Lexus chose the Frankfurt Auto Show to debut a mid-cycle redesign for the LS range of luxury sedans with a very long list of upgrades. A new Sports Version was also announced.

The new Sports Version is available as a rear-drive 460 model and gets 19-inch BBS wheels, six-piston Brembo brakes, sports seats and paddle shifters to operate the 8-speed transmission. New transmission settings let the engine hold on to a gear when in “M” model to improve acceleration, while gear changes have been decreased to 0.3 seconds for upshifts and 0.2 seconds for downshifts – with a healthy throttle-blip tossed in. The Sports Version also gets a more sensitive throttle and will kick down gears with less effort.

In addition, the suspension has been upgraded with thicker stabilizer bars in both the front and rear, as well as stiffer spring rates.

The 2010 Lexus LS460 gets a new front grille and redesigned headlights, while out back a larger bumper, restyle diffuser and accentuated exhaust pipes give a more athletic look to the luxury saloon.

An ECO Drive Mode has been added, featuring an Eco Driving Indicator Light and an Eco Drive Range Indicator Display. When the ECO mode is activated the Eco Drive Range Indicator appears in the instrument cluster and lights u once the “zone” of environmentally friendly driving has been exceeded. When that happens, the Eco Driving Indicator Light simultaneously turns off.

Additional changes were made to the air suspension, allowing it to stiffen up sooner for corners, reducing body roll.

As for the range-topping LS600h, it gets a new four-bar grille with a large blue Lexus logo, along with a new front bumper design and new headlights. A new gauge setup includes an LCD screen inside the speedometer that can be customized to show things like vehicle info, navigation instructions and the status of the Lexus Hybrid Drive system.

Like the 460 model, the 600h also gets an ECO mode, however, it is more of an active system than a passive one. In ECO mode the air conditioning is minimized and the throttle response is muted. The 600h, also gets the Sports Version’s powerful six-piston Brembo brakes.

GALLERY: 2010 Lexus LS

Official release after the jump:

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According to a Japanese dealer brochure that has been obtained by the folks at LexusEnthusiast, Toyota’s luxury arm appears to be making a few subtle revisions to its lineup of LS models for 2010.

For starters, we have what appear to be some of the first official images of the LS-Sport or “Version SZ”, a more sporting trim level that will be offered on the LS. Nothing is expected in regards to real performance, but a new aero kit include new front and rear bumpers as well as new side skirts is included, as are a set or larger wheels. Inside the LS Version SZ will also get paddle shifters.

As for the LS lineup in general, it will also get new bodywork, as well as as new front and rear lights.

As for the top-level LS600hL, it will get new body work as well as a new grille, styled similarly to the one found on the new HS250h. The dealer pamphlet also reveals a new Night Vision system.

GALLERY: 2010 Lexus Dealer Brochure

[Source: LexusEnthusiast]