Hot News: New Lexus LS to be Unveiled Later this Month

Toyota’s luxury division, Lexus, has announced that not only is an all-new version of its LS flagship sedan due this year, that it will pull the wraps off it at the end of this month.

At this point, Lexus isn’t saying much more. The only other information it provides is that the 2013 LS will be available in the same LS 460, long-wheelbase LS 460 L, and hybrid LS 600h L versions as the current car; however, 2013 will also bring in an all-new LS 460 F Sport model. We expect the new F Sport to mimic other F Sport variants Lexus has recently introduced (notably on the GS and RX lines) with a mesh spindle grille insert, blacked-out trim details, and sportier suspension tuning.

We knew this car would be coming soon, as we spotted a camouflaged prototype of the new LS earlier this year. The current car is shown at right. Lexus also teased the front fascia of the next LS in a video surrounding the 2013 RX’s debut. (The teaser is pictured below with images of the current car.)

It had been expected that the LS would carry over its powertrains – with the confirmation of the new model names it’s almost a sure thing that the 2013 Lexus LS will continue to use the same 4.6-liter V-8 and 5.0-liter V-8 paired with an electric motor (in the hybrid). Whether or not the horsepower will grow from their current 380 hp and 438 hp ratings, respectively, is yet to be seen, but the 2013 GS gained a few horses over the previous model despite using the same engine. Definitely expect to see a boost in the large sedan’s fuel economy numbers: the 2012 model achieves either 16/24 mpg city/highway in V-8 guise or 19/23 mpg in hybrid form.

Thanks to: Motor Trend

Sneak Peek: 2014 Mazda 6

Mazda is quick to point out this video does not show the Takeri concept car, but it definitely could’ve fooled us. What we see in this 21-second clip is a portion of the all-new Mazda6’s grille and headlights. And if you’re a fan of the Takeri’s mugshot, then you should definitely be pleased with the production version.

Like the concept, the 2014 Mazda6’s front fascia will feature a thin, chromed “signature wing,” while a large Mazda badge is prominently placed at the center of the grille. The headlights appear to mimic the Takeri’s sharp and expressive design, as well as the dramatic and sculpted lines where the hood and front fender meet. The 2014 Mazda6 is the next recipient of the automaker’s Kodo design language, which is also featured on the new 2013 Mazda CX-5 crossover.

This video comes just a few days after a Mazda6 wagon test vehicle was caught in Europe, though don’t expect that variant in the United States. The prototype was heavily camouflaged, but the photos did provide a glimpse of what to expect for the sedan’s sheetmetal, as well as its cockpit. When the 2014 Mazda6 arrives, it will be powered by a four-cylinder engine with the possibility of a Skyactiv diesel as an option.

Thanks to: Motor Trend