Lexus LS500, LS500h sedans hit Qatar roads

Abdullah Abdulghani & Bros Co (AAB), exclusive distributor of Toyota and Lexus in Qatar, has launched the all-new fifth-generation LS500 and LS500h flagship sedans for 2018 in Doha.
The event was attended by AAB chairman Dr Nasser Abdulghani al-Abdulghani and Japanese ambassador Seiichi Otsuka, along with AAB’s chief operations officer (automotive) R K Murugan, and a delegation from Lexus International and AAB senior management.
“Not only will the LS symbolise the Lexus brand, but it will also become the definitive new-generation luxury car embodying Japanese tradition and culture,” LS chief engineer Toshio Asahi said.
Equipped with many “world-firsts and Lexus’ first performance, design, and safety features,” the new premium passenger car is set not only to win the hearts of the region’s luxury enthusiasts but also redefine luxury driving in a more stylish manner.
Takayuki Yoshitsugu, chief representative, Middle East and North Africa Representative ‎Office, Toyota Motor Corp, said the all-new LS sedan builds on the flagship vehicle’s enduring DNA for smooth and powerful performance, which in combination with its remarkable quietness and exceptional comfort, and symbolises the true essence of the LS.
“In many ways, this LS flagship sedan exemplifies our new approach to create amazing experiences for our customers, and ignite their emotions through innovation that promises a truly engaging driving experience,” Yoshitsugu noted.
The LS sedan, which sets another benchmark in driving dynamics, customer experience, and comfort inside and out, offers innovative technology with a human touch.
It was designed to be the brand’s latest global citizen, available in more than 90 countries.
The LS is built on the new ‘Lexus Global Architecture - Luxury (GA-L)’ platform, which ensures a low centre of gravity and optimum weight distribution, contributing to the car’s essential stability and handling agility, which in turn, deliver increased driver rewards.
The 2018 LS Hybrid takes an entirely different approach than the previous LS Hybrid model.
Its new state-of-the-art Multi Stage Hybrid System combines a naturally aspirated Atkinson-cycle 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engine with two electric motor/generators and uses a compact, lightweight lithium-ion battery.
The combined system output of the internal combustion engine with the electric traction system is 354hp.
The new system is based on the electronically controlled Continuously Variable Planetary (CVP) transmission of Lexus Hybrid Synergy Drive, coupled with an all-new four-speed automatic gearset at the output stage.
The two systems work together to expand the overall range of gearing and increase operation of the V6 engine across a wider speed range than previous hybrids, resulting to “impressive fuel economy, low emissions, and excellent on-road performance.”
The new LS will be available also with two engine options; a 3.5-liter V6 engine naturally aspirated Atkinson-cycle producing 311hp and 380 Nm of torque, and a newly developed 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 engine producing 416hp and 600 Nm of torque, and both mated to the first-ever 10-speed automatic transmission for a premium passenger car.
Some of the features of the new LS are front and rear seats with multiple power adjustments, heating, cooling, and massage functions, rear seat arrangement that includes an extending leg ottoman and the most generous legroom of any LS generation, and a rear seat entertainment system with 11.6-inch screen auto-tilts to the optimum viewing angle.
The new LS unstintingly employs the latest safety technologies including the brand’s innovative Lexus Safety System+, in addition to a comprehensive array of safety features to protect its occupants, such as 14 SRS airbags, Blind Spot Monitor, Vehicle Stability Control, Panoramic View Monitor, Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Brake Force Distribution, and Brake Assist, among others.
Furthermore, the 2018 LS debuts two new 19-inch wheel designs and three 20-inch wheel designs, two of which are also new, and feature run-flat tires designed to elevate vehicle and ride comfort.
The 20-inch premium wheels employ a brilliant appearance created using an electroplating technique known as sputtering.
All the new wheel designs feature a hollow rim structure that helps reduce resonant sounds generated by the tyres.
The LS will be available in 13 distinctive exterior colours, including Manganese Luster and Sonic Agate while the interior comes in a total of nine colour schemes with nine choices of interior trim.