Since its introduction back in 1989, Lexus has always been considered the reliable luxury brand. This is no surprise, since Toyota has been synonymous for reliability since the beginning of time. Obviously, “reliable” doesn’t necessarily mean “desirable.”
The 2013 Lexus LS will offer a sportier appearance and a sportier driving experience, seeking to please a younger clientele while rivalling the Audi A8, the BMW 7 Series and the Mercedes-Benz S-Class.
Mouth wide open
Now featuring Lexus’ new corporate face, which includes what they call their “spindle” grille design, the new LS looks much more aggressive than the outgoing model. Blacked-out headlight clusters with LED illumination, a sculpted hood, a new 18’ alloy wheel design, as well as sportier front and rear bumpers round out the changes.
A new LS 460 F SPORT version, replacing the previous Sport Package, cranks up the dynamic design even more, including a ride height dropped by 10 mm and exclusive 19” alloy wheels.
More power, slightly
The 2013 Lexus LS 460 and long-wheelbase LS 460 L keep their 32-valve, 4.6L V8, although output figures have been revised compared to the 2012 car. Rear-drive versions get 386 hp (up by 6) and 367 lb-ft of torque; while AWD versions serve up 360 hp (up by 3) and 347 lb-ft. As before, the V8 is managed by an 8-speed automatic transmission, while the F SPORT will add wheel-mounted paddle shifters with throttle blipping during downshifts.
According to Lexus, the RWD LS 460 will reach 96 km/h (60 mph) in 5.4 seconds, while the AWD version will achieve the same feat in 5.9 seconds.
The hybrid LS 600h L will continue to use a 5.0L V8 and two electric motors that produce a combined 438 hp, mated to a continuously variable automatic transmission and an all-wheel drivetrain. Lexus estimates the 0-96 km/h will take 5.5 seconds, and the big hybrid sedan should still boast fuel economy ratings of 10.6/9.1 L/100km city/highway.
Driving dynamics
As before, an air suspension will be optional in the LS 460, and will be included in the LS 600h L and F SPORT versions. The latter also benefits from Brembo six-piston front brake callipers, a Torsen limited-slip differential and an intake plumbing that will send racy engine sounds in the cabin.
The LS’ body is said to have improved in overall rigidity, while the use of adaptive damping shock absorbers reduce body roll and produce a flatter ride. The electric-assist steering has been revised for better feel and responsiveness, while the brakes have also been upgraded.
New gadgets
In addition to greater noise insulation, the 2013 Lexus LS’ cabin benefits from a new (and world first, according to the manufacturer) concierge climate control system that includes front and rear seat heaters and ventilation, as well as a heated steering wheel; up to 13 sensors connected to a main ECU monitor the cabin to keep occupants bodies at their desired temperatures.
Other improvements to the all-new interior include redesigned front seats, Champagne White ambiance lighting, LED instrument panel lighting and Lexus’ mouse-like Remote Touch Interface.
The Executive Package for long-wheelbase versions remains, which includes a rear-seat DVD player, rear-seat climate control, and a massaging ottoman rear seat.
The 2013 Lexus LS is now on sale. Pricing starts at $82,950, while a loaded LS 600h L stickers for $144,350.
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The 2013 Lexus LS will offer a sportier appearance and a sportier driving experience, seeking to please a younger clientele while rivalling the Audi A8, the BMW 7 Series and the Mercedes-Benz S-Class.
Mouth wide open
Now featuring Lexus’ new corporate face, which includes what they call their “spindle” grille design, the new LS looks much more aggressive than the outgoing model. Blacked-out headlight clusters with LED illumination, a sculpted hood, a new 18’ alloy wheel design, as well as sportier front and rear bumpers round out the changes.
A new LS 460 F SPORT version, replacing the previous Sport Package, cranks up the dynamic design even more, including a ride height dropped by 10 mm and exclusive 19” alloy wheels.
More power, slightly
The 2013 Lexus LS 460 and long-wheelbase LS 460 L keep their 32-valve, 4.6L V8, although output figures have been revised compared to the 2012 car. Rear-drive versions get 386 hp (up by 6) and 367 lb-ft of torque; while AWD versions serve up 360 hp (up by 3) and 347 lb-ft. As before, the V8 is managed by an 8-speed automatic transmission, while the F SPORT will add wheel-mounted paddle shifters with throttle blipping during downshifts.
According to Lexus, the RWD LS 460 will reach 96 km/h (60 mph) in 5.4 seconds, while the AWD version will achieve the same feat in 5.9 seconds.
The hybrid LS 600h L will continue to use a 5.0L V8 and two electric motors that produce a combined 438 hp, mated to a continuously variable automatic transmission and an all-wheel drivetrain. Lexus estimates the 0-96 km/h will take 5.5 seconds, and the big hybrid sedan should still boast fuel economy ratings of 10.6/9.1 L/100km city/highway.
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| The 2013 Lexus LS 460 and long-wheelbase LS 460 L keep their 32-valve, 4.6L V8. (Photo: Lexus) |
Driving dynamics
As before, an air suspension will be optional in the LS 460, and will be included in the LS 600h L and F SPORT versions. The latter also benefits from Brembo six-piston front brake callipers, a Torsen limited-slip differential and an intake plumbing that will send racy engine sounds in the cabin.
The LS’ body is said to have improved in overall rigidity, while the use of adaptive damping shock absorbers reduce body roll and produce a flatter ride. The electric-assist steering has been revised for better feel and responsiveness, while the brakes have also been upgraded.
New gadgets
In addition to greater noise insulation, the 2013 Lexus LS’ cabin benefits from a new (and world first, according to the manufacturer) concierge climate control system that includes front and rear seat heaters and ventilation, as well as a heated steering wheel; up to 13 sensors connected to a main ECU monitor the cabin to keep occupants bodies at their desired temperatures.
Other improvements to the all-new interior include redesigned front seats, Champagne White ambiance lighting, LED instrument panel lighting and Lexus’ mouse-like Remote Touch Interface.
The Executive Package for long-wheelbase versions remains, which includes a rear-seat DVD player, rear-seat climate control, and a massaging ottoman rear seat.
The 2013 Lexus LS is now on sale. Pricing starts at $82,950, while a loaded LS 600h L stickers for $144,350.
 |
| A heated steering wheel; up to 13 sensors connected to a main ECU monitor the cabin to keep occupants bodies at their desired temperatures. (Photo: Lexus) |
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