The new Lexus LS range will be introduced to South Africa at the end of 2012. However, details regarding the model line-up and pricing will only be available closer to launch. The new Lexus LS range has undergone a remarkable revamp that incorporates a refreshing bold design with high levels of luxury, refinement and enhanced driving dynamics. Possible models on offer are the LS 460, LS 460L, LS 600hL Hybrid and the first-ever LS 460 F SPORT.

New Lexus LS Range – Styling and Features

Exterior Styling

According to Lexus, more than 3000 detail changes were made to the new LS range. Similar to the recently launched Lexus GS, the LS also incorporates Lexus’ ‘spindle’ grille design which adds to its road presence and perpetuates Lexus’ bold design language.

The ‘spindle’ grille is accented with new headlights and vertical L-shaped fog lights. LED lights are available all-round, including head, tail, fog lights and daytime running lights. The new Lexus LS range also benefits from a sharper and more refined exterior design. Using laser screw welding, body adhesives and other reinforcements, the body of the LS is more rigid which enhances its stability on the road as well as handling and steering feel. The LS also makes use of adaptive variable suspension that improves handling along with revised steering that enhances accuracy and turn-in response. The new Drive Mode Select offers five driving modes including Eco, Comfort, Normal, Sport and Sport+ modes.

Interior Styling

The driver-orientated interior is divided into two distinct zones. The upper zone incorporates a large 12.3-inch LCD multi-display screen while the lower zone allows access to system controls such as the second generation Remote Touch Interface (RTI). The all-new Lexus Climate Concierge offers maximum comfort for all passengers. The customisable system uses multiple sensors to automatically regulate the cabin temperature as well as the climate control seats and heated steering wheel.

Safety Features

The new Lexus LS range offers an Advanced Pre-Collision Safety System (APCS) that can detect stationary or moving pedestrians and brings the vehicle to a stop if an imminent collision is detected. An upgraded Lane-Keep Assist system (LKA) assists the driver to remain in the intended lane.

New to the LS is the Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) which uses radar to detect vehicles in blind spot areas which includes Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) which helps detect vehicles while reversing from a parking bay. The Automatic High Beam system uses a camera that detects light sources in front of the vehicle and automatically switches the high beams on and off.

Further details regarding the launch of the new Lexus LS range will be made later in the year.