Having debuted the reinvented flagship sedan in 2018 – the all-new LS – Lexus is putting an exclamation point on this signature model with the new F Sport. The LS F Sport moves the driving emotion needle even further with handling enhancements and a performance-infused design outside and in.

The LS has for nearly three decades set benchmarks for powertrain smoothness, ride quietness, craftsmanship, attention to detail, and long-term quality. The 2019 LS offers the most dynamic driving experience in the model’s history and has now been enhanced further.

As a petrol driven sports sedan, the F Sport version imbues the LS with a more engaging driving spirit through carefully-applied chassis tuning and enhancements, while still emphasizing exceptional comfort. This is topped off with bespoke F Sport styling. The refined skills of Takumi craftspeople contribute to the high quality of every Lexus vehicle, but in developing the new LS F Sport, Lexus has gone further to combine the traditions of Japanese culture and aesthetics with contemporary design and advanced technologies.

There are certain major noteworthy additions to the F Sport model in comparison to the LS 500 launched earlier this year:

  • Exclusive mesh design F- Sport spindle grille and design concept
  • F Sport 20 inch wheels with  F Sport badge for distinction
  • Unique F Sport interior package:  steering wheel  / pedals / sports seats / finished in 3-spoke leather, the gearshift design matches the steering wheel  and suede roof headlining

Lexus designers didn’t hold back when giving the LS its coupe-like silhouette and dramatic rendition of the Lexus signature spindle grille that shows even greater intricacy in the design. And when combined with the sporty enlarged side grille, the F Sport grille is also functional, assisting in maintaining the vehicle’s cooling performance.

The special F Sport front grille, rocker panel, and trunk mouldings accentuate the sedan’s rakish profile, while F Sport badging on fenders and exclusive 20-inch alloy wheels complete the exterior transformation.

The LS is equipped as standard with a glass sunroof which opens externally. This allows for a design that is 30mm thinner than previously, preserving cabin headroom beneath the low roofline.

As with the exterior, Lexus shifted the LS cabin into F Sport spec by applying trim and features exclusive to this version. The F Sport persona shines throughout the cabin, starting with exclusive front seats, which provides enhanced support for dynamic driving. A perforated-grill pattern on seating surfaces and unique scored aluminium trim elements add additional sporty flair.

So, the LS F Sports provides 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.

The all-new 3.5-litre V6 engine has been designed specifically for the new LS, providing both high power and excellent fuel efficiency. It’s indicative of the more dynamic approach taken by Lexus, offering V8-level power without sacrificing fuel economy whilst minimising noise and vibration. The LS F Sport’s output figures are 310kW and 600Nm of torque at 6000rpm. The engine’s long stroke and optimised stroke-to-bore ratio contribute to high-speed combustion and the efficiency of the twin turbos, helping the LS post a projected 0 – 100 km/h acceleration time of 5 seconds via a 10-speed A/T.  It’s a torque converter automatic, yet with shift times that rival those of dual-clutch transmissions. The wide bandwidth afforded by the ten closely-spaced ratios is ideal for all forms of driving, providing optimal gear for all conditions. .Top speed for the LS is electronically governed to 250 km/h and fuel consumption is listed as 9.5 litres per 100 kilometres.

The driver can execute shifts using paddle controls, but many will prefer to use the advanced electronic control system, which anticipates the driver’s input. The system chooses the ideal ratio by monitoring acceleration, braking and lateral G-forces.

The LS F Sport (same safety spec as the LS 500) offers a comprehensive suite of exclusive, semi-automated driving technologies, which include  Pre-Crash System with Pedestrian Detection. This 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.

The High-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control uses advanced radar and camera technology to maintain a safe distance between the LS F Sport and the car in front – completely stopping, if necessary. Lane Departure Alert with Lane Keep Assist, Steering Control and Steering Vibration maintains the correct lane, preventing unintentional drifting across road markings.

The LS F Sport also comes standard with 10 Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) airbags, which aim to keep the driver and passengers safe in the event of an accident. Furthermore, the passenger seats will automatically begin to return to an upright position if an imminent collision is detected. Additional safety features that come standard with the LS F Sport include; Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind Spot Monitor and LED Adaptive High-beam System (AHS).

The Lexus LS F Sport retails for R1 975,900 with a best-in-class 7-year/105 000km Warranty and Full Maintenance Plan. The vehicle’s service intervals are at every 15 000km, alternatively once a year. The other model in the range is the luxe-focused LS 500 which retails for R2 151 100.

 

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