39 Facts About Lexus LS

The Birth of Lexus LS

The Lexus LS has a rich history that dates back to the late 1980s. This luxury sedan has become a symbol of elegance and innovation. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about this iconic vehicle.

1. The Lexus LS was first introduced in 1989 as the LS 400.
2. It took six years and over $1 billion to develop the first Lexus LS.
3. The LS 400 was designed to compete with luxury brands like Mercedes-Benz and BMW.
4. Lexus is a division of Toyota, and the LS was its flagship model.
5. The name "LS" stands for "Luxury Sedan."

Design and Engineering Marvels

The Lexus LS is known for its meticulous design and engineering. Each model showcases the brand's commitment to quality and innovation.

6. The LS 400 featured a 4.0-liter V8 engine with 250 horsepower.
7. It had a drag coefficient of just 0.29, making it one of the most aerodynamic cars of its time.
8. The LS 400's interior was designed to be as quiet as a library, with extensive soundproofing.
9. The car featured a double-wishbone suspension for a smoother ride.
10. Lexus engineers tested the LS 400 on over 1.6 million miles of roads worldwide.

Technological Innovations

Lexus has always been at the forefront of automotive technology. The LS series is no exception, boasting numerous technological advancements.

11. The LS 400 was one of the first cars to feature an automatic tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel.
12. It also had a memory system for the driver's seat, mirrors, and steering wheel positions.
13. The LS 430, introduced in 2000, featured a Mark Levinson premium sound system.
14. In 2006, the LS 460 became the first car to feature an eight-speed automatic transmission.
15. The LS 600h, introduced in 2007, was the world's first full-hybrid V8 luxury sedan.

Safety Features

Safety has always been a priority for Lexus. The LS series includes numerous safety features to protect its occupants.

16. The LS 400 featured dual front airbags, which were advanced for its time.
17. The LS 430 introduced adaptive cruise control, which maintains a set distance from the car ahead.
18. The LS 460 included a pre-collision system that could detect potential accidents and prepare the car accordingly.
19. The LS 600h featured an advanced stability control system to help maintain control in slippery conditions.
20. The latest LS models come with Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, which includes pedestrian detection and lane-keeping assist.

Luxurious Interiors

The interior of the Lexus LS is a testament to luxury and comfort. Every detail is designed to provide an unparalleled driving experience.

21. The LS 400's interior featured leather upholstery and real wood trim.
22. The LS 430 introduced ventilated front seats, a first for Lexus.
23. The LS 460 offered a rear-seat entertainment system with dual screens.
24. The LS 600h featured a four-zone climate control system.
25. The latest LS models offer a 28-way power-adjustable driver's seat.

Performance and Handling

The Lexus LS is not just about luxury; it also delivers impressive performance and handling.

26. The LS 400 could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 8.5 seconds.
27. The LS 430 featured a 4.3-liter V8 engine with 290 horsepower.
28. The LS 460's 4.6-liter V8 engine produced 380 horsepower.
29. The LS 600h combined a 5.0-liter V8 engine with an electric motor for a total of 438 horsepower.
30. The latest LS 500 features a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 engine with 416 horsepower.

Awards and Recognition

The Lexus LS has received numerous awards and accolades over the years, cementing its status as a top luxury sedan.

31. The LS 400 was named Motor Trend's Import Car of the Year in 1990.
32. It also made Car and Driver's Ten Best list for 1990 and 1991.
33. The LS 430 received the J.D. Power and Associates award for Initial Quality in 2001.
34. The LS 460 was named World Car of the Year in 2007.
35. The LS 500 has received high safety ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

Environmental Commitment

Lexus is committed to sustainability and reducing its environmental impact. The LS series reflects this commitment.

36. The LS 600h was the first luxury sedan to receive the Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (SULEV) certification.
37. The LS 500h features a multi-stage hybrid system that improves fuel efficiency.
38. Lexus uses eco-friendly materials in the interior of the LS, such as bamboo and sustainable wood.
39. The latest LS models are designed to be more fuel-efficient and produce fewer emissions than their predecessors.

Final Thoughts on the Lexus LS

The Lexus LS stands out as a symbol of luxury, innovation, and performance. From its sleek design to its advanced technology, this car has set a high bar in the automotive world. The LS offers a smooth ride, powerful engine options, and a lavish interior that makes every drive enjoyable. Safety features are top-notch, ensuring peace of mind for drivers and passengers alike. With a history of reliability and customer satisfaction, the Lexus LS continues to be a favorite among luxury car enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for comfort, style, or performance, the Lexus LS delivers on all fronts. It's more than just a car; it's an experience. If you're considering a luxury sedan, the Lexus LS should definitely be on your list.