A 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engine paired with an electric motor

Lexus's flagship sedan, the new "LS," LSwas fully redesigned and released on October 19, 2017, as you know. We test-drove the hybrid "LS500h."

The Lexus LS500h combines a 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engine with an electric motor. The engine produces a maximum output of 220 kW (299 hp) and a maximum torque of 356 Nm, while the electric motor adds 300 Nm, making it powerful even on paper.

There are several new features. While Lexus hybrids traditionally have continuously variable transmissions, this model adopts a 10-speed automatic transmission control. Notably, the system now allows access to the engine's maximum output at 60 km/h, compared to the previous 120 km/h or higher.

Lexus claims that combined with the assist from the electric motor, which delivers maximum torque from the moment it starts rotating, the car provides strong driving force linked to accelerator input from low speeds.

The LS lineup is broadly divided into two: the hybrid LS500h and the LS500 with a 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engine.

There are several distinct character profiles. Beyond the base model, there's the "I Package" with slightly simplified safety features, the sporty "F Sport," the highly luxurious "L Package," and the rear-seat-focused "Executive."

I first drove the Executive model, actually. I took the wheel myself. A common feature across the new LS is the three-dimensional cockpit design, with the doors and center console adorned with leather and unique decorative elements. This is consistent across all models.

Another characteristic of the new model is the significantly expanded digital LCD display area, which is fundamentally common across all vehicles.

Interestingly, in front of the driver is a single, compact TFT LCD monitor. It displays speed, engine RPM, navigation, and vehicle information concisely. Covered by a stitched binnacle, it creates a rather sporty and pleasant atmosphere.

Above this, a large, 24-inch color head-up display is projected, another new feature for the LS (excluding the base model and I Package). By separating functions like the speedometer and other displays, it offers high visibility.

Furthermore, a 12.3-inch TFT LCD display is located in the center of the dashboard. This is used for displaying the navigation system map and infotainment system. It is shared with the front passenger.

To reiterate, the selection of information and available operations are tailored to the seating position, which can be considered a noteworthy design philosophy. The drive mode selector switch is also placed within reach of the driver only.

Surprisingly capable even in EV mode

The new LS is 25mm longer than the previous model, measuring 5,235mm. Its width has increased by 25mm to 1,900mm, while its height has been reduced by 15mm to 1,450mm. The wheelbase has been extended by 35mm to 3,125mm.

This achieves both a low center of gravity and high levels of cabin space. To this end, developers have lowered the driver's seat height by 30mm to "pursue sportiness" (according to press materials). Conversely, the air suspension includes an entry/exit mode that raises the vehicle for easier ingress and egress.

As for the actual driving experience, perhaps due to the new "L-GA" platform, the first impression is one of excellent driving stability.

Currently, all LS500h and LS500 models are equipped with air suspension. Choosing the rear-wheel-drive option also adds a rear-wheel steering system.

The electric motor's operating range appears to have increased, and with sufficient battery charge, the car can surprisingly cover considerable distances in EV mode. The engine start-up under load is (as before) almost imperceptible. You wouldn't know if not for the tachometer.

The steering wheel feels solid around the center, regardless of speed. The car responds quickly when turning. Furthermore, the suspension movement during these maneuvers is well-controlled, and the gentle body roll feels highly refined.

The vehicle's posture remains stable at all speeds, and unlike before, the ride comfort does not drastically deteriorate when the ride height is lowered (for aerodynamics). While engineers mentioned improvements, this is indeed a significant advancement.

Another impressive feature is the steering assist system, including lane changes, called "LEXUS CoDrive." This incorporates Lane Tracing Assist and Curve Speed Reduction.

It also includes Lane Change Assist. On expressways, when the turn signal is activated, the vehicle provides steering assistance for lane changes. I was genuinely impressed by how smooth it was.

It's best to be behind the wheel yourself

After this, I had the opportunity to sit in the rear seats. It's a truly spacious and comfortable space. However, the new LS is best enjoyed when you're behind the wheel yourself. It's a car that lets you savor the drive.

In a closed course, I also had the chance to drive the gasoline-powered LS500. Although I couldn't drive it on public roads, giving me a limited impression, I particularly liked the F Sport AWD (all-wheel drive) version.

It's stable and fast. However, if you choose the rear-wheel-drive F Sport, in addition to the aforementioned rear-wheel steering system, it also incorporates active stabilizers that control roll.

The development team's goal is to maintain a flat posture through this system. I'll save a full evaluation for when I can properly drive it on public roads next time.

The styling, in a word, is powerful. When I saw it in photos, my attention was drawn to the coupe-like silhouette, with the blacked-out window pillars emphasizing the long outline of the window frames front and rear, and a somewhat short trunk.

What was most impressive in person was the craftsmanship of the body panels. The intricate three-dimensional curves create a stunning interplay of light and shadow that could captivate anyone, even those who don't understand the technical details.

The wide variety of body colors and interior finishes is also befitting of a luxury car. For the EXECUTIVE model, seats upholstered in exceptionally soft "L Aniline" (full aniline) leather are available.

What if Lexus went a step further, like European luxury car manufacturers, and allowed customers to choose almost any body color and interior finish? I've heard that people find it difficult to choose when presented with too many options. Isn't the ultimate pleasure for an owner the ability to have a truly unique LS?

Experiencing the all-encompassing LS only fueled my desires further. Prices start at 9.8 million yen, with the top-of-the-line LS500h EXECUTIVE priced at 16.8 million yen.