Touted as being a premium sedan that takes luxury “far beyond what the world expects from a luxury car” when launched just over 12 months ago, the LS 500 rides on Lexus’ new Global Architecture-Luxury (GA-L) platform that also underpins the LC, and measures 5 235 mm with a wheelbase of 3 125 mm and width of 1 900 mm.
Featuring Lexus’ latest Spindle Grille design with a more fastback appearance when compared to the old XF40 LS, the internally named XF50 rides 15 mm lower than before, and comes as standard with run-flat 20-inch alloy wheels.
Weighing-in at 90 kg less than its predecessor, South African spec models not only comes with the brand’s Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system, but also the Adaptive Variable Suspension in Sport+ mode, as well as air suspension with LS Access that lowers automatically to aid exit and entry.
Inside, the interior conforms to the Japanese principle of omotenashi or selfless hospitality, with a combination of bespoke design and technologies Lexus claims is evident of the Takumi craftsmanship.
To this end, the LS boasts either black or crimson and black upholstery with Art Wood Organic or Herringbone wood trim, a smaller three-spoke steering wheel versus that of the old LS, semi-aniline leather seats with “precise” stitching,28-way electric driver's seat with heating and cooling as well as a Shiatsu massage function, ambient lighting claimed to take inspiration from traditional Japanese lanterns and a 12.3-inch infotainment system.
As the LS is expected to serve as more of a luxury limo, the rear offers three pre-set seat positions; the default Business, the rear monitor viewing Entertain mode or the full Relax which reclines and extendeds the ottoman seat electrically to provide 1 022 mm of rear legroom. In addition, the seats can recline 48 degrees and feature a 22-way adjustment with a massaging function also offered.
Driver assistance systems have also not been skimped on, and consist of Active Cruise Control, two-stage Adaptive High Beam Assist, Lane Keep Assist and Lane Departure Warning.
A big change for the LS comes underneath the bonnet where the previous 4.6-litre V8 has been replaced by a 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6, which produces 310kW/600Nm, and comes mated to a brand-new 10-speed automatic gearbox, claimed to offer the shift quality of a dual-clutch unit. Top speed is limited to 250 km/h with a claimed consumption figure of 9.5-litres/100km. A hybrid model, as well as the sporty F-Sport, are due at a later stage.
Included in the R2 141 000 sticker price, is a seven year/105 000 km warranty and maintenance plan.
