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Having debuted the reinvented flagship sedan in 2018 - the all-new LS - Lexus is putting an exclamation point on this signature model with the new F Sport model.
The LS F Sport moves the driving emotion needle even further with handling enhancements and a performance-infused design outside and in.The original luxury disruptor when it debuted to launch the brand, the Lexus LS has for nearly three decades set benchmarks for powertrain smoothness, ride quietness, craftsmanship, attention to detail, and long-term quality.
The 2019 LS offers the most dynamic driving experience in the model’s history; now it has been enhanced further with the new F Sport model.Available in a petrol powertrain, the F Sport version of the LS, will imbue the standard model with a more engaging driving spirit through carefully applied chassis tuning and enhancements, while still emphasizing exceptional comfort.
Image: Motorpress
F Sport look:
Lexus designers didn’t hold back when giving the LS its coupe-like silhouette and dramatic rendition of the Lexus signature spindle grille that shows even greater intricacy in the design. Developing the F Sport grille took computer-aided design (CAD) operators some five months to achieve the desired texture and interaction with light.
Even then, they adjusted 7,100 individual surfaces to achieve the desired look and texture (compared to 5,000 for the standard model’s grille). And when combined with the sporty enlarged side grille, the F Sport grille is functional as well, helping to maintain the vehicle’s cooling performance.
The special F Sport front grille, rocker panel, and trunk mouldings accentuate the sedan’s rakish profile, while F Sport badging on fenders and exclusive 20-inch alloy wheels complete the exterior transformation.
F Sport inside:
As it did with the exterior, Lexus shifted the LS cabin into F Sport spec by applying trim and features exclusive to this version. A common thread through all LS models remains: Omotenashi, the concept of Japanese hospitality. Applied to the LS, it means taking care of the driver and passengers, anticipating their needs, attending to their comfort and helping to protect them from hazards -the F Sport adds a performance attitude to the mix.
The F Sport persona shines throughout the cabin, starting with the F Sport-exclusive front seat, which provides enhanced support for dynamic driving. A perforated-grill pattern on seating surfaces and unique scored aluminum trim elements add additional sporty flair.
Image: Motorpress
The driver faces a special F Sport steering wheel as well as a speedometer and tachometer in a movable meter with a meter ring that slides to display information, a design adapted from the limited-production Lexus LFA supercar and a further expression of the car’s dynamic character. Attention to detail shows in the aluminum accelerator, brake and footrest pedals, as well as the F Sport perforated shift handle and footrest.
Ultra-suede in the seats and headliner is the crowning touch. For those desiring the ultimate sporty look, a new Flare Red interior is available exclusively on F SPORT models.The LS F Sports provides a driver-focused cockpit and a front passenger seat area designed to gently envelop the occupant.
Image: Motorpress
The information displays are positioned at a uniform height in a “seat-in-control” layout that allows the driver to view and operate all the systems without changing their body posture.Three interior colours are available which are White, Black and White Grey Perf and Flare Red. The door trim choices include Wood Hi and Semi Aniline Illumi Hi for the ornamentation.
Sporting genes:
The LS is based on an extended version of the brand’s premium global architecture for luxury vehicles (GA–L) platform from the new Lexus LC coupe. The GA-L platform sets the stage for enhanced handling, ride smoothness and cabin quietness. The LS F Sport capitalises on the platform’s responsiveness and agility.
Equipping the LS F Sport with standard 20-inch wheels and 245/45RF20+ 275/40RF20 tyres, along with larger front and rear brakes (6-piston callipers on front and 4 pistons on rear), unlocks more of the platform’s intrinsic performance capability. The LS F Sport is equipped with LDH (Variable Gear Ratio Steering) and has a sport-tuned air suspension with rapid height function.
Image: Motorpress
The result is a full-size premium luxury sedan that responds more like a sports coupe through curves, helping to underline what F SPORT stands for. 415-Horsepower Heart with a 10-Speed Partner Lexus designed an all-new 3.5-litre V6 engine specifically for the new LS 500, using twin turbo chargers developed through the company’s F1 technology. This new twin-turbo V6 offers V8-level performance – 415 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque – paired with the first-ever 10-speed automatic transmission in a luxury sedan.
The engine yields a broad torque curve and, perfectly in tune with the F Sport spirit, the new engine and transmission deliver instant acceleration and a constant build-up of torque toward the vehicle’s redline. Electronically controlled wastegates are among the features that contribute to the engine’s rapid responses. The driver can tailor powertrain response and feel by choosing from Eco, Normal, Sport S or Sport S+ modes, and just enough of the exhaust note is heard to enhance the sporty feel.
Twin-Turbo V6 AND 10-speed transmission:
The all-new 3.5-litre V6 engine has been designed specifically for the new LS, providing both high power and excellent fuel efficiency.The engine is indicative of the more dynamic approach taken by Lexus, offering V8-level power without sacrificing fuel economy whilst minimising noise and vibration. The LS F Sport’s output figures are 310kW and 600Nm of torque at 6000rpm.
Image: Motorpress
The engine’s long stroke and optimised stroke-to-bore ratio contribute to high-speed combustion and the efficiency of the twin turbos, helping the LS post a projected 0 – 100 km/h acceleration time of 5 seconds.Perhaps more critical is the way Lexus has tuned the engine and transmission to deliver instant acceleration and a constant build-up of torque towards the engine’s red line.
The driver will be able to tailor powertrain response and feel by selecting Normal, Eco, Sport and Sport S+ drive modes, with just enough of the exhaust note being audible to enhance the sporty feel.
The LS marks the first use of a 10-speed automatic transmission in a luxury sedan, the system having made its debut in the new LC coupe. It is a torque converter automatic, yet with shift times that rival those of dual-clutch transmissions. The wide band width afforded by the ten closely-spaced ratios is ideal for all forms of driving, providing an optimal gear for all conditions.
Image: Motorpress
The driver can execute shifts using paddle controls, but many will prefer to use the advanced electronic control system, which anticipates the driver’s input. The system chooses the ideal ratio by monitoring the acceleration, braking and lateral G-forces.Furthermore, the frontal design makes a bold statement with the dramatic forward thrust of the spindle grille and a low bonnet profile, achieved thanks to the positioning of the front suspension towers permitted by the new GA-L platform. The boundary between the bonnet and the fenders is deeply sculpted, accentuating the contrast between the different surfaces.
At the rear, the shoulder line connects to the rear combination lamps, then folds down and back on itself to connect to the rear diffuser, echoing the lines of the spindle grille. The full LED combination lamps have a sleek design with strong vertical corners that give them an instantly recognisable shape.The LS is equipped as standard with a glass sunroof which opens externally.
This allows for a design that is 30mm thinner than previously, preserving cabin headroom beneath the low roofline. Torque converter lock-up is activated in all ranges, except when starting off, to provide a direct feel, while at the same time supporting fuel efficiency. Top speed for the LS is electronically govenered to 250 km/h. Fuel consumption is listed as 9.5 litres per 100 kilometres.
Lexus safety system:
The LS F Sport offers a comprehensive suite of exclusive, semi-automated driving technologies honed on one of the most complex highway systems in the world, the Tokyo Metropolitan Expressway.
Image: Motorpress
The vehicle’s Pre-Crash System with Pedestrian Detection reduces the likelihood and severity of collisions by detecting imminent frontal impact and automatically preparing Brake Assist, reacting before the driver does - while the emergency brake signal acts, to prevent rear-end collisions.
The High-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control uses advanced radar and camera technology to maintain a safe distance between your LS F Sport and the car in front– completely stopping, if necessary.Lane Departure Alert with Lane Keep Assist, Steering Control and Steering Vibration keeps the LS F Sport in the correct lane, preventing unintentional drifting across road markings.
The LS F Sport also comes standard with 10 Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) airbags which aim to keep the driver and passengers safe in the unfortunate event of an accident. Furthermore, the passenger seats will automatically begin to return to an upright position if an imminent collision is detected.Additional safety features that come standard with the LS F Sport include; Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind Sport Monitor and LED Adaptive High-beam System (AHS).
Lexus LS F sport prices and service information:
The Lexus LS F Sport retails for R1 978 900. The LS has best-in-class 7-year or 105 000km Warranty and Full Maintenance Plan. The vehicle’s service intervals are at every 15 000km, alternatively once a year.
