Lexus LS (spy shot)
The next-generation Lexus LS has been spied testing, still with plenty of concealment. This is a very big sedan which
appears to be growing bigger still, underpinned by the GA-L platform which also forms the basis of the LC
coupe, the new limousine is expected to have a wheelbase in excess of 3,000 mm.
As a reference, the current model measures 5,210 mm long by 1,875 mm wide, with
a wheelbase of 2,970 mm.
The test mule’s relatively low
nose and sharp front end hint at the new model’s sleek looks, already previewed
by the LF-FC concept show last year.
Under the hood, the standard LS
recipe of a naturally-aspirated V8 – in this case, the 467 hp, 527 Nm 5.0 litre
V8 from the LC 500 is a likely option – and a hybrid offering is expected,
perhaps the 3.5 litre V6 hybrid powertrain from the LC 500h. Transmission is
expected to be via a new 10-speed Aisin automatic gearbox on the forthcoming
LS.
It will be almost exactly 10
years since the debut of the current-generation LS, when the new model makes
its official appearance next year. Rumours of additional variants are abound,
with a high-performance LS F thought to surface later on in the new model’s
lifecycle. There are also rumours that a hydrogen fuel cell version could
appear as a technology demonstrator.
Soource : Paultan