The Lexus LS has always been more than just a car; it’s a statement. For decades, it has disrupted the luxury automotive landscape, setting new benchmarks for refinement, dependability, and customer satisfaction. Now, the all-new, fifth-generation Lexus LS 500 is poised to rewrite the rules once again. This isn’t merely an evolution; it’s a revolution, embodying a uniquely Japanese approach to luxury while engineered to captivate a global audience.
Chief Engineer Toshio Asahi perfectly encapsulates the ambition behind the LS 500: “Not only will the LS symbolize the Lexus brand, it will become the definitive new-generation luxury car embodying Japanese tradition and culture. As such, this global pinnacle must go far beyond what the world expects from a luxury car.” The 2018 LS 500 delivers on this promise, offering a compelling blend of daring design, exhilarating performance, and unparalleled craftsmanship.
A Bold New Vision: Design and Platform of the LS 500
The Lexus LS 500 immediately commands attention with its radical new design. Longer, lower, and wider than its predecessor, the LS 500 boasts a coupe-like silhouette that exudes both elegance and athleticism. This striking form is not just for aesthetics; it’s underpinned by the all-new Global Architecture for Luxury vehicles (GA-L) platform. This premium rear-wheel-drive architecture is the foundation for the LS 500‘s enhanced agility and renowned Lexus comfort.
Image alt text: Sleek side profile of the 2018 Lexus LS 500 showcasing its coupe-like silhouette and elongated body, highlighting the new design language.
The GA-L platform isn’t just about proportions; it’s about driving dynamics. It’s the stiffest platform Lexus has ever created, providing a solid base for superior handling, ride smoothness, and cabin quietness. The wheelbase is extended for increased spaciousness, and the low, wide stance optimizes the center of gravity for enhanced stability and responsiveness.
Chief Designer Koichi Suga emphasizes the LS’s role as a brand symbol: “The LS is the flagship of the Lexus brand. More than any other model, it embodies the history and image of Lexus and serves as a symbol for everything the brand stands for.” The design of the LS 500 reflects this heritage while pushing boundaries.
Exterior Elegance and Detail
The LS 500‘s exterior is a masterclass in design detail. The signature spindle grille is reimagined with an intricate mesh that appears to change texture in varying light conditions. This effect is achieved through meticulous CAD development and hand-adjusting thousands of individual surfaces. Flanking the grille are narrow, slit-like headlights with 3-projector lamps and L-shaped LED accents, creating a distinctive and assertive front fascia.
Image alt text: Close-up detail of the Lexus LS 500’s spindle grille, showcasing the intricate mesh pattern designed to dynamically interact with light and shadow, a hallmark of Lexus craftsmanship.
The coupe-like roofline is a defining element, achieved not just through the fastback style but also by tapering the cabin pillars. This, combined with flared fenders and pulled-in doors, creates a dynamic and sculpted form. The LS 500 is also the first Lexus sedan with a six-window profile, enhancing outward visibility and contributing to the car’s elegant proportions. Flush-surface windows further refine the sleek aesthetic.
Wheel designs are equally sophisticated, with new 19-inch and 20-inch options. The 20-inch premium wheels utilize a sputtering electroplating technique for a brilliant finish. Most wheel designs incorporate a hollow rim structure to minimize tire noise, demonstrating Lexus’s commitment to even the smallest details.
Performance and Dynamics: Twin-Turbo V6 and 10-Speed Transmission
The Lexus LS 500 moves beyond traditional luxury car performance with a focus on engaging driving dynamics. Luxury sedan buyers increasingly demand agility and responsiveness without compromising ride comfort. The GA-L platform and advanced chassis technologies in the LS 500 deliver on this expectation.
Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM)
Central to the LS 500‘s handling prowess is the latest generation of Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM). This sophisticated system integrates control of various vehicle subsystems, including ABS, traction control, stability control, electric power steering, variable gear ratio steering, and dynamic rear steering. VDIM manages longitudinal, lateral, and vertical motion, as well as yaw, roll, and pitch, to provide seamless and intuitive handling.
Advanced Chassis and Suspension
The GA-L platform’s innovative construction utilizes lightweight materials such as aluminum and ultra-high-tensile steel. Aluminum suspension towers, joined to the steel body using advanced techniques like self-piercing rivets and adhesive bonding, reduce weight and increase rigidity. The LS 500 boasts nearly 30% high-tensile steel mass composition, significantly improving structural integrity and driving performance.
The multilink front suspension features double ball joints on the control arms, optimizing suspension geometry for precise steering response and wheel control. Aluminum components are used extensively in the suspension to reduce unsprung weight, enhancing both agility and ride comfort.
Available air suspension further elevates ride quality. The Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) system has been significantly enhanced, increasing damping-force switching levels from nine to 650. This allows for faster, more seamless damping adjustments in response to driving inputs and road conditions, providing both excellent shock isolation and a flat, controlled ride.
Twin-Turbo V6 Engine
Powering the LS 500 is an all-new, Lexus-engineered 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 engine. This engine delivers V8-level performance with 416 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque, exceeding the previous generation’s naturally aspirated V8. The undersquare design, optimized bore-to-stroke ratio, and Formula 1-inspired technologies contribute to exceptional thermal efficiency and high-speed combustion.
Image alt text: A view of the Lexus LS 500’s engine bay, showcasing the new twin-turbo V6 engine and its meticulously engineered components, emphasizing the blend of power and refinement.
The twin turbochargers are designed and produced in-house, featuring curved turbine blades, die-cast compressor housings, and electric wastegates for precise boost control and minimal lag. Water-to-air intercoolers further enhance performance and efficiency by reducing intake air temperature.
10-Speed Automatic Transmission
The LS 500 features a groundbreaking 10-speed automatic transmission, initially debuted in the Lexus LC 500. This torque converter automatic offers incredibly quick shift times, rivaling dual-clutch transmissions. The closely spaced gear ratios provide optimal performance in all driving situations, from rapid acceleration to relaxed highway cruising.
Aluminum components and optimized internal design reduce rotating mass and improve shift speed. The transmission also incorporates Artificial Intelligence Shift Control (AI-Shift Control), which anticipates driver input and driving conditions to execute perfectly timed shifts. For drivers who prefer manual control, steering wheel paddle shifters are included.
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) Availability
For enhanced traction and stability, the Lexus LS 500 is available with an all-wheel-drive system featuring a Torsen® limited-slip center differential. This system dynamically adjusts torque distribution between the front and rear wheels, optimizing grip in various driving conditions.
Lexus LS 500h: The Innovative Hybrid Approach
The Lexus LS 500 also offers a hybrid variant, the LS 500h, which takes a distinct approach to hybrid technology. The Multi Stage Hybrid System, also found in the LC 500h Coupe, combines a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 engine with two electric motor/generators and a lightweight lithium-ion battery.
This system delivers a combined output of 354 horsepower, enabling the LS 500h to accelerate from 0-60 mph in 5.1 seconds (RWD). The innovative Multi Stage Hybrid System utilizes a planetary CVT paired with a four-speed automatic gear set. This combination expands the overall gearing range and optimizes engine operation across a wider speed range. In M mode, the system simulates 10 ratios, providing a more engaging driving experience with paddle shifters.
The LS 500h also achieves impressive fuel economy and range, with a manufacturer-estimated 25/33/28 mpg (city/highway/combined) and a range exceeding 600 miles on a single tank (RWD), depending on driving conditions.
Interior Craftsmanship and Technology: Omotenashi in Motion
The interior of the Lexus LS 500 is a sanctuary of modern luxury, deeply rooted in the Japanese principle of Omotenashi, or anticipatory hospitality. It’s a space designed to welcome, envelop, and cater to the needs of both driver and passengers.
Chief Designer Suga describes the interior vision: “I hope that when you open the door you’ll experience an immediate, intuitive sense that you’re looking at an interior that is unlike any luxury car before.”
Seating and Comfort
New seating designs include available 28-way power-adjustable front seats, utilizing electric motors and a pneumatic control system for fine-tuned adjustments with minimal bulk. Rear seats offer dedicated heaters in the shoulder and lower back areas, providing targeted warmth. Available “Relaxation Seats” in the rear incorporate air bladders and warming functions for massage and enhanced comfort.
The dashboard design is organically shaped, clustering information displays at a uniform height for a driver-centric layout. This “seat-in-control” concept ensures all systems are easily accessible without requiring changes in posture.
Cabin Couture and Trim
The LS 500 interior offers a wide array of customization options, including nine interior color schemes and nine trim choices, such as exclusive Naguri-style aluminum for the F SPORT model. Upholstery-wrapped elements and meticulous attention to detail create an elegant and refined finish. Higher-grade seats feature quilting, and F SPORT seats incorporate a perforation pattern mirroring the spindle grille mesh.
Inspired by Shimamoku wood patterns, new trim options like Art Wood Organic, Art Wood Herringbone, and Laser Special Matte combine natural woodwork with advanced manufacturing technologies. Art Wood Organic, inspired by “blazing fire,” features layered wood with a natural gloss coating for a vibrant, flame-like appearance. Art Wood Herringbone uses handcrafted wood mosaic craftsmanship, while Laser Special Matte trim reveals metal lines beneath the wood veneer.
Innovative Technology and Connectivity
Ambient lighting inspired by Japanese Andon lanterns and armrests that appear to float beside the door panel showcase the blend of tradition and technology. Executive models feature Kiriko Glass ornamentation, a world-first in a production vehicle, inspired by traditional Japanese glassware. Hand-folded pleats on the door trim, a process taking four years to develop, exemplify handcrafted artistry.
Image alt text: Detail of the Lexus LS 500’s interior Kiriko Glass ornamentation, showcasing the intricate hand-carved appearance replicated using advanced laser technology, a blend of traditional artistry and modern innovation.
The LS 500 integrates the next-generation Remote Touch Interface (RTI), designed to mimic smartphone operation and support handwritten input. A 12.3-inch wide navigation display is standard, and an optional 24-inch color heads-up display (HUD), the largest in the world, projects essential information onto the driver’s line of sight.
Lexus Enform services provide enhanced connectivity, including Safety Connect, App Suite 2.0, Destination Assist, Wi-Fi, Remote, and Service Connect. New Dynamic Navigation offers cloud-based updates, dynamic routing, and conversational speech recognition.
Lexus LS 500 F SPORT: Amplifying the Driving Spirit
For drivers seeking a more dynamic and engaging experience, the Lexus LS 500 F SPORT delivers enhanced performance and distinctive styling. While maintaining Lexus’s renowned comfort, the F SPORT package amplifies the driving spirit of the LS 500.
F SPORT Performance Enhancements
The F SPORT benefits from the GA-L platform’s inherent agility and further chassis tuning. VDIM is specifically tuned for F SPORT models, optimizing handling and control. Exclusive 20-inch alloy wheels with performance tires, larger brakes with six-piston front calipers, and available Performance Package with Variable Gear Ratio Steering, Active Rear Steering, and Active Stabilizer enhance handling and responsiveness.
F SPORT Styling and Interior
The LS 500 F SPORT stands out with unique styling cues, including an exclusive spindle grille with even greater intricacy, special rocker moldings, and 20-inch wheels. The interior features perforated-grill pattern seating surfaces, Naguri aluminum trim, F SPORT seats with enhanced bolstering, a unique instrument cluster inspired by the Lexus LFA supercar, aluminum pedals, and an Ultrasuede headliner.
Image alt text: Interior view of the Lexus LS 500 F SPORT, highlighting the sporty design elements like the unique steering wheel, bolstered seats, aluminum trim, and the driver-focused cockpit.
Sound and Audio
The LS 500 exhaust is tuned to produce a more authoritative tone, while the cabin is meticulously engineered for quietness. Active Noise Control further reduces cabin noise using antiphase sound from the audio speakers. The standard premium audio system or the available 3D surround Mark Levinson QLI Reference Surround Sound System with 23 speakers and 2400 watts of power provide exceptional audio experiences.
Advanced Safety and Driver Assistance
Safety is paramount in the Lexus LS 500, incorporating advanced technologies under the Lexus Integrated Safety Management Concept. The LS 500 offers both Lexus Safety System+ and the optional Lexus Safety System+ A (Advanced) Package.
Lexus Safety System+ and Safety System+ A
Standard Lexus Safety System+ includes Pre-Collision System (PCS), Lane Departure Alert (LDA) with Steering Assist, All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, and Intelligent High-beam headlamps. Lexus Safety System+ A adds advanced features like Pedestrian Alert with Active Steering Assist, Front Cross Traffic Alert (FCTA), Road Sign Assist (RSA), and Lane Trace Assist (LTA).
Pre-Collision System (PCS) with Pedestrian Detection
PCS with Pedestrian Detection uses millimeter-wave radar and stereo cameras to detect vehicles and pedestrians ahead, providing alerts, pre-collision brake assist, and automatic emergency braking. Pedestrian Alert displays the direction of a pedestrian’s presence on the HUD. Active Steering Assist can automatically adjust steering and braking to help avoid collisions with pedestrians or objects.
Lexus CoDrive and Lane Trace Assist (LTA)
Lexus CoDrive integrates All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control and Lane Trace Assist (LTA) for enhanced steering support on highways. LTA can help keep the vehicle centered in its lane, even when lane markings are unclear, and can also provide curve speed reduction assistance.
Other Safety and Support Features
Additional safety features include Front Cross Traffic Alert (FCTA), Road Sign Assist (RSA), Intelligent High-beam with Adaptive Front Lighting (AFS), Lane Departure Alert (LDA) with Steering Assist, Parking Support Brake (PKSB), and Panoramic View Monitor with side clearance and cornering views.
The LS 500: A New Era of Flagship Luxury
The 2018 Lexus LS 500 is more than just a new model; it’s a bold statement of intent. It redefines flagship luxury by seamlessly blending daring design, exhilarating performance, meticulous craftsmanship, and cutting-edge technology. The LS 500 embodies the spirit of Japanese Omotenashi, creating a driving and ownership experience that is both exceptional and deeply human-centered. For those seeking a luxury sedan that transcends the conventional, the Lexus LS 500 is a compelling choice, setting a new standard for the next generation of luxury automobiles.
