What's the news?
Lexus has announced prices and specifications for its flagship LS with the 'entry level' LS 460 Luxury starting from £71,995. The range topping LS 600h L Premier hybrid is only available in long wheelbase guise and tips the scales at £99,495.
Exterior
The £71,995 LS 460 Luxury is equipped with 18-inch alloy wheels, automatic bi-xenon headlamps and LED daytime running lights. Recently introduced F Sport trim adds unique 19-inch alloys, Brembo brakes and a lower ride height thanks to reworked suspension. The F Sport also wears a more aggressive body kit of sports styled bumpers and 'spindle' grille.
Interior
Whatever the specification all versions of the LS come with leather upholstery, four-zone climate control featuring 'nanoe' technology and air conditioned electrically adjustable front seats. Entertainment is provided by the 19-speaker Mark Levinson audio system with DVD player, DAB tuner, Bluetooth and USB/aux-in ports while satellite navigation is presented on a whopping 12.3-inch central display.
F Sport trim brings a sportier look with a dark cabin finish, perforated leather seats and steering wheel, Lexus scuff plates, aluminium pedals and an aluminium effect finish on the dashboard.
Mechanicals
Both the LS 460 Luxury and LS 460 F Sport are powered by a 4.6-litre V8 petrol engine that produces 387hp. This was reintroduced to the UK market (Lexus states) in response to customer demand. F Sport models also feature Brembo brakes, a lateral damping system, a Torsen limited slip differential and suspension modifications to go along with the sporty moniker.
The flagship LS 600h is powered by a 5.0-litre V8 petrol-electric hybrid powertrain that delivers 445hp.
Anything else?
Such is the breadth of specification on the LS range that the only notable option is a night vision camera that can be specified in the LS 600h L. The system uses an infra-red camera to capture images that the eye cannot see and displays them on the central display.
The new Lexus LS range is on sale now, with first deliveries taking place in January 2013.
Paul Healy - 22 Oct 2012
