Yup, that's what Lexus is calling it...rightfully: an LS Series.

I think comparing the models is a very interesting thing, as we seem to have threads on 'LS 460' and now '600h L'.

On the heels of the LS Hybrid debut, the Lexus.jp and Lexus.com teaser sites have been updated. Some interesting tidbits/questions:

1. How many model types are there in the New LS Series?

LS 460

LS 460 L

LS 600h L

LS 600h ????

Are there three models or four? Lexus.jp is quite clear, and I attach the following graphic. Is this a model not offered in the US? Note that the 460 L seems to be absent from the Lexus.jp site--perhaps due Japan's preference for smaller automobiles (due to space).

And I checked if this was a typo--no, despite only 600h L references in the hybrid section, the specifications section of http://lexus.jp/ms/2006newyork/ shows a '600h/600h L' remark.

 

2. How will the features of the 460, 460 L, and 600hL distinguish themselves?

I'm not sure whether this has changed, but it seems that quite a few standard features are now locked in with the 460 L. As shown in

http://www.lexus.com/2007ls_prelaunc...l?s_ocid=20460

(Link only partially works, better to use the link on www.lexus.com -- 'Discover the New LS Series'_

Overview/specifications section)

- LS 460 L comes fairly fully loaded... The 460 L has XM satellite radio, XM NAVTraffic, and NAVI all standard...sort of like the 'Ultra Luxury Package' on the current LS 430 made into Ultra Luxe as a different wheelbase length--its additional feature.

- But there are still plenty of options...?
MarkLevi still optional on both. And interestingly, 8 GB audio server available for both. But no mention of Bluetooth on there--previously standard on 460 L, optional on 460... I wonder will we see a NAVI-screenless 460? I don't think so as the GS doesn't...

- And no mention of other, more moderate packages for the 460 or 460L...
What about getting RSES w/o the 'Four-Seat Premium Package'-I suppose the bundling is required with the massager, etc etc...? What about Sirius Satellite radio...an option?

- How different will the 460 L and 600h L be?
The same, formerly identified as '460 L' pictures are now in the 600h L section...does that mean same wood color/trim choices for the 600h L?

 

600h comes standard with many options the LS460 has as options, ML, Nav, XM radio and traffic, 8gb harddrive, etc. Only big options are the things having to do with the rear seat recliners and rear seat controls

You can view what the 600h has vs the 460 at the LS preview website at lexus

 

Right, I read that site...

My first question however dealt with...are there 2 hybrid LS models?

 

Will the 460 or 460L models have an AWD option?

 

Does not look like it, unfortunately...

 

i got confirmed with lexus rep (inside rep) that awd won't be offered on 460 and 460l

 

I wonder if this 'LS 600h' will have better performance than the LS 600h L.

 

LWB is gonna have more weight but how much more weight, the LS600h will have enough power so it shouldnt affect it too much, longer wheel bases usually make your turning radius higher but how much higher who knows

 

From comparing the long & short wheel base versions of the S class, 7 series & A8, the listed weight difference between them is usually around 50 to 70 pounds or so.
Just make sure you & your family members are not overweight, that's going to compensate for the extra weight of the LWB already

 

That's sad no AWD is offered. Hopefully the 460 will be able to drive through Michigan snow and ice. The gen 2 series had problems within it.

 

yeah i was surprised to see that lwb actually don't add much weight to the car. i hope the turning circle of the 460l isn't much worse than the 460