Lexus started sales in Japan yesterday of the LS600h and LS600hL1 hybrid sedans. These new models feature the world’s first2 hybrid system combining a 5.0-liter V8 engine, a high-output motor and a full-time all-wheel-drive system.

And here’s the promo-speak…

These two flagship vehicles represent a new standard in the world of luxury vehicles: dynamic acceleration on par with that of a 6-liter vehicle3 ; stable cruising across all speed ranges; and reduced gasoline consumption and lower CO2 emissions, realized by optimal engine and motor control and energy recovery based on four-wheel regenerative braking during deceleration.

The cost is about US$124,000, although initially the model is only being released in Japan. And here’s an early review.