Lexus introduces the hybrid on steroids

LEXUS gave Australia its first look at the world’s only full-sized hybrid luxury sedan at the Melbourne International Motor Show.

The LS600hL – the new flagship of Toyota’s premium brand – joins the more conventional (and standard-length) LS460, which was shown a few weeks earlier in Brisbane and scheduled to go on sale in May.

With a 122mm-longer wheelbase and all-wheel drive compared to the LS460’s rear-drive layout, the LS600hL is powered by a 330kW 5.0-litre V8 petrol engine mated to a high-output electric motor.

Drive is channelled via a dual-stage electronically controlled CVT continuously variable transmission (as per the GS450h) in a five-metre-plus limousine that Lexus claims has the power of a V12 and the fuel consumption of a V6.

Greenies with the folding green to burn must wait until August to sample Lexus’ first $200,000 hybrid.

Read more:

Sydney show: Buyers prefer Lexus GS hybrid

Lexus goes V8-hybrid with next LS

Lexus' green nexus

Lexus unveils all-new LS460 flagship!