mmccutchin

"When" is Lexus scheduled to officially launch the third generation LS series. . .apparently dubbed 460?

*True or False: The new series is expected to have three models. . .460, 460L (both out in 2006). . .and 460H (at some point in 2007)?

*True or False: The pics posted on this Forum. . .several times now. . .are accurate?. . .and the 460 looks like a cross between the latest MBZ "S" class and Lexus' own ES (some might say GS) series?

*What are some other facts or details "unofficially" available on the 460. . .especially estimated sticker price?

(BTW. . .has anyone driven the new BMW 750i or 750Li? I almost signed on the dotted line earlier in the year. . .It's a wonderful combination of silky smooth sedan and sporty performance. . .but with a lackluster cabin and state-of-the-art technology that's too complicated to use. So. . .will Lexus be attempting to go more after the 750 or MBZ's S class which, in my way of thinking, Lexus' 430 already meets and beats in some areas?)

Thank you in advance!

encore888

Speculation has it that Lexus will unveil the next-gen LS at the Detroit Auto Show (NAIAS) in January 2006.

This appears to be True. The lineup may be...

LS 460
LS 460L
LS 460hL

Whether there is an LS 460h or LS 460hL remains unclear. But Lexus execs have hinted strongly at an LS 460 and LS460L, at the very least; and the LF-Sh is of course a hybrid.

You can bet on it. They are accurate, if you're referring to (attached pic). This was at the Tokyo Motor Show last month. The official Lexus.jp site is here, with LF-Sh info and 2 movies:

http://lexus.jp/ms/

Lexus execs remain tight-lipped, but an increase in MSRP over the $57,000 base LS 460 is expected. Perhaps $60,000+ for starters...remembering that the top-of-the-line Ultra Luxe LS 460 is pushing $70,000....factoring in premiums for the long-wheelbase version, and hybrid technology, plus other new features that are likely to follow.


Haven't had a chance to drive the BMW 7-series...others on this board have. I agree that the driving aspect is BMW's strength, and having been inside the 7-series before I further agree that the interior is not very appealing, Idrive included but overall clunkiness and lack of refinement the problem IMO (although the 3-drawer thing at the center console is interesting).

I think the New Lexus LS will still be attempting to go after the S-class, as it always has seemingly over the years since its inception. But now it is offering a sleek, sexy new shape, hybrid and other powertrain enhancements, and who knows what other interior wonders Lexus has in store. Rumors that Lexus is going for the even higher end lend speculation that the New LS will indeed target the 7-series, but given that the S-class has long been its prestigious target, perhaps the Lexus will try to beat them and go even higher...although the rumored $100,000 Lexus may be the LF-A.

I am so looking forward to the New LS. The shape IMO is wonderful, and the interior I hope will be worthy of the LS tradition and the sleek exterior. I love our current LS, it is the most wonderful automobile to ride in and drive. I hope and anticipate that the New LS will knock our socks off yet again!

encore888

Another pic for your enjoyment. One figure I've read says the new LS is about 85% the LF-Sh.