LEXUS is fitting side airbags to both front seats on all new LS400 models for 1997 in addition to the dual airbags already fitted. The addition follows similar moves by Mercedes, Volvo, Ford and Vauxhall on the Vectra for the new model year.

Triggered by a sensor mounted in the centre pillar, the airbag is housed in the seat back and inflates to 12 litres in just 0.02 seconds. Lexus has also strengthened the LS400's passenger safety cell with reinforcements to sill, roof and door pillar and the size of the rear head restraints has been increased by 15mm to enhance passenger comfort.