Electric Cars

The Enduring Legacy: Lexus LS Continues to Captivate the Japanese Market

Revitalized Driving Dynamics: Enhancements for Superior Comfort and Handling

The latest iteration of the Lexus LS introduces a suite of sophisticated revisions aimed at perfecting its ride and handling. Engineers have meticulously strengthened the central tunnel and both the front and rear sections of the vehicle. Furthermore, the rear suspension and luggage compartment feature an innovative damping structure designed to mitigate high-frequency vibrations, ensuring a smoother journey.

Precision in Motion: Advanced Suspension and Steering Calibration

To deliver a more engaging and intuitive driving feel, the suspension system and electric power steering have undergone meticulous recalibration. These adjustments are intended to offer a more natural steering response and precise handling. Lexus asserts that these modifications will significantly reduce body roll and pitch, creating a flatter and more stable sensation through corners, thereby boosting driver confidence.

A Glimpse into the Future: Design and Feature Upgrades

Beyond performance enhancements, the 2027 Lexus LS also benefits from subtle yet impactful cosmetic and comfort upgrades. A panoramic roof, now an optional feature across all variants, comes equipped with a mesh deflector to minimize wind noise when open. Following a contemporary automotive trend, the rear badging now proudly displays the 'Lexus' script. Inside, the top-tier trims boast elegant cut-glass accents and an expanded palette of leather upholstery colors, elevating the cabin's luxurious ambiance.

Market Focus and Specifications: The LS 500h in Japan

Exclusively for the Japanese market, the 2027 Lexus LS is offered as the 500h, featuring a robust hybrid 3.5-liter V6 engine. Buyers can select between rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations. The model is available in three distinct grades: F Sport, Version L, and Executive, with pricing options ranging from approximately $91,700 to $117,000, reflecting the current exchange rates. This strategic offering underscores the brand's dedication to meeting the specific preferences of its Japanese clientele.

A Divergent Path: The LS in Global Markets and Future Prospects

In stark contrast to its Japanese availability, the Lexus LS has largely concluded its run in the United States, with the 2026 model year serving as a farewell edition, limited to just 250 units of the Heritage Edition. This decision marks a significant shift in Lexus's global strategy. The long-standing LS, along with the IS, are veteran models in the lineup, navigating an automotive landscape increasingly dominated by SUVs and electrified vehicles. While the future of traditional sedans remains uncertain, Lexus has hinted at a reimagined LS identity through concept vehicles, suggesting innovative designs that diverge from the classic sedan silhouette, potentially including minivan-inspired or coupe-like SUV interpretations, aligning with Toyota's vision for Lexus to 'move more freely' and 'push forward as a pioneer.'

BMW is commemorating the Nürburgring's centenary by unveiling a special collection of six M performance vehicles. This exclusive '100 Jahre Nürburgring' series encompasses a range of popular models, including the M2, M3 Sedan, M3 Touring, M4 Coupe, M5 Sedan, and M5 Touring, each receiving distinct aesthetic and mechanical enhancements inspired by the legendary German racetrack. This initiative underscores BMW's deep historical ties with the Nürburgring, a circuit renowned for its challenging nature and pivotal role in automotive development.

The centennial celebration extends beyond these six M cars to include three Motorrad models: the M 1000 RR, M 1000 R, and M 1000 XR. While the motorcycles are strictly limited to 100 units globally, BMW has yet to disclose the production figures for the special edition M automobiles, hinting at their potential exclusivity. All nine celebratory models share a unified design theme centered around the Nürburgring, predominantly featuring an exclusive 'Nürburgring Green' paint finish. This special livery is complemented by bespoke graphics, green accents, and a 'Nürburgring since 1927' emblem, prominently featuring the silhouette of the Nordschleife.

For those who prefer a more understated aesthetic, BMW offers 'Black Sapphire Metallic' as an alternative exterior color. The M2, M3 Sedan, M4 Coupe, and M5 Sedan models in this series are adorned with anniversary stripes stretching across their carbon-fiber roofs, a distinctive touch that highlights their performance pedigree. The M3 Touring and M5 Touring, despite not having carbon-fiber roof options, still incorporate these special stripes across their standard steel roofs, maintaining visual consistency within the collection. The interior design also reflects this celebratory theme, with a predominantly black cabin featuring contrasting green and white stitching. Inline-six models boast an M Alcantara steering wheel with matching stitching and a red 12 o'clock marker, while the M5 Sedan and Touring also receive special anniversary treatment for their M steering wheels.

The European market versions of the M2, M3, and M4 in this special edition lineup benefit from an upgraded inline-six engine. This turbocharged 3.0-liter unit incorporates a new pre-chamber ignition system, enabling it to comply with stringent Euro 7 emissions regulations without compromising performance. However, this advanced ignition technology is currently not slated for M cars sold in North America. Furthermore, M5 models destined for Europe have had their twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 engines re-tuned to align with Euro 7 standards, resulting in a reduced output of 536 horsepower, a decrease of 41 horsepower. Despite this, the overall combined output of the hybrid powertrain remains a formidable 717 horsepower, with BMW compensating for the internal combustion engine's power reduction by enhancing the electric motor's contribution.

The Nürburgring, affectionately known as the 'Green Hell,' is an apt setting for such a celebration. Its sprawling 12.9-mile (20.8-kilometer) Nordschleife circuit, featuring 73 corners and dramatic elevation changes, is globally recognized as one of the most challenging racetracks. BMW consistently utilizes this iconic circuit for rigorous testing and development of its prototype vehicles, ensuring that all future models meet the brand's exacting performance standards before entering production. The M3 and M5 special editions are scheduled for order in Europe this month, with the M2 variant following in January 2027.