New Lexus LS 2021 detailed: BMW 7 Series and Mercedes-Benz S-Class rival gets facelifted

Lexus has revealed the facelifted version of the fifth-generation LS upper-large sedan.

Up front, the LS picks up adaptive LED headlights with BladeScan, an advanced version of high-beam assist that debuted in the facelifted RX large SUV last year. Their shape is new and is complemented by the redesigned front bumper.

Around the side, the limosuine now feature side vents, while the rear goes without any major changes, with the obvious difference being the change from chrome to piano-black trim for the inserts in the LED tail-lights.

Inside, the 12.3-inch central display is now a touchscreen, offering an alternative input method to the touchpad for the new multimedia system, which supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A digital rearview mirror has also been added on the technology front.

The seats have also been given a once-over, with their upholstery featuring deeper stitch points and their pads picking up low-resilience urethane, all in the pursuit of comfort.

2021 Lexus LS500h

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2021 Lexus LS500h

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Speaking of which, the adaptive suspension has also been tweaked with reduced damping force, among other changes, to optimise – you guessed it – comfort.

Options-wise, Gin-ei Luster silver paintwork is now available outside, with it featuring a mirror-like finish, while sea-moonlight-inspired ‘metal leaf’ is offered inside.

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Meanwhile, the petrol-electric hybrid LS500h now provides more battery assistance during acceleration to reduce reliance on its 3.5-litre naturally aspirated V6 engine.

The petrol LS500 now has more low-end torque from its 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6 unit for better responsiveness. And its 10-speed torque-converter automatic transmission has improved shift patterns and longer ratios for fewer downshifts.

Both powertrains are also quieter thanks to Active Noise Control and Engine Sound Enhancement tuning.

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The suite of advanced driver-assist systems has been improved, with the LS now able to self-drive on highways via steering assist and adaptive cruise control with stop and go functionality. It also now has full park assist.

CarsGuide contacted Lexus Australia to see when the new BMW 7 Series and Mercedes-Benz S-Class rival will be launched locally and was told local details will be announced “in the coming months”, but given it goes on sale in Japan late this year, early 2021 is likely.