Lexus has launched its flagship luxury sedan in India at prices ranging between Rs 1.77 crore and Rs 1.93 crore, ex-showroom Delhi. The Lexus LS 500h is a petrol-electric hybrid sedan that has the most opulent interiors and futuristic exterior styling. This sedan is an alternative for well-heeled buyers who want the most out of luxury.
Deliveries of the Lexus LS 500h will start in April 2018. It comes in three variants – Luxury, Ultra Luxury and Distinct. The third has engraved glass panels and handcrafted wood panelling that has designs not even found in nature (talk about being snooty). The door panels have handcrafted upholstery in leather and silk.
The car is powered by a 3.5 litre V6 petrol engine, mated to two Lithium-ion battery powered electric motors. Together they put out 354 bhp of power through a 10-speed automatic transmission. It can go from 0-100 kmph in 5.4 seconds (which is pretty fast for a luxury sedan) and touch a top speed of 250 kmph.
While it's doing all that, the four occupants in the car will be totally isolated from the real world with its noise cancelling technology and air suspension system. The suspension can raise and lower itself depending on the driving conditions. It features a semi-autonomous driving system to make things easy for the driver.
And then there's the 23-speaker, 2,400 watt, Mark Levinson infotainment system to keep occupants entertained. The rear seats can also be reclined for comfort, while the driver has a 28-way adjustable seat with multiple massage programmes.
The styling is distinct, if not a bit ostentatious. The spindle shaped grille and triple barrel LED headlamps make it very noticeable. The 20-inch alloy wheels add a touch of class.
All-in-all, it is the kind of car a wealthy buyer would be interested in, if he or she wants to stand out from the crowd. And being a hybrid, it is relatively environment friendly. Sort of.
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