The 2013 Lexus LS debuted earlier this week in San Francisco, and while I did post live updates from the event, I also want to share some photos and early impressions of the new Lexus flagship sedan.
There were three LS vehicles on display — let’s start with the center of attraction, a Liquid Platinum LS F SPORT:
A packed party is hardly the best time for critical automotive analysis, but there were a few design elements that immediately grabbed my attention — let’s start with the massive mesh spindle grille:
The LS F SPORT may be the most aggressive Lexus grille ever, but it’s also perfectly balanced and full of style — easily the best interpretation of the spindle grille yet.
The headlights deserve a closer look as well:
Without question, the new LS has the most intricate headlights I’ve ever seen — the level of detail is astonishing, looking more like the revealed inner workings of some future laser gun.
Also really liked the deep front fenders:
The fender now breaks and builds like a wave, and add a muscular, chiseled appearance. It may be a stretch, but these folds remind me of the LF-LC concept.
Central to the LS launch event were photos of four celebrity couples posing alongside a LS F SPORT — taken by photographer Ellen von Unwerth, here are the photos in full:
(The couples, in order: Devon Aoki and James Bailey, Simon Doonan and Jonathan Adler, Jason Schwartzman and Brady Cunningham, & Jaime King and Kyle Newman.)
Parked outside on the balcony was an Ultra White LS 460 F SPORT, and it was the best looking LS there:
Exclusive to the LS F SPORT, the Ultra White exterior is ultra bright, and makes the mesh grille stand out even more — definitely a bold color.
Finally, there was a Liquid Platinum LS 600hL, which I sat in briefly:
My time inside was limited to less than five minutes, but I can say the new Lexus interior design language works well in the LS. I was especially impressed with the materials — everything had a buttery soft texture, and felt much more luxurious than the current model.
Also had a chance to play with the all-LED headlights and taillights:
All in all, it was a very fun night in San Francisco. My initial impressions of the 2013 LS were extremely positive. While related to the current model, the new LS stands as a major evolutionary change — the exterior now has a multi-faceted, sharpened appearance that bumps up the presence of the vehicle significantly, and the interior adds an additional layer of luxury onto functional & modern design first seen in the GS.
Of course, there’s only so much you can learn about a car at a party, but let’s open it up — any questions about the new LS exterior or interior? Leave a comment and I’ll do my best to find an answer.
Special thanks to Lexus, who arranged my flight and accommodations for this trip.
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