The LS has been the Japanese automaker’s flagship model and was introduced as an alternative to the likes of the BMW 7-series, Mercedes-Benz S-class and the Audi A8. It is the brand’s expression of the Japanese principle, omotenashi, meaning selfless hospitality.
Now 29 years after the very LS made its impact on the luxury sedan world, I was recently invited to an exclusive unveiling of the all-new fifth generation LS, which also included a few days behind the wheel.
The looks
The Germans play a very safe game when it comes to their styling, a trait which Lexus had been slowly phasing out over the last few years compared to some of its earliest models.
Viewed in profile, the LS features sharp angles, prominent lines and unmistakable design elements such as the spindle grille and LED headlights which feature a ‘Z’ like design. A few things of the design I really like are the dark chrome rims and the sleek coupe-like, as well as the long horizontal LED taillights.
Interior hospitality
Much like its exterior, the LS’ interior boasts sharp design elements blended together to create a harmonious and luxurious cocoon in which to escape from the outside world in.
Lexus has emphasised that the interior has been crafted by master craftsmen, and after spending some time in the car, I definitely got a sense of this. Everything is covered in quality, perfectly stitched leather.
There are elements of gloss wood trim with a unique pattern on the centre console and steering wheel. The dashboard has a two tier design with a large 12.3-inch multi-media screen and controls for the quad-zone climate control.
Something worth mentioning is the outstanding comfort levels that can be expected once you climb aboard. I found the seats, which are ventilated and feature a massage function, to be extremely comfortable in addition to offering a series of adjustments to help get one comfortable. Those in the rear will experience the same level of luxury, but with the added ability to recline the seats for added relaxation.
Tell me more about the rear
In addition to the seats with its three positions; Business, Entertain and the ottoman reclining Relax, rear passengers also get a tablet like control device which lets them adjust the infotainment system, climate control settings and the window blinds.
There is also a cooler box and individual ventilation, which all contributes in making the rear of the LS the place to be. Another addition which I found to be extremely good is the Mark Levinson 23-speaker QLI Reference surround sound audio system
Under the bonnet
For now, Lexus will only offer the LS in a single derivative with the 500 badging. Despite this nomenclature though, the engine actually displaces 3.5-litres and six-cylinder with added twin-turbochargers.
Replacing the previous LS’ 4.6-litre V8, the V6 is in fact more powerful with outputs of 310kW/600Nm. Power again goes to the rear wheels but now through a new 10-speed automatic gearbox, Lexus claims offers the shift quality of a dual-clutch unit despite being a standard torque converter.
The car does offer different driving modes such as Comfort, Sport and Sport+, which adjusts throttle mapping and gear changes. Underneath its skin, the LS becomes the latest model to use the brand’s new Global Architecture - Luxury (GA-L) platform, which has not only trimmed weight by some 90kg, but aided comfort and agility in spite of it being 5.2m long and 1.9m wide.
The big issue
While safety items such as Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Assist and Active Cruise Control have become the mainstay on more on models regardless of market positioning, on the LS, I find them necessary because of the infotainment system.
Like the NX, the LS features a touchpad module which requires the operator to slide their finger across similar to that of a laptop. Unfortunately, the system is so distracting and complicated that I found myself avoiding it as much as possible. Substituting this with a rotary dial would likely be much better and safer.
Verdict
Overall, despite the questionable infotainment control pad, the Lexus LS500 offers a unique and hand crafted feel. It looks different to the more clinical Germans while offering, in some places, better quality.
The drive might not be sporty but it is as close to falling into a swimming pool of whipped cream as what you are going to get. It offers luxury and space one can only find on extended wheelbase versions of the competition.
With a price tag of R2 141 400, the LS500 is unlikely to see top business executives rushing out in droves to replace their German luxo-barges, but as something different with the added benefit of a seven year/105 000km warranty and maintenance plan, it does come as a worthy alternative.
