The Lexus LS (Luxury Sports) sedan was the first vehicle launched by the then newly created upmarket division of Toyota back in 1990.
Despite dire predictions that it could never beat the upmarket Germans and Brits at their own game the Lexus marque has now been operating for almost 30 years.
An all-new fifth generation LS flagship sedan is coming to Australia in April 2018. Lexus assures us it will further build on its reputation for smoothness, ride quietness, craftsmanship and attention to detail.
New LS is longer and lower than the gen-five and is built on an all-new platform. It has perhaps the biggest front grille of any car on the planet and has an almost coupe-like rear end.
It has 28-way power adjustable front seats in what promises to be a near silent interior. Silent enough to let you enjoy the 3D surround Mark Levison system.
The system offers an audio experience unparalleled in any Lexus with the use of Quantum Logic Immersion technology (QLI), Clari-Fi music restoration technology, 23 speakers in 16 locations (including the rear ceiling), and a 16-channel Mark Levinson Reference Amplifier producing the equivalent of 2400 Watts with 0.05 per cent Total Harmonic Distortion (THD).
In the latest European manner, Lexus has downsized and turbocharged its engine. Rather than the V8 used in previous models the 2018 LS has a 3.5-litre V6 engine with twin turbochargers. Outputs are 310 kW of power and 600 Nm of torque.
The 10-speed automatic is a torque converter unit, yet promises shift times that rival those of dual-clutch transmissions.
The new LS 500 promises a zero to 100 km/h time of just five seconds.
We have yet to experience the new Lexus LS 500 range but plan to do so at the April 2018 media launch and will report in detail immediately afterwards.
