2018 Lexus LS 500h Hybrid Preview
Competes with: Mercedes-Benz S550e, BMW 740e, Porsche Panamera E-Hybrid
Looks like: The dramatic 2018 LS 500 unveiled in January in Detroit
Drivetrain: 3.5-liter V-6 and two electric motors putting out a combined 354 horsepower mated to a transmission system that combines a four-speed automatic with a continuously variable automatic
Hits dealers: TBA
CARS.COM — Lexus has unveiled the 2018 LS 500h, the hybrid version of its radically redesigned LS flagship sedan, at the 2017 Geneva International Motor Show.
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The conventional gasoline 2018 LS 500 was a love-it-or-hate-it design when the automaker unveiled it in January at the 2017 North American International Auto Show, and it’s little changed for the 500h, including the huge spindle grille, coupelike roofline and squinty LED headlights. And it has the interior styling that features exotic wood designs, kiriko cut-glass trim and door panels inspired by origami paper-folding designs. The overall redesign drew mixed reaction from Cars.com editors.
The fifth generation of the big luxury sedan shifts to Lexus’ new GA-L premium rear-drive platform and is a stretched version of the platform also being used for the new LC 500 sports coupe. Lexus says it will provide driving dynamics more competitive with European luxury rivals while retaining the comfort and no-fuss refinement that have been Lexus hallmarks.
Lexus also emphasizes the technology upgrades in the new LS sedan, and for the 500h, that includes its hybrid powertrain: a new, high-tech 3.5-liter V-6 and two electric motors putting out a combined 354 hp, versus 415 hp for the twin-turbo V-6 in the all-gasoline model. The transmission system combines a four-speed automatic with a CVT and mimics a 10-speed transmission. It also offers the first paddle shifters in a Lexus hybrid. A new lithium-ion battery is more powerful, yet smaller and 20 percent lighter than the storage unit in the former LS 600h L. The LS 500h will offer rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive versions.
Lexus says the powertrain will be good for zero-to-60 mph in 5.4 seconds, compared to 4.5 seconds for the conventional rear-drive LS 500.
Pricing and availability in the U.S. were not specified. The 2018 LS 500 is due here later this year.
