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VDIM is a Lexus-designed advanced stability system, first introduced in the new GS range in 2005.
It integrates and manages the LS's suite of steering, handling and braking systems, including the EPS, ABS, Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Brake Assist System (BAS) and Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), together with engine torque, via the electronic throttle.
By means of a series of sensors, the system will anticipate the onset of a skid or slide and apply the appropriate braking, throttle and steering controls to correct the problem with a smoothness and efficiency that makes the operation almost imperceptible to the driver.
VDIM is less obtrusive and more effective than in earlier designs as it gathers data from more sources and can process the information faster.
Luxury and comfort details include seats upholstered in four shades of semi-aniline leather, matched to three coordinating wood grain trims.
The rear seats are electrically reclining with power operated leg rests and massage function.
And to ensure the ideal cabin temperature is maintained, the new climate control system includes body heat sensors.
Audio system
The in-car entertainment package features a bespoke 19-speaker Mark Levinson audio system that provides surround-sound reproduction. Rear passengers have their own controls on a console between the seats (only two) plus their own heating and cooling.
Rear doors have power closing and the boot lid has an automatic open and close function.
The rear-seat area features an available cool box. It is accessible for rear passengers and stores beverages while keeping them cool.
The available rear power sunshade automatically lowers when the car is put in reverse.
Electronically controlled, the rear and side sunshades help keep the cabin cool and comfortable on sunny days. When the car is taken out of reverse and the vehicle speed exceeds 15 km/h the rear sunshade automatically retracts.
And for added convenience, the interior LED lights illuminate as soon as the doors are unlocked, remaining lit for 15 seconds or until the door is opened.
The interior roof's surface also has the plush style of a headliner made from Escaine, a synthetic material that has the look and feel of suede, but is much more durable and easy to care for.
In addition, the cabin's climate is maintained by the world's first infrared sensor that assesses each rear-seat passenger's body temperature, then adjusts the climate-control air conditioning.
The available 450-watt Mark Levinson Surround Sound Audio System features 19 speakers, strategically placed throughout the LS cabin for the optimum audio experience.
With a 15-channel amplifier rated at 0.1% THD 20-20 000 Hz the 7.1-channel surround sound is a treat for even the most discerning ear.
The speakers were specifically designed for the Mark Levinson Reference Surround Sound Audio System and many are made with metal cones for superior sound recreation.
And standard on the LS, you'll find a MP3/WMA port located just inside the centre armrest.
This auxiliary port can accept a standard stereo miniplug from portable audio devices such as MP3 or WMA players. Just plug in to enjoy your entire library through the remarkable LS sound system.
Voice activated
The Lexus voice-activated Hard Disc Drive (HDD) Navigation System will ay direct you to your destination with ease.
The system can calculate up to three different routes and understands over 100 spoken English commands, but the in-dash LCD screen can easily be switched to display either French or Spanish.
The higher-resolution screen and sharper graphics make information effortless to read. And with Bluetooth technology the system can also interact with compatible cell phones.
In addition, the navigation screen works in conjunction with the backup camera which allows you to view objects in your path when you place the LS in reverse.
Hey, best of all, it's all logical touch-push - either the screen or buttons. No messy mouse-type controls.
The LS is equipped with four-wheel ventilated disc brakes that feature Electronic Controlled Braking which is a vital component of the Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM).
ECB uses an electronic system to activate the brakes, utilizing a brake-pedal-position sensor to read the pedal's position and activate the master cylinder accordingly.
The LS comes equipped with a brake hold system, which, when activated, holds the vehicle in place once stopped with no need to keep your foot on the brake pedal.
This prevents the LS from creeping forward or backward when stopped.
An electronic parking brake is automatically activated as soon as the LS is placed in "Park." When you shift out of this gear, the parking brake is automatically deactivated.
The LS features a sophisticated dual-stage driver's and front passenger's advanced airbag Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) that deploys at different speeds, depending on factors such as crash severity and driver's seat-track position.
The front passenger's twin-chamber airbag deploys with a slight depression in its centre, designed to help disperse the forces applied to the passenger immediately after deployment.
To help protect against side impact, the LS has front and rear side curtain airbags that are designed to offer additional protection for the occupants' heads during a side impact.
In addition, front seat-mounted side airbags are integrated into the front seats themselves so no matter where the seats are positioned, the airbags deploy in locations consistent with respect to the driver and front passenger.
The rear side airbags help keep rear passengers protected from side impacts.
Standard knee airbags for the driver and front passenger help protect overall occupants in a severe frontal collision.
