Lexus launches thundering new LS F Sport
LEXUS is putting an exclamation point on its signature LS line-up with the addition of a new F Sport model. The company’s spokesmen say that the LS F Sport moves the driving emotion needle even further with handling enhancements and a performance-infused design outside and in.
There are some noteworthy additions to the LS F Sport model in comparison to the LS 500 launched earlier this year, including:
Exclusive mesh design F Sport spindle grille and design concept F Sport 20-inch wheels
F Sport badges
Unique F Sport interior package including steering wheel with F Sport logo and sports pedals
Sports seats with F Sport logo Suede roof lining Bespoke aluminium door trim. The LS F Sport boasts a driver-focused cockpit and a front passenger seat area designed to ‘gently envelop the occupant’. Elements such as smooth leather, precise stitch-work and detailed metal and wood accents add to the welcoming ambiance with a range of textures and surfaces that are pleasing to the eye and touch. Three interior colours are available: White; Black, White and Grey; as well as Flare Red.
Lexus claim that equipping the LS F Sport with standard 20-inch wheels and 245/45RF20 (f) and 275/40RF20 (r) tyres, along with larger front and rear brakes (6-piston callipers on front and 4-piston on the rear), unlocks more of the LS 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. The result is a full-size premium luxury sedan that responds more like a sports coupe through the curves, helping to
underline what F Sport stands for,” they add.
An all-new 3.5-litre V6 engine has been designed specifically for the new LS, providing both high power and good fuel efficiency. It’s said to offer V8-level power without sacrificing fuel economy, whilst minimising noise and vibration.
Power and torque wise, you’ll be able to make use of 310kW and 600Nm. Lexus say the engine’s long stroke and optimised stroke-to-bore ratio contribute to its high-speed combustion and the efficiency of the twin turbos, helping the LS F Sport post a projected 0 to 100km/h acceleration time of five seconds.
The LS F Sport comes with the same safety kit as the LS 500 and 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. 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.
High-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control also uses advanced radar and camera technology to maintain a safe distance between your LS F Sport and the car in front – completely stopping your vehicle, 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.
Should you want one for your garage, the LS F Sport retails for R1 975 900 and comes with a seven-year/105 000km warranty and Full Maintenance Plan. The vehicle’s service intervals are every 15 000km, alternatively once a year.