Lexus LS reinvented as wild six-wheel MPV to rival Bentayga

Lexus has reinvented its LS flagship as a futuristic, six-wheeled MPV that redefines the concept of a luxury car.

The striking new VIP shuttle – revealed at the Tokyo motor show – has been designed as a "private sanctuary" that "invites you to discover your own space", says the company. It also previews a dramatic revamp of the brand's design hallmarks and positioning.

Simon Humphries, head of design for Toyota and Lexus, said Lexus will be afforded greater creative freedom now that Toyota has spun its Century brand out into a dedicated luxury marque that sits at the top of its portfolio.

Humphries said Lexus aimed "to challenge your perception of what a luxury brand can be" – an ethos showcased by the radical new LS concept – under the new brand motto: 'To Discover'.

The bold rethink of the LS comes as traditional saloons fall out of favour with luxury car buyers globally - particularly in the crucial Chinese market, where upmarket MPVs are enjoying a renaissance. 

Lexus has already introduced a luxury MPV to its European ranks in the form of the hybrid-powered LM, but the LS concept envisions an all-new range-topper that would sit above the LM as a luxury proposition that could ultimately rival the likes of the Bentley Bentayga and Rolls-Royce Cullinan.

The six-wheel arrangement has been chosen for the greater interior space it affords, said the Toyota-owned brand, with smaller wheels used on the rear axle to minimise the incursion of the arches into the floorpan.

"Since the LS first came out in 1989," said Ian Cartabiano, who runs Toyota's Californian design studio, "the rules of the luxury market have changed. Executive sedans use to rule the world, but now they're fighting a losing battle with SUVs."