After many spy shots and a series of teaser images, the new generation Lexus LS->ke436 finally made its official debut in San Francisco. For the 2013 model year, the LS will be offered in four trim levels: LS 460, LS 460L, LS 600hL Hybrid, and the first-ever LS 460 F-Sport.
As expected, the new generation Lexus LS has received a new exterior design language that has already been featured on the GS sedan->ke439. The F-Sport version, however, will get a more aggressive exterior look, combined with improved driving dynamics and a sportier interior. It has received the usual F-Sport elements, including an enhanced three-dimensional mesh grille, larger cooling openings, a black grille surround, 19" forged wheels, sports seats, and different aluminum trims for the interior. Lexus->ke47 will also be offering an exclusive Ultra White exterior paint for the new LS 460 F-Sport.
UPDATE 08/06/12: Lexus has released the official walk-around video for the LS 460 F-Sport. Check out the 4-minute video by clicking on the image above!
Hit the jump to read more about the 2013 Lexus LS 460 F-Sport.
2013 Lexus LS 460 F-Sport
- Make: Array
- Model: 2013 Lexus LS 460 F-Sport
- Engine/Motor: V8
- Horsepower: 386
- Torque: 367
- [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array
Exterior and Interior
The F-Sport version will be distinguished from the other LS versions in the line-up thanks to a more aggressive design language. Its exterior combines an enhanced three-dimensional mesh grille, larger cooling openings, black grille surround, and round fog lamps. The F-Sport language continues onto the rear with a chrome-plated bar running along the bottom edge of the rear bumper and F-Sport exterior badges. Lexus->ke47 will be offering an exclusive Ultra White exterior paint and a new set of 19" forged wheels with summer or all-season tires to further differentiate this model. Since this is an F-Sport model, there will also be a sport tuned air suspension that has been lowered 0.4 inches, a Torsen limited slip rear differential (RWD model), and Brembo six-piston caliper brakes.
For the interior, the new LS 460 F-Sport gets sports seats with larger bolsters, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with paddle shifters, and genuine aluminum trim.
Engine
The 2013 LS 460 F-Sport will still be powered by the same 4.6-liter V8 engine found in the standard model that delivers a total of 386 HP and 367 lb-ft of torque for the RWD version and 360 HP and 347lb-ft for the AWD version. The engine, which will be mated to an eight-speed sequential shift automatic transmission, will sprint the car from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.4 seconds and up to a top speed of 130 mph (electronically limited).
Prices
Prices for the new Lexus LS 460 F-Sport will be announced at a later date.
Competition
The list of competitors for the new Lexus LS 460 F-Sport will be the same as with the standard model and will include models like the Audi A8, the BMW 7-Series, and the Mercedes S-Class.
The Audi A8 just entered its third generation for the 2011 model year and comes with a 4.2 FSI V8 engine that delivers an impressive 372 hp and 328.22 lb-ft torque at 3,500 rpm. The BMW 7-Series has also been refreshed for the 2013 model year. It comes with an updated exterior and interior, as well as a pretty impressive engine line-up ranging from the 258 HP 3-liter straight-six petrol engine found in the entry-level 730i up to a 544 HP V12 engine found in the top version, the 760i.
The competitor in this group that is still a little behind is the Mercedes S-Class. Mercedes is preparing an updated version with exterior and interior modifications, an impressive list of new technologies, more efficient engines, and a nine-speed automatic gearbox. If these changes are what Mercedes is making them out to be, then the S-Class will finally be up to par and ready to take on these competitors.