Eight-Speed Lexus is on its way

Gear we go again... In a world first, the Lexus LS460 luxury car is set to re-write the rulebooks with an eight-speed automatic box.

It will debut at next week's Detroit Motor Show, and rival the all-new Mercedes S-Class, which only has a seven-ratio self-shifter.

Love it or eight it, the LS460's smart styling will be based on the Lexus LF-Sh concept which was displayed at last year's Tokyo exhibition. The newcomer is expected to provide class-leading refinement, with an advanced 4.6-litre V8 pumping out more than 370hp and 500Nm of torque.

The clever box isn't the new model's only hi-tech feature. The company has confirmed that the flagship will use a special air-suspension set-up in a bid to steal sales from its European rivals.

Despite its superior refinement, the biggest Lexus has traditionally lagged behind its Continental competitors dynamically - but that could all change with the latest machine. There may even be a long-wheelbase variant to tackle the extended BMW 7-Series and Mercedes S-Class models, although there are no plans for a diesel. Instead, the big range-topper is set to become the first-ever hybrid luxury car.

Set to debut at the New York Motor Show in April, the hybrid will boast a 5.0-litre V8 rumoured to generate 450bhp with the aid of a Toyota Prius-style electric motor. The entry-level LS460 is expected to go on sale in November, starting from around £50,000.

Source:AutoExpressUK

 

Yes it does. I'd say 5 or 6 speed is a good number. 4 is a bit lacking (even on our 02 Camry) and 7 is typical MB overkill. 8? I don't know what to say.


Btw, the LS460 will be available with IPA or Intelligent Parking Assist. IOW, they're bringing auto parking stateside.