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 model. The LS F Sport, according to Lexus, moves the driving emotion needle even further with handling enhancements and a performance-infused design outside and in.
The Lexus LS has for nearly three decades set benchmarks for powertrain smoothness, ride quietness, craftsmanship, attention to detail, and long-term quality. Lexus believes the 2019 LS offers the most dynamic driving experience in the model’s history; especially with the addition of the new F Sport model.
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Available with a petrol powertrain, this new model benefits from “carefully-applied chassis tuning and enhancements”, but is said to deliver on the drive comfort Lexus is so famously known for. The package is topped off with bespoke F Sport styling.
Lexus says that while the focus of the F Sport model is on driver dynamics, the LS 500 is more luxury-biased and includes features such as the vibrating seat massage function for the front and rear seats, as well as front and rear seat ventilation among others.
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Sporty interior
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 the F Sport-exclusive front seats, a perforated-grill pattern on seating surfaces, and aluminum trim elements add an additional sporty flair.
The driver faces a special F Sport steering wheel, as well as a speedometer and tachometer adapted from the limited-production Lexus LFA supercar. Attention to detail shows in the aluminum accelerator, brake and footrest pedals, as well as the F Sport perforated shift handle and footrest.
The dashboard has a sweeping array of fixed, horizontal metal fins spanning its full width, neatly concealing the movable fins that direct airflow from the air conditioning vents. The information displays are positioned at a uniform height in a “seat-in-control” layout that allows the driver to view and operate all the systems without changing their body posture.
Four interior colours are available: White; Black, White and Grey, as well as Flare Red.
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Twin-turbo V6 engine
The all-new 3.5-litre V6 engine has been designed specifically for the new LS. The engine is 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 - 100km/h acceleration time of five seconds.
As with the LS 500, the driver is able to tailor powertrain response and feel by selecting Normal, Eco, Sport and Sport S+ drive modes, with just enough of the exhaust note being audible to enhance the sporty feel.
READ: The new Lexus LS 500 is pure perfexus
The LS marks the first use of a 10-speed automatic transmission in a luxury sedan, the system having made its debut in the new LC coupe. It is a torque converter automatic, yet with shift times that rival those of dual-clutch transmissions.
Top speed for the LS is electronically governed to 250 km/h and fuel consumption is listed as 9.5-litres/100km.
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Price and service information
The Lexus LS F Sport retails for R1 975 900. The LS-range has a best-in-class 7-year or 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 luxury-focused LS 500, which retails for R2 151 100.
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