Lexus LS

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Lexus LS<tr><td colspan=2> Image:2007 Lexus LS.jpg </tr>
Manufacturer:	Toyota Motor Corporation<tr><th>Production:<td>1989–present</tr><tr><th>Assembly:<td>Tahara, Aichi, Japan<tr><th>Class:<td>Full-size luxury car</tr><tr><th>Body style:<td>4-door sedan</tr><tr><th>Layout:<td>FR layout</tr><tr><th>Platform:<td>S-Series</tr><tr><th>Related:<td>Toyota Crown Toyota Celsior (until 2006)</tr><tr><th>Similar:<td>Infiniti Q45</tr>

The Lexus LS is a full-size luxury sedan that serves as the flagship of Lexus, the luxury division of Toyota. The LS is recognized as having one of the quietest automobile cabins in the world<ref> AMCI Declares Lexus LS 430 `Finest Luxury Sedan in America`</ref> and is regarded as one of the most reliable luxury vehicles ever built.<ref> Finding and Keeping a Reliable Luxury Car</ref><ref> Toyota, Lexus lead way in J.D. Power dependability study</ref> Since Lexus' debut in 1989, four generations of the V8-powered, rear wheel drive Lexus LS have been produced. In 2006, Lexus unveiled the fourth generation LS Series, featuring standard wheelbase, long wheelbase, four-wheel drive, and hybrid versions of the Lexus flagship. Pricing for the standard wheelbase LS starts at around $61,000, while pricing for the long wheelbase model starts at approximately $71,000.<ref name="Pricing for 2007 according to familycar.com">Pricing for 2007 according to familycar.com. Retrieved on 2006-10-21.</ref>

[edit] Lexus LS history

Image:LS design sketch.JPG

In August 1983, Toyota chairman Eiji Toyoda initiated the F1 project ("Flagship" and "No. 1 vehicle"; alternatively called the "Circle-F" project), a top secret effort aimed at producing a world-class luxury sedan. Unlike past Toyota efforts, the F1 project was not bound by a specific budget or time constraints. It also did not utilize existing Toyota vehicle platforms or parts.<ref name=luxury> Mahler, Jonathan. The Lexus Story: The Behind the Scenes Story of the #1 Automotive Luxury Brand in America. 2004: DK Melcher Media.</ref> Instead, chief engineer Ichiro Suzuki sought to develop an all-new design that would surpass existing flagship luxury sedans. Specific targets included: a more aerodynamic exterior, quieter cabin, smoother ride, and more fuel-efficient design versus American and European rivals.<ref name=relentless>Dawson, Chester. Lexus: The Relentless Pursuit. 2004: Jon Wiley & Sons, NJ.</ref>

To achieve their ambitious goals, F1 engineers produced new concepts and part designs, resulting in hundreds of patent applications.<ref>David Brown Motoring - Lexus LS 430</ref> Their final design would have among the lowest drag coefficients of any production vehicle (Cd 0.29), record a quiet 58 dB of cabin noise at cruising speed (62 mph), and exhibit lower levels of vibration than rival sedans.<ref name=relentless/> The F1 design's 4.0L V8 engine produced 250 hp, had a maximum speed of 155 mph, and avoided the U.S. gas-guzzler tax.

Image:LS first gen testing.jpg

Over a period of five years, a team of over 3,900 engineers, technicians, and other F1 personnel built some 450 flagship prototypes. These vehicles were driven over a total of 4.3 million kilometers on testing locations ranging from the autobahn in Germany, deserts in Arizona, Australia, and Saudi Arabia, to U.S. highways and wilderness areas.<ref name=relentless/> To ensure quality, more precise manufacturing standards were developed to produce higher levels of fit and finish in the new sedan.<ref name=luxury/> Toyota's Tahara plant, a highly automated facility, was selected as the site of production. Materials selection tests examined multiple types of leather and scrutinized 24 different kinds of wood for use in the passenger cabin.<ref name=relentless/> Total costs for the project exceeded $1 billion.<ref name=relentless/>

By 1986, Toyota executives had decided to form a new luxury division, Lexus, to support the launch of their flagship sedan. The final design of the resulting Lexus LS 400 (UF10) was approved in 1987, and the vehicle premiered at U.S. and international auto shows in 1989. Although the LS 400 was initially intended to launch as a standalone model<ref name=relentless/> for Lexus, it was ultimately sold alongside the ES 250, an entry-level luxury car based on the Toyota Camry. The first Lexus dealerships in the U.S. began sales of the Lexus LS and its stablemate in September 1989. Sales in Australia, Canada, and Europe began in 1990. In Japan, where Lexus was not established, the flagship sedan was sold as the Toyota Celsior.

Image:Lexus ls430.jpg

In its first four months on sale, the Lexus LS 400 exceeded Lexus' forecasts, with 11,574 models sold in the U.S.<ref name=relentless/> By 1991, on the strength of the LS' sales success, Lexus became the top-selling luxury import in the United States. The LS 400 regularly outsold its rivals, becoming the top-selling luxury flagship vehicle in the U.S. market. In 1995, Lexus unveiled the redesigned, second generation LS 400 (UF20), featuring a longer wheelbase with similar styling and specifications as the original model. The third generation LS 430 (UF30) premiered in 2001, introducing a new body design and a host of new interior and technological features. In 2006, Lexus debuted in the Japanese market, signaling the end of Toyota Celsior sales. From that point forward, the LS was exclusively sold under the Lexus nameplate in every available market.

Image:Lexus LF-Sh concept.jpg

The fourth generation LS (UF40) premiered as a hybrid concept car, the LF-Sh, in Fall 2005, and the LS Series was formally revealed at the North American International Auto Show in January 2006. For the first time, the Lexus LS was offered in both standard and long wheelbase versions. Innovations on the latest LS sedans included the world's first eight-speed automatic transmission, real-time traffic updates, automatic parallel/reverse parking, and more luxury features than on previous models. The LS Series of luxury flagship sedans went on sale worldwide in late 2006, furthering Lexus' efforts to establish itself as a global luxury brand. All LS sedans continue to be exclusively produced at the Tahara, Japan plant, which has since been awarded as the best automobile manufacturing plant in the world for quality.<ref>Robot-filled Tahara sets standard for Toyota, world</ref>

[edit] First generation (UF10)

LS 400 (UF10)<tr><td colspan=2>Image:LexusLS400.jpg</tr><tr><th>Production:<td>1989–1994</tr><tr><th>Engine:<td>4.0 L V8</tr><tr><th>Transmission:<td>4-speed automatic</tr><tr><th>Wheelbase:<td>110.8 in (2814 mm)</tr><tr><th>Length:<td>196.70 in (4996 mm)</tr><tr><th>Width:<td>72.00 in (1829 mm)</tr><tr><th>Height:<td>55.70 in (1415 mm)</tr>

[edit] UF10 I (1989)

The UF10 I LS 400 was produced from 1989 to 1994. The first generation LS sedan featured a five-passenger cabin trimmed with California Walnut accents, leather seats, soft-touch controls, electroluminescent Optitron gauges, and an available Nakamichi customized premium sound system. The first generation LS was among the first luxury sedans to feature digital A/C readouts, power adjustable shoulder belts, front seat heaters, and auto-off headlamps.<ref> Living Large in Lexus</ref> An automatic tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel was also standard, and air suspension was an option. The LS 400 introduced the Lexus nameplate to the U.S. and worldwide markets, and won critical acclaim from the press. Wheels magazine named the LS 400 its Car of the Year and Car and Driver magazine named it to its Ten Best list for 1990.

In a December 1989 comparison test, Car and Driver magazine rated the LS 400 the best flagship luxury sedan over competing vehicles from Audi, BMW, Cadillac, Infiniti, Jaguar, and Mercedes-Benz. The reviewers found the LS 400 superior in comfort, engine performance, ergonomics, ride quality, styling, and overall value.<ref>Bedard, Patrick. Comparison Test: Showdown Car & Driver, Vol. 35, Issue 6, December 1989</ref>

The base price for first generation LS 400 in 1989/1990 was $35,000 with an additional $350 destination charge in California. This initial base price undercut competitors by thousands of dollars, providing the LS 400 with a value incentive as it launched in the luxury flagship sedan market.

[edit] UF10 II (1993)

Image:Lexus-LS400.jpg

For the 1993 model year, the LS 400 (now designated as the UF10 II) was introduced with larger brake rotors, standard passenger's side front airbags, larger wheels and tires, additional body side moldings, a revised grille, selection of colors, and numerous other upgrades. Adjustments were made to the vehicle's suspension and power steering system to improve performance. In the interior, an external temperature gauge, new digital odometer, and seatbelt pre-tensioners were added; the air conditioning system now used CFC-free refrigerant. By 1994, the LS 400's base price exceeded $50,000, a figure that had steadily risen since the vehicle's introduction.

[edit] Second generation (UF20)

LS 400 (UF20)<tr><td colspan=2> Image:Lexus LS400.jpg </tr><tr><th>Production:<td>1995–2000</tr><tr><th>Engine:<td>4.0 L V8</tr><tr><th>Transmission:<td>5-speed automatic</tr><tr><th>Wheelbase:<td>112.2 in (2850 mm)</tr><tr><th>Length:<td>196.7 in (4996 mm)</tr><tr><th>Width:<td>72 in (1829 mm)</tr><tr><th>Height:<td>56.5 in (1435 mm)</tr><tr><th>Curb weight:<td>3890 lb (1764 kg)</tr><tr><th>Fuel economy:<td>19 mpg (12.4 L/100 km)/City 25 mpg (9.4 L/100 km)/HWY</tr><tr><th>Fuel capacity:<td>22.5 gal.</tr>

[edit] UF20 III (1995)

Introduced in 1995, the UF20 III LS 400 was an evolutionary redesign of the LS and featured a new body that eliminated 300 lb. from the previous model. The wheelbase was increased by 1.4 in, resulting in more interior and trunk space, yet the overall length of the car remained at 196.7 in. The brake system was improved as well.<ref name=improving>Improving on near perfection</ref>

The interior received a minor redesign with a more modern dashboard layout and the center console receiving a slight facelift. Rear set legroom was increased by 2.6 in., and an in-dash CD changer was among the world's first.<ref name=improving/>

[edit] UF20 IV (1998)

For the 1998 model year, the UF20 IV LS 400 was introduced. New interior amenities included retractable rear headrests, wood accents on the leather-bound steering wheel and gear selector, and a navigation system with a concealed antenna. A new jam protection system for the vehicle's windows was designed to reduce the risk of possible injury by preventing the windows from closing if an object came in between the window and the door frame. Door window controls were also added to the vehicle remote control.

Image:Lexus-LS-400.jpg

Exterior updates included new five spoke wheels as well as redesigned rear view mirrors that reduced the amount of wind noise. The most noticeable cosmetic upgrades included a new front fascia (with an increased gap between the headlights and grille), new headlights, and new taillights. The automatic headlights were now equipped with a delay feature that allowed the headlights to remain on while the occupants exited the vehicle.

The revised LS 400 featured Toyota's new 290 hp VVT-i UZ engine mated to a five-speed automatic transmission. The drivetrain improvements not only enabled the sedan to accelerate from 0-60 mph in 6.5 seconds but also improved the vehicle's fuel economy.

[edit] Third generation (UF30)

LS 430 (UF30)<tr><td colspan=2> </tr><tr><th>Production:<td>2001–2006</tr><tr><th>Engine:<td>4.3 L V8</tr><tr><th>Transmission:<td>5-speed automatic</tr><tr><th>Wheelbase:<td>115.2 in (2926 mm)</tr><tr><th>Length:<td>197.4 in (5014 mm)</tr><tr><th>Width:<td>72.0 in (1829 mm)</tr><tr><th>Height:<td>58.7 in (1491 mm)</tr><tr><th>Curb weight:<td>3990 lb (1810 kg)</tr><tr><th>Fuel economy:<td>18 mpg (13.1 L/100 km)/City 25 mpg (9.4 L/100 km)/HWY</tr><tr><th>Fuel capacity:<td>22.2 gal.</tr>

[edit] UF30 I (2001)

For 2001, the UF30 I LS 430 was introduced. While previous LS redesigns were evolutionary, the 2001 update was a more thorough revision of the model's exterior and interior. The UF30 had a completely redesigned suspension and a brand new 4.3 L engine generating 290 hp (216 kW) and 320 ft•lbf (434 N•m) of torque. Lexus claimed that the LS 430 could accelerate from 0-60 mph in 5.9 seconds. A three-inch wheelbase stretch resulted in more interior volume than the competing Mercedes-Benz S-Class<ref>Lexus LS 430 - The best gets better</ref> and allowed the engine to be positioned farther rearward for better balance. Features such as Dynamic Laser Cruise Control, a DVD-based navigation system, and heated and cooled seats were available. These and other features, such as sonar-enabled Lexus Park Assist, semi-aniline leather, power rear seats with massage, and a rear cooler were offered in the Ultra Luxury package.

In the interior, the most notable design changes included additional woodgrain trim on the dashboard and doors as well as the addition of an LCD touchscreen on the center console. New features included twin glove boxes, automatic oscillating air conditioning vents, additional storage drawers, and the optional Mark Levinson customized premium sound system. The exterior of the vehicle was completely new with the vehicle's dimensions increasing in terms of length and height.

[edit] UF30 II (2004)

Image:LexusLS430-2.jpg

The UF30 II was introduced in 2004. Lexus freshened the front and rear fascias and added as standard equipment previously optional features, such as a one-touch power moonroof, power rear sunshade, and lighted rear-seat vanity mirrors. Some features previously included in the Custom and Ultra Luxury packages became available as individual options. The twin glove boxes were replaced by a single, two-shelf glove box. The transmission received an added sixth gear, and keyless Lexus SmartAccess and Bluetooth technology became available, while the Lexus Pre-Collision System, similar to Mercedes-Benz's Pre-Safe, which used millimeter-wavelength radar to predict crashes and allow distance-aware cruise control, was added as an option.

Image:Lexus LS 430 Rear Seat Package.jpg

Additional standard features included new knee airbags and the Adaptive Front Lighting System, which swiveled headlamps in the direction of vehicle turns. Further updates included different wheels, projector headlamps, and LED taillights. Customers were offered the choice of Bird's Eye Maple, California Walnut, or Antique Walnut wood accents.

The 2001-2006 LS 430 was the most reliable luxury sedan in the J.D. Power and Associates Initial Quality Survey,<ref>For long-term car dependability, check the initial quality</ref> and the early models of this series were the most reliable cars in the survey.<ref>LS 430 ratings at Edmunds</ref> In later studies of defects after 3 years of ownership, the LS 430 is also at the top of the pack.<ref>Lexus and Toyota Models Each Rank Highest in Four Segments</ref>

In a December 2003 comparison test of $70,000 luxury sedans, Car and Driver magazine awarded the 2004 LS 430 first place over competing vehicles from Audi, BMW, Jaguar, Mercedes-Benz, and Volkswagen. The reviewers pointed to the LS 430's superior ride quality, highway performance, interior design, and technology as winning factors.<ref>$70,000 Luxury Sedans - Comparison Tests, Car & Driver, December 2003</ref>

[edit] Fourth generation (UF40)

LS 460 (UF40)<tr><td colspan=2> Image:2007 LS 460 Starfire Pearl.jpg </tr><tr><th>Production:<td>2007–present</tr><tr><th>Engine:<td>4.6 L V8</tr><tr><th>Transmission:<td>8-speed automatic</tr><tr><th>Wheelbase:<td>116.9 in (2969 mm) 121.7 in (3091 mm)</tr><tr><th>Length:<td>SWB - 198 in (5029 mm) LWB - 202.8 in (5151 mm)</tr><tr><th>Width:<td>73.8 in (1875 mm)</tr><tr><th>Height:<td>58.1 in (1476 mm)</tr><tr><th>Curb weight:<td>4332 lb (1810 kg)</tr><tr><th>Fuel economy:<td>19 mpg (12.4 L/100 km) City 27 mpg (8.7 L/100 km) HWY</tr><tr><th>Fuel capacity:<td>84 L (22.19 gal.)</tr>

[edit] UF40 (2007)

Introduced at the 2006 North American International Auto Show, the redesigned 2007 LS is the first Lexus model offered in both standard and long wheelbase versions. The LS 460 uses the standard 116.9 in. (2969 mm) wheelbase, while the LS 460 L features a stretched 121.7 in. (3091 mm) wheelbase. Based on the LF-Sh concept vehicle, the LS 460 and LS 460 L feature a 4.6 L V8 producing 380 hp (283 kW) and 367 ft•lbf (498 N•m) of torque. The new LS also contains the world's first 8-speed automatic transmission. The car's complex electronic and safety systems were shown in further detail at the Geneva Motor Show in February 2006, while a four-wheel drive hybrid version, the LS 600h L, made its debut at the New York Auto Show in April 2006. A standard wheelbase hybrid model, the LS 600h, will be available in Japan and Europe, and four-wheel drive versions of the non-hybrid LS 460 are also expected. Lexus refers to the multiple variants of the 2007 LS design as the new LS Series.<ref name=series>Lexus.com - LS Series</ref>

The LS Series is the first generation of the LS to receive the styling cues of Lexus' new design direction, L-Finesse. Hallmarks of this design include sweeping lines, a grille set slightly below the level of the headlamps, and a sleek overall profile. Additional details of the design include headlamps inspired by Baccarat crystal,<ref>Lexus Comes Into Its Own</ref> chrome exhaust vents integrated into the rear bumper, and "L"/"S" curve shapes.

New high-tech options on the LS Series include a 19-speaker Mark Levinson Reference Surround Sound System with a 30 GB hard drive, HDD navigation system with XM NavTraffic and dynamic rerouting, Lexus Intuitive Park Assist, a sonar based alert and guidance system, Bluetooth, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, and a backup camera system. A 24-hour concierge/emergency aid service, Lexus Link, is also available. One notable technological feature of the new LS Series is the Advanced Parking Guidance System, which can parallel-park or reverse-park the car into a preselected space with minimal brake input at the push of a button.<ref>2007 Lexus LS 460 Preview</ref> This system is claimed to be the world's first<ref>Toyota Strengthens Efforts to Develop Safe Vehicles</ref> applied in luxury cars. Additional features include a Brake Hold button which prevents creeping forward motion when the driver's foot is off the brake pedal, and an Automatic Parking Brake which can be set to engage the parking brake simultaneously whenever the transmission is shifted to Park. The Dual-Swivel Adaptive Front Lighting System, Lexus SmartAccess with push-button start, electroluminescent instrument panel with thin-film transistor multi-information display, and direct-type 5-position Tire Pressure Monitoring System are standard.<ref name=series/> The LS Series also offers a stability/traction control disable button.<ref>World's First Lexus LS 460 Gets Loose</ref>

Image:Rear seat 2007 ls460l.jpg

Comfort and convenience features on the new LS include front and rear heated/cooled seats, a 16-way adjustable driver seat, up to five powered rear sunshades, power reclining rear seats with memory systems, a rear cool box for storage of cold drinks, and multiple climate control air purification systems, including four-zone climate control with infared body temperature sensors. A premium Executive Class Four-Seat Package, available only as a special order option on long wheelbase LS models, features a rear seat DVD entertainment system with ceiling fold-down LCD screen, rear center console with a swivel tray table, and a specialized passenger-side rear seat with Ottoman and shiatsu/shoulder massage systems. Additional individual and package options are available across the entire range of the LS Series.<ref>First Drive: 2007 Lexus LS 460</ref>

The 2007 LS went on sale in Japan on September 19, 2006. It was the first time the car was sold under the Lexus marque in Japan, and marked the next phase of Lexus' launch as a global luxury brand. The LS Series went on sale in the United States on October 20, 2006.

[edit] LS 460 L

Image:2007 LS 460L profile.jpg

The long wheelbase LS 460 L offers rear-seat passengers additional space, and is positioned as the ultra-luxury version of the LS Series. The LS 460 L features many optional LS 460 features as standard, including power open/close trunk, XM NavTraffic with real-time traffic updates, a heated steering wheel, and a backup camera.<ref name=series/> The Executive Class Four-Seat Package (see previous) is available as a special order option. The long wheelbase model also features the Luxury Package, including semi-aniline leather interior, heated/cooled power rear seats with memory, and power headrests, as a factory option. Vehicles fitted with the Luxury Package can be further equipped with the Rear-Seat Upgrade Package, featuring four-zone climate control with air filter, rear seat air purifier, rear seat audio controls, cool box, and five power sunshades. When equipped with the Touring Package, the LS 460 L gains a number of performance features exclusive to the long wheelbase model, including Variable Gear Ratio Steering and the Adaptive Variable Air Suspension. Other options include a headliner made out of ecsaine, a suede-like material used by couturier Yves Saint-Laurent, and headlamp washers.<ref>Lexus Reveals Details of New 2007 LS 460</ref> Exterior-wise, the LS 460 L has a similar profile as the LS 460, and features identical overhangs in both front and rear. The rear passenger doors, however, are noticeably longer in the stretched LS 460 L. The option of larger 19-inch five-spoke alloy wheels, exclusive to the long wheelbase model, also provides visual distinction for the long wheelbase LS variant.

[edit] LS 600h / LS 600h L

Image:LexusLS600hL.JPG

Lexus introduced the LS 600h L, the world's first V8-powered full hybrid, at the 2006 New York Auto Show. Introduced in long wheelbase form (but to be made available in standard wheelbase form outside the U.S.), the LS 600h L uses a 5.0 L V8 engine mated to a high-output electric motor with Nickel-Metal Hydride battery packs to generate over 440 hp (328 kW). This output is comparable to V12 sedans such as the BMW 760Li, which produces 438 hp (327 kW). The LS 600h L will be available with an all-wheel drive system and a two-stage continuously variable (CVT) transmission. The LS 600h L is positioned as the halo vehicle of the LS Series, and is equipped with the highest levels of ultra-luxury features ever offered on the Lexus flagship.<ref name=hybrid>Lexus' New Luxury V8 Hybrid</ref> Lexus claims the LS hybrid is the most technologically advanced vehicle in the world,<ref>Lexus Shoots for the Moon with a V8 Hybrid</ref> and predicts that the vehicle will be certified as a SULEV vehicle. Because of the silent nature of its hybrid design, the LS hybrid may be the quietest sedan in the world.<ref name=hybrid/> More details such as curb weight, price (speculated to be in the region of $100,000) are yet to be released.<ref>A Lexus Aimed at Mercedes' S-Class</ref> The standard wheelbase hybrid LS model, the LS 600h, was unveiled in Japan in April 2006.

The LS 600h and LS 600h L contain a number of features which are exclusive to the LS hybrid sedans, including one of the world's first LED headlight systems, a leather-trimmed dash, and different exterior colors. Differently-hued trunk "600h" and side chrome "hybrid" badges are also unique to the LS hybrids.

[edit] Advanced safety systems

The LS Series incorporates multiple active and passive safety features, including several systems which are being implemented for the first time on production vehicles. The application of these features depends on the wheelbase type and available options packages. The comprehensive active safety feature on the LS Series, the Lexus Pre-Collision System (PCS), utilizes front and rear millimeter-wavelength radar, stereo cameras, and infrared night vision projectors to prevent accidents. PCS includes an obstacle detection and warning system, Driver Monitoring System, Lane Keeping Assist, Emergency Steering Assist, and frontal and rear Pre-Collision response systems. The obstacle detection and warning system on the LS includes the world's first automotive implementation<ref>NEC Electronics launches image chips for cars</ref> of an image processing chip capable of identifying vehicles, pedestrians, and lane markers in real time.<ref>IMAPCAR® Image Processor Adopted in Lexus LS460 Pre-crash Safety System</ref>

Image:LS driver monitoring system.PNG

The Driver Monitoring System is the world's first to use a facial recognition camera (placed on the steering column) to track driver attentiveness.<ref> LS460 achieves a world-first in preventative safety</ref> Using infared LED detectors, the Driver Monitoring System will respond if the driver's head has moved more than 15 degrees to the side for longer than 15 seconds. If that occurs, a warning alarm will sound followed by a brief automatic application of the braking system.<ref name=safety>Lexus LS 460 safety features</ref> In the U.S. market, the Driver Monitoring System is scheduled to first debut on the LS 600h L sedan, coinciding with the introduction of the obstacle detection and warning system.<ref name=hybrid/>

The Lane Keeping Assist system features two main components, Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Lane Keep (LK). When activated, the LDW system will issue an audiovisual warning and apply a brief corrective steering response if it detects the LS veering out of its lane. The LK system can only be activated when the Adaptive Cruise Control is engaged. If it detects the LS veering out of its lane, LK will actively provide steering inputs to return the vehicle to the proper lane.<ref name=safety/>

All LS sedans feature Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) as standard. VDIM is a stability/traction control system which incorporates electrically controlled braking, electric brake force distribution, Vehicle Stability Control, and also the available Adaptive Variable Suspension and Variable Gear Ratio Steering systems.<ref>Advanced Safety in LS 460</ref> VDIM integrates these systems to improve vehicle responsiveness to driver input and prevent loss of control.

In sudden maneuvers, the Emergency Steering Assist system acts to minimize body roll and improve vehicle responsiveness. Emergency Steering Assist utilizes the Variable Gear Ratio Steering actuator to reduce the steering gear ratio, and prompts the Adaptive Variable Suspension to adopt stiffer settings.<ref name=safety/> These actions help make emergency maneuvers more stable and controlled.

The frontal Pre-Crash system is programmed with a sequence of response capabilities. If a potential hazard is detected in the vehicle's path, the obstacle detection system will activate a warning buzzer, alerting the driver. If the system detects a potential collision, Pre-Crash Brake Assist and Emergency Steering Assist will activate, increasing effectiveness in emergency maneuvers and stopping. If a collision is detected to be unavoidable, the Pre-Crash Seatbelt pretensioners will activate, and the brakes will automatically engage to slow the vehicle.<ref name=safety/> In the U.S. market, the frontal Pre-Crash system is listed as the Lexus Pre-Collision System.

Image:LS Intelligent Headrests.PNG

The rear Pre-Crash system is the world's first active rear collision safety system.<ref>Rear collision warnings part of Toyota's safety features</ref> It operates using a similar sequence of response capabilities as the frontal Pre-Crash system, and also utilizes the LS obstacle detection and warning systems. If a rear collision is deemed unavoidable, sensor-equipped Pre-Crash Intelligent Headrests in the front seats will adjust position upwards (up to 25 mm) and forwards (up to 60 mm) to cradle the head during impact.<ref name=safety/> This system reduces the risk of whiplash.

Passive safety systems include eight standard airbags,<ref>2007 Lexus LS 460 First Drive</ref> passenger detection systems, front and rear crumple zones, three-point seatbelts with pre-tensioners and force limiters, and a reinforced steel body. Dual-stage driver and twin-chambered front passenger airbags, full-length side curtain airbags, front knee airbags, and Thorax-Abdomen-Pelvis (TAP) airbags are installed on the LS Series.<ref name=safety/> On vehicles with specific rear seat packages, up to eleven airbags are installed. Additional standard active safety features on the LS Series include electronically controlled braking (ECB), anti-lock brakes (ABS), and traction control (TRAC).

In specific countries, different safety features are available<ref>Anti-crash features herald new Lexus</ref> depending on the national safety regulations and liability standards.

[edit] UF40 variants

LS Series 4.6L petrol V8 RWD sedan
- 2007 LS 460
- 2007 LS 460 L
LS Series 4.6L petrol V8 AWD sedan
- 2008 LS 460 AWD*
LS Series 5.0L hybrid V8 AWD sedan
- 2008 LS 600h
- 2008 LS 600h L

* wheelbase version has not yet been released

[edit] Technical specifications

Lexus LS model year
	1990–1994	1995–1997	1998–2000	2001–2006	2007-
Gears	4	4	5	5–6	8*
Power	173 kW (250 hp)	186 kW (260 hp)	214 kW (290 hp)	214 kW (290 hp)	283 kW (380 hp)*
Torque	353 Nm (260 ft•lbf) @4400rpm	366 Nm (270 ft•lbf) @4500rpm	407 Nm (300 ft•lbf) @4000rpm	434 Nm (320 ft•lbf) @3400rpm	498 Nm (367 ft•lbf) @4100rpm*

*LS 460 and LS 460 L model versions, excluding hybrids

[edit] Future possibilities

In August 2006, Road & Track reported rumors that Lexus was considering a V12 "hybrid super sedan" that would be slotted above the LS V8 hybrids. The magazine speculated that this sedan, the "L 650h," could be built on the LS platform.<ref>Lexus' 500 bhp Hybrid Super-Sedan for 2009. Road & Track, August 2006</ref> Critics have pointed out the absence of a range-topping V12 as an omission in the Lexus lineup, with the closest competitors to the LS Series, such as the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, offering range-topping sedans with powerful V12 engines and prices exceeding US $120,000 (e.g. S600 and S65 AMG). Lexus has responded with a gasoline-electric hybrid LS 600h L (see above) which will join the Lexus lineup in 2007. This halo vehicle is expected to boost the esteem of the Lexus LS by offering a range-topping vehicle with V12 performance, lower emissions, improved fuel economy, and an ultra-quiet cabin. The price premium over the LS 460 L, which has a base price of $71,000 and runs past $93,000 with full options, remains to be seen. When fully optioned, it is possible that the LS 600h L will reach the $100K ultra-luxury segment mark.<ref>Lexus Ultra-Sedan</ref> Related rumors persist that a new and improved version of a Toyota V12 used in the Japanese Toyota Century will be upgraded to more than 500 hp (currently 280 hp) for the European and North American markets to more successfully compete in the ultra-luxury segment with the Mercedes-Benz S600 and BMW 760, but nothing concrete has been confirmed by Toyota<ref>Lexus V12</ref>.<ref>Notes from Toyota-land</ref>

Future directions may also respond to critical appraisal of the LS 460. In 2006, an Edmunds.com editor, following a test of the standard wheelbase LS 460 sedan (without the air suspension), suggested that the Lexus flagship still did not match the German flagships, particularly when it came to driving dynamics. According to Greg N. Brown of Edmunds.com the LS does "Not yet... equal of such grandees of the high-end game as the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and BMW 7 Series."<ref name="LS, not yet an equal to S-Class and 7-Series?">LS, not yet an equal to S-Class and 7-Series?. Retrieved on 2006-10-21.</ref> However, according to the Automobile Magazine editor Robert Cumberford, the new LS 460 thoroughly beats and exceeds its German rivals. According to Automobile, "The new LS 460 is not just the peer of the leading trio, it provides a new benchmark for the category." Among the features Automobile praised were the extremely precise steering, high levels of grip, and powerful braking; the magazine suggested that the LS 460 provided class-leading luxury and technology surpassing anything which European rivals had to offer.<ref>LS 460 exceeds and provides a new benchmark for S-Class and 7-Series</ref> It remains to be seen whether future versions of the S-Class and 7-Series sedans will offer improved characteristics and technology to better compete with the LS 460, leading Lexus to respond in turn. One possible future direction for the LS and the Lexus brand is a performance-focused flagship, such as those offered by Audi with its S8 model or Mercedes' AMG with its S55 AMG model. At present, the LS 600h and LS 600h L will provide the biggest performance leap of the LS lineup.

[edit] Awards

The LS has received numerous awards since its introduction. Image:Lexus JD Power Awards.jpg

The Lexus LS has won the J.D. Power award for the "Best High-end Luxury Sedan" 12 years in a row, the most for any manufacturer, due to vehicle dependability.<ref>Lexus leads nameplate rankings for 12 years in a row</ref>
The Lexus LS was the highest-ranked vehicle in J.D. Power's Initial Quality Survey for seven consecutive years from 1997 to 2003. In 2004, the Lexus LS 430 was second only to the Lexus SC 430 in the Initial Quality Survey.<ref>J.D. Power and Associates 2004 Initial Quality Study</ref>
In 2006, Consumer Reports awarded the Lexus LS as the highest ranked vehicle in reliability in the luxury car class, continuing the Lexus trend of scoring highly on Consumer Reports surveys. Based on Consumer Reports a five year old Lexus LS is more reliable and dependable than a brand new BMW 7-series, Mercedes S-class and Audi A8, owing to the wide disparity in reliability scores between the top-ranked LS and below-average German makes.<ref>

Finding and Keeping a Reliable Luxury Car</ref>

The 2005 J.D. Power Initial Quality Survey found just 90 problems per 100 LS vehicles, the first time in the study's 16 year history for a vehicle to have less than one problem per vehicle. In 2006, the Lexus LS repeated this feat, averaging just 88 problems per 100 vehicles.<ref> Toyota, Lexus lead way in J.D. Power dependability study</ref>
The Lexus LS 430 was named the Most Appealing Premium Luxury Car by J.D. Power in 2001.<ref>J.D. Power and Associates 2001 Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study</ref> The second generation LS 400 was also named Most Appealing Premium Luxury Car in 1996.
In 1989, the Motoring Press Association of the U.S. named the LS 400 the Best Imported Car of the Year.
The first-generation LS earned a place on Car and Driver magazine's Ten Best list and became Wheels magazine's Car of the Year.
The LS 400 was named the Best Import Car of 1993 by Robb Report.
Automobile Magazine in 2005 listed the first Lexus LS 400 as one of the 24 Most Important Vehicles of the 20th Century, a title it bestowed on the vehicle in 1996.
The LS 430 was judged as the "Finest Luxury Sedan In America" by Automotive Marketing Consultants, Inc. in a 2002 comparison test. Competing against ten other luxury models, including the Mercedes S500 and the BMW 750iL, the LS placed first in three out of seven categories: NVH, ergonomics, and utility. The LS 430 was also the quietest car in the comparison, with an idle reading of just 31.1 dB in the front seat.<ref> AMCI Declares Lexus LS 430 `Finest Luxury Sedan in America`</ref>
Kiplinger's Personal Finance report named the Lexus LS 430 First in Class and Best in Safety for cars $40,000 and over in 2005.<ref>2005 Car Buyer's Guide</ref>
Intellichoice gave the Lexus LS its Best Overall Value award for the Luxury Class in 2004<ref>IntelliChoice Best Overall Value Award Winners For 2004 Model Year Vehicles; Cars, Trucks and SUVs Honored at Chicago Auto Show</ref> and 2005.
AutoPacific and Intellichoice gave the LS 430 the Motorist's Choice Award in the Cars category in 2006.<ref>AutoPacific Motorist's Choice Awards - a New Benchmark Rating Automotive Excellence</ref>
Kelley Blue Book gave the LS 430 its Best to Hold Value Award in 2001, 2002, and 2003.<ref>CARFAX - Kelley Blue Book-Models to Best Hold Its Value</ref>
R. L. Polk & Co., automotive marketing research firm, gave the LS 430 its Polk Automotive Loyalty Award in the Prestige Luxury Car category in 2001, 2002, 2004, and 2005 for customer retention.<ref>Polk Automotive Loyalty Award Winners</ref>
Edmunds.com gave the LS 430 its Most Wanted Car award in the Large Luxury Class in 2002.<ref>Most Wanted Car Awards For 2002 </ref>
Popular Science gave the LS 430 a Design & Engineering award in 2001,<ref>Popular Mechanics Announces Winners of Design & Engineering Awards 2001</ref> and named the LS 460 to its Best of What's New in Automotive Technology in December 2006.
Popular Mechanics gave the LS 460 its 2007 Automotive Excellence Award in the Luxury category.<ref>PM Automotive Excellence Awards 2007</ref> The second generation LS 400 was honored with Popular Mechanics' Design and Engineering Award in 1995.
Automotive research firm TRG declared that the 2007 Lexus LS 460 offered the most technological features of any vehicle in the North American market, surpassing the newly launched Mercedes S-class and 2006 BMW 7-Series.<ref> TRG Proclaims Lexus LS-460 Most Techie Car</ref>
The fourth-generation Lexus LS was named the 2006-2007 Car of the Year Japan, taking the prestigious top prize among 10 finalists in a competition juried by Japan's top automotive journalists.<ref>2006-2007 Car of the Year Japan</ref>

[edit] Trivia

Bill Gates owned a 1990 LS 400 in burgundy and subsequently donated it to the Pacific Crest Outward Bound School in Portland, Oregon in 1995.
Ford CEO Alan Mulally was a proud owner of an LS 430, proclaiming it to be the "finest car in the world".<ref>Only the best will do for Mulally</ref>
In 2005, Samsung's corporate leadership purchased seven LS 430 sedans as a corporate privilege for its presidents.
Thai Billionaire and former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra owned a black Lexus LS 400.
Antony Leung, the former secretary of finance of Hong Kong, purchased an LS 430 just before implementing a new tax that would have cost him an additional HK $50,000. The scandal, known as "Lexusgate", led to his resignation.
New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg's gray 2001 LS 430 was carjacked in New Jersey in October 2006. The vehicle was later found abandoned and returned to the owner.
London Mayor Ken Livingstone drove a Lexus LS 430 before switching to a hybrid Lexus GS 450h due to London's emissions regulations.
Actor Mel Gibson was arrested for drunk driving in his LS 430 in 2006.
The third season of the popular BBC television program, Spooks, featured a number of Lexus LS vehicles as part of the brand's introduction in the British market.
Kasper Cole used a "confiscated" Lexus LS as his personal car when he was replacing King Tchalla as the Black Panther. The Wakandan embassy provides a black Lexus Limousine to the kings when he is in New York.

Image:2003 Lexus LS430 01.jpg

A Toyota Celsior is one of the cars driven in the racing arcade game and manga Wangan Midnight. The car, driven by Gen Sasaki (Gatchan), is often regarded as a joke due to the ricer features and Gatchan's reluctance to give his car more race features like removing excess weight and using garish bodykits.
The LS 400 is getting popular in vip style.
An air suspension controller can be used to raise or lower the LS 400. Air suspension was an optional feature.
Creative Technology CEO Sim Wong Hoo owned a LS 430 for three years and then put it up as the grand prize of a Creative 25th anniversary promotion drive.<ref>Creative 25th Anniversary Lucky Draw Offers Sim Wong Hoo's Lexus LS 430 as the Grand Prize</ref>