lexus offers technological masterpiece

Lexus is quickly becoming known for building some very fine vehicles. From the great little IS series all the way up to the GS, Lexus’s lineup is a complete one, filled with top-tier technology and sophisticated engineering. This is especially true of its hybrid models; both the RX 400h and GS 450h have gained repute as two of the finest, well-built hybrids on the planet. They’re also the only two luxury hybrids around, although their world is about to become a little more crowded. Lexus will soon blow them both away with this; the LS 600h L.

Set to hit show rooms in the spring of 2007, Lexus’ new range topper is a car that should set the standard for luxury cars; and it owes it all to its marvelous drivetrain. Powered by a full hybrid-enhanced 5.0L V8, the LS 600h will, according to Lexus, provide V12-like power with the fuel economy of a V6. Similar to the system used in everything from the Toyota Prius to the similar GS 450h, the flagship LS will use both the gasoline V8 and electric motor to put more than 430 horsepower to the ground through all four wheels. Between the advanced all-wheel drive system and the equally advanced engine is an all-new dual-stage electronically controlled CVT transmission, meaning that the power should be positively unrelenting. As a hybrid, the ultra-luxury sedan will have a Super Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle (SULEV) rating, with the LS 600h putting out nearly 70 per cent fewer emissions than its full-size competitors.
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