• Lexus all-new compact crossover rich in “big car” technology features
• Impressive standard specification for advanced safety, comfort, convenience and connectivity, plus a wide range of tech-based options

Sophisticated technologies that take care of every aspect of your safety, comfort, entertainment and connectivity have become a central feature of today’s leading luxury cars. But if you believe such advanced systems are reserved for the largest and most expensive models, the all-new Lexus LBX will make you think again.

Right from the start of the development programme, Lexus set out to overturn any preconception that customers who choose a smaller model have to settle for something that is inferior. That’s not just in terms of craftsmanship luxury and the quality of the driving experience, but also the richness of the equipment specification.

The LBX compact crossover, the brand’s smallest model to date, is equipped as standard with an impressive array of high-tech features, with many more available as options. It’s another example of Lexus challenging the market status quo and an expression of its commitment to putting the customer first and “making luxury personal”.

Technology that puts safety first

Where safety is concerned, every LBX model provides the peace-of-mind of the comprehensive, third generation of Lexus Safety System + being fitted as standard – just as it is on Lexus’ higher segment models. Its systems constantly monitor the traffic environment all around the car, giving prompt warnings when they detect an accident risk and intelligently providing assistance when needed – steering, braking and drive force – to help prevent a collision.

The technology is advanced, but operates in a way that feels natural to the driver. It can also make the job of driving less of a burden by automatically keeping the car centred in its traffic lane, at a safe distance from the vehicle ahead and at the right speed to take a bend.

Even parking has been made less stressful with an Advanced Park system which guides the car smoothly and efficiently into place, controlling steering, braking and shift operation. And with the Remote Park system, the driver can even initiate auto-parking using an app on their smartphone. They don’t have to be inside the car at the time, so it’s ideal when space is very tight.

The latest safety developments also include e-Latch, a smooth and refined electronic door release system with a Safe Exit Assist function which automatically prevents a door being opened into the path of traffic from behind.

The digital dimension

The LBX comes with a fully digital package for information, entertainment and connectivity, creating a seamless and intuitive user experience. For the driver, the focused Tazuna concept features Lexus’ first 12.3-inch digital instrument display. Its appearance changes according to the car’s selected drive mode and the driver can customise the layout to suit their personal preferences.

There’s also the convenience of a digital key option: no need for a physical key fob, you can unlock and start the car using your smartphone – just having it on your person is all that’s required. Up to five people can be authorised on the app, so car sharing is made easier and more secure.

Informed and entertained

In the centre console, there’s a 9.8-inch touchscreen display for operating the Lexus Link Connect multimedia which includes cloud-based navigation that’s constantly up-to-date with the latest traffic conditions to help with easy journey planning. The system includes a voice agent that recognises commands given in everyday speech and can be used even when the audio is playing.

The Lexus Link+ multimedia package takes things to an even higher level, with more functions for intelligent journey planning and localised information.

There are up to five USB ports around the cabin and smartphones can be instantly integrated with the car’s multimedia system – wirelessly for Apple CarPlay and with a wired connection for Android Auto.

Where both safety and multimedia functions are concerned, software updates are delivered over-the-air for installing when it’s convenient for the driver, so there’s no need to visit a service workshop.

For the ultimate in in-car audio, Lexus’ exclusive partner Mark Levinson has designed a 13-speaker premium surround sound system, specifically to suit the LBX’s interior architecture.

Comfort and wellbeing

A comfortable cabin environment is maintained whatever the weather outside, thanks to the Lexus Climate Concierge. This co-ordinates the different heating and ventilation sources to ensure temperatures are tailored to suit each person on board. Using the Lexus Link app, the cabin can even be warmed or cooled, or windscreen de-icing can be started, before you set off on a journey.

On-board wellbeing is boosted by the option of nanoe-X air quality technology. This sends a flow of microscopic water molecules into the cabin which are proven to inhibit viruses, bacteria and unpleasant odours. It also helps keep skin and hair moisturised, too.

An ambient lighting system is available, helping set the tone to suit the driver’s mood, the journey or time of day with a range of 64 different colours across a series of themed setting to evoke different atmospheres, from calm and relaxed to invigorating and energised.

• High safety scores in all categories for Lexus’ battery electric SUV 
• Lexus Safety System + detects risks and assists driver responses
• Robust construction and passive safety features ensure excellent impact protection

The all-new Lexus RZ has been awarded the 2023 five-star rating by Euro NCAP, the independent vehicle safety test organisation. Results released on September 6 show that Lexus’ battery electric SUV scores highly in all safety categories: 87% for adult occupant protection; 87% for child occupants; 84% for vulnerable road users; and 81% for the performance of its safety assist systems.

The organization highlights on its release that: “The Lexus RZ meets Euro NCAP’s expectations for all-around good crash protection for occupants representing a range of ages, heights, and sizes. The car is also equipped with the latest crash avoidance systems and comes with several new active safety innovations. The RZ is the first car that Euro NCAP rewards for Child Presence Detection technology under the latest 2023 rating regime (…) The child presence detection system, which warns when a child or infant may have been left in the car and is consequently potentially lifesaving in hot weather”.

The RZ has an inherently strong platform and body construction, with the battery unit integrated into the chassis, and takes care of passive safety with nine airbags as standard. Moreover, as all Lexus models, the RZ is equipped as standard with Lexus Safety System +, a comprehensive package of advanced safety and driver assistance systems.

In its latest, third generation, Lexus Safety System + benefits from upgrades and additions which increase the scope of risk detection. Key elements of the system include: 

A Pre-Collision System (PCS) with radar and camera, to detect oncoming vehicles including motorcycles. With third-generation Lexus Safety System +, PCS can now also detect cyclists during night time. And with the new Intersection Turn Assist feature, it can detect oncoming vehicles when turning, as well as pedestrians crossing the street.

Lane Departure Alert and Lane Tracing Assist both help keep the car correctly centred in its lane. In addition to reducing driving burden, this assists, when necessary, with steering operation. 

Dynamic Radar Cruise Control enables the driver to set the inter-vehicle distance and acceleration level. And with the new Curve Speed Reduction feature, the vehicle’s speed can now adjust automatically according to bend radius.

The Emergency Driving Stop System slows the vehicle to a stop within the lane if the driver becomes unable to operate the controls, for example because of sudden illness. While the system does this, it warns other road users by flashing the hazard lights.

To allow earlier activation of the Emergency Driving Stop System, Driver Monitor enables earlier detection of inappropriate driver states – such as distraction, poor posture, closed or unblinking eyes, or the movement of the driver’s head away from its usual position.

Proactive Driving Assist discreetly and gently assists the driver, most usually at lower speeds around town, through distance control between the vehicle and a preceding vehicle, and by providing steering and deceleration support in response to hazards such as pedestrians, cyclists, and parked vehicles.

Through such broad-ranging driver assistance technologies, Lexus strives to make vehicles such as the RZ among the safest on the road. For more information, please visit: Lexus RZ full press kit

Every time you get behind the wheel, the all-new Lexus RX has your safety at heart. It is constantly checking the traffic around you and the road ahead, on the alert for potential accident risks. When it detects a danger, it will warn you and, if need be, adjust speed, steering and braking to help you avoid an accident – or make the consequences less severe if an impact does happen.

The range and capability of its safety and driver assistance features are greater than ever before, thanks to the latest-generation Lexus Safety System +, a package that comes as standard on every RX model.

The quality of these technological advances has helped secure a top five-star rating for the new RX in the independent, rigorous safety testing and assessment programme carried out by Euro NCAP. They combine with the fundamental strength of the car’s construction and its ability to protect driver, passengers and pedestrians should an accident occur. The test scores show overall results of 90% for adult occupant protection; 87% for child occupants; 89% for vulnerable road users; and 91% for the performance of safety assistance features.

The car’s Pre-Collision System (PCS) now uses a combination of a radar and camera to gain a wider detection range and recognise more hazard types.  For example, when you’re making a left or right at an intersection, it can detect a head-on collision risk with oncoming traffic and crossing pedestrians. Response time has been made quicker and Emergency Steering Assist (ESA) with Active Support has been introduced, which instantaneously provides steering and braking assistance to help keep the car stable and within its traffic lane if you suddenly swerve to avoid an obstacle.

The PCS can detect sudden, unintended use of the throttle when moving at low speeds and suppress potentially dangerous acceleration. The Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) and Rear Cross Traffic Alert with auto-braking (RCTA) support safe overtaking and manoeuvring, while Front Cross Traffic Alert (FCTA), part of an extended safety package option, warns of approaching vehicles from either side at junctions with poor sightlines. The Blind Spot Monitor also plays a part in the Safe Exit Assist (SEA) function for the car’s e-Latch door opening system, which prevents doors being opened inadvertently into the path of vehicles coming from the rear.

It's only natural that drivers grow tired on a long journey, affecting their attention and reaction levels. Lexus addresses this issue with features that reduce the burden of driving and also keep track of the driver’s alertness.  The Driver Monitor uses a camera mounted above the steering wheel to constantly check the condition of the driver, recognising if they have lost concentration through tiredness or being unwell. In a world-first, the monitor is linked to the car’s active safety systems: if the driver fails to respond to alerts, it will suppress acceleration and bring the vehicle to controlled halt, activating the hazard lights.

Proactive Driving Assist (PDA) comes into play when driving at lower speeds around town. It uses the car’s front camera to spot hazards such as pedestrians about to cross or walking along the edge of the road, parged cars and cyclists. On long highway drives, the Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC) keeps a safe, set distance from the vehicle ahead, slowing the RX down to a standstill if necessary. It can now respond to voice commands, and will automatically adjust vehicle speed when you approach a curve, to ensure smooth, stable progress. The system can also adjust speed to prevent “undertaking” – passing a vehicle on the wrong side on a multi-lane road. Lane Keep Assist (LKA) and Lane Departure Alert (LDA) both help keep your car correctly centred in its lane, while Road Sign Assist (RSA) repeats warning and command signs on major route in the driver’s multi-information display, with a link to the DRCC for easy adjustment when a speed limit changes. Night-time driving is also made safer with automatic headlight adjustment between low and high beam – an Adaptive High-beam System (AHS) or Automatic High Beam (AHB) according to the model specification.

While these features provide a comprehensive package – together with automatic parking functions – this is not the end of the story: over-the-air software updates allow for systems to be updated and extended seamlessly, with no need for the car to be taken to a workshop.

For more information, please visit https://www.lexus.eu/car-models/the-all-new-rx/world-premiere/

Safe Exit Assist is a new Lexus safety feature designed to help prevent accidents caused by car doors being opened into the path of cyclists and other vehicles. The risks from “dooring” are in focus this week with World Bicycle Day being celebrated on Friday, 3 June.

“Dooring” is a common hazard, where a vehicle driver or passenger opens a door into the path of a cyclist approaching from behind. 

Lexus has helped address the issue with a world-first technology that can prevent a door being opened if there is the risk of an accident. Its Safe Exit Assist technology combines the new e-latch electronic door release system with Blind Spot Monitor sensors mounted on the rear of the vehicle. These will detect a cyclist or other road user, alert the driver or passengers with warning lights in the door mirror glass and instrument display, and disable the e-latch operation.

This video shows how the system works.

The technology made its debut on the all-new Lexus NX mid-size SUV and will also be featured on the upcoming all-electric RZ and on the all-new, fifth generation RX.

Safe Exit Assist is one element in the wide-ranging safety provisions Lexus is fitting to its cars that safeguard against accidents involving cyclists – and other road users and pedestrians – in its drive towards the ultimate goal of zero road accidents, injuries, and fatalities.

For example, the Lexus Safety System + package, which is fitted as standard to all Lexus new models includes a Pre-Collision System that can detect in daylight driving the risk of a collision with a cyclist on the road ahead. The new Intersection Turn Assist function can also warn if a crossing cyclist is in the car’s path as it makes a left or right turn at a junction.

The significant package of advanced safety and driver assistance systems provided on the all-new Lexus NX have helped earn the mid-size luxury SUV a top five-star rating from the independent European testing group Euro NCAP.

Released yesterday, the test report shows the NX excelling in every category. It validates the quality and effectiveness of the latest, third generation of Lexus Safety System + fitted as standard to all NX models, together with comprehensive passive safety provisions and the car’s built-in strength to provide protection in the event of an impact. The results apply equally to the hybrid electric NX 350h and plug-in hybrid electric NX 450h.

In detail, the NX achieved an 83% score for adult occupant protection, 87% for child occupants, 83% for vulnerable road users and 91% for the performance of its safety assistance systems.

Lexus has significantly enhanced the scope and functionality of its active safety and driver assistance systems so that they are able to detect a wider range of hazards in different driving scenarios. For example, the Pre-Collision System (PCS) benefits from upgrades to its millimetre-wave radar and camera systems so that it can now detect pedestrians and motorcycles in the car’s path. It also offers an increased safeguard when making a turn at an intersection, determining when there is a high collision risk with oncoming traffic, or crossing pedestrians and cyclists.

The NX was also the first Lexus model to adopt a new Emergency Steering Assist. This instantaneously recognises when the driver is swerving to avoid an obstacle – a pedestrian or stationary vehicle for example – and provides automatic steering assistance while keeping the car within its traffic lane. These and other improvements to the PCS have significantly increased its accident risk detection capability.

All the safety assistance systems tested by Euro NCAP received the top “good” classification, including the performance of the PCS, Lane Trace Assist, speed assistance/limiter and driver awareness monitoring.

While the NX meets the key criteria of Euro NCAP testing, it goes further to provide safe driving and peace of mind. For example, with the Safe Exit Assist, it marks a world first in linking operation of its smooth electric e-Latch door opening system to its Blind Spot Monitor; if the monitor detects traffic approaching from the rear, it will cancel the door opening to avoid a collision risk. Lexus Safety System + also provides Adaptive Cruise Control, with performance improved so that it can react more quickly to traffic cutting-in and follow a more natural line through bends, with speed adjusted in a way that feels more natural to the driver.

While Lexus Safety System + is fitted as standard to all European versions of the new NX, owners of higher grade models can further equip their vehicle with an optional Extended Safety Package. This includes Lane Change Assistance (LCA), which provides automatic lane change steering when the driver uses the turn indicators in highway driving, and Front Cross-Traffic Alert, which uses radar monitoring to detect and warn the driver of traffic approaching from either side when emerging from a junction at low speed.

For more information please visit https://www.lexus.eu/car-models/nx/. 

April is national Distracted Driving Awareness Month, established by the National Safety Council (NSC) more than 10 years ago. It’s a good time to regroup and reconsider the choices we make when we’re on the road. Distracted driving is dangerous, claiming 3,142 lives in 2019 (the most recent available data) according to NHTSA. Texting is the most alarming distraction. At 55 mph (or 88,5 km/h), taking your eyes off the road for 4.6 seconds is like driving the length of an entire football field with your eyes closed.

In the new video called “Driving Disrupted,” released today, Lexus demonstrates exactly what happens when drivers can no longer see the road for 4.6 seconds. Participants get behind the wheel of a Lexus NX on a closed course, thinking they’re taking the vehicle for a routine test drive. What they don’t know is that they’re not driving an ordinary NX. They’re driving a one-of-a-kind specially modified vehicle called the NX 4.6. It’s equipped with electrochromic technology that turns the windshield and windows from transparent to opaque instantaneously, completely obscuring the driver’s view for 4.6 seconds. The video captures the chaos that ensues.

“Lexus wants to bring awareness to safety behind the wheel by changing perceptions about texting and driving,” said Vinay Shahani, vice president of Lexus marketing in US. “Even the most advanced safety systems on the road today can’t replace the undivided attention of the driver.”

To learn more, visit www.Lexus.com/DrivingDisrupted.

The all-new, seventh generation Lexus ES has achieved the maximum 5-star vehicle safety rating in the latest 2018 Euro NCAP test results, with an outstanding average score of 86.25 - one of the highest scores of all cars tested under the new, more stringent 2018 test regime including cyclist protection AEB.

The new ES integrates the latest version of Lexus Safety System +, the brand’s advanced package of active safety technologies, as well as outstanding passive safety credentials resulting from its ultra-rigid GA-K platform (Global Architecture-K) and 10 airbags as standard.

The latest version of Lexus Safety System + provides new capabilities and expands the driving scenarios in which it can provide added protection for driver and passengers and help prevent an accident from happening. The new features include daytime cyclist detection as part of the comprehensive Pre-Collision System (PCS), as well as night-time pedestrian detection. Lexus Co-Drive, combining Dynamic Radar Cruise Control and Lane Tracing Assist, provides SAE level-2 automated driving support – aiming at enhancing safety while the driver remains in control of the vehicle.

Order books for the all-new ES are already open in Europe, with first customer deliveries expected in January 2019.

Lexus Safety System + is available on 99% of Lexus models sold in Europe, in line with the brand’s commitment to ensure that the benefits of advanced safety technologies are not limited to high-end, high-specification models, but are made available across the board.

NOTES TO MEDIA

For more details on the all-new Lexus ES and its safety features, please visit https://newsroom.lexus.eu/the-all-new-lexus-es-a-higher-level-of-performance-and-sophistication/

For more details about Euro NCAP, please visit www.euroncap.com

The new Lexus LS: a fifth generation of the brand-defining flagship sedan

The original Lexus LS was the result of six years’ work by 1,400 engineers to build a luxury car that would rival the best in the world. This “Project F1” duly delivered the original LS 400 model in 1989, launching the Lexus brand and beginning a transformation of the prestige vehicle market.

Toshio Asahi, Chief Engineer of the new LS, reflected on how the original model took the motor industry by surprise: “Its excellent driving performance and superior quietness were proof that we allowed no compromise.”

More than that, it also sparked a revolution in customer service and satisfaction, with newcomer Lexus consistently setting new benchmarks for the established industry players to aspire to.

Almost 30 years later, an all-new, fifth generation LS flagship sedan is being launched, a model that draws on the proud history of its predecessors while breaking new ground in design, technology and performance, and extending the boundaries of automotive luxury.

The challenge now for Lexus is not simply to go beyond the achievements of the past, but to reimagine what a global flagship sedan should be. This mission has had the close attention of Toyota President Akio Toyoda, who is committed to introducing more excitement to Lexus models and who has helped in the development of the new LS in his role as a Master Driver.

“Not only will the LS symbolise the Lexus brand, it will become the definitive new generation luxury car, embodyin g Japanese tradition and culture,” said Chief Engineer Asahi. “As such, this global pinnacle must go far beyond what the world expects from a luxury vehicle.”

The Lexus brand shift

Customers’ perceptions of “luxury” were very different back when the original LS was launched; at that time, the focus on was on objective qualities that could be measured. Today the landscape has changed so that qualitative, subjective responses have become more important considerations when developing the new model.

Chief Engineer Asahi explained: “Luxury is now about experiences rather than possessing luxury items, so Lexus has shifted from being a luxury car brand to a lifestyle brand that offers amazing experiences.”

This broader outlook is witnessed in Lexus’ wide-ranging encouragement of innovation and emerging talent in diverse creative fields. For example, the annual Lexus Design Award seeks out exciting new designers worldwide, giving them the chance to showcase their ideas at Milan Design Week and develop their work with mentorship from leading professionals. Lexus also regularly works with high-profile innovators in fashion, art and music to help create amazing experiences that capture the essence of its brand.

The rebirth of Lexus’ flagship sedan in the form of the all-new LS encapsulates this new, wide-ranging luxury philosophy.

Lexus’ brand differentiators

BRAVE DESIGN

• A new luxury flagship sedan that defines the Lexus brand
• Radical new design with coupe-like silhouette, yet the spaciousness of a prestige sedan
• Interior combines modern design with traditional Japanese aesthetics
• New platform delivers even higher level of LS agility and comfort

Crafting a unique identity

Koichi Suga, Chief Designer of the new LS, recognised from the outset the pivotal role the model plays in defining Lexus, embodying the brand’s history, image and what it stands for.

“I knew that this was an amazing opportunity to create a Lexus flagship sedan for the world,” he said. “With my team we wanted to produce something completely new, with unique proportions. Our goal was a car that is longer, lower and wider with a more powerful presence,” he said.

The designers were helped in their task by the new Global Architecture – Luxury (GA-L) platform on which the new LS is constructed. Its proportions allow for an extended wheelbase, a spacious interior and a lower, ground-hugging appearance with coupe lines.

Chief Designer Suga made outline sketches on dozens of small Post-it notes before crystallising his ideas for a sporty look that would project a more emotional image for Lexus.

“Our modelling theme was ‘forged from passion,’ with the sense of the ‘passion’ being pushed outwards towards the four wheels,” he said. “Our sketches were drawn with an emphasis on a flowing silhouette and large tyres. Meanwhile we also had to address the critical points of providing space for rear seat passengers and ease of getting in and out of the car.”

In the process of defining the car’s design, no fewer than seven mock-up models were completed, compared to the three or four usually created for an all-new model development programme, reflecting the intense attention to detail and importance of the new LS to the Lexus brand as a whole.

Design generated by the spindle grille

The spindle grille has become a signature feature of Lexus vehicle design, but its purpose is not simply a brand signifier. On the new LS it provides a starting point for the car’s design theme, generating lines which flow through the body and converge at the rear.

The grille itself has an intricate mesh design with 5,000 individual surfaces (more than 7,000 in the F SPORT), which took a highly skilled CAD modellers three and a half months to produce (five months for F SPORT), followed by further precision adjustment by hand. The sophisticated pattern echoes the shape of the grille as it folds back, with a sense of tension and an appearance which changes according to the light.

The spindle theme is also evident in the car’s rear styling and is even picked up in the stitching pattern for the F SPORT seat upholstery.

Exterior design

Lexus has revolutionised the LS’s design principles, moving from its established “three-box” sedan to a car that presents a radically different, coupe-like silhouette. Its lower, sleeker lines, which are more appealing to today’s customers, have been achieved without sacrificing any of the spaciousness and comfort that are fundamental to the LS’ status as a flagship model.

Notably, it is the first Lexus sedan to feature a six-window profile, which ensures excellent outward visibility, and also the first to feature windows with flush surfaces that integrate smoothly with the side pillars.

A shoulder line running from front to rear emphasises the low centre of gravity and the car’s low posture, emphasising the horizontal axis. The lines of the front and rear fenders are slanted forwards, generating a dynamic impression and evoking the car’s performance qualities.

The ground-hugging appearance is not an illusion: the GA-L platform has allowed the LS’ height to be reduced by 15.2 mm, with the hood and boot lowered even further – by approximately 30.5 and 40.6 mm respectively.

The frontal design makes a bold statement with the dramatic forward thrust of the spindle grille and a low hood profile, achieved thanks to the positioning of the front suspension towers permitted by the new GA-L platform. The boundary between the hood and the fenders is deeply sculpted, accentuating the contrast between the different surfaces.

The impact of the frontal design is enhanced by ultra-compact, triple bi-LED (high/low beam) headlights. These are housed in a narrow, slit-shaped unit that merges with the LED daytime running lights, set in an L-configuration that wraps around the edge of car. Sequential turn indicators are aligned with the DRLs, comprising 16 LEDs that illuminate in just 0.08 seconds.

At the rear, the shoulder line connects to the rear combination lamps, then folds down and back on itself to connect to the rear diffuser, echoing the lines of the spindle grille. The full LED combination lamps have a sleek design with strong vertical corners that give them an instantly recognisable shape.

The LS is equipped as standard with a glass sunroof which opens externally. This allows for a design that is 30 mm thinner than previously, preserving cabin headroom beneath the low roofline.

The LS is available with a range of new wheel designs, including 19 and 20-inch cast alloy noise reduction wheels, 20-inch forged alloys and a 10-spoke 20-inch cast alloy design exclusive to the F SPORT model.

In Europe, 13 different exterior paint finishes are available for the new LS, including a new Manganese Luster shade and the new Sonic Agate. F White and Sapphire Blue are exclusive to the F SPORT model.

Interior design

The design of the new LS’ interior combines traditional Japanese aesthetics with advanced manufacturing techniques, reflected in elements such as the soft ambient lighting that makes the armrests appear to float next to the door panels, and new ways of working with wood to create trims with vibrant and detailed grain patterns.

Chief Designer Suga explained: “I hope that when you open the door, you have an immediate sense that you are looking at an interior that’s unlike any luxury car you’ve seen before.”

The new LS provides a driver focused cockpit and a front passenger seat area designed to gently envelop the occupant. Elements such as fine leather, precise stitch-work and detailed metal and wood accents add to the welcoming ambience with a range of textures and surfaces that are pleasing to the eye and touch.

The seats are upholstered in a new L-aniline leather that is remarkable soft and supple – up to 30 per cent softer than premium semi-aniline leather. Only the finest one per cent of hides are selected for the L-aniline tanning process.

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.

Directly in front of the driver, the standard combination meter is set in a stitched leather frame, with the Optitron display presenting what looks like a physical metal bezel. An elegant, full screen animation is presented on the eight-inch TFT screen when the driver enters and leaves the vehicle. A high-definition, full-colour head-up display is available, the largest in the LS’ segment. Images are projected to appear three metres ahead of the driver, to minimise the eye focus adjustment required between looking at the display and the road ahead.

The new steering wheel has a three-spoke design and smaller diameter (-10 mm) than that used in the previous LS model. The profile varies around the circumference to provide ideal grip characteristics. Three versions of the wheel are available, with an all-leather trim, a combination of leather with genuine woodgrain inserts, and an F SPORT version that uses the same grip profile as the LC coupe.

A range of interior colours is available: Black, L-White, Ivory, Topaz Brown, Dark Saddle Tan, Noble Brown, Camel and Crimson & Black combination. The F SPORT options are Galaxy Black, F White or Flare Red.

The trim choices include Kiriko Glass,Laser Cut Dark Wood, Black Shimamoku, Art Wood Organic or Herringbone, Laser Cut Special and two types of walnut finish. Naguri-Style aluminium trim is exclusive to the F SPORT model.

TAKUMI CRAFTSMANSHIP

• Takumi craftsmanship combines the best traditions of Japanese culture and aesthetics with modern design and technologies
• Luxury interior embraces artforms such as Kiriko glass-making and Origami in the creation of exclusive ornamentation and hand-pleated door panels
• Specialist techniques applied to create new Art Wood trims

The intersection of tradition and technology

The fine skills of Takumi craftspeople contribute to the high quality of every Lexus vehicle, but in developing the new LS, Lexus has gone further to combine the traditions of Japanese culture and aesthetics with contemporary design and advanced technologies.

It was Chief Designer Koichi Suga’s vision for the new LS that is should draw on traditional Japanese artforms, such as Kiriko glass-making and Origami. He said: “As a Japanese luxury brand, we wanted to integrate elements of Japanese culture and the timeless appeal of Japanese craftsmanship to express the artistic side of Lexus.”

The Lexus Takumi

The Takumi are the most senior craftspeople in Lexus, responsible for ensuring that the required excellent quality is achieved in every stage of the car-making process.

Using the skills of the human hand, eye and ear, honed through years of experience, they can detect the smallest imperfections and the fine adjustments that may be needed to improve performance or appearance.

They also contribute to the hand-crafted elements of the vehicle, for example the precision stitching of the leather upholstery. The Takumi undergo intensive training, moving from straight lines to the rapid sewing of curved seams. Once they have mastered this technique, they work on a real instrument panel, repeating the seaming several hundred times over a period of three months. At Lexus’ giant Kyushu factory there are just 12 Takumi responsible for the detailed accuracy of every stitch.

The Takumi are also responsible for training and inspiring other technicians, helping them learn the skills that will make them the Takumi of the future.

The earn Takumi status, Lexus craftsman have to complete a number of rigorous challenges, including a daily Origami cat challenge. To demonstrate their dexterity and attention to detail, they must perfectly complete the folded cat design in less than 90 seconds. What’s more, they have to accomplish the task using only their non-dominant hand.

Kiriko glass ornamentation

The traditional skills and designs of Japanese Kiriko glass-making have been used to create a unique ornamentation for the new LS’ door panels. Masters of Kiriko worked with Lexus to replicate the hand-carved appearance of the glasswork, which adds extra dimensions of visual and tactile appeal with its light-catching, multi-faceted surface. Although the glass looks delicate, it is in fact very strong thanks to modern reinforcement technology.

Hand-pleated door panels

The draped pleating in the door panels has been achieved using the time-honoured skills of Origami paper-folding. A colour designer and a fabric artisan produced Hand Pleats, a new fabric pleating technique that creates a three-dimensional pattern that is pleasing to the eye and touch. The process took four years to develop and can only be carried out by the human hand. It mirrors the work of the finest Origami artists, requiring individual sheets of fabric to be expertly folded, like a sheet of paper. The finished panel changes in appearance according to the time of day and cabin illumination, adding to the elegance and enveloping quality of the interior.

Art wood

Lexus has applied new ways of working with veneers to produce unique designs and effects that distinguish the new LS from any other model.

Using Takumi craftsmanship, it has produced a new Art Wood finishes that fuse the natural beauty of wood with Lexus’ brave design. Art Wood Organic uses a precise layering technique and a natural gloss coating to bring out vibrant, contrasting, flame-like grain patterns. For Art Wood Herringbone, techniques used to craft fine musical instruments are applied, with the hand-grafting of small pieces of wood to create delicate symmetrical patterns.

A third interpretation, Laser Cut Special, uses laser technology to cut through the veneer to expose a sub-layer of metal, creating a pattern inspired by the way the Lexus L-motif is worked into the mesh of the LS’ spindle grille.

OMOTENASHI

• New LS embraces the traditional Japanese hospitality principles of Omotenashi in caring for vehicle occupants and anticipating their needs
• Advanced new front and rear seat designs with class-leading levels of adjustment and sophisticated new massage functions
• Precision control of the cabin environment for each occupant with upgraded Climate Concierge
• Bespoke 23-speaker 3D Surround Mark Levinson Reference Surround System using advanced new Quantum Logic Immersion (QLI) technology to create a full, three-dimensional sonic environment

The meaning of Omotenashi

Lexus believes that creating new standards of luxury in a flagship model is not simply a matter of adding more equipment features and technologies. Rather it aims to produce a kind of progressive luxury that welcomes and cares for the vehicle’s occupants, anticipating their needs and enabling the driver to feel perfectly connected to the car. It’s a way of thinking that’s inspired by Omotenashi, the finest principles of traditional Japanese hospitality.

The influence of Omotenashi starts with the “welcome” sequence as the driver approaches the vehicle. Inside the car there is a meticulous attention to detail in providing the most comfortable, safe and relaxing environment for all occupants, whether taking the wheel, or enjoying being chauffeured as a passenger.

Premium Access

To make getting in and out of the new LS as comfortable as possible, models equipped with air suspension provide a Premium access function. This automatically raises the low-slung sedan by 40 mm to an ideal 555 mm hip-height in just four seconds when the vehicle is unlocked. Once the occupants are on board and engine is switched on, the car returns to its regular ride height. The same convenient height adjustment is made when the car is stopped and a door is opened for someone to exit.

For the driver and front seat passenger, there is a sense of the car being prepared for their arrival, with the seat belt holder extending by 50 mm when the front doors are opened, ready for use. For the driver, the holder also rises when the engine is switched off, to make unbuckling easier. The feeling of being welcomed into the car continues with the outer cushion bolster opening out when the car is unlocked, and then automatically returning to its normal, supportive position when the driver is seated. The driver’s seat also automatically rises and moves rearwards to make for easier exit from the vehicle; similarly, when the driver enters the car, it returns to the previous driving position when they are seated.

The cabin lighting adds to the sense of welcome, with an illumination inspired by the soft glow of traditional Japanese Andon lanterns. Light sources are located behind the door trim panels and armrest, giving indirect, downward illumination that adds to the sense of spaciousness.

Seating design

The design of the seats in the new LS was a prime consideration and a defining factor in the Omotenashi qualities of the car.

Lexus developed the seating to suit two types of customer: those who want to drive the car and those who will mostly be chauffeured in it as a passenger. This required equal attention to be paid to the needs of the driver, as well as rear-seat occupants, ensuring everyone on board can travel in supreme comfort, regardless of how long the journey lasts.

Front seating with 28-way adjustment and Shiatsu massage

The new LS is available with a new driver’s seat with 28-way power and pneumatic adjustment, including new controls to adapt support for the back, pelvis and hips. The level of adjustment is the best in the LS’ segment. The design provides excellent side holding, pelvis stability and shoulder support, and allows people of all body sizes and types to find their ideal position at the wheel and feel at one with the car.

Built on a new frame, the front seats are stronger and more rigid, using a high tensile steel side frame, yet they weigh only about 6 kg.

Rear seats with premium access

The multi-function touchscreen in the rear centre armrest console is used to precisely control the position of the rear seats, together with audio, climate, sunshade and interior lighting functions. The front passenger seat and entertainment monitor are also automatically adjusted to suit the chosen configuration.

There are three pre-set rear seat positions: Business, which is the default; Entertain, which reclines the seat for comfortable viewing of the entertainment monitor, and Relax, which extends the leg ottoman, deeply reclines the seatback and moves the front passenger seat to its further forward position to provide maximum legroom (at 1,022 mm, 86 mm more than in the previous LS). When the passenger arrives at their destination, the seat automatically returns to its default position as soon as the rear door is opened, allowing for an easy and comfortable exit .

The rear seats are available with best-in-class 22-way adjustment, including back, hip and pelvis support and ottoman extension. The angle of rear seat recline is also class-leading, at 48 degrees, achieved through adept packaging and a revised reclining mechanism.

Shiatsu massage functions

Lexus consulted Japanese massage experts to help design new Shiatsu massage systems for the front and rear seats that provide the right degree of thumb-like pressure in the right places to help the occupant relax.

For the front seats there are five separate massage courses which can be selected using the multi-information display, working with a centripetal or centrifugal action, or focusing on the lumbar, upper and lower body regions. For the driver this promotes relaxation without impairing their control of the car.

The rear seat massage function has also been upgraded with its operating area expanded to cover the occupant’s thighs as well as back. In a world-first, the system includes two spot heaters for the shoulder and lower back to provide targeted heat stimulation in conjunction with the Shiatsu massage.

Multiple setting options let the user tailor the massage sequence to suit their preference, with full body settings or operation focused on the upper or lower body, shoulders or lumbar region.

Climate control

Lexus has succeeded in engineering a more compact yet no less efficient climate control system that supports the highest levels of on-board comfort. The smaller size of the air conditioning unit has helped secure the LS’s low hood line and low centre of gravity. The separate rear air conditioning system has also been made smaller, so there is less impact on the amount of load space available in the boot.

The configuration of the rear vents allows for a lower roof, while their positioning has been revised to provide optimum performance.

Climate Concierge

The Climate Concierge provides co-ordinated and efficient control of the air conditioning, seat heating and ventilation and heated steering wheel to maintain a comfortable environment to suit each person on board.

The system uses an upgraded infra-red matrix sensor to monitor the body temperature of all the vehicle occupants, with the number monitoring zones increased from six to sixteen to provide complete coverage of the interior. This allows for much finer control of heating and cooling, taking into account factors such as uneven heating cause by low-level sunlight through the windows. Operation is controlled via the main multimedia display; where four-zone climate control is specified there are additional controls in the rear seat console.

Near-silence – or the stirring sound of music

Lexus has designed the cabin of the new LS 500h to provide a quiet and calming environment, using new sound suppression methods to hush the environment to a level beyond any previous LS model. Active Noise Control detects when engine noise enters the cabin and cancels out certain frequencies using antiphase sound from the audio speakers.

The finest quality Mark Levinson Reference Audio systems have been a feature unique to Lexus’ most exclusive models, designed in co-operation with Lexus’ engineers to achieve performance tailored to the interior architecture of each vehicle.

The new LS is available with a new 3D Surround Mark Levinson QLI Reference Surround System, operating through an array of 23 high-efficiency speakers in 16 locations around the cabin, and using a 16-channel Mark Levinson Reference amplifier. Quantum Logic Immersion – QLI – and ClariFi technology help produce exceptional sound reproduction, of a higher quality than in any previous Lexus model.

QLI technology separates the audio sources into individual streams – vocals, instruments and spatial sound information – similar to the original arrangement. These audio streams are then mixed to recreate a full, thre-dimensional sonic environment. The new system was developed as the benchmark against which all others will compared for the next 10 years.

A Pioneer 12-speaker premium system is provided as standard equipment, specifically designed for the LS’ interior.

Lexus’ focus on providing a supremely quiet cabin environment has extended to the development of noise reduction wheels. Available in 19 and 20-inch designs, these feature a hollow rim section with a resonator hole that helps reduce air resonance generated by the tyres. This occurs when the tyre deforms as it travels over the road surface, changing the internal air pressure; in turn, this causes the air inside the tyre to vibrate, generating sound waves. With the noise reduction wheel, the sound waves are directed towards the resonator hole, where they resonate with the air in the hollow section of the wheel. This creates friction in the air, which converts the soundwave to heat, absorbing resonance and reducing sound pressure. The wheel design also enhances rigidity and saves weight.

Power trunk with hands-free operation

The new LS has a power-operated trunk that can be opened and closed hands-free, using a kick-sensor beneath the rear bumper. When carrying luggage, or wanting to avoid touching the car’s bodywork, the user only needs to stand within the sensor’s range with the smart key on their person to activate the control, by passing their foot below the edge of the bumper.

IMAGINATIVE TECHNOLOGY

• LS available with new technologies for improved active safety, together with driving assistance functions that signal Lexus’ progress towards future automated driving systems
• New Lexus Safety System + A features include Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Alert and Active Steering Assist, Lexus Co-Drive (Lane Tracing Assist with the Dynamic Radar Cruise Control) and Front Cross Traffic Alert
• Additional Parking Support Brakes and enhanced Panoramic View Monitor

Advances in active safety and driver assistance technology

The all-new LS marks the introduction of new technologies that provide world-leading safety performance and a new level of driver assistance that signals Lexus’ progress towards developing future automated driving systems.

Lexus has been promoting the development of automated driving technologies since the 1990s, working towards its goals of eliminating traffic accidents and providing individual mobility for people who otherwise would not be able to enjoy that freedom.

The new LS makes important progress in this area. As well as being equipped with Lexus Safety System +, the package of active safety systems Lexus has been rolling out across its vehicle range, it is the first model to benefit from the more advanced Lexus Safety System + A. This system comprises both active safety functions designed to help prevent an accident from happening, together with more sophisticated driver assistance features that signal a move towards providing a degree of automated driving.

Called Lexus CoDrive, this uses Dynamic Radar Cruise Control and Lane Tracing Assist to give a partial level of automated driving capability comparable to the SAE International level 2.

New and improved active safety technologies

Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Alert and world-first Active Steering Assist

The Pre-collision System (PCS) is a function familiar from Lexus Safety System +, but in the new LS its operation has been enhanced with the addition of both Pedestrian Alert and the world-first Active Steering Assist.

PCS uses millimetre-wave radar and a stereo camera to detect pedestrians and vehicles ahead and supports collision prevention and the mitigation of damage by alerting the driver and providing Pre-collision Brake Assist and Pre-collision Braking. The improved system can detect cyclists and night-time pedestrians and has an improved deceleration performance under automatic braking. For example it can slow the vehicle by as much as 60 km/h when a pedestrian is detected ahead, improving the chances of avoiding a collision.

With Pedestrian Alert, if there is the possibility of a collision with a pedestrian in front of the vehicle, the presence and location of the pedestrian is shown in an animation on the head-up display, contributing to the driver’s intuitive recognition of what is happening on the road ahead.

The Active Steering Assist determines when there is high risk of a collision with pedestrian in the car’s lane of travel, or with a continuous structure, such as a crash barrier. If it calculates that it would be difficult to avoid a collision using brake control alone, but that it might be avoided with steering control, it will initiate automatic steering control in addition to triggering an alert and applying the brakes.

Two-stage Adaptive High-beam System (AHS)

The LS’ headlights each feature an arrangement of eight upper and 16 lower LEDs. The Two-stage Adaptive High-beam System provides optimal lighting with separate on/off control of each row LEDs, giving finer control of lighting strength and distance compared to Lexus’ established AHS. This allows for the car to be driven for longer on high-beam without dazzling vehicles ahead or oncoming traffic, improving night-time visibility.

Front Cross Traffic Alert (FCTA)

FCTA is designed to help prevent collisions happening at intersections by detecting vehicles moving across the flow of traffic ahead. It uses forward direction radar and is the world’s first system of its kind to alert drivers to the direction from which a cross-traffic vehicle is approaching at an intersection. Alerts are shown on the driver’s head-up display. If the LS continues to move forward regardless of there being a vehicle in cross traffic, a warning buzzer is sounded and an alert is shown on the multi-information display.

Road Sign Assist (RSA)

RSA uses a camera and navigation system maps to acquire road sign information, which it then relays to the driver using the head-up and multi-information displays. This promotes safer driving by reducing the risk of the driver failing to see or notice important highway commands and warnings.

Driver assistance technologies

Lexus CoDrive advanced driving assist technology

Lexus CoDrive adds Lane Tracing Assist (LTA) to the basic functions of Dynamic Radar Cruise Control to provide steering support in line with the driver’s intentions. By providing seamless driving support on roads with many bends, or in traffic jams, Lexus CoDrive can reduce the burden on the driver. It gives the driver clear information about the status of the driving support that’s being provided, via the LSs head-up and multi-information displays.

Dynamic Radar Cruise Control

The Dynamic Radar Cruise Control offers outstanding basic recognition performance, with wide-angle detection using a new millimetre-wave radar and a camera with a wider forward recognition range. The system also helps make driving more comfortable, with smooth acceleration at start-up and during vehicle following, departure and acceleration, or adapting to the speed limit detected by RSA.

Lane Tracing Assist

Lane Tracing Assist uses steering control to provide lane-keeping support when the LS’s Dynamic Radar Cruise Control is in operation. As well as using a camera to detect lane demarcation lines on the road, it traces the path of the vehicle ahead to provide assistance when the lines cannot be recognised. This can happen, for example, in low-speed traffic when there little space between the LS and the vehicle ahead.

Additional safety technologies

Parking support brakes

The LS’ low-speed braking support systems have been integrated in a single package, to reduce the risk of damage from low-speed bumps when parking or manoeuvring, helping the driver avoid hazards such as nearby moving vehicles and pedestrians and stationary objects such as walls and street furniture. The world’s first rear pedestrian support brake has been added to the Intelligent Clearance Sonar and Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Braking. This detects pedestrians behind the vehicle using a rear camera; if there is a risk of a collision, alerts and brake control are triggered.

Panoramic View Monitor with side clearance and cornering view functions

Side clearance view and cornering view functions have been added to the Panoramic View Monitor, making it easier for the driver to determine the safe space around the vehicle. Side clearance view produces an image on the LS’ display monitor that shows the area in front of the car as if seen from a high position above the rear of the vehicle, giving the driver better sight of the space on each side of the car, for example when passing another car on a narrow road. When side clearance view is operating, cornering view automatically produces an image of the vehicle as seen from the rear at an angle in line with the car’s direction when moving through a bend or turn. These help the driver confirm left or right turns can be made safely on narrow roads and avoid driving up onto the kerb.

Multimedia system and the Lexus Remote Touch Interface

The new LS is equipped with a next-generation Lexus multimedia system that provides complete control of navigation, audio, media, telephone, apps and climate control, as well adjustment of and customisation of key vehicle settings. It uses a 12.3-inch high-resolution screen that provides quick and clear information and graphics.

The dynamic voice recognition provides more accurate response to spoken commands by using on and off-board speech processing. Manual operation is by means of the Lexus Remote Touch Interface with a new, enlarged and frameless touchpad that allows gesture controls to be used – pinch, scroll, drag, double-tap – like those for smartphones, while also supporting handwritten input.

EXHILARATING PERFORMANCE

• Constructed on the new Global Architecture – Luxury platform, with direct dynamic benefits of a low centre gravity and optimum front/rear weight distribution
• LS 500h powered by the new Lexus Multi Stage Hybrid System powertrain
• Sophisticated suspension systems, including Adaptive Variable Suspension with continuously variable control and new air suspension

new Global Architecture – Luxury platform

The new Global Architecture – Luxury (GA-L) platform that underpins the LS 500h is fundamental to its quality. This all-new structure was developed from a “clean sheet of paper,” taking a completely new approach to engineering, materials and design. The same platform is used for the Lexus LC flagship coupe, but for the LS it has been extended to gain the extra rear cabin space that was a design priority.

In fact, the new LS’ 3,125 mm wheelbase is 35mm longer than that of the previous LS long-wheelbase model. In spite of this increase in length, the driver still sits in the centre of the wheelbase, with a hip-point close to the car’s centre of gravity (which is a best-in-class 543 mm).

The combination of a low centre of gravity, a very stiff chassis and excellent weight balance contributes to reassuring poised vehicle dynamics, with seamless braking, steering and acceleration, and a consistently comfortable cabin environment for driver and passengers alike.

The platform allows the new LS to be about 15 mm lower overall, compared to the previous model, with reductions of approximately 30 and 40mm in the height of the hood and boot respectively, giving the car a ground-hugging appearance.

It has also enabled heavier elements to be moved closer to the centre of the vehicle, with the engine moved to a front midship position, the driving position moved rearwards and the hybrid battery (a lighter and more compact lithium-ion unit) positioned further forward.

Together these measures help lower the car’s centre of gravity and achieve an optimum 51/49 front to rear weight balance, minimising body roll and improving steering response for a more engaging driving experience.

Lightweight materials and highly rigid body structure

The optimisation of vehicle mass distribution has been further helped by the use of new, lightweight materials in the car’s structure, including new cast aluminium front and rear suspension towers. As aluminium cannot be welded to steel, these are connected to the body using self-piercing rivets and high-strength adhesive bonding. Compared to equivalent steel parts, these towers are significantly lighter and more rigid – about twice the rigidity and 42 per cent less weight at the front; around 1.5 times more rigid and 50 per cent lighter at the rear.

Other lightweight metals, including ultra-high tensile steel, steel alloys and aluminium are used in critical areas to provide strength and rigidity. In fact high tensile steel accounts for almost 30 per cent of the vehicle’s mass, more than double the proportion in the previous LS. Principal panels, including the doors, fenders, hood and bootlid are made of aluminium; where the doors are concerned this not only saves weight, but also allows for a slim but strong structure, maximising space inside the car.

The use of structural adhesive and laser screw welding is also significantly greater, to increase the rigidity of panel joints. Almost 33 metres of adhesive is applied to the underbody, compared to just five metres previously.

Suspension

Suspension compliance has been a defining element in the ride quality and comfort of successive Lexus LS generations. With the latest model a new, high-mounted multilink system has been developed for both the front and rear suspension, allowing even better performance to be achieved.

The front system uses double ball joints for both the upper and lower control arms, allowing control of the smallest movements caused by driver inputs or the road surface. This unique arrangement optimises the suspension geometry to increase wheel control and give more precise steering control with better initial effort. To help reduce weight, aluminium is used extensively throughout the suspension.

The rear system is a new, compact multilink design that provides high levels of stability. As with the front arrangement, it is based on the suspension developed for the LC coupe, but with adjustments to the bushing to enhance handling stability and ride comfort.

Adaptive Variable Suspension

The new LS is available with a new, more advanced Adaptive Variable Suspension that provides continuous adjustment of damping control for all four wheels in response to the way the car is being driven and road surface conditions. This continuously variable capability has increased the number of control levels from nine (in the previous LS’ system) to 650. The result is faster, seamless and more refined operation.

For example, when driving on uneven roads, the system can increase ride comfort without too great an increase in damping force. When the steering wheel is turned, however, damping force is automatically increased to suppress the effect of the car’s weight transfer and maintain a flat cornering attitude.

Air suspension

A new, electronically controlled air suspension is also available for the new LS, providing exceptional ride quality. It uses a closed system in which compressed air is stored in pneumatic tank so that it can be supplied to the suspension at the moment it’s needed to raise vehicle height.

The air suspension is used to provide the new LS’ Access mode for ease of entry to and exit from the vehicle, described in the Omotenashi chapter, above.

Braking system

The LS 500h is fitted with a new generation Electronically Controlled Braking system (ECB) that uses build-up control to increase vehicle deceleration, gradually increasing brake fluid pressure, even if the driver is maintaining constant pressure on the brake pedal. This communicates an appropriate braking feel.

The system features 357 x 34 mm front and 335 x 25 mm rear spiral-vented discs. There are four-piston callipers at the front and two-piston units at the rear. Larger brakes are featured on the LS 500h F SPORT, detailed in the specific F SPORT chapter below.

Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management

Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) co-ordinates control of a range of vehicle handling and active safety systems to enhance the overall dynamic performance of the new LS. Its operation covers the vehicle’s ABS, Traction Control, Vehicle Stability Control, Electronic Power Steering, Variable Gear Ratio Steering, and Dynamic Rear Steering.

Lexus Dynamic Handling

The optional Lexus Dynamic Handling System provides a higher degree of handling poise and control in all driving scenarios, controlling the angle of all four wheels through co-ordination of the Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS), Dynamic Rear Steering (DRS) and Electronic Power Steering (EPS).

Its operation is calculated according to the vehicle’s speed and dynamic behaviour. Thus at speeds below 80 km/h, the front and rear wheels operate at a different angle for agile handling and securing cornering; at speeds above 80 km/h, the front and rear wheels are at the same angle of steering, for greater stability.

The VGRS controls the steering angle in line with vehicle speed and the driver’s inputs, giving better yaw response, turning performance and stability when cornering or changing lanes. The steering gear ratio is automatically adjusted, taking vehicle speed and driving conditions into account. This means fewer turns of the wheel are needed at low speeds, or when making a U-turn. The optimum ratio is selected to provide easy-to-handle responsiveness at low to medium speeds, while at high speed the VGRS helps achieve a controlled, stable feel.

Aerodynamics

The sleek new exterior design of the LS 500h is aerodynamically efficient as well as beautiful to look at. The overall form of the upper body has been crafted to have an ideal wind-cheating shape, with detailed enhancements that suppress turbulence and improve dynamic performance. It also enables a smooth rearward airflow to the back of the car, where it merges with the flow of air from the underbody.

The sides of the front bumper have been shaped to direct the airflow along the side of the wheel houses. Also, small but effective aero stabilising fins have been located on the door frame moulding and rear combination lamps, to keep the airflow closer to the body and so improve handling stability. The rear lights also have an air-kick shape, their corners curved to direct the airflow smoothly away from the vehicle.

Flush side window glass supresses the turbulence that usually occurs when air flows over uneven surfaces.

Beneath the car, the underbody has been almost fully covered to reduce drag, with aerodynamic fins located to guide the airflow smoothly rearwards. Vertical fins just behind the rear tyres help reduce turbulence and drag.

The LS 500h has a 0.26 coefficient of drag (0.28 with all-wheel drive).

Performance and smoothness redefined

The LS 500h has a self-charging, petrol-electric hybrid powertrain that uses Lexus’ revolutionary new Multi Stage Hybrid System, a technology first introduced in the LC 500h flagship coupe. It also features a naturally aspirated, 3.5-litre V6 Atkinson cycle petrol engine, two electric motors/generators and a compact, lightweight lithium-ion battery. Constructed using lightweight valvetrain components and equipped with D-4S direct fuel injection and VVT-i intelligent variable valve timing for both inlet (with VVT-iW ‘wide’ operation) and outlet valves, it delivers ample torque across all engine speeds, up to a 6,600 rpm red line.

Combined system output (engine and electric motors) is 264 kW / 354 HP /359PS, enabling acceleration in the front-wheel drive model from rest to 100 km/h in 5.4 seconds; with all-wheel drive the acceleration time is 5.5 seconds (both times provisional, subject to final confirmation).

Lexus Multi Stage Hybrid System

The Multi Stage Hybrid System uses the established Lexus Hybrid Drive electric continuously variable transmission, coupled to a new four-speed shift device. This arrangement expands the range of gearing, proving more direct response to driver inputs and a higher level of dynamic performance, while at the same time maintaining the smooth, refined performance required for luxury flagship.

In a conventional full hybrid vehicle, engine output is amplified by the electric motor via a reduction gear, but with the new Multi Stage Hybrid System the power from the V6 engine and the electric motor can be amplified by the automatic transmission, allowing much greater drive power to be generated when accelerating from stationary.

Lexus has succeeded in increasing maximum engine rpm from 6,000 to 6,600rpm. And thanks to the Multi Stage Hybrid System, the operating range in first, second and third gears has been increased, so that maximum rpm is reached at about 50km/h.

The Multi Stage Hybrid System allows the new LS 500h to be driven at higher road speeds with the combustion engine switched off, compared to previous Lexus hybrids – up to 140 km/h. It also allows the V6 engine to produce more drive power when pulling away.

Transmission with 10-speed driving feel

The design of the system places the multi-stage shift device immediately behind the power split device, on an axis aligned with the engine crankshaft. Although the transmission has four speeds, the D range has a simulated shift control pattern that replicates the feel of driving with a 10-speed gearbox. As vehicle speed rises, engine speed increases with a linear, direct and continuous acceleration feel that avoids the “rubber band” effect witnessed in some continuously variable transmissions. In the 10^th gear range, the CVT control allows for cruising at lower engine revs for quiet, smooth and fuel-efficient performance.

The transmission also benefits from an improved version of the AI shift control found in conventional automatics. This enables intelligent, optimum gear selection to be made in line with driving conditions and driver inputs, for example when going up or downhill. The system also includes and automatic Drive Mode switching control. This means it can adjust gear shifts to suit the driver’s style and behaviour, without the driver having to select a different drive mode to get the kind of performance they want from the transmission.

M mode with manual gear selection

Thanks to the Multi Stage Hybrid System’s design, the driver is able to take advantage of an M mode to select and hold gears manually, using paddle shifts mounted behind the steering wheel. Thanks to the co-ordinated control of the Power Split Device and the gear shifting mechanism, the gear shift will start instantaneously with the computer receiving the signal from the paddle shift, giving an exceptionally quick response.

Run-flat tyres

The new LS is fitted as standard with new run-flat tyres, developed to provide appropriate levels of ride quality and comfort. They also contribute to the car’s optimum weight distribution and dynamic performance. The reinforced rubber used in the sidewalls allows the LS to travel with a flat tyre for up to 160 km at speeds up to 80 km/h.

Drive Mode Select

Drive Mode Select lets the driver tailor the car’s performance to suit personal preference and the road conditions. In addition to Normal and ECO modes, the new LS offers Comfort and Custom settings, together with Sport S and Sport S+. According to the mode selected, there is automatic adjustment of the powertrain, Adaptive Variable Suspension, Electric Power Steering, Variable Gear Ratio Steering and air conditioning operation, as appropriate.

THE LS 500h F SPORT

• Styled and engineered for more sporty appeal
• Exclusive 10-spoke 20-inch F SPORT wheels, rocker mouldings and more powerful brakes
• F SPORT-exclusive interior, including seats, steering wheel, aluminium pedals, instrument display and Ultrasuede headlining

The new LS 500h range includes an F SPORT version, styled and instilled with a more engaging driving spirit. As well as bespoke design elements for both the exterior and interior, the F SPORT benefits from carefully applied chassis tuning and enhancements, while maintaining an exceptional level of comfort.

Lexus was able to make good use of the inherent agility of the new GA-L platform when developing the LS 500h F SPORT’s handling. It deployed the latest iteration of its Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management to provide optimum control of chassis dynamics through a single, co-ordinated system, delivering better traction, safety and handling agility.

Further benefits are gained through the use of exclusive 20-inch 10-spoke F SPORT cast alloy wheels, fitted with 245/45RF20 tyres at the front and 275/40RF20 tyres at the rear. Larger brakes are used, too: 400 x 36 mm front ventilated discs with six-piston monoblock aluminium callipers at the front and 359 x 30mm ventilated discs with four-piston callipers at the rear, both with high-friction brake pads.

In design aspects, the LS 500h F SPORT “turns up the volume” of the new LS design, while remaining faithful to its principal styling cues. Of particular note is an exclusive interpretation of the spindle grille with an even more intricate design that serves as a further demonstration of Lexus’ attention to fine detail. A team of CAD operators worked for months to achieve exactly the desired combination of texture and light interplay, adjusting more than 7,000 individual surfaces in the mesh pattern (compared to 5,000 for the standard LS model).

The F SPORT amplifies the LS’ rakish profile with its bespoke wheels and special rocker mouldings. The theme continues in the cabin, not least with the F SPORT grille pattern being replicated in the perforations of the leather seat upholstery. The seats themselves are F SPORT designs, available with28-way power and pneumatic adjustment and cushion extenders that provide extra body-holding performance when cornering and exceptional comfort, no matter how long the journey.

The driver’s instrument display features a special F SPORT speedometer and tachometer with an outer ring that moves to reveal a dual information display – a design adapted directly from display technology first used in the Lexus LFA supercar.

The F SPORT-exclusive steering wheel has been designed to increase the driver’s sense of connection with the car’s enhanced dynamic performance. It has the same grip profile as the wheel used in the LC coupe, produced through detailed measurements of palm pressure distribution and road testing by a Takumi driver. Further details include F SPORT accelerator pedal, footrest and shift lever. As a finishing sporting touch, the headlining is finished in tactile Ultrasuede material.

Lexus premiered to the world today its automated-driving-capable “LS+ Concept” concept vehicle at the 45th Tokyo Motor Show 2017 ^*1. It also unveiled at the show limited editions of the RC F and GS F, commemorating the 10th anniversary of Lexus “F” sports models.

Aiming to contribute to achievement of a world free of traffic casualties, Lexus has been actively introducing advanced technologies based on its Integrated Safety Management Concept ^*2. And so that all people can enjoy safe and smooth mobility and the fun of driving, Lexus has been developing automated driving technologies. It aims for application in the first half of the 2020s of its “Urban Teammate” technologies for automated driving on regular roads.

MAIN FEATURES OF THE LS+ CONCEPT

The LS+ Concept, equipped with state-of-the-art technologies, indicates the future image of the “LS” flagship sedan. With its advanced yet dignified styling and automated driving technologies planned for application in 2020, the LS+ Concept was developed as a model that symbolizes Lexus’ foresight.

Advanced yet dignified styling representing the future image of the LS flagship sedan

As a concept vehicle that suggests the future look of the LS, the LS+ Concept produces a dignified expression as a flagship and indicates the direction of next-generation Lexus design based on Lexus’ L-finesse design philosophy ^*3. In addition to a boldly evolved Spindle Grille, with a large grille shutter that contributes to both improved cooling and enhanced aerodynamic performance, distinctive Lexus foresight is expressed in the LS+ Concept through, among others, partly laser-lit headlamps and rear combination lamps, as well as through electronic side mirrors.

Latest automated driving technologies backed by AI

• Lexus is pursuing a world in which all people can enjoy safe, smooth and untethered mobility through automated driving technologies. Specifically, it intends to make automated driving from entrance ramp to exit ramp on motor-vehicle-only roadways possible by using its “Highway Teammate” automated driving technologies, which, with an eye toward application in 2020, are featured on the LS+ Concept. On motor-vehicle-only roadways, through appropriate recognition, judgment and operation by onboard systems in response to actual traffic conditions, these technologies can already enable automated merging, lane changes and diverging, as well as keep a vehicle in its lane and maintain vehicle-to-vehicle distance.
• The LS+ Concept can communicate with a data center to update its systems’ software, allowing new functions to be added. Meanwhile, AI that learns from big data, including information on roads and surrounding areas, ensures a high level of automated driving. The car, which can grow along with its users, represents a new age for the image of cars to which people can become emotionally attached.

MAIN FEATURES OF 10TH ANNIVERSARY LIMITED-EDITION “F” MODELS

Ever since the launch of the IS F in 2007, the development theme of Lexus “F” sports models has been to create sports cars that can put smiles on the faces of anyone who wants to have fun driving, regardless of skill. This approach has raised the sports image of Lexus. The special-specification, limited-edition vehicles announced today and commemorating the 10th anniversary of the birth of “F” models are equipped with performance shock absorbers for improved steering stability and lightweight titanium mufflers, further enhancing the driving performance for which “F” models are known. CFRP (carbon fibre-reinforced plastic) is used in exterior components for greater sports appeal, and body panels are in matte grey. The interior comes in a special colour accented by the “F” symbol colour “Heat Blue”. This and other features accentuate the models’ distinct character.

Lexus plans to sell the limited-edition RC F and the limited-edition GS F at Lexus dealers across Japan from around the spring of 2018.

• Lexus evolves the sophisticated sporty styling of the NX crossover
• Introduction of new spindle grille, revised front bumper and new alloy wheel designs
• LED headlights redesigned internally for Adaptive High-beam System and new-look LED rear lamp clusters, both with sequential turn indicators
• Interior changes include new colour options, revised switchgear and controls and an increase in size for the central multimedia EMVN screen from seven to 10.3 inches
• Lexus Safety System + introduced to the NX range

Since its launch in 2014, the NX crossover has quickly established itself as a key player in the Lexus range making up more than 30% of Lexus European sales since its launch. It has been successfully attracting customers – many of them new to the brand – with its combination of luxury, cool, contemporary design, intelligent packaging and enjoyable driving dynamics. Its sales success is further supported by a choice of full hybrid and petrol-electric engines, plus front and all-wheel drive options.

Its performance has been stronger than even Lexus anticipated, breaking sales forecasts in all the world markets where it is available, including Europe. To build on that momentum and maintain the NX’s strong appeal, Lexus has initiated a package of revisions and improvements, covering exterior and interior styling, safety and equipment features. The new NX makes its European debut at the Frankfurt International Motor Show (IAA).

EXTERIOR STYLING REFINEMENTS

Lexus has preserved the strong design essence of the NX that has proved so appealing to customers and has focused on details that enhance its visual impact.

The signature spindle grille has a powerful new look that aligns it more closely with Lexus’ SUV models, the RX and LX. The design features a series of horizontal bars that extend all the way down to the lower lip. Wider spacing between the bars below the central pinch-point of the spindle emphasises the car’s width and adds a sense strength to the NX’s frontal appearance. This effect is accentuated by the introduction of larger, deeply recessed lateral air intake ducts, angled to emphasise the car’s broad stance.

Reshaping of the upper part of the front bumper creates a more fluid blending of the styling into the bonnet and front doors, creating a sleeker overall shape with excellent aerodynamics.

The LED headlamp units have a new internal arrangement to accommodate the Adaptive High-beam System (AHS), part of the Lexus Safety System + package that is newly available for the NX. The look is sporty and echoes the lighting design of the new LC luxury coupe. Sequential turn indicators are also new, both at the front and rear.

At the back, changes to the lower section of the rear bumper introduce elements of the spindle grille shape, amplifying the sense of a wide stance and low centre of gravity. New rear lamp clusters have an elongated shape with a black garnish that adds emphasis to the L-shaped lenses. On the petrol models – now re-named NX 300 – there are larger, chrome-framed exhaust outlets, while larger satin chrome trims have been added on the full hybrid NX 300h to accentuate the spindle motif.

Two new 18-inch alloy wheel designs are featured for Luxury and F SPORT models, both with a striking combination of bright machined and dark metallic finishes.

INTERIOR: AN AUTHENTIC DRIVER’S ENVIRONMENT WITH ADDED CONVENIENCE

The interior of the NX benefits from detailed changes that project a sportier character and an even more luxurious feel. There is also a focus on improving the ease of use, convenience and comfort of the equipment features, faithful to Lexus’ commitment to the principles of Omotenashi hospitality.

The most prominent change is in increase in size for the central multimedia display. In the case of the Lexus Premium Navigation, the screen has grown from seven to 10.3 inches, while for the Lexus Display Audio, the increase is from seven to eight inches.

The climate control panel in the centre console has been rendered more ergonomically efficient with a number of buttons being replaced by four easy-to-operate toggle switches. These have a high tactile quality with a raised pattern of small metallic Lexus L motifs. The central analogue clock has been made larger, with a clearer face and a more pronounced outer ring. As well as being easier to read, it has a GPS control that automatically adjusts the time as you drive through different time zones.

On the centre console, the NX features the latest generation touchpad control, larger in size for easier operation. The palm rest has been reshaped to provide better wrist support and the wireless charging tray has been made wider and longer to accommodate larger smartphones. The USB ports have been moved to a handier central position and have a higher amperage for faster charging of devices. On models equipped with a head-up display, the unit is now seamlessly integrated into the instrument panel, creating a smooth surface across the top of the dashboard.

NEW INTERIOR COLOUR OPTIONS

There are new colour options for the NX, with the addition of Rich Cream and Ochre upholstery and trim, together with the established White Ochre, Black and Dark Rose. Flare Red and Mustard Yellow are both new for the NX F SPORT models.

POWER REAR DOOR

The new NX gains the convenience of a power rear door with “no-touch” opening and closing function – when you approach the vehicle with the key on your person, all you need to do to open the door is move your foot beneath the rear bumper, where the motion will be picked up by a sensor. The tailgate

can be closed with a similar action. A lock reserve button next to the tailgate grab handle automatically locks the vehicle.

LEXUS SAFETY SYSTEM +

The new NX gains the benefits of Lexus Safety System +. This equips the car with a range of active safety and driver assistance features, include a Pre-Collision System, Adaptive Cruise Control, Adaptive High-beam System, Lane Departure Alert and Road Sign Assist. Intelligent Parking Sensors are also available.

LEXUS CT 200h EVOLVES WITH SPORTIER STYLING, INTERIOR UPDATES & INNOVATIVE EQUIPMENT

• Updated exterior and interior styling for Lexus’ original hybrid luxury compact hatchback
• Added appeal for one of Lexus’ top-selling models – more than 300,000 global sales since 2011
• Revised, more modern frontal design and new alloy wheel designs
• New interior colour options and larger Lexus Navigation System display
• Specific design upgrades for the CT 200h F SPORT
• Range now available with Lexus Safety System + active safety and driver assistance features

When Lexus debuted the CT 200h at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show, it introduced the compact hybrid hatchback to the luxury automobile segment. The CT 200h has become one the brand’s best-selling hybrid model; since its launch in 2011, Lexus has sold about more than 300,000 CT 200h globally, including about 75,000 in Europe, one the largest markets for this model.

With this latest update, Lexus looks to build on the model’s strengths and evolve upon the CT 200h’s well-earned reputation for efficiency and reliability, armed with a freshened exterior that embodies its exciting-to-drive nature — without compromising its user-friendliness and fuel economy.

“The CT 200h has been refreshed and revitalized by enhancing its progressiveness. Its updated design is more emotional and sporty, making it the ideal premium hybrid compact for younger customers who enjoy spirited driving, but still care about the environment,” said Chika Kako, the Chief Engineer of the CT 200h.

EXTERIOR DESIGN: A MORE DRAMATIC PRESENCE

From its inception, the 5-door Lexus CT 200h combines an automotive packaging solution that compliments its owner’s active lifestyle with an exciting-yet-comfortable driving experience and interior surroundings offering the latest technology, upscale design and materials.

The CT 200h now features a much more modern and aggressive front fascia, thanks to a new mesh pattern for the signature spindle grille that helps elevate the model’s sophistication. Also, the integrated bumper that ran across the grille just below the Lexus emblem is gone, as are the horizontal bars within the grille. The fog light bezels are now painted metallic grey and are surrounded by an outer frame with a triangular cross-section and sharp edges. The “arrowhead” DRLs (Daytime Running Lights) have been repositioned above the single-projector headlamps to create a sense of continuity with the side character lines of the car.

Collectively, these new styling elements give the CT200h a more modern, athletic, and yet sophisticated appearance, helping this compact 5-door command a powerful presence when seen from the front.

“We have pursued a new look by reversing the position of the LED headlight unit and DRL compared to the previous model. The result is a look that’s more aggressive than before. Moreover, the “L” motif of the DRL strengthens the Lexus signature,” said Tetsuo Miki, the Chief Designer of the CT 200h.

At the rear of the car are new “L”-signature shaped taillights that give the CT 200h a sportier, wider appearance. New wider rear combination taillights have been changed to an all-LED configuration, with brightly illuminating LED turn signals at the bottom of the assembly, strengthening the “L”-signature look, as well as making the new CT more visible from behind. The upper and lower lines of the light-emitting section of the taillights thicken as they curve outwards, accentuating the width of the taillights and providing the rear end with a strong, stable presence. The back door garnish — enveloping the Lexus badge between the rear glass and the taillights — adds some athletic appeal to the vehicle’s already sporty rear-end. Also, the lower part of the rear bumper is now metallic silver and black, and reshaped to enhance the vehicle’s aggressive appearance, while the rear reflector bezels have been painted metallic grey to match the fog light surrounds up front.

Spicing up the CT 200h’s profile are sportier wheels—from the base 15-in. pieces to the F SPORT’s 17-in. dark metallic alloys. Of note is the new ten-spoke 16-in. wheel that features a machined finish and dark metallic paint.

FRESH INTERIOR UPDATES

One peek inside the cabin, and it is easy to see that the CT 200h offers among the finest interiors in its class, thanks to high-quality materials, rich surface textures and an attractive form-follows-function overall styling philosophy.

A Lexus Navigation System that features a larger 10.3-in. wide display screen (versus the previous-generation’s 7-in. monitor) is newly available.

An expanded interior colour palette is available, featuring new combinations including striking two-tone smooth leather; a mix of fabric and long-wearing synthetic leather, and new all-fabric upholstery. A total of nine different ornamentation choices are available.

F SPORT

The CT 200h F SPORT receives significant design changes for 2018 that include black metallic paint and an updated mesh pattern for the spindle grille exclusive to the F SPORT. The new mesh pattern has also been added as a backdrop for both the fog light inserts and surrounds to match. This model receives high-grade headlights that house a single projector high/low-beam headlamp. Also, exclusive to the F SPORT is jet black plating used on the upper and lower front grille moulding and a metallic black centre lower trim garnish at the rear of the vehicle.

“The F SPORT attracts younger customers, so we’ve strengthened the vehicle’s exclusive black items to reinforce its sporty nature, namely the rear bezel and the rear lower garnish. The rear bezel has the same mesh design as the front grille, and the lower garnish is painted metallic black here while the normal grade color is silver,” the CT 200h Chief Designer Miki said.

For 2018, the CT 200h will offer new two-tone exterior paint schemes and distinctive new colours for the F SPORT model: Lava Orange CS (Crystal Sunshine) and Heat Blue CL (Contrast Layering).

Inside the cabin, the F SPORT boasts new exclusive interior combinations including two-tone leather, fabric a synthetic leather. An elegant Naguri ornamentation, which showcases high levels of Takumi craftsmanship, is exclusively available in the F SPORT.

LEXUS SAFETY SYSTEM +

Another welcome addition to the updated Lexus CT 200h is the availability of the Lexus Safety System + that offers enhanced safety with advanced technologies such as Pre-Collision System (PCS), Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert (LDA) with steering wheel control function, Automatic High Beam (AHB) headlights, and Road Sign Assist (RSA).

LEXUS SAFETY TECHNOLOGIES CONTINUE THE PROGRESS TOWARDS ELIMINATION OF ROAD TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS

• Lexus Safety System + extended to the new NX and CT range
• Lexus Safety System + A introduced in the all-new LS flagship sedan

LEXUS SAFETY SYSTEM + NOW AVAILABLE ON NX AND CT

The benefits of Lexus’ advanced safety technologies are being extended deeper into its model range with the Lexus Safety System + suite of active safety and driver assistance features being made available on both the new NX and CT model ranges.

This comprehensive upgrade of the cars’ safety provisions means that almost all new Lexus models sold in Europe will now benefit from Lexus Safety System +. This is true to Lexus’ “democratisation” strategy to make these safety technologies available to a greater number of customers, at an affordable price. It also reflects the brand’s commitment to improving road safety for all – driver, vehicle occupants, pedestrians and other road users alike – with ultimate aim of eliminating traffic accidents.

The Lexus Safety System + introduced to the new NX and CT specifications includes features which monitor the car’s surroundings and the driver’s responses, recognising certain collision risks and providing support to help prevent a collision happening, or lessening the consequences should an impact be unavoidable.

PRE-COLLISION SYSTEM

Lexus’ Pre-Collision system (PCS) can help the driver avoid a collision, or lessen the consequences of an impact, even at high speed.

PCS uses a millimetre-wave radar and camera mounted on the front of the car to scan the road ahead to detect obstacles or hazards. It functions both when driving straight ahead and when cornering. It also computes data collected from sensors around the car monitoring factors such as vehicle speed, steering angle and yaw rate inputs. This information helps the PCS determine the risk of a rear-end collision with a vehicle ahead.

If it calculates a high risk of an impact, it will trigger a warning buzzer and light up a “BRAKE” command in the multi-information display to alert the driver to take action. The moment the brake pedal is pressed, the system initiates a Pre-Collision Brake to provide optimum braking force. This can achieve deceleration of up to 40km/h, slowing the vehicle to reduce the severity of any impact, or potentially bringing the car to a stop before an impact occurs.

If the driver fails to respond to the alerts and does not apply the brakes, the Pre-Collision Brake will automatically deploy to reduce the vehicle’s speed.

PCS also provides a pedestrian protection function. If a pedestrian is detected in the vehicle’s path, automatic braking will be activated. This operates when the Lexus is travelling at between 10 and 80km/h.

ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL

The PCS’ radar is also used to provide Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), which helps the driver maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front, working down to very low speeds and standstill. Once the way ahead is clear, the ACC will automatically and smoothly accelerate the vehicle back to its pre-selected cruising speed. If the car has been brought to a halt, the driver simply has to press the accelerator briefly for the system to be reactivated.

The ACC can operate in two modes: constant speed control, like a conventional cruise control system, or vehicle-to-vehicle distance control. With the latter mode, the driver can set long, medium or short vehicle-to-vehicle distances, according to preference or traffic conditions. The control settings selected are shown on the multi-information display.

LANE DEPARTURE ALERT

Lane Departure Alert uses the PCS camera, mounted on the windscreen behind the rear-view mirror, to track the vehicle’s course between lane markings painted on the road surface. If it detects that car is moving out of its lane without the turn indicators being used, it will light up a warning on the multi-information display and sound a buzzer, prompting the driver to steer back to the correct path. On the new NX, the driver will also experience haptic feedback through the steering wheel as an additional warning.

ADAPTIVE HIGH-BEAM SYSTEM

An adjustable LED Adaptive High-beam System (AHS) prevents the NX from dazzling other road users. Eleven independent LED chips in each headlight are enabled/disabled for precise control of the illuminated and non-illuminated areas. This means the driver can enjoy maximum, safe use of high beam lighting, improving their field of vision without the risk of dazzling other road users.¹

ROAD SIGN ASSIST

Road Sign Assist recognises traffic signs using the windscreen-mounted camera, repeating the information on the multi-information display. This helps prevent the risk of the driver failing to notice important warnings or commands on major routes, including speed limits and lane closures. The system can detect signs that are designed according to the international standards of the Vienna Convention on Road Signs and Signals.

LEXUS PRESENTS ITS VISION FOR FUTURE SAFETY WITH THE LEXUS SAFETY SYSTEM + A IN THE ALL-NEW LS FLAGSHIP SEDAN

Lexus’ will take safety technologies to an even higher level in its all-new LS sedan, scheduled for launch at the end of 2017. This flagship model will be the first Lexus to benefit from further improvements to the functions of Lexus Safety System +, together with the introduction of even more sophisticated driving assistance and advanced pre-collision support in Lexus Safety System + A.

The Lexus Safety System + A package includes Active Steering Assist, a world-first technology that can help prevent collisions that cannot be avoided through automatic braking alone, and Front Cross Traffic Alert, which is designed to warn the driver of the possibility of collisions with vehicles approaching from either side at road intersections. In addition, Lexus CoDrive can assist the driver in staying in lane. Together, these features and others can deliver a high level of safe driving support.

The new LS is also equipped with other technologies for safer and more secure driving in a wide range of situations. The support they provide has been designed to be clear and intuitive, for example in the use of a large, colour head-up display (HUD) and multi-information display to present status notifications and information on vehicle behaviour when safety features are being deployed.

PRE-COLLISION SYSTEM WITH PEDESTRIAN ALERT AND ACTIVE STEERING ASSIST

The new LS is the first Lexus model to be equipped with a Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Alert and Active Steering Assist, in addition to its established functions. This is a world-first technology that can pinpoint the location of a pedestrian and automatically control the car’s steering and braking.

With Pedestrian Alert, if there is a possibility of the vehicle colliding with a pedestrian ahead, the position of the pedestrian is shown in an animated graphic on the head-up display, contributing to the driver’s intuitive recognition of the situation. Pre-Collision System determines when there is a high risk of a collision with a pedestrian in the lane of travel, or with a continuous structure, such as a guardrail. If it calculates that that brake control alone will be insufficient to avoid a collision, steering assistance is provided, in addition to a driver alert and braking. When Active Steering Assist is deployed, the car will only move within a clearly marked lane. The system automatically checks for any vehicles in the car’s blind spots, including motorcycles.

LEXUS CODRIVE ADVANCED DRIVING ASSIST TECHNOLOGY

Lexus CoDrive adds Lane Tracing Assist (LTA) to the functions of the Adaptive Cruise Control to provide steering support in line with the driver’s intentions. It can significantly reduce the burden on the driver by providing seamless driving support on roads with many bends, or in traffic jams. It is co-ordinated with the head-up and multi-information displays to give the driver clear notification of the status of the support being provided.

LANE TRACING ASSIST

Lane Tracing Assist (LTA) provides lane-keeping support by way of steering control when Adaptive Cruise Control is in operation. As well as camera detection of lane markings, the system will trace the path of the vehicle ahead to enable assistance even when lines cannot be recognised, for example when driving in low-speed congestion, when there is little space between vehicles.

TWO-STAGE ADAPTIVE HIGH-BEAM SYSTEM

The two-stage Adaptive High-beam System (AHS) provides optimal lighting by way of separate on/off control of the two rows of LEDs – eight upper and 16 lower – in each headlight. This enables finer control of light strength and distance compared to the current LED-based AHS. This improves night-time visibility by allowing more frequent driving with the headlights on high beam, without dazzling preceding or oncoming vehicles.

FRONT CROSS TRAFFIC ALERT

Front Cross Traffic Alert (FCTA) is designed to help prevent collisions at intersections by detecting approaching vehicles. Using side-looking radars, the advanced system alerts driver to a vehicle approaching an intersection ahead from either side. If the driver proceeds, regardless of there being another vehicle approaching from left or right, warnings are given by a buzzer and on the LS’ multi-information display.

ROAD SIGN ASSIST

The Road Sign Assist (RSA) in the new LS makes use of navigation maps as well as a camera to acquire road sign information, which it then presents on the vehicle’s head-up and multi-information displays, reducing the risk of the driver failing to recognise signs and encouraging safe driving.

IMPROVEMENTS TO LEXUS SAFETY SYSTEM + FUNCTIONS

Lexus has further evolved the performance of the PCS, LDA and Adaptive Cruise Control in Lexus Safety System +, featured in combination with Lexus Safety System + A in the new LS.

PRE-COLLISION SYSTEM

The improved Pre-Collision System (PCS) can detect cyclists and night-time pedestrians and has improved deceleration performance during automatic braking. For example it can slow the vehicle by as much as 60km/h when a pedestrian is detected, thus improving its collision prevention performance.

LANE DEPARTURE ALERT

As well as detecting lane markings on the road surface, Lane Departure Alert (LDA) will also be able to recognise the boundaries between asphalt and other elements, such as grass, dirt or kerbstones, thanks to advances in its recognition capability. This will allow it to perform its functions of alerting the driver and adjusting steering feedback and torque to encourage a return to the correct line, even on roads without line markings.

ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL

The Adaptive Cruise Control achieves outstanding basic recognition performance with wide-angle detection, using a new millimetre-wave radar and a camera with a wider forward recognition range. The system also helps make driving more comfortable, with smooth acceleration at start-up and during following, departure and acceleration, for a sense of security for occupants. It also gives smooth deceleration in the case of a rapid change in in speed.

ADDITIONAL ACTIVE SAFETY TECHNOLOGIES

The new LS will further benefit from additional active safety technologies that will help protect the vehicle and occupants by alerting the driver to collision risks when parking and providing a view of the area immediately around the vehicle when manoeuvring or cornering.

PARKING SUPPORT BRAKE

The LS’s low-speed braking support systems have been integrated in a single package, with the aim of reducing damage when parking, when the driver needs to take account of nearby moving vehicles and pedestrians and stationary objects such as walls and street furniture. The world’s first rear pedestrian support brake has been added to the existing Intelligent Parking Sensors and Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Braking. This detects pedestrians behind the vehicle using a rear camera; if there is a risk of a collision, alerts and brake control are triggered.

PANORAMIC VIEW MONITOR WITH SIDE CLEARANCE AND CORNERING VIEW FUNCTIONS

Side clearance view and cornering view functions have been added to the Panoramic View Monitor, making it easier for the driver to determine the safe space around the vehicle. Side clearance view produces an image on the LS’s display monitor that shows the area in front of the car as if seen from a high position above the rear of the vehicle, giving the driver better sight of the space on each side of the car, for example when passing another car on a narrow road. When side clearance view is operating, cornering view automatically produces an image of the vehicle as seen from the rear at an angle in line with the car’s direction when moving through a bend or turn. These help the driver confirm left or right turns can be made safely on narrow roads and avoid driving up onto the kerb.

¹AHS is available across Lexus range except the CT model, which is equipped with Automatic High Beam (AHB) headlight system, which maximises night-time visibility by automatically switching to low beam when it detects the lights of oncoming traffic or vehicles ahead.

LEXUS PIONEERS A RADICAL NEW APPROACH TO THE PRESS CONFERENCE AT THE 2017 FRANKFURT MOTOR SHOW

In line with its pioneering spirit, Lexus introduces a radical new way of communicating news and information to the media at the 2017 Frankfurt motor show.

Its new, disruptive approach is another example of how Lexus is applying the human-centred principles of Omotenashi – the best traditions of Japanese hospitality – to deliver the highest standards of service. In this case, understanding and anticipating the needs of journalists and broadcasters has inspired a flexible news-sharing method that makes imaginative and practical use of augmented reality technology.

This means there will be no fixed time for a Lexus press conference during the busy press day schedule. Instead, media representatives can call at the Lexus booth at a time that suits them, equip themselves with a pair of augmented reality glasses (Microsoft HoloLens) and make a “guided tour” of the stand with commentaries and presentations by Alain Uyttenhoven, Head of Lexus Europe, and Lexus product specialists.

Pioneering this “press conference on demand”, Lexus believes it will be effective in communicating its key messages to the media in an engaging, thorough and time-efficient fashion.

The concept and its design are fully aligned with Lexus’ core values of Omotenashi customer service and the pioneering use of imaginative technologies. These values are fundamental not only to all new Lexus vehicles, but also to the way in which it is developing its business as a highly innovative, multi-dimensional lifestyle brand, reaching beyond the luxury automotive sphere.

HOW THE CONCEPT WORKS

Accredited journalists are able to call at the Lexus stand at any time during the press days. After introducing themselves at the welcome desk, they will be given a pair of augmented reality glasses – the Microsoft HoloLens.

A virtual reality host will then guide them around the stand, viewing the exhibits while seeing and hearing speeches and insights from virtual speakers, together with information graphics, 3D animations and video content. The effect is similar to a car’s head-up display, in which information is projected on the windscreen within the driver’s field of vision.

The content, including the speeches by Alain Uyttenhoven, Head of Lexus Europe, and Lexus product specialists, is the same for each user. It includes a welcome from the communications team, information on the new CT and NX models, an update on Lexus’ business performance and a look ahead to what is coming next for the brand. In all, the presentation takes just 10 minutes.

The Lexus booth will be located in Hall 8.0, stand A20. The press conference presentation will be available on-demand at any time during the show’s press days (12 and 13 September).

The all-new Lexus LS sedan scheduled for sales launch in Europe at the end of 2017 aims to provide world-leading safety performance through the combination of two advanced Lexus safety systems―Lexus Safety System + and Lexus Safety System + A. These systems are ultimately aimed at the elimination of traffic casualties.

The fifth-generation Lexus LS carries on the tradition of a smooth and powerful ride as well as exceptional quietness and comfort that started with the launch of the first generation as a new standard for luxury cars. Its new GA-L platform brings an improved driving experience, offering the driver the thrill of as-you-command control. As a symbol of Lexus, the fully redesigned LS achieves a bold transformation through the adoption of new styling and advanced technologies within an innovative coupe-like silhouette, while affording ample interior spaciousness befitting a luxury sedan.

Lexus Safety System +

As a flagship, the LS boasts extensive application of advanced safety technologies, including the already well-established active safety package Lexus Safety System +, which is based on the Integrated Safety Management Concept. Rather than considering a vehicle's individual safety technologies and systems independently, this approach aims for coordination in the pursuit of an even higher dimension of driver support in all driving situations.

Several features of Lexus Safety System + have been improved in the all-new LS, including the Pre-Collision System (PCS), Lane Departure Alert (LDA) and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control.

Lexus Safety System + A

In the new LS, Lexus Safety System + is combined with Lexus Safety System + A, which will provide advanced pre-collision support and sophisticated driving assistance.

The Lexus Safety System + A package includes Active Steering Assist, which, as a world-first technology, helps prevent collisions that cannot be avoided through automatic braking alone, and Front Cross Traffic Alert (FCTA), which is designed to warn the driver of the possibility of head-on collisions at intersections. These features, along with Lexus CoDrive, which assists the driver in maintaining in-lane driving, and others achieve a high level of driving safety support.

The LS also comes with other technologies for supporting safer and more-secure driving in a broad range of situations. Support has been designed to be clear and intuitive, such as by providing the driver with information ranging from support status notifications to information on vehicle behaviour during safety feature operation via a large head-up display (HUD) and a multi-information display.

New active safety technologies

Pre Collision System (PCS) with Pedestrian Alert and Active Steering Assist

In addition to conventional PCS, which supports collision prevention and damage reduction through alerts, Pre-collision Brake Assist and Pre-collision Braking, the new LS is equipped with Pedestrian Alert, a world-first technology that specifies the direction of the presence of a pedestrian, and Active Steering Assist, which can automatically controls steering and braking. With Pedestrian Alert, if there is the possibility of collision with a pedestrian ahead, the direction of the pedestrian’s presence is shown in an animation via the LS’s large colour HUD, contributing to intuitive recognition on the part of the driver. Active Steering Assist determines when there is a high possibility of collision with a pedestrian in the lane of travel or with a continuous structure, such as a guardrail, and if the system also determines that it is difficult to avoid a collision with brake control alone but that it might be avoided with steering control, the system assists in collision prevention or damage reduction through automatic steering control in addition to activating an alert and applying the brakes.

Lexus CoDrive, advanced driving assist technology

Lexus CoDrive adds Lane Tracing Assist (LTA) to the basic functions of Dynamic Radar Cruise Control to provide steering support that is in line with the intentions of the driver. By providing seamless driving support on roads with many curves or in traffic jams, Lexus CoDrive largely decreases driver burden. It coordinates with the LS's large HUD and multi-information display to clearly notify the driver of the state of support provided.

Lane Tracing Assist (LTA)

Lane Tracing Assist provides lane-keeping support by way of steering control when Adaptive Cruise Control is in operation. In addition to lane line detection by way of a camera, tracing of the path of the vehicle ahead enables assistance even when lane lines cannot be recognized, such as in low-speed driving in congestion when there is little distance to the preceding vehicle.

Two-stage Adaptive High-beam System (AHS)

With eight LED lights at the top and 16 below (on each side), the Two-stage Adaptive High-beam System provides optimal lighting by way of separate on/off control of each row of LEDs, enabling finer control of light strength and distance compared to the existing LED-based AHS. This allows higher frequency of high-beam driving without blinding preceding or oncoming vehicles, thus improving night-time visibility.

Front Cross Traffic Alert (FCTA)

To help prevent collisions at intersections, FCTA is meant to detect forward cross-traffic vehicles. It uses forward direction radar and is the first in the world*³ to alert drivers of the direction from which a cross-traffic vehicle is approaching the immediate intersection. Alerts are displayed using the LS's large HUD. If the vehicle proceeds regardless of the presence of an approaching vehicle in cross traffic, warnings are also issued by a buzzer and the LS's multi-information display.

Road Sign Assist (RSA)

RSA acquires road sign information using a camera and navigation maps and then displays such using the LS's HUD and multi-information display, thus reducing driver failure to recognize signs and encouraging safe driving.

Improved active safety technologies

Lexus has further evolved the performance of PCS, LDA and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control in Lexus Safety System +, which is featured in a growing number of Lexus models and is combined with Lexus Safety System + A in the LS.

Pre-Collision System (PCS)

PCS detects pedestrians and vehicles ahead using millimetre-wave radar and a stereo camera and supports collision prevention and damage mitigation with an alert, Pre-collision Brake Assist and Pre-collision Braking. The improved PCS can detect bicyclists and night-time pedestrians and has improved deceleration performance during automatic braking. For example, it can decelerate the vehicle by as much as 60 km/hour when a pedestrian is detected, thus improving its collision-prevention performance.

Lane Departure Alert (LDA)

LDA helps to prevent lane departures. In addition to detecting road lane lines, it is now also capable of detecting the boundaries between asphalt and such elements as grass, dirt and curbstone through advances in recognition capability. Thus, it can now perform its functions of alerting the driver and operating the steering wheel even on roads that do not have lines.

Dynamic Radar Cruise Control

Outstanding basic recognition performance has been secured with wide-angle detection using newly developed millimetre-wave radar and a camera with a wider forward recognition range. Dynamic Radar Cruise Control also provides support for making driving more comfortable, with smooth acceleration at start-up, and during following, departure and acceleration, for a sense of security for occupants, and smooth deceleration in the case of a rapid change in deceleration speed during following.

Other active safety technologies

Parking support brakes (stationary objects, vehicles approaching in the rear, pedestrians in the rear)

With the aim of reducing damage from accidents when parking, during which moving vehicles and pedestrians, in addition to walls and other stationary objects, perimeter checks and complicated driving operations are considerations, low-speed braking support systems have been integrated into a single package. Added to the already commercialized Intelligent Clearance Sonar (ICS) and Rear Cross Traffic Auto Brake (RCTAB) is the world's first rear pedestrian support brake, which detects pedestrians using a rear camera, and in the case of a possible collision, helps to minimize damages by using alerts and brake control.

Panoramic View Monitor (with side clearance view and cornering view functions)

Side clearance view and cornering view functions have been added to the Panoramic View Monitor, which supports periphery safety checks. Side clearance view produces an image on the LS's 12.3-inch display monitor of the area in front of the car as if it were seen from an elevated point at the rear of the car, allowing the driver to more-intuitively confirm the space on the sides of the vehicle when passing by another vehicle on a narrow road or when moving toward the shoulder of the road to allow passage. When side clearance view is in operation, cornering view automatically produces an image of the vehicle as viewed from the rear at an angle in line with driving operation during cornering. These assist in confirming safety when making left or right turns on narrow roads and in preventing the driving up onto curb stones when departing the roadway.

Lexus has developed systems that monitor both the vehicle and its surroundings, ready to warn you of any risks and help you avoid an accident. The new RX will even recognise the signs of a driver being distracted or becoming drowsy and issue a prompt wake-up call.

Panoramic View Monitor

Negotiating a tight parking space or making your way over rough and unmade surfaces are familiar driving challenges, and ones which can too often result in bumps, scrapes and frayed tempers. These kinds of tasks are made easier and safer in the new Lexus RX thanks to a 360-degree Panoramic View Monitor. This uses an array of cameras that not only give you an all-round view of your vehicle's location, but also provide a bird's eye view for even better sight of your immediate surroundings.

The Panoramic View Monitor works in conjunction with the Lexus Park Assist sensors and monitor, Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross Traffic Alert to make you aware of obstacles, hazards and other vehicles that may be hidden from view from the driver's seat, eliminating any blind spots. When steering the car into parallel or series parking spaces, the Parking Assist Monitor can add guidelines to the real-time camera images to help you steer precisely, while front and rear sensors will sound an alert as move closer to another car or obstacle.

These are all part of the new RX's advanced driver assistance systems which is the most comprehensive package yet featured in the model, with up to 12 different elements. Lexus' aim is for it not just to provide extra protection for the RX and its occupants, but also to improve road safety generally.

Sway Warning — a Lexus first

The new RX can detect the signs of driver drowsiness with its new Sway Warning function — the first system of its kind. It uses the same monitors as the Lane Keep Assist/Lane Departure Alert to track the car's position within highway lane markings and detect if the vehicle wanders unintentionally out of its lane — due to driver tiredness, distraction or inattention. To help guard against the risk of an accident, it will automatically sound a warning and trigger an alert on the multi-information display to prompt the driver to take action. Its level of sensitivity can be manually adjusted to suit each driver's preference.

Lexus Safety System +

The new RX is equipped with Lexus Safety System +, a multi-feature, integrated safety package that delivers exceptional levels of active safety and driver assistance to help prevent accidents happening. Not only does Lexus provide the most comprehensive active safety provisions in the premium SUV market, it does so at a price that is significantly lower than that of rival systems.

At the heart of the Lexus Safety System + is the Pre-Crash Safety system with Pre-Crash Brake Assist. This uses a front-mounted camera and millimetre-wave radar to detect vehicles and pedestrians on the road ahead. If it calculates a risk of a collision, it automatically warns the driver and the Pre-Crash Brake Assist engages to provide extra braking force the moment the brake pedal is pressed. If the driver fails to react and the system judges a collision to be imminent, the brakes are automatically applied to reduce vehicle speed and the force of any impact.

The same radar unit is used to provide Adaptive Cruise Control, which helps the driver maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front, even at very low speeds. Once the way ahead is clear, the RX automatically accelerates to its pre-set cruising speed.

The package also includes Lane Departure Alert (LDA) and Lane-Keeping Assist (LKA), which recognise when the new RX is deviating from its lane on the highway and help the driver steer the vehicle safely back to its correct path. Lane Departure Alert uses a camera on the windscreen to track the vehicle's course between lane markings painted on the road surface. If it judges that the new RX is about to move out of its lane without the turn indicator being used, the system lights up a warning on the multi-information display and vibrates the steering wheel. It will also apply appropriate steering control force to help bring the vehicle back on course.

Lane-Keeping Assist provides an extra layer of assistance, automatically providing steering inputs to keep the car safely within its lane, notably when the Adaptive Cruise Control is being used. In a first for a Lexus, Lane-Keeping Assist can be used even at very low speed, when the Adaptive Cruise Control is operating.

Lexus Safety System + further includes Automatic High Beam, which detects oncoming traffic and vehicles ahead and automatically switches the headlights between high and low beam. This can be upgraded to an Adaptive High Beam system, which gives even better illumination by adjusting light distribution to avoid dazzling other road users, instead of switching the headlights to low beam.

The driver also gains a "second set of eyes" when it comes to important road signs on motorways and major routes. The Road Sign Assist system uses a front camera to recognise principal warning and command signs, which are then replicated on the multi-information display, reducing the risk of the driver not being aware speed limits, lane closures and other important information.

''Lexus Safety System +'' integrates several of Lexus' existing active safety technologies: the Pre-Crash Safety System (PCS) helps prevent and mitigate collisions; Lane Departure Alert (LDA) helps prevent vehicles from departing from their lanes; and Automatic High Beam (AHB) helps ensure optimal forward visibility during night time driving. As part of a multi-faceted approach to active safety, the ''Lexus Safety System +'' package combines millimetre-wave radar with a camera, achieving high reliability and performance.

Lexus Safety System +

''Lexus Safety System +'' combines Lane Departure Assist (LDA), Adaptive High Beam (AHB), Pre-Crash Safety System (PCS) with a pedestrian detection function, and Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC). Also included will be the newly introduced Road Sign Assist (RSA).

Pre-Crash Safety System with pedestrian detection function (PCS)

This system uses millimetre-wave radar and a camera to detect pedestrians in addition to vehicles. To help prevent or mitigate collisions, the system activates an audio and visual alert in addition to brake assist, followed by automated braking if the driver does not brake in time. Automated braking operates at relative speeds of between 10 to 80 km/h for potential collisions with pedestrians, and can reduce speed by approximately 30 km/h². For potential collisions with vehicles, the PCS system operates at relative speeds of between 10 km/h and the vehicle's top speed, reducing speed by approximately 40 km/h³.

''Lexus Safety System +'' PCS Capabilities 

Lane Departure Alert (LDA)

LDA uses a camera to detect white and yellow lane markings. If the vehicle starts to deviate from a lane, LDA alerts the driver with an audio-visual alert and steering wheel vibration. Some vehicles are also equipped with Lane Keep Assist (LKA), which controls power steering to make it easier for the driver to remain within lane markings.

Automatic High Beam (AHB)

AHB helps ensure excellent forward visibility during night time driving. It uses a camera to detect the headlights of oncoming vehicles and the tail lights of vehicles ahead, and then automatically switches between high beams and low beams so as not to dazzle other drivers.

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)

On highways, ACC uses millimetre-wave radar to detect preceding vehicles and determine their speed. It then adjusts vehicle speed (within a set range) to ensure that there is a safe distance between vehicles. By using a forward-facing camera and millimetre-wave radar to monitor vehicles moving into or out of the lane, Adaptive Cruise Control helps maintain smooth acceleration and deceleration while driving.

Road Sign Assist (RSA) 

Especially useful when crossing a country boarder, the system uses a camera placed in front of the vehicle to recognise speed limits and road signs and displays them on the meter display.

¹ The concept of integrating all of a vehicle's individual safety technologies and systems to provide a more advanced level of support to drivers in all driving situations.² Results achieved during testing using a vehicle travelling at 30 km/h and a stationary vehicle/pedestrian; system operation depends on driving environment (including road and weather conditions) and vehicle circumstances.³ Results achieved during testing using a vehicle travelling at 40 km/h and a stationary vehicle; system operation depends on driving environment (including road and weather conditions) and vehicle circumstances.