Editing Lexus LS (section)

== {{anchor|XF20|UCF20|second}} Second generation (XF20; 1994) ==
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{{Infobox automobile
| name = Second generation
| image = 1996 Lexus LS 400 4.0 Front.jpg
| caption = 1996 Lexus LS 400 (UCF20; pre-facelift, UK)
| model_code = XF20
| aka = Toyota Celsior (Japan)
| production = October 1994 – June 2000
| model_years = 1995–2000
| designer = {{unbulleted list
  | '''1991:'''
  | 
  | Kunihiro Uchida (Chief Exterior)
  | Makoto Oshima (Exterior)
  | '''1996 facelift:'''
  | Hiroaki Shinoda<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.j-platpat.inpit.go.jp/c1800/DE/JP-1030129/270441D0DA91CF6C0F47373F0EDCF66A3FD510E39431F65E0E0F81AED9870FFA/35/en |title=Patent 1030129, S |location=Japan |date=1999-01-20 |access-date=2019-06-15}}</ref>
  }}
| layout = [[Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout|Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive]]
| engine = {{cvt|3968|cc|CID|0|abbr=on}} ''[[Toyota UZ engine#1UZ-FE|1UZ-FE]]'' [[V8 engine|V8]]
| powerout = {{unbulleted list
  | {{convert|260|hp|kW|abbr=on|0|order=flip}} (1994–1997)
  | {{convert|290|hp|kW|abbr=on|0|order=flip}} (1997–2000)
  }}
| transmission = {{unbulleted list
  | 4-speed ''[[Toyota A transmission#A340E (30-40LE)|A340E]]'' [[automatic transmission|automatic]]
  | 5-speed ''[[Toyota A transmission#A650E|A650E]]'' [[automatic transmission|automatic]]
  }}
| wheelbase = {{cvt|2850|mm|in|1}}
| length = {{cvt|4996|mm|in|1}}
| width = {{cvt|1829|mm|in|1}}
| height = {{cvt|1420|-|1435|mm|1}}
| weight = {{cvt|1659|-|1764|kg}}
}}

=== 1994–1997 ===
[[File:1996 Lexus LS 400 4.0 Rear.jpg|thumb|left|1996 Lexus LS 400 (UCF20; pre-facelift, UK)]]
The second-generation Lexus LS 400 (UCF20) debuted in November 1994 (for the 1995 model year) with a longer wheelbase and similar specifications as the original model. The public unveiling of the vehicle occurred in a gala ceremony held at the [[San Francisco Opera House]] in California.<ref>{{Harvnb|Long|2001|p=89}}.</ref> The sedan was equipped with an updated 4.0-litre ''1UZ-FE'' V8 engine, producing {{convert|194|kW}} and {{convert|366|Nm|ftlbf}} of torque.<ref name=improving>{{cite web |url=http://www.nctd.com/review-intro.cfm?Vehicle=1995_Lexus_LS%20400&ReviewID=2588 |title=1995 Lexus LS 400: Improving on near perfection |access-date=2006-12-01 |publisher=New Car Test Drive.com |year=2005 |quote=0–60: 7.1 sec. |archive-date=27 September 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180927125103/https://www.newcartestdrive.com/reviews/1995-lexus-ls-400/ |url-status=dead }}</ref> Internally, over 90% of the redesigned LS 400's composition was new or redesigned,<ref name=improving/> with increased [[soundproofing|sound insulation]], a strengthened body structure, suspension updates (first LS/Celsior with [[Skyhook suspension|Skyhook adaptive computerized air suspension]]<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.toyota-global.com/company/history_of_toyota/75years/data/automotive_business/products_technology/technology_development/chassis/index.html |title=A 75-Year History through Data > Automotive Business > Products, Technology > Technical Development > Chassis |publisher=Toyota |year=2012 |access-date=2015-01-05}}</ref>), and improved brakes.<ref name=improving/> The redesigned model was {{cvt|95|kg}} lighter than its predecessor and achieved slightly better [[fuel economy in automobiles|fuel economy]].<ref name=improving/> The 0–{{convert|100|km/h|mph}} time improved to 7.5&nbsp;seconds.<ref>{{cite web |year=2009 |title=Lexus LS 400 1995–1997 specifications |url=http://www.autoevolution.com/engine/lexus-ls-1995-400.html |access-date=2009-06-05 |publisher=Autoevolution.com}}</ref>

Development of the second-generation LS 400 began after worldwide launch of the first generation under program code 250T.<ref name="long82">{{Harvnb|Long|2001|p=82}}.</ref> Given the first-generation model's successful reception and high level of customer satisfaction with its design, replicating the original LS 400's attributes with its successor was one of chief engineer Kazuo Okamoto's primary goals (he stated that "a tradition cannot be founded if you reject the first generation").<ref name=Dawson149/> Externally, the most significant change was an increase in wheelbase length of {{cvt|36|mm}}, resulting in more interior space and an additional {{cvt|66|mm}} of rear-seat legroom.<ref name=improving/> However, as the overall length remained the same, [[boot (automobile)|boot]] capacity was slightly reduced.<ref name=improving/> The more aerodynamic body (''C''<sub>''d''</sub> 0.28) retained the general profile and contours of the original LS 400<ref name=comfortable/><ref name="Dawson149">{{Harvnb|Dawson|2004|pp=149–150}}.</ref> and was the work of the [[Calty Design Research]] center in the U.S.<ref name=Dawson149/> Designers had evaluated 20 competing concepts, including several with a radically changed body,<ref name=Dawson149/> before selecting a winning entry in 1991 that included forms and contours similar to the original LS 400.<ref name=Dawson149/> Upon final approval in 1992, an evolutionary redesign was the ultimate result, with new design features consisting of sharper angles, curved body lines, and a beveled grille.<ref name=long85>{{Harvnb|Long|2001|p=85}}</ref> More prominent side lines provided a reference point for parking maneuvers, and forward visibility was improved.<ref name=long85/> Production development lasted from 1991 until conclusion in the second quarter of 1994. Design patents were filed at the Japan Patent Office on October 14, 1992 under registration number 732548, using a prototype.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.j-platpat.inpit.go.jp/c1800/DE/JP-0732548-005/0C80168A61729808C47B4F6E720DF7E054B478A45A98C67EF9CFE04444E77A48/35/en |title=Patent 0732548-005, S |location=Japan |date=1996-12-09 |access-date=2019-06-15}}</ref><ref name=long82/><ref name=Dawson149/><ref name="Lexus LS UCF20 Spied">{{cite magazine |last=Allen |first=Mike |date=September 1994 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=0OQDAAAAMBAJ&pg=PA28 |title=Import Spy Report |magazine=[[Popular Mechanics]] |page=28}}</ref>

The redesigned LS 400 interior received upgraded features, varying from dual-zone climate controls to rear cupholders.<ref name=comfortable/> A newly patented seat cushion design, similar to the car's suspension, used lightweight internal [[coil spring]]s and [[stabilizer bar]]s to improve comfort.<ref name=improving/> One of the first in-dash [[Compact disc player#CD changer|CD changers]] was offered as an option.<ref name=improving/> Safety enhancements included enlarged [[crumple zones]], [[Seat belt|three-point seat belts]] at all positions, and a new collapsible steering column.<ref name=improving/> In Japan, the Toyota Celsior equivalents were offered in the same "A", "B", and top-spec "C" configurations as before, along with an additional selection of exterior colours.<ref>{{Harvnb|Long|2001|pp=90–91}}.</ref> Several optional features, such as a compact disc-based [[Global Positioning System]] (GPS) [[automotive navigation system|navigation system]] and reclining rear seats, were available only in Japan.<ref>{{Harvnb|Long|2001|pp=134, 153, 184}}.</ref>

[[File:Lexus LS 400 model UCF20 cabin.jpg|thumb|left|Second-generation LS 400 cabin (UCF20)]]

At its U.S. debut, the redesigned LS 400 retained a pricing advantage over European competitors in its largest market, launching with a base price of US$51,000.<ref name=improving/> However, cost differences had narrowed following more aggressive pricing and added feature content from rival manufacturers.<ref name=Dawson149/> To promote their new flagship, Lexus launched a US$50 million advertising campaign, the most expensive marketing effort since the launch of the division.<ref name=Dawson149/> In mid-1995, sales slowed as the U.S. government threatened [[tariff]]s on Japanese luxury cars over the widening U.S.-Japan [[trade deficit]], potentially raising the price of a fully optioned LS 400 to over US$100,000.<ref name=tariff>{{cite web |url=http://www.autonews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071029/ANA03/710290340/1128/ANA03&Profile=1128 |title=Bold moves halt tariff stalemate, save Lexus brand |work=Automotive News |access-date=2009-02-02 |date=2007-10-29 |last=Treece |first=James}}</ref> Subsequent negotiations averted the sanctions by the second quarter of that year, and sales recovered in the following months.<ref name=tariff/> Ultimately, second-generation LS 400 sales were lower than the original model;<ref name=Dawson149/> production totaled approximately 114,000 units.<ref name=LSspecs/>

Production of the UCF20 ran from October 1994 to July 1997. For 1997, a limited "Coach Edition" LS 400 was produced in partnership with American leather manufacturer [[Coach Inc.]] The edition featured Coach leather seats; embroidered emblems on the exterior, floormats, and armrest; special colours and added trim; and a Coach cabin bag. Production was limited to a yearly run of 2,500 units.<ref>{{cite news |last=Rechtin |first=Mark |date=1995-03-15 |title=Once Again, Lexus Links with Coach Leather |work=Automotive News |page=24}}</ref>

=== 1997–2000 ===
[[File:1998-00 Lexus LS400.jpg|thumb|right|1998–2000 Lexus LS 400]]

Designed through early 1996, in September 1997 a revised LS 400 was introduced for the 1998 model year. Changes were a five-speed automatic transmission, increased engine output to {{cvt|216|kW}}, with variable valve timing ([[VVT-i]]), and an added {{cvt|41|Nm|ftlbf}} of torque.<ref name=comfortable/> Acceleration times and fuel economy were improved as a result.<ref name=comfortable/> The suspension and steering also received minor tweaks to improve feel and handling.<ref name=1998mt>{{cite web |last=Nagy |first=Bob |date=1997-12-01 |url=http://www.motortrend.com/news/1998-lexus-ls-400/ |title=1998 Lexus LS 400 – First Test |work=[[Motor Trend]] |access-date=2016-01-20}}</ref> Stylistically, the vehicle sported a new front fascia, side mirrors, and updated wheels;<ref name=comfortable/> a rear window [[antenna (radio)|diversity antenna]] replaced the conventional power mast.<ref name=1998mt/> The cabin received upgrades, including a [[trip computer]], [[HomeLink]], retractable rear headrests, reading lamps, and [[ultraviolet]]-tinted glass.<ref name=1998mt/>

In August 1997, the first production [[lidar|laser]] [[adaptive cruise control]] on a Toyota vehicle was introduced on the Celsior version (Japan only).<ref>{{cite journal |last=Stevenson |first=Richard |title=A Driver's Sixth Sense |journal=IEEE Spectrum |date=October 2011 |volume=48 |series=North American |issue=10 |page=52|doi=10.1109/MSPEC.2011.6027249 |s2cid=39861240 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Stevenson |first=Richard |date=29 September 2011 |url=https://spectrum.ieee.org/green-tech/advanced-cars/longdistance-car-radar |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111001171904/http://spectrum.ieee.org/green-tech/advanced-cars/longdistance-car-radar |url-status=dead |archive-date=1 October 2011 |title=Long-Distance Car Radar |work=[[IEEE Spectrum]] |access-date=2014-02-23}}</ref> It controlled speed only through throttle control and downshifting, but did not apply the brakes.<ref name="toyota-global.com">{{cite web |url=http://www.toyota-global.com/company/history_of_toyota/75years/data/automotive_business/products_technology/technology_development/electronics_parts/index.html |title=75 Years of Toyota {{!}} Technical Development {{!}} Electronics Parts |publisher=Toyota |year=2012 |access-date=2012-12-11}}</ref> A [[CD-ROM]]-based GPS [[automotive navigation system]] became an option in the U.S. Added safety features included front [[side airbag]]s, [[vehicle stability control]] and in 2000, [[brake assist]].<ref name=comfortable/> [[High-intensity discharge headlamp|Low beam HID headlamps]] were introduced as well. The headlights were also equipped with a programmable delay feature for proximity illumination.<ref name=comfortable/> In February 2000, the limited "Platinum Series" LS 400 was introduced at the [[Chicago Auto Show]] in partnership with [[American Express]]. The edition featured most luxury options as standard, along with separate exterior colours, wheels, badging, and two years' no-fee use of an American Express [[American Express#Charge card services|Platinum Card]].<ref>Rechtin, Mark (2000-03-20). "Lexus offers Platinum perks." ''Automotive News''.</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.lexus.com/about/news/articles/2000/2/20000209_1.html |title=Lexus And American Express Introduce Platinum Series Luxury Vehicles at the Chicago Auto Show |publisher=[[Lexus]] |date=2000-02-09 |access-date=2010-11-11 |archive-date=1 October 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181001195153/http://www.pressroom.lexus.com/ |url-status=dead }}</ref>

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