After only three years since launch, Lexus has rolled a mid-generational refresh of its LS model.
The saloon now ships in a new paint called Gin-ei Luster and a variety of wheels including the 20-inch F-Sport set. The headlights adapt to levels of ambient lighting thanks to a feature called BladeScan. The bumper at the front has been redesigned, and a large radar module with a washer sits inside the front grille.
Crack open the door to be greeted by a new 12.3-inch touchscreen display and a modernized center tunnel. The 2021 LS can be obtained in new trim versions inspired by works of traditional Japanese artists. The seats should feel softer than before thanks to different filling and upholstery.
The LS 500h hybrid now engages its electric motor sooner than before, while the automatic transmission of the gas-powered LS 500 switches gears faster and holds on to the current gear longer if needed (both are software improvements). The suspension has been tweaked for comfort, and the manufacturer promises less vibration as well.
What Lexus itself praises the most is the new driver aids complex called Teammate, which makes semi-autonomous driving easier and safer while simplifying parking and updating its own software over the air.
The refreshed Lexus LS should hit the showrooms throughout Japan in late 2020, followed by other countries in 2021.