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THE upmarket Lexus brand has embarked on its third decade in the premium luxury car category with its new LS 2013, writes Mai Al Khatib.
The flagship model was unveiled at a ceremony inside the Gulf Hotel Convention Centre’s Dana Hall and its makers believe its ‘dynamic handling, bold new design and superior craftsmanship’ will give its German luxury limo competitors a run for their money.
Among the VIP guests last Tuesday evening was Dr Hassan Abdulla Fakhro, Minister of Industry and Commerce. He was welcomed by Ebrahim K Kanoo executives and Lexus guests of honour, chief engineer Hideki Watanabe and Toyota’s general manager Koji Nagata, who had travelled from Japan for the occasion.
“With over 730,000 LS units sold during its 23-year and four generations of history, the LS has grown and evolved with the times,” said Kiyotaka Ise, president of Lexus International.
“Our new flagship has much greater visual presence – the bold new design reflects how Lexus is evolving. This new LS brings sharper driving dynamics, the highest levels of refinement and luxury and once again is supported by industry leading technology.”
Guests at the launch were shown a video presentation of the LS undertaking a test drive and entertained by international dance group Illuminate.
Lexus, the luxury vehicle division of Japanese automaker Toyota, was introduced in 1989 in the US. Now sold globally, Lexus has a loyal following in Bahrain and its neighbouring Gulf States and has become Japan’s largest-selling make of premium cars.
While retaining many of the qualities that have defined Lexus over the years, the entire new line-up, which include the LS 460, LS 460L, LS 600hL hybrid, and the first-ever LS 460 F SPORT, is refined with dynamic, fresh styling that reflects the new face of Lexus.
The aggressive spindle grille gives the new model a greater road presence and stronger brand identity while heralding a significant improvement in driving dynamics, responsiveness and handling.
The new LS 460 F SPORT combines a more aggressive exterior with a unique sport interior featuring F SPORT seats with larger bolsters, a leather steering wheel with paddle shifters and genuine aluminum trim.
The LS also features a new Drive Mode Select system, an Advanced Pre-Collision Safety system with Collision Avoidance Assist, a new Adaptive High Beam System, a standard navigation system, a next-generation Remote Touch and a world first, Lexus Climate Concierge technology.
Seating has also been completely redesigned for additional comfort and support. In the executive level, longer wheel base models (460L and 600h) there are new larger, reclining seats with additional comfort features, including a shiatsu massage function.
Ismail Akbar, executive general manager of sales at Ebrahim K. Kanoo added: “We are delighted to present the new 2013 LS flagship model to our customers in Bahrain. We are positive that this luxurious model will surpass their expectations.”
The LS models start from BD40,000.
For more information visit the Lexus showroom in Sitra, contact 17737773, or visit www.lexus.com.bh
