The LS 600h, the new hybrid power flagship of the Lexus brand, will cost from £81,400 when the model goes on sale in the UK on 1 October. Equipped with a more advanced powertrain and more sophisticated array of preventive, active and passive features than any car in its class, the LS 600h will set new standards in luxury motoring.

The LS 600h features the world’s first full-time, all-wheel drive full hybrid V8 powertrain, combining a technically peerless 5.0-litre engine with a powerful, high-output motor. The result is performance that rivals a standard V12 petrol engine (nought to 62mph in 6.3 seconds) with fuel consumption and emissions that are on a par with the segment’s best performing – and substantially lower powered – diesels (30.4mpg and 219g/km in combined cycle driving). Thanks to the Lexus Hybrid Drive system’s compact but powerful electric motor, maximum torque is delivered from zero rpm, giving the car exceptional performance off the line.

Two versions will be available in the UK: the LS 600h and LS 600h L long wheelbase model (£83,645 OTR). Both benefit from an exceptional specification that includes pre-crash safety systems that can detect collision hazards both on the road ahead and from the rear, permanent four-wheel drive, Adaptive Variable Suspension and the world’s first application of LED technology for low beam headlight illumination.

The LS 600h L can be additionally specified with a Rear Seat Relaxation Pack (£88,000) that provides even higher levels of comfort. The left hand rear seat gains an extending leg and thigh rest, seat cushion airbag and variable massage function plus an advanced climate control system that uses body temperature sensors to determine optimum performance.

The in-car entertainment package includes a 19-speaker Mark Levinson premium hi-fi with six-disc DVD autochanger and a nine-inch ceiling-mounted screen for rear seat passengers.