SPYSHOTS: Next-generation Lexus LS spotted testing

lexus-ls-001

The current-generation Lexus LS has been around from 2007, while its facelift arrived in 2012. Four years on from that, the next-generation iteration of the car that started it all for the Lexus brand has been spied testing, still with plenty of concealment.

This is a very big sedan which appears to be growing bigger still, and our spy photographer source suggests as much; 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.

lexus-ls-011

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.

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Mick Chan

Open roads and closed circuits hold great allure for Mick Chan. Driving heaven to him is exercising a playful chassis on twisty paths; prizes ergonomics and involvement over gadgetry. Spent three years at a motoring newspaper and short stint with a magazine prior to joining this website.

 

Comments

  • P2 > big big big bro Lexus cuz no need camo road test.
    P2 winrar, jangan persoal.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 2 Thumb down 4
    • Kunta bin Kinte on Dec 02, 2016 at 10:06 am

      P1 and P2 both have malas and lazy people. All got tongkat mentality. Can never reach Lexus standard.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 6 Thumb down 1
      • Lexus sux. I have to be asian size to get into this asian car thats miserably trying to compete with continentals that r more spacious.

        Like or Dislike: Thumb up 1 Thumb down 1
        • Jimmy on Dec 03, 2016 at 1:02 am

          Ground clearance as good as a GTR.
          Interior as oriental as a Japanese house.
          Exterior as scary as a ninja.

          Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
  • Mikey on Dec 01, 2016 at 9:59 pm

    Most spy-shot are done with ‘taste’ but in this case, the concealment on this Lexus makes it look Really ugly. That is one hell-of-a BAD job i must say.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 4
    • alldisc on Dec 02, 2016 at 7:54 am

      That means the camouflage is working well. By the way, current Lexus flagship has LS600h. Expect more not less.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 3 Thumb down 0
      • Mikey on Dec 02, 2016 at 9:25 am

        Most camouflage are done well when they stick a proper black/white/gray pattern with all the sims, doors, panels covered well while this uses a very cheap looking plastic sheets & cheap workmanship. That is my point.

        Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 3
  • heybadigol (Member) on Dec 02, 2016 at 8:09 am

    The camouflage may hide the design details. But the profile can be clearly seen. And that is a very sleek profile – long, low-ish and rakish. Sort of like the Aston Martin Lagonda from decades ago (sans sharp edges) and also the current Lagonda Taraf. The test car here does appear almost production ready as you can see the tablet/screens for the rear passengers. Very nice work Lexus.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 2 Thumb down 0
    • Jimmy on Dec 03, 2016 at 1:08 am

      Study your target market.

      Maybe the American Taukehs like sporty futuristic look rather than elegance in their E-class/5-series/LS.

      Don’t correct me, the sentence carries some hidden meaning.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
 

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