still not ready to introduce an all-new LS. This new LS is a significant upgrade over the last model, and people can be forgiven for mistaking it for an all-new model. But truth is, the LS is a very important model to us, and as such we want to take our time with developing an all-new model, simply because we want to get it perfect.”

Two petrol-powered V8 powertrain packages are available for selection, both mated to 8-speed automatic transmissions. Smaller of the two is a 4.6-litre unit producing 387hp and 493Nm to enable a 5.7-second century sprint and 250kph top speed for the LS 460. The other option is a 5.0-litre block paired to a high-output electric motor for a combined output of 445hp and 300Nm in the LS 600hL, with 6.1 seconds zero to hundred and 250kph max being the relevant figures.

A newly adopted drive mode selector allows drivers to vary between five switchable driving modes – Eco, Comfort, Normal, Sport S, and Sport +. Eco mode modifies throttle response and engine power output to maximize fuel efficiency. Comfort mode changes the characteristics of the suspension to provide a smoother, more comfortable ride. On the other hand, Sport S and Sport + modes maximize throttle response and engine power output,

The 460 is offered in both long and short wheelbase bodies, and now there is an F Sport version added to the mix for those who seek a sportier flavour. In the long wheelbase model, the rear ‘Ottoman’ seats recline further back and have an integrated air-assisted massage system for silent operation. The air-conditioning system incorporates 13 sensors around the cabin that detects your body heat and adjusts its load accordingly for optimum cooling of its occupants.

All in all, Lexus made over 3,000 changes to the new LS, and most visible amongst them will be the vehicles vastly revised sheet-metal. Subtler revisions have been labeled as full model changes before. The new LS sports Lexus’ latest design philosophy dubbed the L-finesse, and though Lexus acknowledges the fact that existing owners may love it or hate it, it still is a very imposing car that marks its presence on the road with quiet serenity. Malaysian buyers can look forward to the new LS’ arrival in our shores by the fourth quarter of this year.

KON

Pictures: Official Lexus release.

Further Information:
– Official Lexus LS prices and specifications in Malaysia
– Official Lexus cars prices and specifications in Malaysia