The all-new, fifth generation Lexus LS had its international launch this week. Australian buyers will need to wait until April next year to get behind the wheel of the Lexus flagship with the Japanese premium brand claiming to have delivered improvements in powertrain smoothness, ride quietness, craftsmanship, attention to detail and documented dependability.
From the press images, the LS looks very much the flagship sedan that will give Lexus a technology-packed model that will be aiming to take sales from the BMW 7 Series, Mercedes-Benz S-Class and Audi A8.
The fifth-generation LS has been a long time coming, the current generation has been on the market for a decade.
The most interesting aspects of the new model sit under the skin. There are new drivetrains coming to Australia, the LS500 will feature a new 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6, while the LS500h will be powered by the Multi Stage Hybrid system used in the LC coupe.
There’s no V8 model for this generation, the numbers indicate it’s not necessary. The new 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6 produces 310kW/600Nm, which betters the 285kW/493Nm V8 from the outgoing LS.
Both models send power to the rear wheels, via a 10-speed torque converter automatic transmission in the LS500, while the LS500h will use a CVT calibrated to deliver the sensation of using a 10-speed automatic.
As a flagship model, each variant will no doubt be packed with standard features and set the bar high in terms of technology and safety.
Australian specifications and pricing are still to be confirmed, final details are expected in the lead-up to the local launch in April 2018.
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