Introducing the New Lexus LS | Lexus

LEXUS LS | Lexus LS

Lexus's Flagship Saloon, the LS

Unveiled with Spindle Grille

The LS, Lexus's flagship model, was first released in 1989, coinciding with the brand's debut. Its 2013 model was unveiled yesterday in the United States. This LS, embodying the latest in Lexus design, now features the spindle grille, further clarifying its character. Yasuhisa Shimashita reports from the scene!

Text & Event Photographs by YASUHISA SHIMASHITA

F SPORT Also Available

The world premiere of the updated Lexus LS took place in a slightly different manner than typical new car unveilings. The venue was "METREON," a mixed-use complex in downtown San Francisco. Here, Lexus hosted a photo exhibition party titled "LAWS OF ATTRACTION," within which the new LS was unveiled.

As such, the audience was not primarily composed of media and journalists. The majority were trendsetters and influencers active on social media platforms. The venue, filled with individuals expressing their unique styles, exuded an edgy and vibrant atmosphere.

As the excitement in the venue built, the new LS, introduced by Lexus Ambassador Riyo Mori, immediately captured attention with its significantly evolved styling. The front face now adopts the "spindle grille," a symbol of Lexus's new design language, transforming its previously understated appearance into one of strong individuality. The rear view has also been refined, emphasizing L-shaped taillights that glow, harmonizing with the front fascia. Overall, the styling now projects a stronger presence than ever before.

Even more striking is the interior. The instrument panel has been completely redesigned, adopting a horizontal motif previously seen in the "CT" and theGS" models, significantly enhancing its sophistication with a 12.3-inch wide display and the Remote Touch interface.

Improvements extend beyond aesthetics to driving dynamics. Enhancements to body rigidity, aerodynamic efficiency achieving a Cd value of 0.26, and advancements in the air suspension, steering, and braking systems mean that virtually every aspect related to handling and comfort has been meticulously refined.

While the core powertrains for both the LS460 and LS600h remain, the addition of the new Drive Mode Select and refinements to various components have led to improvements in both fuel efficiency and performance.

Furthermore, the introduction of the "F SPORT" model, designed to emphasize a more dynamic character, is a notable development. With its unique interior and exterior design and further enhanced driving dynamics, the F SPORT possesses the potential to redefine the LS's traditional image of comfort and composure.

At the event, Kiyotaka Ise, President of Lexus International, stated, "Although it is a minor change, we have thoroughly refined the substance. We now have a clear vision of the direction Lexus is heading, and I believe we have achieved an excellent result." Indeed, with its design symbolized by the spindle grille, driving dynamics, and quality, the new LS stands as a compelling flagship that captivates with its presence, marking a new phase for Lexus as heralded by the new GS.

Perhaps the world premiere itself was designed to strongly showcase this evolving image of Lexus. While a few snapshots from the event are included, searching the hashtag "#LexusAttracts" on Twitter will offer insights into the atmosphere of the venue and the world Lexus aims to create, as shared by the attendees.

The new LS is scheduled to be announced and released in Japan in October. We anticipate being able to share our impressions from a test drive before then. We hope you will look forward to it.