LEXUS REVEALS NEW FLAGSHIP RANGE AT MELBOURNE MOTOR SHOW
Lexus will use the Melbourne International Motor Show to preview its new flagship LS line of super luxury models.The LS line comprises the LS600hL hybrid limousine and the LS460 sedan.
The long wheelbase Lexus LS600hL is the world's first upper-luxury petrol-electric hybrid and the world's first petrol-electric V8 hybrid.
The LS460 uses Lexus' latest high technology V8 petrol engine mated to a world-first eight-speed automatic gearbox.
The LS600hL delivers performance equivalent to a V12 engine, but with fuel efficiency of approximately 9.3litres/100km.
Both vehicles have completely new styling guided by the Lexus L-Finesse design principal.
The LS600hL and the LS460 both employ electronically controlled air suspension to optimise ride comfort.
Lexus is claiming the LS line as the most highly specified it has ever built.
There are no carry-overs in the major areas of chassis, suspension, engine or driveline.
Both vehicles are scheduled for Australian availability in 2007.
Lexus expects them to make up less than 10 per cent of its total sales.
The long wheelbase LS600hL will become the flagship of Lexus' hybrid line.
Lexus now offers hybrid technology in its RX400h SUV and its GS450h sports sedan.
"Hybrid is the building block for the future, and Lexus has played a major part in its introduction into the luxury market," Lexus Australia divisional manager John Roca said.
"As every day goes by, hybrid is gaining traction as the sustainable and reasonable energy solution."
The Melbourne International Motor Show starts on Friday 2 March at the Melbourne Exhibition Centre.