Automobile Alley
THE 2020
LEXUS- LS 500 delivers world class luxury
I
f a premium, world-class luxury sedan is on your new vehicle shopping list, look no further than the 2020 Lexus LS 500. Having been made available to consumers for more than three decades, the LS has helped to mold and further define the flagship sedan segment, as this amazing automobile competes on the stage in the class of Mercedes, BMW and Jaguars. The LS 500 and LS 500h (Hybrid) return in this model year with a few key updates including the addition of their new LS 500 Inspiration Series. This limited edition model will be offered with a unique deep garnet exterior paint and is outfitted with standard features such as 20-inch black/chrome wheels, white upscale leather interior and exclusive glass trim, among other enhancements. Additionally, this model will only be manufactured with 300 units in total, in order to enhance the level of incomparable excellence. The head-turning, remarkable LS 500 has a sleek and bold design with a coupe-like silhouette. Lexus vehicle designers took full advantage of their successful rear-wheel-drive architecture/platform to give this automobile a stretched, ground-hugging footprint and appearance. Compared to the previous generation, the latest LS is slightly lower, while the hood and trunk are just over one inch 14 | CROSSROADS | APRIL 2020
lower as well. Generally speaking, most luxury sedan owners expect greater handling agility and performance without sacrificing comfort. Helping to meet this demand, ride balance is achieved with their latest generation of chassis control technology known as Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management. This system implements cooperative control of all available vehicle subsystems such as ABS brakes, Traction Control, Vehicle Stability Control, Electric Power Steering, Variable Gear Ratio Steering and Dynamic Rear Steering, when equipped with the F SPORT performance package. An available air suspension system adjusts damping control in response to driving operations and road surface conditions. Also worth noting is the fact that the LS is already equipped with one of the most technologically advanced safety systems in the industry. In part, included features are their seamless daytime bicyclist detection, and low-light pedestrian detection, plus automatic road sign assist and lane tracing assist. Of course, this helps to further raise the bar for a driver and passenger “invisible” safety blanket. The Lexus App features unity with smartwatches and Alexa-enabled devices at home, thus making it easier to lock and unlock the doors, check the fuel level and start the car
remotely. Under the hood, Lexus designed a 3.5-liter twin turbocharged V6 engine specifically for the LS. It produces 416 commanding horsepower. Acceleration numbers show 0-60 MPH in just under five seconds. The driver can tailor powertrain response and feel by choosing from; Eco, Comfort, Normal, Custom, Sport S or Sport S+ modes. This engine is matched with a 10-speed automatic transmission. With its closely spaced gear ratios, it’s ideal for all driving situations. Available is all-wheel-drive to further enhance grip, traction and cornering stability. The high level of craftsmanship further supports the factory’s attention to details, resulting in an elegant finish with an atmosphere of depth and spaciousness. Signature touches and beautiful interior ambient lighting further helps to inspire your senses. Even the front “seat belt latches” automatically rise above the seating surface in order to make latching them just that much easier. Rear seat luxury is further augmented with options for both heating, massage and reclining settings. At road-test, the 2020 Lexus LS 500h (Hybrid) I drove had a sticker price just under $110,000. The base warranty is for 48-months or 50,000 miles. Engine/powertrain warranty reflects 72-months or 70,000 miles.
