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.
Lexus and AAB senior officials unveil the all-new flagship LS500 and LS500h sedans. PICTURES: Jayan Orma