Lexus Malaysia has announced that their flagship model, the LS500 has been updated for 2021, and it is now open for booking at all Lexus showrooms nationwide.
On the exterior, the updates include a redesigned front bumper, as well as new headlamps and sub radiator grille that offer a refreshed form along with improved functionality.
Exterior
The spindle grille has also been changed to a dark metallic finish further affording the Lexus LS500 a formal and elegant appearance. A new front bumper incorporates the new Ultra Slim 3-beam LED Projector headlamp design.
The new lamps feature a distinctive L-shaped DRL and BladeScan type Adaptive High-beam System while the sharp-looking sequential signal lamps add that touch of distinctiveness. The new headlamps not only intensify the look of the car but also provide a wider illumination area along with smoother and finer light distribution control.
The new model sits on 20-inch alloy wheels that feature a noise-reducing design thanks to resonator holes incorporated into the wheels. Finished in Hyper Chrome Metallic, the wheels come with new run flat tyres that are optimized with reinforced sidewalls to further improve ride comfort.
In terms of colour options, the new Lexus LS 500s are now available in two new colours – Iridium Silver and Sonic Iridium.
Built on the Lexus GA-L platform which provides optimised weight distribution and lower centre of gravity, the new Lexus LS 500 comes with an air suspension system with adaptive variable suspension, revised stablizers, and suspension bounds stoppers.
It also comes with Access Mode Control that will raise the vehicle when stopped allowing for easier ingress and egress.
Powertrain
Nestled under the bonnet is an improved 3.5L V6 Twin Turbo Engine which features newly developed pistons and an improved variable valve control design that help realize low emissions and quiet operation, particularly when the engine is cold.
In addition to its improved comfort and driveability, the new 3.5L V35A-FTS Engine also boasts a total output of 415hp along with a peak torque of 600Nm. The 0-100kmh sprint is registered at 5.0 seconds with a top speed electronically limited to 250kmh.
The driver can also tailor and customise the powertrain responses via the Eco, Comfort, Normal, Custom, Sport S or Sport S+ modes.
Interior
Inside, the new LS 500 has been afforded improvements intended to elevate passenger and driver comfort. Semi-aniline leather seats and ornamentation developed by Takumi craftsmen give the LS 500 a premium atmosphere worthy of a flagship model.
To cater to the discerning tastes, the new LS 500 Luxury is offered in a new Chateau as well as Hazel interior colour scheme.
The Executive Kiriko model on the other hand features Kiriko Glass ornamentation and hand-folded pleats on the door trim, which illustrates the brand’s ‘Innovative elegance through Japanese craftsmanship’ approach.
The model features class-leading rear seat room as well as boot space of 480 litres. The LS 500 Executive Kiriko offers 440 litres of cargo space as it comes with the added benefit of a rear cooler box. Standard features include front 28-way power adjustable front seats – the highest number of adjustments in class along with power adjustable rear seats.
The Executive Kiriko variant also features rear seats with ottoman and massage functions. Seats in both variants are equipped with heater and ventilation. Taking user experiences to the next level, the new Lexus LS 500 is equipped with a new high definition 12.3-inch multimedia touchscreen that enhances smart connectivity and functionality.
The new interface is integrated with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and features an in-built Lexus navigation system. The new touch screen display has also been moved 121.5mm closer to the occupants to enhance operability.
Infotainment
To fully enjoy the ride, the LS 500 Executive Kiriko variant features a 23-speaker Mark Levinson Reference Surround Sound System to afford concert hall sound reproduction. With dual 11.6-inch LCD screens in the rear with Blu Ray Disc, SD Card, WiFi (for Miracast) and DLNA (Digital Living Network Alliance) and HDMI input, every journey can be filled with your choice of entertainment.
All controls have also been consolidated into the Rear Multi Operation Panel for greater convenience. Both variants of the 2021 Lexus LS500 feature 12 SRS airbags as well as Lexus Safety System+ as standard.
Safety
The Pre-Collision System (PCS) sensors are now employed to include pedestrian and bicycle detection. In the event of a possible collision the PCS will alert the driver and activate pre-collision braking if required.
Also standard are Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC) with Stop & Go Function, Lane Tracing Assist (LTA), Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA).
The 2021 Lexus LS500 also features a new Parking Support Brake (PKSB) function which can detect static objects such as walls or guard rails or moving objects using the sonar wave sensors.
Additionally, a new Active Assist for the seat belt increases the effect of the pre-tensioner by winding up the seatbelt using a motor if the vehicle detects a high possibility of collision.
Price
Both the Lexus LS 500 Luxury and LS 500 Executive Kiriko are open for booking now at all six Lexus Malaysia Showrooms nationwide with prices starting at RM1,023,629.00 for the LS 500 Luxury and RM1,304,768.00 for the LS 500 Executive Kiriko on the road with the sales tax exemption but without insurance.
Early purchasers who book now will receive their new flagship rides in May 2021.
