"In a way, nothing has changed, and in another way, a lot has changed."

The Lexus LS series received a minor model change and was released on October 11, 2012,as previously reported on this site.
We want to emphasize again here that this LS seems to be a major turning point for Lexus.



Regarding the details of the minor change, the development manager, whom we interviewed at a test drive event held at a hotel in Odawara, spoke in a riddle-like manner: "In a way, nothing has changed, and in another way, a lot has changed."



This was likely said out of consideration, perhaps thinking it would be odd to announce major changes since it wasn't a full model change. However, I actually felt that the new LS had undergone changes worthy of a full model change.


The LS has changed significantly! This impression wasn't solely due to the aggressive spindle grille, but also its driving performance.

Lexus's Position Relative to Its German Rivals

The points that Lexus representatives wanted to highlight were,Lexus"the increased body rigidity through the introduction of new production techniques such as laser screw welding and structural adhesives, and the significant improvement in the control of the air suspension."



As their words suggest, and as detailed in the accompanying test drive report,test drive reportthe car has been finished to a surprisingly sporty degree. From the LS460 to the LS600hL with its 5,210mm body on a 3,090mm wheelbase, the rigidity, the torque delivery, and the response to steering inputs were all impressive, giving the feel of driving a compact sports sedan with a nimble responsiveness.



This tendency is further amplified when the Sport mode is selected via the center console controller. The body barely rolls (much like a Citroën equipped with Hydractive suspension), allowing you to navigate winding mountain roads as if on invisible rails, with remarkable smoothness.




Lexus states in its press materials that the goal was "to achieve both improved handling and stability and a flat ride," and this objective has been brilliantly met.



The current LS lineup consists of the LS460 with its 4.6-liter V8 engine, and the LS600h, a hybrid combining a 5-liter V8 with an electric motor, both available in long-wheelbase versions. Across all grades, the character of a flat ride combined with astonishing cornering ability is consistently felt.



This is likely where Lexus, and particularly its flagship LS, finds its new position relative to its German rivals.

"Just try driving it" – a very simple phrase is all that's needed.

In the past,Lexusmade a strong showing against luxury cars worldwide, likely because easily understandable elements like quietness, build quality, and luxury resonated with consumers.



Of course, it wasn't just that; it's hard to imagine the immense sales efforts, from grassroots initiatives to participation in everything from golf tournaments to classic car swap meets in towns, that were undertaken to establish the brand, particularly in the United States.



However, perhaps due to the Lehman Shock, or for whatever reason, since the mid-2000s, the contours of the Lexus brand have seemed to blur.



During this time, European luxury brands have, more recently,Audi'sA7 Sportbackand Mercedes-Benz'sCLS Shooting Brakehave expanded their "lifestyle product" offerings, andBMWhasincreased its lineup of diesel engine models,implementing various strategies.



What is evident here is the success of a strategy focused on pursuing strengths to the fullest. In contrast, the new LS's emphasis on "driving performance" seems to signify Lexus's significant shift towards establishing a new brand image. Furthermore, the prominent promotion of active safety technologies like pre-crash safety systems that avoid collisions with obstacles through automatic braking is likely part of Lexus's new value creation, not just for the LS.



What we expect from Lexus is something more than simply cornering at surprising speeds without body roll,—but how this character will be developed in other models going forward is of great interest.



It goes without saying that products speak for a brand, and the same is true for Lexus. How drivers feel when piloting the new LS will be crucial. Effectively leveraging those impressions will lead to the Lexus of tomorrow.





Perhaps the most effective message Lexus can convey to consumers is the very simple phrase: "Just try driving it."


Lexus LS460 F SPORT

Body Size | Length 5,090 x Width 1,865 x Height 1,455 mm

Wheelbase | 2,970 mm

Tread Front/Rear | 1,610 / 1,615 mm

Trunk Capacity | 560 Liters

Weight | 1,980 kg

Engine | 4,608 cc V8 DOHC

Maximum Output | 288 kW (392 ps) / 6,400 rpm

Maximum Torque | 500 Nm (51.0 kgm) / 4,100 rpm

Transmission | 8 Super ECT (Super Intelligent 8-speed Automatic)

Drivetrain | FR

Suspension | Multi-link (with stabilizer)

Fuel Economy (JC08 mode) | 8.4 km / L

Price | 9,800,000 Yen