According to what is going on at Lexus, it is clear they are deep in development of a new flagship the LS that is supposed to take on the likes of Mercedes S-Class and BMW 7 Series and it is expected to show up in 2018. The next-gen Lexus LS was caught testing by spy photographer well ahead of the flagship luxury sedan going on sale in 2018.
This, of course, are not the first spy shots, and unlike the first ones, these show that the Lexus is nearing completion on the LS’s bodywork and design. As it goes with test mule spy shots, this one as well has a large amount of camo on that hides its almost finished body, but the camo is offering us a look-see at the new headlight and taillight designs peaking from underneath. Some of the deficiencies in camo on the front of the car allow us to get a glimpse of the tweaked, large angular grille and somewhat changed shoulder-line.
2018 Lexus LS Exterior Design
Since these cues are going to be taken from the LF-FC concept revealed at the 2015 Tokyo Motor Show, which is, by the way, the only preview of the new LS, they are probably be somewhat toned down for the production model. Since the ongoing version of the Lexus LS seems a bit outdated, at least when you look at recently refreshed GS and IS, the new version will no doubt get a huge benefit from the company’s latest design language.
As we mentioned above, the new LS is supposed to rival the Mercedes and BMW, and the pictures show just how much the Lexus wants its new LS to be alongside a new BMW 7 Series, almost trying to match or even beat its rivals comfort and tech levels. But to get where they want company will have to implement some new autonomous driving technology as well as driver assistance features on its upcoming flagship, not to mention the increase in efficiency and performance.
Powertrain
If you caught it, then you know that Lexus stated that they are planning a hydrogen fuel cell luxury car before 2024, which is remarkable, but until then we can expect a familiar range of V6 and V8 petrol engines and hybrids in the meantime. The possibility is that the new LS will share its drivetrain options with the LC500 Coupe so expect a 3.5 L hybrid V6 option and a 5.0 L V8 one as well.
Release date of 2018 Lexus LS
The official reveal of the 2018 Lexus LS is supposed to occur sometime late 2017 before the sale starts in 2018. Until then, keep up with the news and additional info that will no doubt resurface as the vehicle progresses further.
