Lexus has refreshed its LS sedan, a move confirmed by motor1.com as the model was unveiled in Japan. The update focuses on improving comfort and technology while preserving the sedan’s refined character.
Suspension updates include stiffer rear shock absorbers aimed at delivering a more composed ride over varying road surfaces. Inside the cabin, a large 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster appears, providing drivers with clearer, more customizable information at a glance. The update also adds DVR cameras at both the front and rear, contributing to enhanced monitoring. An upgraded driver assistance package features a traffic jam assist system that operates at speeds up to 40 km/h, helping reduce driver workload in dense urban conditions.
Under the hood, the refreshed LS offers a 3.5-liter engine that delivers 422 horsepower for brisk acceleration and confident highway performance. For buyers seeking efficiency and a smoother power delivery, a hybrid variant is available, producing 299 horsepower with the added benefit of electric assistance. The hybrid option supports better fuel economy while still delivering the Lexus experience that the LS line is known for.
Meanwhile, Arctic Trucks, a tuning studio, has introduced a modified version of the Chinese Tank 300 SUV for the Russian market. The tuning kit consists of 75 components and has a base price of 1.2 million rubles. When fully assembled, the finished vehicle is listed at 5.3 million rubles. The package includes extensive enhancements and carries a three-year or 150,000-kilometer warranty, whichever comes first. The collaboration highlights how regional tuning houses tailor popular models to meet local demand and climate conditions, signaling ongoing interest in rugged, capable SUVs among Russian buyers.
In Europe, Skoda showcased the second generation of the Kodiaq in Berlin. The new Kodiaq continues the model’s family-friendly approach, offering both five- and seven-seat configurations. With a broader set of comfort, safety, and technology updates, the seven-seat option expands the vehicle’s appeal for larger households and travel needs. European sales are planned to commence in early 2024, signaling Skoda’s commitment to expanding its SUV lineup across multiple markets.
Earlier reports note that Chery has announced updates for its 7 Pro Max and 8 Pro Max crossovers. The refreshed models emphasize design refinements, enhanced connectivity, and improved driver-assistance features, aligning with ongoing consumer demand for modern, well-equipped compact and mid-size SUVs across several regions. These updates reflect a broader trend in the global automotive market toward more sophisticated interiors, smarter safety systems, and powertrain options that balance performance with efficiency.