The 2018 Lexus LS F Sport
Lexus has introduced the F SPORT package for the all-new fifth-generation LS 500 & LS 500h, displaying it as part of their exhibit at the New York International Auto Show. Lexus offers the F Sport trim on a number of vehicles, focusing on improving chassis dynamics without adding extra power. The latest Lexus to receive this treatment is the brand new LS flagship sedan.
As luxury flagships go, the Lexus LS has much to offer, especially inside its plush and roomy cabin. A 386-hp 4.6 liter V-8, eight speed automatic, and rear-wheel drive are standard; all wheel drive is available but drops power to 359 hp. Driving dynamics are tame, but the F Sport trim injects some life into the handling.
New F SPORT model offers the most engaging LS driving experience ever
Includes exclusive F SPORT design touches, 20-inch alloy wheels, 6-piston front and 4 piston rear brakes.
Available Handling Package for LS 500 RWD F SPORT enhances dynamic feel with chassis tech from LC coupe and helps to underline the “sport” in F SPORT.
F SPORT Look
Lexus designers didn’t hold back when giving the LS 500 its coupe-like silhouette and dramatic rendition of the Lexus signature spindle grille that shows even greater intricacy in the design. Developing the F SPORT grille took computer-aided design (CAD) operators some five months to achieve the desired texture and interaction with light. Even then, they adjusted 7,100 individual surfaces to achieve the desired look and texture. The side vents are in the same mold as the updated GS & IS F SPORT, where the shape is almost cut out of the bumper it may bring a cohesive look to F SPORT, but all the contrast clashes with the Ultra White paint.
F SPORT Inside
Inside, Lexus has switched up the materials, introducing Ultrasuede and brushed aluminum accents. The seats also have an unusually complicated perforation pattern. As it did with the exterior, Lexus shifted the LS 500 cabin into F SPORT spec by applying trim and features exclusive to this version. The F SPORT persona shines throughout the cabin, starting with the F SPORT-exclusive front seat, which provides enhanced support for dynamic driving. In the end, the LS F SPORT remains a full size flagship that’s capable of 0-60 miles per hour in 4.5 seconds, with enhanced handling and a front grille sharp enough to cut your hand. And perhaps that’s irrational enough, for the time being.
LS 500 Chassis Details
2018 LS F SPORT models feature the latest generation of the brand’s advanced chassis control technology, Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management, which has been refined since its debut more than a decade ago. The new VDIM system implements cooperative control of all vehicle subsystems braking, steering, powertrain, and suspension to control basic longitudinal, lateral and vertical motion as well as yaw, roll and pitch. Optimal control of these motions helps to enable exceptional ride comfort, enhanced traction and safety and handling agility, and allows for enriched flat vehicle posture during cornering as well as a more comfortable and stable ride overall.
Sporting Genes
The stiffest platform that Lexus has ever developed, GA-L sets the stage for enhanced handling, ride smoothness and cabin quietness. The LS F SPORT capitalizes on the platform’s responsiveness and agility. Equipping the LS 500 F SPORT with standard 20-inch wheels and 245/45RF20+ 275/40RF20 tires,along with larger front and rear brakes, unlocks more of the platform’s intrinsic performance capability.
415-Horsepower Heart with a 10-Speed Partner
Lexus designed an all-new 3.5-liter V6 engine specifically for the new 2018 LS 500, using twin turbochargers developed through the company’s F1 technology. This new twin-turbo V6 offers V8-level performance 415 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque paired with the first-ever 10-speed automatic transmission in a luxury sedan. Sadly, this package is not available if you opt for the 295-horsepower hybrid LS 500h F Sport, but the aesthetics will still be included. The engine yields a broad torque curve and, perfectly in tune with the F SPORT spirit, the new engine and transmission deliver instant acceleration and a constant buildup of torque toward the vehicle’s redline.
F SPORT Performance, Hybrid Efficiency
The LS 500h F SPORT infuses high efficiency into the sporting formula. The new Multi Stage Hybrid System combines a naturally aspirated Atkinson-cycle 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engine with two electric motor/generators and uses a compact, lightweight lithium-ion battery. The new system adapts the planetary-type continuously variable transmission from Lexus Hybrid Drive and also adds a unique four-speed automatic transmission.
