The Detroit motorshow has seen Lexus introduce an all-new 3.5-litre V6 for the 2017 LS. Said to offer ‘high power and excellent fuel efficiency’, the engine has been designed to deliver ‘V8-levels’ of performance, without encroaching on fuel economy or noise and vibration levels.
Lexus has quoted output figures of 415bhp and 600Nm of torque, which represent significant gains compared to the outgoing V8 unit featured in the current LS.
The twin-turbo engine’s design is built around a long stroke and ‘optimised’ stroke-to-bore ratio, helping the LS post a projected 0 to 62mph acceleration time of 4.5s. Whilst only revealing preliminary details of the engine, Lexus has stated that a ladder frame structure in the cylinder block, redesigned engine mounts, electric waste gates and numerous other features have all contributed toward Lexus’ trademark levels of smoothness and refinement.
The driver will be able to tailor powertrain response and feel by selecting Normal to Sport and Sport+ drive modes, with ‘just enough’ of the exhaust note being audible to enhance a sporty feel.