The teaser image doesn't give much away, but it does outline the new silhouette of the big sedan. The 2013 LS will adopt Lexus' latest L Finesse design language, as reported on these pages before, which will include the company's new spindle front grille.
The LS debuted in 1989 as a 1990 model, after being developed for five years at a reported cost of $1 billion. It was the first Japanese luxury sedan to offer a V8 engine and heralded the introduction of the Lexus brand. From the get-go, it was intended for international markets. A Japanese version of the car was called the Toyota Celsior and sold there until 2006, before it became the Lexus LS 460 for its fourth generation that kicked off for the 2007 model year. That car was also the first to get an eight-speed automatic transmission.
The launch will be by invitation only, and take place in San Francisco. Journalists from around the world will be present at the World Premiere.
Like the current car, the 2013 LS will compete against the BMW 7-series, Audi A8, and Mercedes-Benz S-Class.
