Lexus LS500, LS500h sedans hit Qatar roads

Abdullah Abdulghani & Bros Co (AAB), exclusive distributor of Toyotaand Lexus in Qatar, has launched the all-new fifth-generation LS500 andLS500h flagship sedans for 2018 in Doha.The event was attended by AAB chairman Dr Nasser Abdulghanial-Abdulghani and Japanese ambassador Seiichi Otsuka, along with AAB’schief operations officer (automotive) R K Murugan, and a delegation fromLexus International and AAB senior management.“Not only will the LS symbolise the Lexus brand, but it will also becomethe definitive new-generation luxury car embodying Japanese traditionand culture,” LS chief engineer Toshio Asahi said.Equipped with many “world-firsts and Lexus’ first performance, design,and safety features,” the new premium passenger car is set not only towin the hearts of the region’s luxury enthusiasts but also redefineluxury driving in a more stylish manner.Takayuki Yoshitsugu, chief representative, Middle East and North AfricaRepresentative ‎Office, Toyota Motor Corp, said the all-new LS sedanbuilds on the flagship vehicle’s enduring DNA for smooth and powerfulperformance, which in combination with its remarkable quietness andexceptional comfort, and symbolises the true essence of the LS.“In many ways, this LS flagship sedan exemplifies our new approach tocreate amazing experiences for our customers, and ignite their emotionsthrough innovation that promises a truly engaging driving experience,”Yoshitsugu noted.The LS sedan, which sets another benchmark in driving dynamics, customerexperience, and comfort inside and out, offers innovative technologywith a human touch.It was designed to be the brand’s latest global citizen, available in more than 90 countries.The LS is built on the new ‘Lexus Global Architecture - Luxury (GA-L)’platform, which ensures a low centre of gravity and optimum weightdistribution, contributing to the car’s essential stability and handlingagility, which in turn, deliver increased driver rewards.The 2018 LS Hybrid takes an entirely different approach than the previous LS Hybrid model.Its new state-of-the-art Multi Stage Hybrid System combines a naturallyaspirated Atkinson-cycle 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engine with two electricmotor/generators and uses a compact, lightweight lithium-ion battery.The combined system output of the internal combustion engine with the electric traction system is 354hp.The new system is based on the electronically controlled ContinuouslyVariable Planetary (CVP) transmission of Lexus Hybrid Synergy Drive,coupled with an all-new four-speed automatic gearset at the outputstage.The two systems work together to expand the overall range of gearing andincrease operation of the V6 engine across a wider speed range thanprevious hybrids, resulting to “impressive fuel economy, low emissions,and excellent on-road performance.”The new LS will be available also with two engine options; a 3.5-literV6 engine naturally aspirated Atkinson-cycle producing 311hp and 380 Nmof torque, and a newly developed 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 engineproducing 416hp and 600 Nm of torque, and both mated to the first-ever10-speed automatic transmission for a premium passenger car.Some of the features of the new LS are front and rear seats withmultiple power adjustments, heating, cooling, and massage functions,rear seat arrangement that includes an extending leg ottoman and themost generous legroom of any LS generation, and a rear seatentertainment system with 11.6-inch screen auto-tilts to the optimumviewing angle.The new LS unstintingly employs the latest safety technologies includingthe brand’s innovative Lexus Safety System+, in addition to acomprehensive array of safety features to protect its occupants, such as14 SRS airbags, Blind Spot Monitor, Vehicle Stability Control,Panoramic View Monitor, Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Brake ForceDistribution, and Brake Assist, among others.Furthermore, the 2018 LS debuts two new 19-inch wheel designs and three20-inch wheel designs, two of which are also new, and feature run-flattires designed to elevate vehicle and ride comfort.The 20-inch premium wheels employ a brilliant appearance created using an electroplating technique known as sputtering.All the new wheel designs feature a hollow rim structure that helps reduce resonant sounds generated by the tyres.The LS will be available in 13 distinctive exterior colours, includingManganese Luster and Sonic Agate while the interior comes in a total ofnine colour schemes with nine choices of interior trim.