Lexus LS600h Unveiled at NY Auto Show
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From: scionlife.com
Lexus LS600h Unveiled at NY Auto Show
04/12/2006 New York
New York, April 12, 2006 – Lexus unveiled the all-new 2008 LS 600h L hybrid luxury sedan at a press conference today at the 2006 New York International Automobile Show. Scheduled to arrive in Spring 2007, the all-wheel-drive LS 600h L will be the world’s first vehicle to feature a full hybrid V8 powertrain.
"The LS 600h L was developed to explore the outer reaches of performance, style and safety," said Bob Carter, Lexus Division group vice president and general manager. "It is a vehicle as efficient and familiar as it is indulgent and advanced, a far-reaching concept, fully developed and fully realized. It is simply in a class by itself."
Lexus Hybrid Drive
Coinciding with the debut of the all-new LS is the introduction of the Lexus Hybrid Drive name, which will be used globally for all Lexus hybrid models. The hybrid-drive system in the LS 600h L builds upon the Toyota and Lexus legacy established by the Prius, RX 400h and GS 450h to combine an all-new five-liter V8 gasoline engine with large, high-output electric motors and a newly designed large-capacity battery pack. This advanced combination will provide the LS 600h L with an unmatched balance of environmental efficiency and performance, furnishing the hybrid with a peak combined output rating of more than 430 horsepower.
To distribute this immense power, a new full-time all-wheel-drive system is utilized for superior handling control. The LS 600h L also employs a newly developed dual-stage electronically controlled, continuously variable transmission. This combination results in impressive power and seamless acceleration.
The Lexus Hybrid Drive system found in the LS 600h L is the automotive industry’s most advanced gas-electric hybrid system developed to date, providing power and performance on par with modern 12-cylinder engines while still delivering best-in-V8-class fuel efficiency. It will equal or better the combined fuel-economy ratings of smaller V6 all-wheel drive mid-sized luxury sedans.
The LS hybrid is expected to carry a Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (SULEV) rating. A SULEV rating means the LS 600h L has nearly 70-percent cleaner emissions than the “cleanest” of its competitors.
“It is fair to say that there is nothing on the road, or on the drawing board, that comes close to delivering such a formerly contradictory combination of jaw-dropping engine performance, fuel efficiency and clean emissions,” Carter said.
Owing to the inherent noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) improvements offered by its hybrid powertrain, the LS 600h L is designed to set a new standard for silent running in the prestige-luxury sedan class. The depth and density of cabin quietness in the LS 600h L required extensive re-engineering of accessory motors and switches.
With "quiet-ride" ranking as one of the top five reasons for purchase of prestige-luxury vehicles, especially among current LS owners, the LS 600h L is well-situated in its class and poised to please the exacting luxury-car buyer. Its NVH levels are about half that found in conventional cars, making the hybrid LS one of the quietest automobiles ever built, if not the quietest.
High-Output V8 and World's First Eight-Speed Automatic Transmission
The LS 460 and LS 460 L will be powered by an all-new, highly advanced 4.6-liter V8 engine that will produce approximately 380 horsepower and 370 pound-feet of torque. Combined with a world-first eight-speed automatic transmission, these LS sedans will travel from zero-to-sixty miles per hour in less than 5.5 seconds—all without sacrificing fuel economy. Even with this level of performance, the new LS sedans are expected to receive a combined city/highway mileage in the low-20s as well as an Ultra-Low Emissions Vehicle II (ULEV II) rating.
Advanced Active Safety Technologies
Coinciding with the launch of the hybrid model is a newly developed, Advanced Pre-Collision System (APCS) that is like nothing ever before offered by Lexus. One element of APCS is a new system designed to help detect pedestrians in the vehicle’s path.
Two small cameras mounted at the front of the car, in conjunction with millimeter-wave radar, are sensitive enough to detect not just large metal obstructions such as cars but also smaller nonmetallic objects, such as humans.
A third camera, mounted on the steering column, monitors the orientation of the driver’s face. If the camera sees that the driver is not looking directly ahead for a few seconds or more, and if an obstacle is detected ahead, then it alerts the driver first with a warning chime and a flashing light. As the car gets closer to the obstacle, the system can begin to gently apply the brakes on its own. To assist the driver in maneuvering around the obstacle, the system reprograms the steering ratio, amplifying the intensity and quickness of the steering response.While all of this is happening, the system automatically cinches up the passenger restraints and prepares the brake system to respond with full force when activated by the driver in anticipation of a possible impact.
Dynamic Driving
These unique active safety systems team with Lexus’ proprietary next-generation Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system, standard on all new LS models, which integrates variable gear-ratio electronic steering, electronic vehicle stability control and electronic brake assist.
An air suspension system equipped with Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS) will be standard on the LS 600h L and an option on the LS 460 L. VGRS optimizes the steering gear ratio according to vehicle speed to help enhance responsiveness and driver control. VGRS also partners with VDIM, making minor adjustments to front-wheel angle for improved control in challenging road conditions.
Together these technologies make up an intelligently designed, logically conceived vehicle that helps to provide a level of confidence and control never before experienced.
L-finesse
The styling on the new LS begins with a daring design language that shatters the myth that luxury sedans must be sedate and understated. A result of the recent design direction Lexus deems L-finesse, the new LS vehicles are the crowning touch to a fully restyled car lineup, which already includes the GS, IS and ES sedans.
The L-finesse design philosophy has its roots in creating a balance of contrasting elements. The new LS encompasses this direction with its bold look, style and personality—both vivid and forceful while at the same time warm, inviting and contemporary. With a pulled-back hood, characteristic of the new Lexus look, low-to-the- ground stance and elegantly sculpted and streamlined body contours, the LS emphasizes simplicity and style in a stunning, modern package.
Premium Appointments
Offered exclusively as a long-wheelbase model in North America, the new
LS 600h L will not only offer the highest level of performance, safety and technological advancements, it will also provide the highest level of comfort, convenience and roominess of the three distinctly different LS models.
The long-wheelbase model of the hybrid and the LS 460 L brings with it nearly five inches of additional legroom for rear passengers and can be outfitted with a long list of luxury conveniences that includes four-zone front and rear A/C with air purification, rear-door power sunshades and rear power headrests, a spectacular four-person seating configuration with a fixed rear console and fold-out table, and a right rear-seat 45-degree recliner with footrest and multifunction massage.
Technology amenities on the long-wheelbase models will include voice-activated hard disk drive (HDD) Navigation with Bluetooth® technology and XM real-time traffic system, a first in the prestige luxury segment, a rear-seat DVD entertainment system with 9-inch drop-down screen, and the specially developed 19-speaker 450-watt Mark Levinson® Reference Surround Sound audio system, which creates a new standard for automotive sound systems. In addition, the
LS 600h L will be the world’s first vehicle to be equipped with LED headlights for nighttime and low-beam use.
The LS will also be the first Lexus to offer XM satellite radio as a factory-installed option. The all-new LS sedans will all offer an advanced parallel-park-assist function. The driver simply pushes a button and the park-assist system parks the car with just a little brake work by the driver.
Like all LS-series vehicles, the LS 600h L’s intelligent and evocative design carries through to the beautifully appointed cabin. Extra luxury and comfort touches include a heated steering wheel and seats wrapped in one of four tones of semi-aniline leathers matched to one of three coordinating wood-grain trims.
Craftsmanship
While the list of comfort, convenience and luxury features on the new LS-series
vehicles is remarkable, another truly defining aspect of these cars is their superb craftsmanship. In order to build a vehicle that would redefine “world’s best,” Lexus started by improving a production process widely recognized as the industry’s finest.
The new LS 600h L as well as the LS 460 and LS 460 L are the product of an all-new build process developed specifically for the LS line at Lexus’ award-winning Tahara, Japan plant. With this extraordinary investment in engineering expertise comes a sedan that achieves extraordinary new levels of fit, finish, accuracy and refinement. The all-new LS sedans showcase the Lexus belief that every element and phase of production is vital and that building cars is more than just a business—it is an art form.
The LS 600h L will go on-sale in April 2007, six months after the LS 460 and
LS 460 L launch in October 2006.
2008 LS 600h L Preliminary Specifications
2008 LS 600h L 2007
LS 460 L 2007
LS 460 2006 LS 430
Wheelbase (inches)
121.7
121.7
116.9
115.2
Length (inches)
202.8
202.8
198.0
197.4
Width (inches)
73.8
73.8
72.0
Height (inches)
58.5
(AWD/air suspension)
58.1
(w/coil suspension)
58.7
Engine
5.0-liter V8/permanent magnet electric motor with Lexus Hybrid Drive system
4.6-liter V8
4.3-liter V8
Transmission
2-stage ECVT
8-speed automatic
6-speed automatic
Horsepower
More than 430
Approximately 380
278
Torque
N.A.
Approximately
370 lb.-ft.
312 lb.-ft.
Driven Wheels
AWD
RWD
RWD
Emissions Rating
SULEV
ULEV II
ULEV
New York, April 12, 2006 – Lexus unveiled the all-new 2008 LS 600h L hybrid luxury sedan at a press conference today at the 2006 New York International Automobile Show. Scheduled to arrive in Spring 2007, the all-wheel-drive LS 600h L will be the world’s first vehicle to feature a full hybrid V8 powertrain.
"The LS 600h L was developed to explore the outer reaches of performance, style and safety," said Bob Carter, Lexus Division group vice president and general manager. "It is a vehicle as efficient and familiar as it is indulgent and advanced, a far-reaching concept, fully developed and fully realized. It is simply in a class by itself."
Lexus Hybrid Drive
Coinciding with the debut of the all-new LS is the introduction of the Lexus Hybrid Drive name, which will be used globally for all Lexus hybrid models. The hybrid-drive system in the LS 600h L builds upon the Toyota and Lexus legacy established by the Prius, RX 400h and GS 450h to combine an all-new five-liter V8 gasoline engine with large, high-output electric motors and a newly designed large-capacity battery pack. This advanced combination will provide the LS 600h L with an unmatched balance of environmental efficiency and performance, furnishing the hybrid with a peak combined output rating of more than 430 horsepower.
To distribute this immense power, a new full-time all-wheel-drive system is utilized for superior handling control. The LS 600h L also employs a newly developed dual-stage electronically controlled, continuously variable transmission. This combination results in impressive power and seamless acceleration.
The Lexus Hybrid Drive system found in the LS 600h L is the automotive industry’s most advanced gas-electric hybrid system developed to date, providing power and performance on par with modern 12-cylinder engines while still delivering best-in-V8-class fuel efficiency. It will equal or better the combined fuel-economy ratings of smaller V6 all-wheel drive mid-sized luxury sedans.
The LS hybrid is expected to carry a Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (SULEV) rating. A SULEV rating means the LS 600h L has nearly 70-percent cleaner emissions than the “cleanest” of its competitors.
“It is fair to say that there is nothing on the road, or on the drawing board, that comes close to delivering such a formerly contradictory combination of jaw-dropping engine performance, fuel efficiency and clean emissions,” Carter said.
Owing to the inherent noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) improvements offered by its hybrid powertrain, the LS 600h L is designed to set a new standard for silent running in the prestige-luxury sedan class. The depth and density of cabin quietness in the LS 600h L required extensive re-engineering of accessory motors and switches.
With "quiet-ride" ranking as one of the top five reasons for purchase of prestige-luxury vehicles, especially among current LS owners, the LS 600h L is well-situated in its class and poised to please the exacting luxury-car buyer. Its NVH levels are about half that found in conventional cars, making the hybrid LS one of the quietest automobiles ever built, if not the quietest.
High-Output V8 and World's First Eight-Speed Automatic Transmission
The LS 460 and LS 460 L will be powered by an all-new, highly advanced 4.6-liter V8 engine that will produce approximately 380 horsepower and 370 pound-feet of torque. Combined with a world-first eight-speed automatic transmission, these LS sedans will travel from zero-to-sixty miles per hour in less than 5.5 seconds—all without sacrificing fuel economy. Even with this level of performance, the new LS sedans are expected to receive a combined city/highway mileage in the low-20s as well as an Ultra-Low Emissions Vehicle II (ULEV II) rating.
Advanced Active Safety Technologies
Coinciding with the launch of the hybrid model is a newly developed, Advanced Pre-Collision System (APCS) that is like nothing ever before offered by Lexus. One element of APCS is a new system designed to help detect pedestrians in the vehicle’s path.
Two small cameras mounted at the front of the car, in conjunction with millimeter-wave radar, are sensitive enough to detect not just large metal obstructions such as cars but also smaller nonmetallic objects, such as humans.
A third camera, mounted on the steering column, monitors the orientation of the driver’s face. If the camera sees that the driver is not looking directly ahead for a few seconds or more, and if an obstacle is detected ahead, then it alerts the driver first with a warning chime and a flashing light. As the car gets closer to the obstacle, the system can begin to gently apply the brakes on its own. To assist the driver in maneuvering around the obstacle, the system reprograms the steering ratio, amplifying the intensity and quickness of the steering response.While all of this is happening, the system automatically cinches up the passenger restraints and prepares the brake system to respond with full force when activated by the driver in anticipation of a possible impact.
Dynamic Driving
These unique active safety systems team with Lexus’ proprietary next-generation Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system, standard on all new LS models, which integrates variable gear-ratio electronic steering, electronic vehicle stability control and electronic brake assist.
An air suspension system equipped with Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS) will be standard on the LS 600h L and an option on the LS 460 L. VGRS optimizes the steering gear ratio according to vehicle speed to help enhance responsiveness and driver control. VGRS also partners with VDIM, making minor adjustments to front-wheel angle for improved control in challenging road conditions.
Together these technologies make up an intelligently designed, logically conceived vehicle that helps to provide a level of confidence and control never before experienced.
L-finesse
The styling on the new LS begins with a daring design language that shatters the myth that luxury sedans must be sedate and understated. A result of the recent design direction Lexus deems L-finesse, the new LS vehicles are the crowning touch to a fully restyled car lineup, which already includes the GS, IS and ES sedans.
The L-finesse design philosophy has its roots in creating a balance of contrasting elements. The new LS encompasses this direction with its bold look, style and personality—both vivid and forceful while at the same time warm, inviting and contemporary. With a pulled-back hood, characteristic of the new Lexus look, low-to-the- ground stance and elegantly sculpted and streamlined body contours, the LS emphasizes simplicity and style in a stunning, modern package.
Premium Appointments
Offered exclusively as a long-wheelbase model in North America, the new
LS 600h L will not only offer the highest level of performance, safety and technological advancements, it will also provide the highest level of comfort, convenience and roominess of the three distinctly different LS models.
The long-wheelbase model of the hybrid and the LS 460 L brings with it nearly five inches of additional legroom for rear passengers and can be outfitted with a long list of luxury conveniences that includes four-zone front and rear A/C with air purification, rear-door power sunshades and rear power headrests, a spectacular four-person seating configuration with a fixed rear console and fold-out table, and a right rear-seat 45-degree recliner with footrest and multifunction massage.
Technology amenities on the long-wheelbase models will include voice-activated hard disk drive (HDD) Navigation with Bluetooth® technology and XM real-time traffic system, a first in the prestige luxury segment, a rear-seat DVD entertainment system with 9-inch drop-down screen, and the specially developed 19-speaker 450-watt Mark Levinson® Reference Surround Sound audio system, which creates a new standard for automotive sound systems. In addition, the
LS 600h L will be the world’s first vehicle to be equipped with LED headlights for nighttime and low-beam use.
The LS will also be the first Lexus to offer XM satellite radio as a factory-installed option. The all-new LS sedans will all offer an advanced parallel-park-assist function. The driver simply pushes a button and the park-assist system parks the car with just a little brake work by the driver.
Like all LS-series vehicles, the LS 600h L’s intelligent and evocative design carries through to the beautifully appointed cabin. Extra luxury and comfort touches include a heated steering wheel and seats wrapped in one of four tones of semi-aniline leathers matched to one of three coordinating wood-grain trims.
Craftsmanship
While the list of comfort, convenience and luxury features on the new LS-series
vehicles is remarkable, another truly defining aspect of these cars is their superb craftsmanship. In order to build a vehicle that would redefine “world’s best,” Lexus started by improving a production process widely recognized as the industry’s finest.
The new LS 600h L as well as the LS 460 and LS 460 L are the product of an all-new build process developed specifically for the LS line at Lexus’ award-winning Tahara, Japan plant. With this extraordinary investment in engineering expertise comes a sedan that achieves extraordinary new levels of fit, finish, accuracy and refinement. The all-new LS sedans showcase the Lexus belief that every element and phase of production is vital and that building cars is more than just a business—it is an art form.
The LS 600h L will go on-sale in April 2007, six months after the LS 460 and
LS 460 L launch in October 2006.
2008 LS 600h L Preliminary Specifications
2008 LS 600h L 2007
LS 460 L 2007
LS 460 2006 LS 430
Wheelbase (inches)
121.7
121.7
116.9
115.2
Length (inches)
202.8
202.8
198.0
197.4
Width (inches)
73.8
73.8
72.0
Height (inches)
58.5
(AWD/air suspension)
58.1
(w/coil suspension)
58.7
Engine
5.0-liter V8/permanent magnet electric motor with Lexus Hybrid Drive system
4.6-liter V8
4.3-liter V8
Transmission
2-stage ECVT
8-speed automatic
6-speed automatic
Horsepower
More than 430
Approximately 380
278
Torque
N.A.
Approximately
370 lb.-ft.
312 lb.-ft.
Driven Wheels
AWD
RWD
RWD
Emissions Rating
SULEV
ULEV II
ULEV
Thread Starter
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SL Member
Joined: Apr 2003
Posts: 4,281
From: scionlife.com
Some wows...
LED headlights! World first.
Four-zone climate control and 19-speaker system!
Auto parallel parking like the Prius!
XM Realtime traffic analysis tied into nav!
Three cameras and radar monitors for accidents!
SULEV rating with over 430hp!
WOW!
LED headlights! World first.
Four-zone climate control and 19-speaker system!
Auto parallel parking like the Prius!
XM Realtime traffic analysis tied into nav!
Three cameras and radar monitors for accidents!
SULEV rating with over 430hp!
WOW!
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Posts: 1,063
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ScionERA
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Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 705
From: Red Rock, AZ
Can't wait to see those LEDs! They have been putting those things in the headlights on concepts for several years, now they are finally on the market.
With the capability of using LEDs in the headlamps, there is a new wave of possibilities when it comes to the front-end styling since they don't take up very much room.
Can't wait for the technology to trickle down to Scion...
With the capability of using LEDs in the headlamps, there is a new wave of possibilities when it comes to the front-end styling since they don't take up very much room.
Can't wait for the technology to trickle down to Scion...
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With the drivetronic on the benz will the LS have similar features. adaptive cruise control system comes with a short-range radar. While many other cars on the market can automatically follow a lead car, the lack of short-range radar means you can't activate the laser cruise until you're going 20 mph; in the new S-Class, adaptive cruise control can start at zero mph. This means that if you're stopped at a traffice light and a car is in front of you all you have to do is pull a lever and the s class will hold down the breaks for you than accelerate when the lead car starts moving
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Originally Posted by dskinner
Can't wait to see those LEDs! They have been putting those things in the headlights on concepts for several years, now they are finally on the market.
With the capability of using LEDs in the headlamps, there is a new wave of possibilities when it comes to the front-end styling since they don't take up very much room.
Can't wait for the technology to trickle down to Scion...
With the capability of using LEDs in the headlamps, there is a new wave of possibilities when it comes to the front-end styling since they don't take up very much room.
Can't wait for the technology to trickle down to Scion...
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Originally Posted by scionlife
Some wows...
LED headlights! World first.
Four-zone climate control and 19-speaker system!
Auto parallel parking like the Prius!
XM Realtime traffic analysis tied into nav!
Three cameras and radar monitors for accidents!
SULEV rating with over 430hp!
WOW!
LED headlights! World first.
Four-zone climate control and 19-speaker system!
Auto parallel parking like the Prius!
XM Realtime traffic analysis tied into nav!
Three cameras and radar monitors for accidents!
SULEV rating with over 430hp!
WOW!
LED > HID ???
Because i know all new production vehicles as of 2010 have to have LED Head/Tail lights.
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This is as big a step forward in the luxury market as when the original LS was released.
The styling is excellent and has avoided the Chris Bangle effect unlike the S class Mercedes( I love Bangles work but it is becoming the norm).
A really sound piece of engineering and styling.
Well done
The styling is excellent and has avoided the Chris Bangle effect unlike the S class Mercedes( I love Bangles work but it is becoming the norm).
A really sound piece of engineering and styling.
Well done
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From: smarthomes chattanooga TN
Don't forget:
ALL WHEEL DRIVE
Body temp sensors in the seats for the climate control
Air Suspension
Expect it to slot in somewhere in the high $80K range. Since there won't be too many options, just accessories, all of the LS600hL should sticker out pretty similiarly.
ALL WHEEL DRIVE
Body temp sensors in the seats for the climate control
Air Suspension
Expect it to slot in somewhere in the high $80K range. Since there won't be too many options, just accessories, all of the LS600hL should sticker out pretty similiarly.
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Originally Posted by Djbombsquad
What is air suspension good for?
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Originally Posted by djct_watt
Originally Posted by Djbombsquad
What is air suspension good for?
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Well, it depends on how sporty of a ride you like. Lexus suspensions, from my experience, have been more towards the plush side. It's great (if not the best) for luxury, but lacks in communication between car and driver (and I'm not talking about a magazine). But Lexus's are never meant to be autox champions; they are meant to compete with Mercedez-Benz, which it does so easily.
If you're looking for comfort, the Lexus will win over a BMW ANYDAY, but in terms of driver "enjoyment" out of spirited driving, BMW still outperforms the rest in this category. The IS350 comes close, and is the most aggressive Lexus by far, but the electronic nannies (and lack of manual transmission on the 350) is a bit much for a "sport" sedan.
Lexus's strategy is and always has been: superior reliability, superior comfort, superior refinement, and competitive acceleration (when similar models are compared). They offer all that with what used to be a large price advantage but has shrunken to a rather small one. . .
This is coming from a former Lexus owner, btw. If I were still in the market for a luxury car, I would have to choose between Lexus or BMW. Supposedly, a 7 year old Lexus has the same reliability as a brand new BMW 7 series (Consumer Reports), but I'd still take a 7 over a Benz. The reliability trade off is worth the performance gains (relative to the rest of the german elite cars). Benz? Forget it, I've seen parts fall off brand new (in the showroom) models, no joke! Audi? Besides the electronic gremlins, the EXTREME forward weight bias is pretty disgusting. Audi does build some beautiful cars though. Jaguar's are suped up Taurus's and about as exciting as british toothpaste to boot. Infiniti i s almost worth a look. . . they're coming up and coming up fast (although they would be dead without the G35). And Acura? Let they're not even in the same market (but they do build some nice cars as well).
But to answer your original question; if you wanted more "spirited" handling out of an LS, you would definitely upgrade (or possibly degrade) the suspension. But if you are looking for incredible handling on the extreme, you'd be shopping the wrong brand.
If you're looking for comfort, the Lexus will win over a BMW ANYDAY, but in terms of driver "enjoyment" out of spirited driving, BMW still outperforms the rest in this category. The IS350 comes close, and is the most aggressive Lexus by far, but the electronic nannies (and lack of manual transmission on the 350) is a bit much for a "sport" sedan.
Lexus's strategy is and always has been: superior reliability, superior comfort, superior refinement, and competitive acceleration (when similar models are compared). They offer all that with what used to be a large price advantage but has shrunken to a rather small one. . .
This is coming from a former Lexus owner, btw. If I were still in the market for a luxury car, I would have to choose between Lexus or BMW. Supposedly, a 7 year old Lexus has the same reliability as a brand new BMW 7 series (Consumer Reports), but I'd still take a 7 over a Benz. The reliability trade off is worth the performance gains (relative to the rest of the german elite cars). Benz? Forget it, I've seen parts fall off brand new (in the showroom) models, no joke! Audi? Besides the electronic gremlins, the EXTREME forward weight bias is pretty disgusting. Audi does build some beautiful cars though. Jaguar's are suped up Taurus's and about as exciting as british toothpaste to boot. Infiniti i s almost worth a look. . . they're coming up and coming up fast (although they would be dead without the G35). And Acura? Let they're not even in the same market (but they do build some nice cars as well).
But to answer your original question; if you wanted more "spirited" handling out of an LS, you would definitely upgrade (or possibly degrade) the suspension. But if you are looking for incredible handling on the extreme, you'd be shopping the wrong brand.