2018 Lexus LS500 F SPORT makes global debut at New York Auto Show

Having debuted its reinvented flagship sedan earlier this year - the 2018 LS500 - Lexus is putting an exclamation point on this signature model with the new F SPORT model. The LS500 F SPORT, unveiled and on display this week at the New York International Auto Show, moves the driving emotion needle even farther with handling enhancements and a performance-infused design, outside and in.

Lexus designers didn't hold back when giving the LS500 its coupe-like silhouette and dramatic rendition of the Lexus signature spindle grille that shows even greater intricacy in the design. Developing the F SPORT grille took computer-aided design operators some five months to achieve the desired texture and interaction with light.

Even then, they adjusted 7,100 individual surfaces to achieve the desired look and texture (compared to 5,000 for the standard model's grille). And when combined with the sporty enlarged side grille, it is functional as well, helping to maintain the vehicle's cooling performance.

The driver faces a special F SPORT steering wheel, as well as a speedometer and tachometer in a movable meter with a ring that slides to display information - a design adapted from the limited production Lexus LFA supercar and a further expression of the car's dynamic intentions.

Attention to detail shows in the aluminium accelerator, brake and footrest pedals, as well as the F SPORT perforated shift handle and footrest. Ultrasuede in the seats and headliner is the crowning touch. For those desiring the ultimate sporty look, a new Circuit Red interior is available exclusively on F SPORT models.

2018 LS F SPORT models feature the latest generation of the brand's advanced chassis control technology, Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM), which has been refined since its debut more than a decade ago.

The new VDIM system implements cooperative control of all vehicle subsystems - braking, steering, powertrain, and suspension - to control basic longitudinal, lateral and vertical motion; as well as yaw, roll and pitch. Optimal control of these motions helps to enable exceptional ride comfort, enhanced traction and safety and handling agility, and allows for enriched flat vehicle posture during cornering; as well as a more comfortable and stable ride overall.

Lexus designed an all new 3.5-litre V6 engine specifically for the new 2018 LS500, using twin-turbochargers developed through the company's F1 technology. This new twin-turbo V6 offers V8-level performance - 415bhp and 599Nm of torque - paired with the first ever 10-speed automatic transmission in luxury sedan.