With two "performance hybrids" already on offer in South Africa, Lexus is bolstering its local line-up with its most opulent model yet - the LS600h L. Along with the RX450h and GS450h, this long-wheelbase saloon reinforces the brand's stance on offering "performance with conscience".
Essentially, the LS600h L takes the improvements made to the LS460 earlier this year that bit further, with an extended wheelbase, 5,0-litre V8 matched to a powerful electric engine and specifying all the options to the car as standard. It looks like an LS460 too, except that the LS600h L flagship is visually distinguished by a unique grille, and headlamps that feature what Lexus claims is the world's first LED lighting for low beams, with Blue lights around each LED unit to give the LS600h L a unique appearance in rear-view mirrors, as well as model-specific 19-inch alloy wheels.
"The LS has always been a showcase for the latest technology Lexus has to offer. The LS600h L complements the massive step forward LS460 took earlier this year with a drive-train that offers even more power and refinement thanks to its full hybrid characteristics," says Kevin Flynn, general manager of Lexus South Africa.
As the LS600h L is powered by a 5,0-litre petrol V8 with 290 kW and 520 N.m of torque, as well as an electric motor that produces 165 kW and an instantaneous 300 N.m of torque - that sends power to all four wheels via an electronically-controlled continuously variable transmission and Torsen limited-slip differential in a 40:60 front/rear split in normal driving conditions. The torque distribution can be varied between 30:70 and 50:50 though.
Lexus claims the LS600h L sprints from zero to 100 km/h in just 6,3 seconds and go on to a top speed of 250 km/h. Acceleration from 80 - 120 km/h happens in 4,3 seconds. Despite the performance on offer, combined fuel consumption is said to be just 9,3 litres/100 km, with CO2 emission of just 219 g/km.
There are no options available on the LS600h L - that's because everything on the LS460's options list has been included as standard. A Lexus Hard Disc Drive Navigation system handles mapping and entertainment through a touch screen with voice activation, USB port and Bluetooth connectivity. A 15-channel Mark Levinson surround sound system with 19 speakers provides aural delight.
With the additional legroom freed up by the extended wheelbase, the LS600h L is as luxurious as could be possible, with individual, full leather seats divided by a centre console from which occupants can control how the seats are reclined, as well as the in-car entertainment, which is supplemented by an additional monitor that folds down from the ceiling between the front seats.
The left-rear passenger travels in the most comfort thanks to an air-assisted massage system that features eight pneumatic chambers that cover the areas of the occupant's shoulders, back and hips, as well as backrest that can be reclined to a maximum of 45 degrees, and retractable thigh and footrest.
"Being able to offer a Lexus to those customers in pursuit of the ultimate luxury experience is fitting for the brand. To be able to offer them that vehicle as a 'Performancehybrid' makes it all the more responsible and compelling as a corporate statement and as the ultimate, not only in luxury, but in innovative technology," Flynn concludes.
The Lexus LS600h L is available immediately for R1 555 000, and comes with a four years/100 000 km warranty and full maintenance plan.
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