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lexus-ls-500h-front-B1aLexus’ all-new flagship LS 500 series, built on the automaker’s new Global Architecture-Luxury (GA-L) platform, includes the LS 500h hybrid powered by the latest Lexus Multi Stage Hybrid System. It features a sleek, coupe-like silhouette in a package that’s longer and lower than the previous LS model, at a premium price that’s still worlds lower than the former flagship model.

The exterior is striking, a blending of aggressive yet sophisticated elements with a distinctive shoulder line, flared fenders, and a bold front fascia featuring dramatic three-projector headlamps and L-shaped LED running lights. Lexus’ signature spindle mesh grille features thousands of hand-adjusted surfaces to lend a jewel-like quality in changing light. Those who want to go even more upscale can opt for an LS 500h F-Sport variant.

lexus-ls-500h-cabinn keeping with the Lexus philosophy, the LS 500h accommodates driver and passengers in a welcoming and luxurious cabin replete with the high-end features desired by premium car buyers. The dash is designed at a uniform height so a driver can comfortably access all controls without changing body posture. Nearly all surfaces are leather-wrapped, and the interior’s artisan wood is created through intricate sliced wood and laser-cutting processes.

Both driver and front passenger can enjoy available 28-way power adjustable front seats, while rear passengers also get special attention like heated seats that integrate two heaters focused on the shoulder and lower back areas, thus providing warmth in these areas rather than heating the entire body. A Shiatsu massage feature is also available. We tried that feature in the model’s optional rear reclining ‘Relaxation Seat,’ that features a raised ottoman and front passenger seat that articulates forward to provide substantial space and ideal positioning for a massage. Trust us…once you’re in that seat you won’t want to get out.

lexus-ls-500h-frontThe Lexus Multi Stage Hybrid System in the LS 500h combines a naturally aspirated, Atkinson-cycle 3.5-liter V-6 engine with two electric motor/generators that together deliver 354 horsepower. That’s plenty of juice for serous driving sessions on twisty roads, as we can attest from our time behind the wheel in Northern California.

This system essentially incorporates a four-speed automatic transmission coupled to a continuously variable transmission (CVT). A first for any Lexus hybrid is the inclusion of a selectable ‘M’ (manual) mode controlled by steering wheel paddles, which simulates driving with a 10-speed transmission and provides a more dynamic driving experience. Dual Variable Valve Timing with Intelligence (Dual VVT-i) ensures ample torque across the engine's speed range.

lexus-ls-500h-rear-A2Driver assist systems are replete in the 500h. Lexus' Integrated Safety Management safety systems include Pre-Collision, Pedestrian Alert, and Lexus CoDrive, the latter combining All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control with Lane Trace Assist. There’s also Front Cross Traffic Alert, Road Sign Assist, Intelligent High-beam with Adaptive Front Lighting, and Lane Departure Alert plus a continuing list of intelligent and driver assist/safety systems. Side clearance and cornering views have been added to the vehicle’s Panoramic View Monitor to provide periphery safety checks, imaged on the car’s 12.3-inch display monitor.

The fifth-generation LS flagship sedan accomplishes its mission by providing impressive design and high levels of premium content, combined with dynamic performance and a hybrid powertrain that nets estimated fuel economy up to 33 highway mpg. Slated to go on sale later this month, the LS 500h luxury hybrid delivers all this goodness at a premium price that’s yet to be announced, but is expected to be in the high $90,000 range.

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lexus-lc500h-actionInspired by the LF-LC concept unveiled by Lexus four years ago, the 2017 Lexus LC 500 is destined to become the automaker’s flagship coupe. Now it will be joined by a hybrid LC 500h variant. The model represents a shift in Lexus’ engineering and design direction, and thus marks the beginning of a new phase for the Lexus brand with several ‘firsts.’

The LC 500h features the world’s first Multi Stage Hybrid System, a next-generation hybrid powertrain specifically designed for performance vehicles. The system was developed with two opposing objectives: First, to provide a hybrid with a more sporting and engaging driving experience by closely aligning engine speed with throttle inputs. And second, to achieve the best possible balance between power and fuel consumption.

2016.02.08Like the non-hybrid LC 500, a 295 horsepower, 3.5-liter V-6 engine is used in the LC 500h. The LC 500h adds a new lightweight and compact electric motor and lithium-ion battery pack, with a four-speed automatic transmission mounted at the rear of the hybrid transmission. A lighter electric motor offsets the added weight of the automatic transmission, meaning the Multi Stage Hybrid System weighs the same as Lexus’ current hybrid powertrain. An ‘M’ Mode offers the first driver-initiated gear shifts on a Lexus full hybrid powertrain. M Mode allows making direct and responsive gear shifts for the most sporting and engaging drive yet from a Lexus hybrid model.

The electric motor generates better acceleration feel than a conventional engine while adding physical gears more closely aligns engine rpm with driver inputs. The result is a much more direct connection between the accelerator pedal and vehicle acceleration. A total of 354 horsepower results in 0-60 mph times under 5 seconds.

2016.02.08The LC 500 and 500h are the first to use the automaker’s all-new, premium rear-wheel-drive luxury platform that will become the basis for the company’s future front-engine/rear-wheel-drive vehicles. For enhanced dynamic capability and performance, Lexus engineers focused on what they refer to as the LC 500h's ‘inertia specification.’ This places most of the vehicle mass, including the engine and occupants, as low and centralized as possible within the chassis.  Locating the powertrain behind the front axle results in a front mid-ship layout while very short front and rear overhangs push the large diameter tires to the vehicle corners.

Handling is enhanced by a center of gravity that’s further lowered by reducing body weight, in part through the use of an aluminum hood and fenders, aluminum door skins on a carbon fiber structure,  a carbon and glass composite trunk lid, and carbon fiber roof. Aluminum front suspension towers, forged alloy wheels, and ultra-compact LED headlamps also contribute. The model’s extensive use of a high-tensile steel body structure further reduces weight, improves weight-distribution, and increases body rigidity.  Run-flat tires eliminate the weight and weight-distribution penalty of a full-size spare.

lexus-lc500h-leadThe LC 500h's multi-link front suspension system allows for large diameter wheels while keeping a very low hood line. It features two upper and two lower control arms, with double ball joints on each arm. This arrangement optimizes suspension geometry to facilitate precise control from driver inputs and road conditions, creating exceptional steering response.

Included as part of LC 500h standard equipment is Lexus Safety System + to help prevent or mitigate collisions across a wide range of traffic situations. Combining a camera and millimeter-wave radar for a high level of detection performance, the system features a Pre-Crash Safety system with pedestrian detection to help prevent or lessen the severity of collisions, All-speed Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane-Keeping Assist, and Automatic High Beam headlamp technology are also included.

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