2021 Lexus LS

24 February 2021

1. NEW LEXUS LS RAISES REFINEMENT, COMFORT AND TECHNOLOGY BENCHMARKS
2. METICULOUS ENGINEERING IMPROVEMENTS DELIVER INCREDIBLE REFINEMENT AND THE LEXUS DRIVING SIGNATURE
3. UPDATED POWERTRAINS FOCUS ON QUIETNESS AND RESPONSIVENESS
4. BRAVE DESIGN - WITH SOPHISTICATION AND STRUCTURE
5. TAKUMI CRAFTSMANSHIP MEETS IMAGINATIVE TECHNOLOGY
6. LEADING SAFETY TECHNOLOGY BEFITTING A FLAGSHIP LUXURY SEDAN
7. LEXUS LS SPECIFICATIONS

NEW LEXUS LS RAISES REFINEMENT, COMFORT AND TECHNOLOGY BENCHMARKS

Lexus has further raised the standard of refinement, Takumi craftsmanship and imaginative technology with the updated LS flagship sedan on sale January 20.

Meticulous engineering improvements, more opulent interiors and broader application of advanced technologies have created an impeccable new high watermark for luxury and drivability.

The wide-ranging upgrades arrive with pricing aligned for LS 500 and hybrid LS 500h F Sport variants from $195,953¹ and for Sports Luxury variants from $201,078¹ - representing increases of less than one per cent.

Dynamic enhancements dictated by the brand's Lexus Driving Signature have been complemented by elevated levels of comfort, quietness and overall refinement.

This philosophy applies meticulous tuning and thoughtful component and software updates that drive Lexus models to a new standard of vehicle control, balance and driver confidence.

Supreme smoothness, refinement and effortless power for the 264kW 3.5-litre normally aspirated V6 hybrid powertrain in the LS 500h have benefited from painstaking attention to detail.

Lexus engineers have improved drivability through its multi-stage hybrid system by increasing the level of assistance provided by the high-voltage lithium-ion battery to the electric motor and by expanding its range of operation.

Shift software has been retuned to take advantage of more electric power appearing at a lower rpm, resulting in smoother and more linear acceleration in city driving and the need for less throttle pressure when negotiating twisty or hilly roads.

The expanded role for the hybrid battery also makes for quieter operation.

The 310kW 3.5-litre twin-turbocharged V6 engine in the LS 500 gains a new lip design on the upper surface of the pistons to reduce noise when the engine is cold.

Dual variable valve timing adopts hydraulic control on the inlet side to reduce weight while maintaining the engine's strong torque over a broad rev range.

Further weight reductions have been achieved with a new one-piece intake manifold made from aluminium instead of cast iron.

Suspension modifications are designed to produce an even smoother, more comfortable ride while maintaining the model's dynamic character.

The Adaptive Variable Suspension employs a revised linear solenoid and enlarged flow path inside the control valve, reducing damping force for greater comfort over rough surfaces while also supporting better steering response and vehicle stability.

Further elevating its status as a luxury flagship, Lexus has enhanced imaginative technology in the LS by offering greater convenience and driver-assistance safety features.

A new widescreen 12.3-inch touch-display is now elegantly integrated to provide effortless control of the multimedia system - complementing the stunning audio of the 23-speaker Mark Levinson^®2 surround sound system.

Comprehensive safety features now include a digital rear-view mirror for the first time in a Lexus. Its large display presents real-time images from the reversing camera, providing improved vision in all weather and lighting conditions while ensuring the view is not obstructed by headrests or passengers.

Functionality of the advanced Lexus Safety System+ has been enhanced with the addition of intersection turning assist³, first introduced in the new Lexus IS.

This system is designed to provide alerts and, if necessary, automatic braking if it detects an oncoming vehicle when turning right or a pedestrian approaching from the front when turning right or left.

F Sport variants gain additional driver-assist features previously exclusive to Sports Luxury variants - active steering assist, speed reduction on curves with the Lane Tracing Assist system, front cross-traffic alert, and a radar that can detect vehicles approaching diagonally in front of the vehicle.³

The LS also joins the IS with standard Lexus Connected Services. They include Automatic Collision Notification⁴ - the ability to generate an automatic emergency call to a 24/7 Lexus Emergency Call Centre and relay the location of the vehicle in the event of a collision that requires intervention, or if an airbag deploys. If the occupants are unable to communicate, the agent will automatically treat the call as an emergency, contact "Triple Zero" (000) to describe the situation, and request that assistance be sent to the location.

Occupants can also request emergency assistance via an SOS button⁵ on the overhead console. The answering agent will determine the vehicle's location, assess the situation, and coordinate with "Triple Zero" (000) when required.

If the vehicle is reported stolen, Lexus Connected Services can assist authorities to locate the vehicle via the Stolen Vehicle Tracking service⁶.

The new Lexus LS can be distinguished by its elegant new grille, front bumper and taillight accents, as well as new high-grade LED headlights featuring advanced BladeScan™² adaptive high-beam technology for more precise illumination.

Sports Luxury grades feature a "hollow chamber" alloy wheel design that lowers unsprung mass and reduces tyre noise.

Their standard 20-inch wheels are shod with a new run-flat tyre design, where the vertical spring rate of the tyre has been lowered to reduce the impact of road surface irregularities and even further harmonise the renowned ride comfort of the LS.

Inside the LS Sports Luxury cabin, Lexus has applied a new level of precision Japanese craftsmanship to further refine the superlative comfort offered by the leather-accented, power-adjustable front and rear outboard seating.

New multi-layered urethane seat cushioning features a top layer of low-resilience material that adapts to the occupant's body providing increased softness. A deeper seam between the cushion and side support allows greater flex in the upholstery and excellent vibration absorption.

This application of exquisite Takumi craftsmanship can be seen in the world-first use of a combination of platinum foil and Nishijin-ori textiles as one of several opulent extra-cost options for the interior door trim⁷.

Platinum foil around the door handles is complemented by a traditional organic woven fabric, creating a delicate shine across the interior surface of the doors.

Another available trim combination combines hand-pleated upholstery and exquisite Kiriko cut-glass ornamentation.

Lexus also offers a new exterior silver-hued paint finish⁷ across the range, Lustre Shadow, that incorporates aluminium flakes in a smooth mirror-like finish.

Lexus Australia Chief Executive Scott Thompson said the finest design, craft and engineering talent have produced a new LS sedan that once again resets benchmarks as the Japanese luxury lifestyle brand's flagship sedan.

"Lexus experts have pored over every detail of the new LS, raising its performance and driver engagement, ride comfort, quietness and technologies to new heights," Mr Thompson said.

"Complemented by our exclusive Encore Platinum Owner benefits program, the new LS delivers immaculate choice for the most demanding Lexus customers."

Pricing¹ from:

• White, Black, Chateau and Hazel trims with premium ornamentations are no-cost options.
• Other trim and ornamentation combinations are available for an extra $10,000.

• Adaptive Variable Suspension
• Height adjustable Multi-link Front and Rear Air Suspension
• Clearance and Reversing Sonar (8 head) with Front Cross-Traffic Alert and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert+Brake
• LED Headlights with BladeScan™³ Adaptive High-beam System
• LED Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) with Sequential Indicators
• Tilt and Slide Moonroof
• Touchless (foot sensing) Power Boot Lid
• Keyless Smart Entry (4 door) with Smart Key Card
• Soft Close Doors
• Rain Sensing Wipers
• Illuminated Door Handles with Front Puddle Lights
• Auto Retractable, Heated and Self-dimming Exterior Mirrors with Memory
• Digital Rear View Mirror
• 3" Multimedia Touch-display and Lexus Remote Touch-pad Controller
• 23 Speaker Mark Levinson®² Audio with Subwoofer
• Apple CarPlay®⁸ and Android Auto™⁹ compatibility
• DAB+ digital radio¹⁰
• DVD player, USB (x4) and AUX Input
• Satellite Navigation System
• Colour Head Up Display
• Lexus Climate Concierge with Infrared Body Temperature Sensors
• Heated and Ventilated Front Seats with Rear Heated Outer Seats
• 28-way Power Operated Front Seats with Memory
• Driver Seat with Easy Access Functions
• Heated Steering Wheel
• Smart Start and Push Button Start
• Electric Rear Sunshade
• Pre-Collision Safety System including pedestrian and daylight cyclist detection
• Front Lateral Side Pre-Collision System
• Active Steering Assist
• All-speed Radar Active Cruise Control
• Lane Tracing Assist with Curve Speed Reduction
• Parking Support Brake
• Road Sign Assist (detects certain speed signs)
• 4-camera Panoramic View Monitor
• Blind Spot Monitor
• Lexus Connected Services including Automatic Collision Notification, SOS Emergency Call and Stolen Vehicle Tracking

• 20" Dark Metallic Alloy Wheels
• Badging, Grilles and Dark Metallic Accents
• High Performance Brake Package
• Dynamic Rear Steering
• Variable Gear Ratio Steering
• Active Front and Rear Stabilisers (LS 500 F Sport only)
• Dual Zone Climate Control Air Conditioning
• LFA-style 8" Digital Instrumentation with slide-out meter ring
• Leather Accented Seats and Ornamentation
• Bolstered Front Seats
• Steering Wheel, Shift Lever, Clock and Pedals
• 10 SRS Airbags

• Sports Luxury 20" Hollow Chamber Alloy Wheels
• Quad-zone Climate Control Air Conditioning
• 8" Sports Luxury Digital Instrumentation
• Semi Aniline Leather Accented Interior
• Choice of Unique Ornamentations, some at additional cost
• Front Seat Relaxation System
• Dual 11.6" HD Rear Seat Entertainment screens with HDMI input
• Power Operated Outboard Rear Seats with Memory
• Rear seat (passenger side) with Full Recline function and Ottoman
• Rear Seat Massage System for outboard seats
• Rear Armrest with Touchscreen Climate, Audio and Massage Controls
• Electric Rear Side Sunshades
• Rear Cooler Box (LS 500 only)
• Rear Ventilated Outer Seats
• Front Seat Easy Access Seatbelt Buckles
• 12 SRS Airbags (Additional Rear Seat Cushion Airbags)

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METICULOUS ENGINEERING IMPROVEMENTS DELIVER INCREDIBLE REFINEMENT AND THE LEXUS DRIVING SIGNATURE

Lexus engineers have directed painstaking attention to detail at suspension componentry and tuning of the new LS in order to reset the benchmarks for smoothness, quietness and refinement in the upper-large luxury sedan segment.

With new LS, Lexus engineers were determined to maintain the pedigree established by the original generation as the standard setter for road surface impact absorption and occupant isolation from unwanted intrusions from the outside environment.

At the same time the new Lexus Driving Signature is introduced to LS, leveraging the incredibly rigid rear-wheel drive Global-Architecture Luxury (G-AL) platform to achieve stunning cohesion between driver and vehicle - defined by linear response to inputs and immense cornering confidence for the driver in all conditions.

To achieve a new high watermark meant rethinking metrics and assessing the smallest details that contribute to resetting the standards by which others would be judged.

This rethink even extended to new 20-inch alloy wheels for the Sports Luxury grade, which now have a 'hollow chamber' to lower their acoustic output.

This is complemented by a new 20-inch Bridgestone Turanza tyre design, which features optimised, reinforced rubber on the sides including a lower vertical spring rate, reducing road surface inputs transferred to the vehicle.

The linear solenoid and control valve for the standard Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) has also been optimised, with the flow path inside the control valve enlarged to lower damping force - while the adoption of an independent extension and compression orifice has also been extended, expanding the variable damping range.

In Eco and Comfort modes, AVS prioritises plushness while maintaining control of body movement to reduce head-toss for passengers, blending soothing response to bumps and even movement across undulating surfaces.

Normal and Sport S modes provide a balanced performance between smoothness and body control.

Sport S+ mode - or if the driver preferences Sport S+ mode damping as part of the individually configurable Custom mode - tightens body movement further while continuing to eliminate harsh responses.

New liquid-filled, larger compliance bushings have been installed in the lower control arms of the advanced multi-link front and rear suspension, ensuring high attenuation and enhancing settling after impact with larger bumps or uneven surfaces.

Controlling body movement and reducing small amplitude impacts is further aided by the addition of a new bound stopper that reduces vertical front suspension stroke friction by 30% to create a smoother suspension stroke and deliver a supple ride.

When driving over bumps or grade changes, comparison testing with the previous model showed the new LS reduced large input shocks by 26% - as recorded from beneath the front seat cushions.

The comparison showed larger bumps yielded the greatest reduction in vertical acceleration for passengers in the new LS compared with the outgoing model.

At the same time, the dynamism inherent in the aluminium-intensive G-AL platform - derived from the acclaimed Lexus LC sports car - has been further reinforced.

A key dynamic feature of the G-AL platform is a long wheelbase with the front axle moved as far forward as possible, enabling the front-mounted V6 petrol engines to be placed lower in the engine bay for improved weight distribution and a low centre of gravity.

For the new LS, the stabiliser bar's front and rear spring rate ratio has been changed to alter the front load transfer distribution during roll, adjusting the vehicle's turning posture to make it easier to trace the desired inward line when turning.

It is this neutral cornering posture that is a hallmark of the new Lexus Driving Signature and the key to creating the driver confidence to enjoy spirited driving across roads with tighter and longer corners, and smooth or harsher surfaces.

The LS 500 F Sport also takes a focus on dynamics a step further with a standard active stabiliser system, which suppresses vehicle roll without deteriorating the ride comfort and maintains stable turning.

Both the LS 500 and LS 500h F Sport feature dynamic rear steering, for controlling the rear-wheel steering angle, and variable gear-ratio steering as part of the Lexus Dynamic Handling system.

In a forward direction when the front wheels are turning left, for example, the rear wheels will turn a slight right to help the new LS pivot towards the corner with added response - enhancing manoeuvrability at low speeds and response at medium to high speed.

This system works with the active stabiliser system to enable roll angle control as well as transient roll movement control (roll response and damping) with no delay in response to steering input.

When the driver selects Sport S+ mode, the objective vehicle characteristic is switched to a sportier drive that is even more responsive to steering inputs.

A high performance brake package completes the F Sport suite of driver-focused additions - moving from the 357mm front/335mm rear brake disc size in the Sports Luxury to a larger 400mm/359mm package.

By offering Sports Luxury and F Sport grades of the new LS with significant mechanical differences, Lexus remains focused on offering the most demanding luxury customers a choice of distinct personalities to suit their individual needs.

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UPDATED POWERTRAINS FOCUS ON QUIETNESS AND RESPONSIVENESS

The new LS continues the finest Lexus traditions by leveraging the most detailed analysis of componentry to deliver a quieter and more responsive driving experience with both twin-turbocharged V6 petrol and self-charging hybrid electric powertrains.

In the LS 500, the V35A-FTS 3.5-litre twin-turbocharged V6 petrol engine has been upgraded in several key areas to better connect the driver to the vehicle.

A revised twin-turbocharger system delivers a marked improvement in off-the-line responsiveness compared with the outgoing LS.

It includes a revised electric wastegate valve that now delivers quicker and more stable opening and closing of the valve for quicker response to the application of throttle pressure.

An oil control path that has been shortened in length helps eliminate any lag and further improves the delivery of instantaneous performance.

At the same time the twin-turbocharged V6 focuses on new refinement and sound improvements, with newly developed pistons that feature a lip shape on the piston top surface, reducing noise levels particularly when cold.

The crank pin diameter for the crankshaft has also been enlarged to further control vibration and reduce the engine sound.

Weight has been reduced both with the variable valve timing mechanism on the intake side owing to new hydraulic control, and a new one-piece intake manifold that is made from aluminium and is more than 50 per cent lighter than the previous cast iron component.

The Direct Shift 10-speed automatic transmission provides the flexibility to capitalise on the improved engine characteristics, with a short first gear for immediate and energetic response teamed with tall final gearing for superb refinement.

The central gears have equal intervals to realise rhythmical shifting, while a tight unification between driver and powertrain is achieved by fast and shock-less shifting between gears even when extended.

The pursuit in normal driving is for the engine speed and level of acceleration to seamlessly gel to achieve linear and smooth operation.

AI-SHIFT Control can also detect more assertive driving and, for example, downshift to lower gears when braking into a corner - and then holding the gear through the corner where steering input is detected.

A direct-connected downshift facility has also been adopted, where the 10-speed automatic transmission can 'pass' through an intermediate gear if a rapid downshift is required - such as from 10th to eighth gear, or fifth to third gear.

The LS 500 produces a significant 310kW of power at 6000rpm and 600Nm of torque consistently from 1600rpm until 4800rpm, enabling impressive standing start acceleration from standstill to 100km/h in 5.0 seconds.

For the new LS 500h with the leading Lexus Multi-Stage Hybrid system, the usable range of the electric motor has been expanded.

The maximum 264kW combined power output of the engine and electric motor can be attained by approximately 50km/h, equivalent to the LS 500.

Supported by advanced, compact 310.8-volt lithium-ion battery technology, the vehicle speed for engine intermittent operation is now possible at up to 129km/h compared with 70km/h in the previous model.

A key focus has been on reducing the stop/start frequency of the petrol engine during high-speed driving to increase both refinemement and response.

These changes have been complemented by alterations to the way the Power Split Device operates. The automatic transmission includes a four-speed shift device with a 10-speed simulated shift control operation.

In the relatively low drive force range such as city driving, the upshift timing has been changed to lower vehicle speeds, enhancing the quietness by suppressing the engine speed of the 3.5-litre normally aspirated petrol V6.

At the same time, the Power Split Device pursues rhythmic shifts with driver connection and sharp acceleration possible from any vehicle speed when the accelerator is pressed.

AI-SHIFT Control adapts gearing based on a variety of influences such as uphill or downhill travel and estimating driver intentions using lateral and longitudinal acceleration trajectory measurements.

Even when driving in the D range with the Drive Mode Select switch in Normal mode, if the AI-SHIFT Control estimates assertive driving this control will quickly select the optimum gear - aligning with the 10-speed Direct Shift automatic in the LS 500.

For both LS 500 and LS 500h, Eco and Comfort mode prioritise normal driving shift quality, while Sport S and Sport S+ adopt even more aggressive gear selection where required.

M-mode, accessed via steering wheel-mounted paddleshifters, allows the driver to freely select and hold any gear. For the hybrid, with the coordinated control of the Power Split Device it is possible to start the gearshift at the same time the computer receives the paddle shift operation signal, delivering immediate shift response to provide an engaging driving experience.

While delivering fuel consumption from as 6.2 litres per 100 kilometres in extra-urban driving and 6.6L/100km during combined conditions, the LS 500h is also capable of standing start acceleration performance from standstill to 100km/h in 5.4 seconds.

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BRAVE DESIGN - WITH SOPHISTICATION AND STRUCTURE

Lexus has maintained a strong focus on generous rear-wheel drive proportions, smooth surfacing and an alluring coupe-style silhouette for its flagship luxury sedan.

The new LS targets additional sophistication and structure, with additional definition around key design elements such as the headlamps and front bar for a cleaner look, and a utilisation of new tones and textures to create further elegance.

The headlamp bezels of the new LS have been changed to a vertically stacked layout featuring a new, slim 3-projector lamp unit with each lamp unit replacing the previous rounded-edge shape with a structured, square graphic.

The combined L-shaped daytime running light (DRL) and sequential indicators have been raised and integrated within the headlight assembly, eliminating the previous vertical crease in the front bar to deliver a cleaner surface treatment.

This change has also allowed the L-shaped DRL and sequential indicators to draw in closer to the spindle grille and consequenty end before the outer edge of the new LS - allowing definition to be added to the side front bar treatment of the Sports Luxury grades, owing to a sharp new character line extending from front guard to lower bar.

The new character line complements more upright lines around the lower bar along with clearly structured, square sub-radiator grilles for the Sports Luxury replacing the previous, softer curvature leading towards the headlamps and spindle grille.

The shape of the Sports Luxury spindle grille's chrome-plated frame continues, while the colour of the inner grille has been changed to dark metallic, transforming the appearance with a chic attire that is more formal.

For the F Sport, a more angular new character line begins from the lowest, outermost edge of the front bar and draws up towards the middle of the headlamp assembly. The larger, squared-off sub-radiator grilles follow a similar line, wrapping broadly around to the side edge of the vehicle to emphasise width and presence.

Thick, low-gloss black molding at the lower edge of the sub-radiator grilles also draw the eye downwards to reflect the low centre of gravity of this most dynamic new LS.

The interwoven pattern of the F Sport spindle grille continues.

The weave is framed at its tightest towards the leading edge of the bonnet and relaxes down towards the lowest, widest section of the grille that is flanked by sporty, vertical air intakes to provide subtle aggression.

As with the Sports Luxury, the grille surface treatment has changed - in this case to a low-gloss black look that provides additional textural appeal.

The 20-inch alloy wheels of the new LS have also been retained, with the multi-spoke, technical Sports Luxury design complemented by a broader, 10-spoke F Sport design - which exclusively adds a new and darker, sputtered colour finish.

At the rear of both the new Sports Luxury and F Sport, the chrome-plated molding inside the rear combination lamp has been changed to piano-black, and the lamp shape has been given a sense of vertical thickness, increasing the harmony with the front styling and enhancing the feeling of expense.

A new exterior paint - Lustre Shadow - further continues the Lexus tradition of developing innovative silver paint finishes.

This exterior colour pursues light and shadow (luminance contrast) to maximum effect, focusing on shading with a sense of depth. It contains radiant aluminium flakes and employs the latest paint technology to produce a smooth, mirror-like texture highlighted by beautiful sparkles of light and contrasting deep shadows.

The highlights starkly contrast against the shadows to pursue a dynamic expression reminiscent of a solitary 'moonlight path' - complementing the new interior trim option, Haku.

The LS Sports Luxury is available in Sonic Quartz (metallic white), Titanium, Liquid Metal, Sonic Iridium, Lustre Shadow, Onyx, Graphite Black, Vermillion, Scarlet Crimson and Deep Blue.

The LS F Sport contains two exclusive colours - White Nova and Cobalt Mica - while also being available in the above colour set with the exception of Sonic Quartz.

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TAKUMI CRAFTSMANSHIP MEETS IMAGINATIVE TECHNOLOGY

A feeling of expense and immaculate craftsmanship continues to define the interior of the new LS, with painstaking attention to detail applied by the famous Lexus Takumi to ensure the highest standards of innovation, textural appeal and quality.

At the same time a new benchmark for imaginative technology has been applied, befitting the status of the LS as the flagship Lexus luxury sedan.

Traditional signature touches complement innovative technology, such as stitched leather-accented armrests that appear to float next to the door panel, with interior ambient lighting inspired by Japanese Andon lanterns - and an 8.0-inch TFT driver display encircled in the LS Sports Luxury grade by a stitched leather surround, reminiscent of luxury watch casings.

The finest traditions of craftsmanship and luxury design continue to meet with the latest technologies in the new LS, including a 12.3-inch widescreen moved forward from the the richly-padded dashboard to enable new, touch-display functionality.

Touch-display functionality provides additional usability for the driver and front passenger, supported by a new shortcut button on the centre console to quickly call up seat climate functions onto the main screen.

A new digital rear-view mirror has also been employed, with superb resolution to provide refined images for excellent rearward visibility.

Compared with a regular rear-view mirror it enables a wide field of view unblocked by headrests, the rear sunshades and rear seat occupants, as well as excellent visbility less affected by night-time or rainy weather conditions, and glare from the headlamps of a trailing vehicle.

Further aiding visibility, a large 600 x 150mm colour head-up display (HUD) enables speedometer, shift position, tachometer, navigation and driver assistance messages where selected by the driver.

Within the HUD, the forward cross traffic alert (FCTA) even employs cascading horizontal arrows to identify from which direction a vehicle is crossing the path of the LS when easing out of a T-junction or car space - ideally timed while the driver is looking out at the road, for maximum safety.

Rounding out the comprehensive infotainment system offering is a 23-speaker Mark Levinson audio system that delivers supreme audio quality satisfying the most demanding sound enthusiasists and befitting a flagship Lexus luxury sedan.

Lexus has also enhanced the opulent seating of the LS to support the raft of technology improvements.

The ultra-plush yet supportive seats in the LS now feature deeper stitch points and low-resilience urethane for the padding, with vibration absorption measures and softer positioning contributing to even greater comfort.

Every LS continues to include front and rear seat heating, and 28-way powered and ventilated front seats as standard.

The LS Sports Luxury takes this further with power-operated and ventilated rear outboard seats with massage functionality accessed via a centre-armrest mounted touch-display.

These functions complement the twin 11.6-inch entertainment screens with HDMI input and rear cooler box (LS 500 only) for the ultimate in-vehicle indulgence.

All seats are wrapped in opulent semi-Aniline leather upholstery, which along with incredible Japanese artisan craft leveraged by several ornamentation options, include immaculate stitching pored over by the Lexus Takumi.

Sports Luxury ornamentation is available for the first time in "Nishijin & Haku" (with "haku" being the Japanese word for "metal leaf").

Inspired by the 'path of moonlight' made on an open sea, silver threads of Nishijin brocade and the sparkle of a platinum leaf help create an impression of moonlit waves - an intricate design reflecting the status of the new LS as a range flagship.

Takumi craftsmanship is also fully utilised to elaborately create a very thin foil from the rare precious metal, platinum. The delicate shine of the super thin foil crafted by hand through exquisite craftsmanship highlights the essential texture of the material, elevating the ornamentation to the level of art.

Other Sports Luxury ornamentation options include:

Art Wood Organic - several wood materials are combined to create an artistic woodgrain and the interior space is luxuriously adorned with dynamic design expressions.

Art Wood Herringbone - featuring the same wood mosaic craftsmanship technique that is used for decorating musical instruments, natural wood pieces are individually crafted to create a delicate weave.

Laser Cut - the latest laser cutting technology is used to reveal beautiful metal lines beneath the natural wood pattern, where seemingly contrasting elements are combined and blended to create an advanced design with accentuated edges. The natural wood is dyed black to increase the contrast between the wood and metal elements for a more modern design.

Kiriko (optional) - the highly expressive cut glass design varies according to the light conditions. Leading-edge technology is blended with experienced craftsmanship, turning a manufactured product into a beautifully crafted piece of art. The glass expression varying as the lighting conditions change gives the interior a sensual atmosphere.

To provide the textual richness expected of a flagship Lexus luxury sedan, the available trim colour Black can be combined with a choice of three door inserts - a rich fabric, leather or Haku - while Ochre is exclusively available with the textural fabric.

Black, Ochre and Moon White are available with Laser Cut ornamentation, while Crimson Fire is available with either Laser Cut or optional Kiriko ornamentation.

Chateau trim can be combined with Herringbone ornamentation and Hazel with Art Wood Organic ornamentation.

The LS F Sport is available exclusively with Naguri-style aluminium. A traditional Japanese cutting technique called "Naguri" is used, expressing unique Lexus craftsmanship and delivering a metallic feel, while weight-reducing aluminum also helps to promote the dynamism demanded by F Sport customers.

LS F Sport can be combined with F Sport black, F Sport black and white, or new F Sport flare red trim.

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LEADING SAFETY TECHNOLOGY BEFITTING A FLAGSHIP LUXURY SEDAN

The new LS is more protective of its occupants than ever before, with safety and security features making their debut in the Lexus flagship sedan for the first time.

The new LS debuts Lexus Connected Services, including automated collision notification¹, SOS call² and stolen vehicle tracking³.

Lexus Connected Services employs a Data Control Module (DCM) that is able to automatically generate an SOS emergency call to a 24/7 Lexus Emergency Call Centre and relay the location of the vehicle in the event of a collision that requires intervention, or if an airbag deploys¹.

The driver can also request emergency assistance via an SOS button on the overhead console and if the vehicle is reported stolen², Lexus Connected Services can assist authorities to help track the vehicle's location via the Stolen Vehicle Tracking (SVT) service³.

A comprehensive list of intuitive Lexus Safety System+⁴ technology has also been standardised across the new LS range, ensuring the latest flagship Lexus luxury sedan leverages the most complete suite of new technology.

The development concept of this extensive suite of safety technologies is to actively provide leading preventative safety performance for the purpose of further reducing accidents.

Intersection Turning Assist (ITA) has been added to the Lexus Safety System+⁴ added in the new LS for the first time.

ITA can intuitively assist the driver by providing a warning and automatic braking if the driver turns in front of an oncoming vehicle when turning right - for example, at a four-way intersection to complete a manoeuvre across traffic into a cross road.

ITA can also assist the driver by providing a warning and automatic braking if the driver attempts to turn in front a pedestrian when turning left or right - for example, a pedestrian crossing the road on either side of a four-way intersection.

ITA can operate when the Pre-Collision System (PCS) function is active and a turn signal is active. It can activate a warning if the vehicle is travelling between approximately 10 and 25km/h for both oncoming vehicles and pedestrians. It can activate a warning if an oncoming vehicle is travelling approximately between 30 and 55km/h, while it can activate braking if the oncoming vehicle is travelling between approximately 30 and 55km/h - the broadest speed range of any Lexus vehicle.

ITA builds on the latest Pre-Collision System (PCS) that in the new LS supports both day- and night-time pedestrian detection plus daytime cyclist detection.

PCS can support forward impact mitigation functions including pre-collision warning (from approximately 5 to 180km/h), pre-collision brake assist (from approximately 30 to 80km/h with pedestrian and daytime cyclist detection, or approximately 30 to 180km/h with a detected preceding or stopped vehicle), and pre-collision braking (from approximately 5 to 80km/h with pedestrian and daytime cyclist detection, or approximately 5 to 180km/h with a detected preceding or stopped vehicle).

Front lateral side PCS further uses front lateral side radar to detect vehicles approaching from diagonally in front of the vehicle. If the system judges that there is a possibility of a collision, it warns the driver and prompts them to perform evasive manoeuvres. Additionally, if the system judges that there is a high possibility of a collision, it activates the brake assist function, helping to avoid a collision or mitigate the impact force to occupants and the vehicle.

PCS can also work with Active Assist for Seat belt, which uses a motor to retract the seatbelt before the collision occurs, enhancing the effect of the pretensioner.

PCS also works in conjunction with Active Steering Assist (ASA), the standard Radar Active Cruise Control (RACC), Lane Tracing Assist (LTA) and Road Sign Assist (RSA) functions.

When there is a possibility of a collision with a continuous structure such as a guardrail on the roadside or pedestrians on the road, ASA provides steering control to supplement the braking operation actuated by the pre-collision brake assist.

The millimetre wave radar and stereo camera detect the object to avoid, while the millimetre wave radar and stereo camera together with the front and rear lateral side radar judge the surrounding conditions in the direction of steering (evasion).

If the system determines that there are no other objects to avoid in the evasion direction, the steering control is activated. If there is no evasion space and evasion direction is not determined, only the pre-collision brake assist function is activated without steering control in order to help mitigate injury/damage in the event of a collision.

The standard Radar Active Cruise Control (RACC) features full-speed range capability, with low-speed traffic following including stop-start driving from standstill back to a preset speed.

RACC employs 'blinker-linked' control that above approximately 80km/h can detect when a driver is indicating from behind a vehicle into a lane with no vehicle detected, and begin preliminary acceleration to the preset speed before the lane-change occurs.

RACC also includes a driver-selectable curve-speed reduction function that can reduce the vehicle speed when the system determines that the speed needs to be reduced during an upcoming curve in the road, which can improve safety and reduce driver burden.

When this is operating an icon featuring a diamond and road curve illuminate in the trip computer display and head-up display. When deceleration control is finished the icon will disappear and the vehicle will automatically return to the set speed or the safest speed according to the situation.

Road Sign Assist (RSA) further works with RACC, which can detect speed signs and then illuminate the designated speed in the trip computer display.

The driver can link RACC (when in vehicle-to-vehicle control mode) with RSA by pressing and holding the +RES switch if the speed limit is higher than the vehicle speed setting - or pressing and holding the -SET switch if the speed limit becomes lower. This enables the vehicle speed setting to be easily reset in accordance with the speed limit.

New to the LS, the system can detect Australian school zone signs and inform the driver of a potential 'time related' speed change in the trip computer display and head-up display.

Lane Tracing Assist (LTA), which works when RACC is active, also joins other measures including RACC's curve-speed reduction function and Emergency Steering Assist in reducing the chance of departure from a lane or road.

LTA can partially assist steering operation to help avoid departure from the lane or road when driving on expressways.

LTA enables partial steering assistance on gentle curves while also smoothly keeping the vehicle in the centre of the lane with minimal swaying. The system enables use at vehicle speeds all the way to when the vehicle is nearly stopped in consideration of congestion on expressways.

LTA can recognise and judge the possibility of deviation from the road using not only white or yellow lane markings but also boundary lines between asphalt and grass, soil or kerb stones. If the system judges the vehicle is deviating from its lane or the road and there is a risk of collision with an overtaking vehicle in the next lane, the steering assist function can also operate to help avoid collision with a nearby vehicle - even if the turn signal is operating.

Rounding out the Lexus Safety System+⁴ is a new type of adaptive high beam (AHB) standard on all new LS models.
Drivers can also look above, out and beyond the new LS with exemplary night-time technology owing to a new BladeScan adaptive high-beam system.

Compared with existing technology that uses LEDs directed at the road and switch on and off as individual chips that can shade fixed portions of the road, the new technology directs the LEDs back towards a spinning blade mirror.

These synchronise with the blade mirror, which amplifies light back towards the road for maximum brightness while reducing the width of the shaded area and provide a greater spread of illumination.

Illuminated and shaded areas are controlled in 0.1-degree increments (previously 1.0-degree), almost halving the width of the shaded area to just 3.5 metres at a distance of 50 metres (from 5.0 metres).

In addition to the Lexus Safety System+ suite, the new LS features Parking Support Brake (PKSB)4 and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert + Brake (RCTA+B)⁴, which can provide a warning and automatic braking should a forward static object or rear static object or crossing vehicle be detected when travelling below 15km/h.

The new LS further features a panoramic view monitor as standard.


¹ Driver assist feature only. Not a substitute for safe driving practices. Not available outside Australia or if service is disabled or terminated. Only operates if vehicle's SOS button is pressed. Dependent on 4G enabled DCM, GPS signal strength, mobile network coverage, operational related components and other factors outside Lexus's control which can limit the ability or functionality of the system. Check your Owner's Manual for explanation of limitations. Please drive safely.
² Driver assist feature only. Not a substitute for safe driving practices. Not available outside Australia or if service is disabled or terminated. Only activates if vehicle's DCM detects airbag deployment or an impact sensor notification. Dependent on 4G enabled DCM, GPS signal strength, mobile network coverage, operational related components and other factors outside Lexus's control which can limit the ability or functionality of the system. Check your Owner's Manual for explanation of limitations. Please drive safely.
³ Not available outside Australia or if service is disabled or terminated. Dependent on sufficient battery power, 4G enabled DCM, GPS signal strength, mobile network coverage, operational related components & other factors outside Lexus's control which can limit the ability or functionality of the system. Guest required to obtain Police report. Vehicle location information, if available, only provided to Police. Vehicle recovery not guaranteed.
⁴ Driver assist feature. Only operates under certain conditions. Check your Owner's Manual for explanation of limitations. Please drive safely.

...ends/

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LEXUS LS SPECIFICATIONS

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