Is there any new information on what the changes will be for the upcoming refresh and the release date?

My parents have been looking at replacing their 05 Lexus LS 430 for a while and have been putting off until they see the new Audi A8, Lexus LS, and MB S550. Also maybe considering the Genesis G90.

My dad bought a MB 240D manual as his first luxury car and was loyal to Mercedes until the S class W140, which was a disaster and broke down constantly and he swore he'd never buy another MB. Since then he's been buying Lexus, but he strongly dislikes the look of the current LS with the giant grill and he really likes the current S-Class.

Since they tend to keep cars a long time they don't want to buy an Audi/Lexus the last year of the generation or the S-Class right before the refresh. The current Audi A8 looks pretty nice, but he's concerned about all the self driving tech going into the new A8 will make the car very dated as it ages and a reliability nightmare. The BMW 7-series looked like a joke with the gestures and wasn't up to the feel of the MB.

With all that backstory, it would be very helpful to know when the redesign it coming out and more info about it. Do you think they'll separate the screen in the backseat from getting the backseat package? That was one negative of the MB

Between 1993 and 2012, I had eight, new, top line LS sedans. I switched to a 2013 S550 because of the ridiculous Lexus spindle grill. I have never looked back. The S550 is better in every way. My current 2015 S550 sedan is probably the finest sedan on the planet. Ride quality is superior to the Lexus. My S550's have had fewer problems than did my last two LS460L sedans. And, when you add things like the Exclusive Nappa Leather, Driver's Assistance Pkg, and Magic Body Control, the car is unbeatable. The MB is rock solid and it exudes luxury. I'm sorry, but the Audi, BMW, Lexus and Genesis are second tier compared to the big S Class.

The refresh/facelift will be for the 2018 model year. Look for it to be introduced at the 2017 Geneva auto show in March 2017. Coming to U.S. dealers in Aug-Sept 2017 as a 2018 model. Rumored S450 model with 400hp I6 and the S550 will become the S560 with 470hp.

The new Lexus LS will be shown next month at the Detroit auto show. The new A8 will likely be at Geneva also, March 2017.

M

I agree the big S Class is an amazing car and am happy you've enjoyed it as much in the real world as it looks in the show room. As I said my dad swore off MB, but the current S Class may make him change his mind.

They have an 02 Lexus LS and the service and reliability of the cars has been amazing, which is why it's such a shame what they've done to the spindle grill. We sat in the current LS 460 at the auto show and it looks like a huge step down from what they have now.

Unless the new Audi or Lexus completely wows them I'm guessing they'll go for the MB. Such a shame they have to wait until Aug-Sep though

I don't get how anyone could think the LS460 is a huge step down from a 2002 LS430. Goes to show different strokes for different folks. I get not liking the new grille, but the car itself is on another level from the LS430 of 2001.

M

Obviously there are things that are better about the current LS460, such as the updated maps, but the fit and finish feels more like an Infinity with the clock in the dash and the infotainment system is a step down going from large easy to use touchscreen to a recessed screen that is difficult to navigate. Also, unlike the 2002 the interior doesn't flow smoothly and feels chopped up. Maybe it's from riding in the IS, but it just doesn't feel like a special place to be.

My opinion is completely based on sitting in the car in the car show and at the dealership when waiting for their current LS to be serviced. Maybe it drives beautifully and has more power. I don't know anything about the engine or transmission.

The ride quality and transmission on their LS is buttery smooth and perfect for long trips. I'm hoping the MB S550 will be as good if not better. I've heard good things, but haven't taken a test drive yet.

I guess if judge better by ease of use or updated maps. How can fit and finish feel like an Infinity? The 2001 model if anything was no different from a Toyota of the day. The LS460 blows the LS430 out the water regarding the driving part, well if you actually like to drive.

M