Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[First Drive: 2010 Lexus LS460 Sport Package is F-ing with perfection]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/first-drive-2010-lexus-ls460-sport-package-is-f-ing-with-perfec/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/first-drive-2010-lexus-ls460-sport-package-is-f-ing-with-perfec/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/first-drive-2010-lexus-ls460-sport-package-is-f-ing-with-perfec/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2010 Lexus LS 460 Sport - Click above for high-res image gallery

When Lexus introduced the IS F, enthusiasts were suitably skeptical about the automaker's attempt to go head-to-head with the Germans. After all, Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz have specialized in creating autobahn-burning, Nordschleife-honed handlers for decades.

And then we drove it.

To everyone's surprise, Lexus pulled it off, but we figured it might be a one-time deal. We assumed the IS F was an outlier - just a distraction from the brand's cadre of well-built, less-than-sporty luxo-barges. We were wrong.

In the footsteps of the IS F was the introduction of the F-Sport accessories line, followed by rumors of a GS F and finally the LFA supercar. Lexus was becoming increasingly serious about making a mark in the luxury performance space, but on its own terms and at its own calculated pace.

Flash forward to October when a press release arrived touting a new Sport Package for the upcoming 2010 LS460. To be honest, our first thought was Lexus was overreaching. The LS is a fine sedan, with plenty of power and a reasonably good balance of ride and handling. But a sports sedan it's not. No matter. If Lexus was threatening to "F" up its LS with a "Sport" package, we needed to put it to the test. And we did just that.


Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Lexus LS 460 Sport


Photos by Frank Filipponio / Copyright (C)2009 Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading First Drive: 2010 Lexus LS460 Sport Package is F-ing with perfection

First Drive: 2010 Lexus LS460 Sport Package is F-ing with perfection originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Dec 2009 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 lexus2010 lexus ls2010 lexus ls 4602010 Lexus LS 460 Sport2010 ls2010 LS 4602010 LS 460 Sport2010Lexus2010LexusLs2010LexusLs4602010LexusLs460Sport2010Ls2010Ls4602010Ls460SportF-Sportfeaturedfirst driveFirstDriveis fIsFlexusLexus LSlexus ls 460Lexus LS 460 Sportlexus ls sportLexusLsLexusLs460LexusLs460SportLexusLsSportLSls 460LS 460 sportls sportLs460Ls460SportLsSportsport packageSportPackageWed, 16 Dec 2009 11:57:00 EST<![CDATA[First Drive: 2010 Lexus GX 460 sticks to its trucky roots]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/09/2010-lexus-gx-460-first-drive/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/09/2010-lexus-gx-460-first-drive/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/09/2010-lexus-gx-460-first-drive/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


2010 Lexus GX 460 - Click above for high-res image gallery

The 2002 Lexus GX 470 was little more than a Toyota 4Runner with a healthy dollop of Lexus luxury on top, but at the time, it didn't have to be anything more than that. It seemed just about every automaker that had an SUV in the stable was introducing an uplevel version to capitalize on American consumers' insatiable appetite for luxury sport-utes, so why not Toyota? Lexus had already adopted the full-size Land Cruiser, so it made sense to bring along the 4Runner for the slightly less well-heeled.

Although it didn't set the charts on fire, the GX won over enough people that Lexus has continued churning it out virtually unchanged until now. In fact, the company easily moved every 2009 model it made. Still, even the best vehicles need to be updated from time to time, and with an all-new 2010 4Runner hitting dealers, it was time for this Lexus to undergo a similar overhaul. But the state of the economy, environment and the changing luxury SUV market itself meant that the Japanese automaker needed to rethink a few things for its sophomore endeavor. And it has.

We spent time on and off road in San Diego County during our stint with the new 2010 Lexus GX 460, and what we have learned was quite surprising. Despite the market's shift toward crossovers, the GX is still body-on-frame and has a V8, full-time four-wheel drive and takes up just as much space as the previous generation model. It still looks like a truck, drives like a truck and handles like a truck. But is that such a bad thing? Is there still a place for this type of vehicle... or is it simply an anachronism from a once-thriving, but now rapidly vanishing market? Follow the jump to see what we discovered.


Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Lexus GX460


Photos copyright (C)2009 Frank Filipponio / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading First Drive: 2010 Lexus GX 460 sticks to its trucky roots

First Drive: 2010 Lexus GX 460 sticks to its trucky roots originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 09 Dec 2009 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 lexus2010 Lexus GX2010 Lexus GX 4602010Lexus2010LexusGx2010LexusGx460featuredfirst driveFirstDrivegxGX 460Gx460lexuslexus gxLexus GX 460LexusGxLexusGx460Wed, 09 Dec 2009 11:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Feat of Clay: We take a peek inside Toyota's Calty design center]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/08/feat-of-clay-we-take-a-peek-inside-toyotas-calty-design-center/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/08/feat-of-clay-we-take-a-peek-inside-toyotas-calty-design-center/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/08/feat-of-clay-we-take-a-peek-inside-toyotas-calty-design-center/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Toyota's Calty Design Research in Newport Beach, CA - Click above for high-res image gallery

In anticipation of the debut of the all-new 2011 Toyota Sienna at the 2009 LA Auto Show in December, the folks responsible for the minivan invited us to take a peek inside their Calty design center in Newport Beach, California. Calty Design Research is the Toyota design center that created production cars like the '78, '90 and '00 Toyota Celica, '07 FJ Cruiser, '07 Tundra, '08 Highlander, '08 Scion xB, and '09 Venza, as well as the Lexus LF-C, FT-SX, Scion t2B, Scion FUSE, FT-HS and A-BAT concepts.

It's not very often that they open the doors of this design center to the public - let alone journalists - so we jumped at the chance. We spent a day with the group directly responsible for the 2011 Sienna and also met with Calty and Toyota officials. It was an enlightening day in which we learned about what inspired this third generation people-hauler, what Calty offers to differentiate it from other Toyota design houses, and why full-size clay models are still so important in the world of design, among other things.

Follow the jump to travel with us past the velvet rope and into Calty.


Gallery: Calty Design Research Tour

Continue reading Feat of Clay: We take a peek inside Toyota's Calty design center

Feat of Clay: We take a peek inside Toyota's Calty design center originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Dec 2009 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Caltycalty design researchCaltyDesignResearchdesigndesign housedesignerdesignersDesignHousefeaturedlexuslexus designLexusDesignscionscion designScionDesigntoyotatoyota designToyotaDesignTue, 08 Dec 2009 11:58:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Prior driver of loaner Lexus in fatal crash told dealer of floormat issue]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/07/report-prior-driver-of-loaner-lexus-in-fatal-crash-told-dealer/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/07/report-prior-driver-of-loaner-lexus-in-fatal-crash-told-dealer/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/07/report-prior-driver-of-loaner-lexus-in-fatal-crash-told-dealer/#commentsFiled under: ,



A few weeks ago, we learned that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration ruled that the crash of a loaner Lexus ES350 that killed San Diego police officer Mark Saylor, his wife, 13-year-old daughter and brother in law was not just the result of an improper RX400h floor mat sticking the accelerator wide open it was due to a range of factors. In addition to the car having the wrong mats, the brake "rotors were discolored and heated, had very rough surfaces, had substantial deposits of brake pad material, and showed signs of bright orange oxidation on the cooling fins consistent with endured braking."

According to the San Diego Union Tribune, it turns out that three days before the crash, Frank Bernard had been given the loaner Lexus and experienced the floor mat sticking the throttle wide open. "[W]hile merging onto Interstate 15 from the Poway Road on-ramp, [Bernard] took his foot off the gas and the car kept accelerating, to 85 mph." Here's where it gets even more tragic:

"Bernard pressed long and hard on the brakes and was able to pull over and slow down. He put the car into neutral, but the engine continued to race at full speed. After several failed attempts at turning off the engine, he realized the floor mat had jammed the gas pedal. He slid his foot under the accelerator, dislodged it and had no further problems, the report says."

As stated above, without brake-assist (which would disappear after a few moments due to loss of engine vacuum at wide-open throttle) Bernard was able to stop the car, but the brakes would have been fairly stressed. Bernard returned the car to the dealership, but only told a receptionist about the floor mat incident. For her part, the receptionist at first stated she didn't remember Bernard or his story, but later changed her tune, stating that she told a vehicle specialist about the issue. The vehicle specialist denies ever hearing about it. And the vice president of Bob Baker Lexus El Cajon has no comment.

The question then becomes if the proper personnel had been alerted to Mr. Bernard's incident, would the ES350 have received new brakes and the correct mats before it was lent to the Saylors? It should also be noted that the ES350 was loaned to two other customers between Bernard and the Saylors without incident. Toyota has since recalled 3.8 million vehicles to reshape and replace accelerator pedals.

[Source: San Diego Union Tribune]

REPORT: Prior driver of loaner Lexus in fatal crash told dealer of floormat issue originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 07 Dec 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Floor Mat RecallFloor matsFloorMatRecallFloorMatsLexusLexus ES350Lexus RecallLexusEs350LexusRecallNHTSAToyotaToyota Floor MatToyota Floor Mat RecallToyota RecallToyotaFloorMatToyotaFloorMatRecallToyotaRecallMon, 07 Dec 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lexus LFA to be sold in Europe through one dealership]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/lexus-lfa-to-be-sold-in-europe-through-one-dealership/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/lexus-lfa-to-be-sold-in-europe-through-one-dealership/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/lexus-lfa-to-be-sold-in-europe-through-one-dealership/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Lexus LFA at Lexus Park Lane - Click above for high-res image gallery

We're not the vindictive types here at Autoblog, but we can appreciate some measure of poetic justice. After all, how many lustworthy European supercars were made available over the decades to any European buyer with enough cash on hand, but those same cars were scarcely available on this side of the Pond? The Old Continent practically had the market cornered. But what goes around comes around, and in this case rather quickly, as Lexus has announced that its new groundbreaking LFA will be available in Europe, but only from one dealership. And that one location isn't even on the continent. It's in England.

London's Lexus Park Lane has been appointed as the sole sales location for the LFA in all of Europe. So any buyer from Monte Carlo to Oslo looking to get his or her hands on one is going to have to head here. A demonstration car has already arrived at the Park Lane showroom, and the dealership has appointed a dedicated "personal liaison manager" to handle all LFA sales.

The one part where potential European customers have us beat is that, unlike North American clients who'll have to lease their LFA, across the Atlantic customers can actually buy their example outright. Prospective customers can begin registering their interest now, orders will begin in the spring and deliveries will commence in 2011 and continue through 2013 until all 500 examples have been sold. Follow the jump for the full press release and check out the images in the gallery below.


Gallery: Lexus LFA at Lexus Park Lane


[Source: Lexus]

Continue reading Lexus LFA to be sold in Europe through one dealership

Lexus LFA to be sold in Europe through one dealership originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 04 Dec 2009 09:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 lexus2011 Lexus LFA2011Lexus2011LexusLfa2012 Lexus2012 Lexus LFA2012Lexus2012LexusLfaenglandlexuslexus europelexus great britainlexus lfalexus park laneLexusEuropeLexusGreatBritainLexusLfaLexusParkLaneLF-ALFAlondonlondon lexusLondonLexuspark laneParkLaneFri, 04 Dec 2009 09:32:00 EST<![CDATA[LA 2009: Lexus LFA wireframe cutaway wows us]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/la-2009-lexus-lfa-wireframe-cutaway-wows-us/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/la-2009-lexus-lfa-wireframe-cutaway-wows-us/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/la-2009-lexus-lfa-wireframe-cutaway-wows-us/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2011 Lexus LFA wireframe cutaway - Click above for high-res image gallery

Wow. Lexus brought their new LFA supercar to the LA Auto Show this year. That might not seem particularly wow-worthy, but it definitely becomes more surprising when you hear that they actually brought an LFA and a half. While a white LFA was happily humming along, spinning slowly on a rotating platform in the middle of the booth, another LFA-like creature lay motionless a few feet away.

It seems Lexus had an extra drivetrain they wanted to display, but instead of just parking the engine, transaxle and other mechanical bits on a stand, they decided to make it something of a cutaway. Rather than chopping up one of those exquisitely woven carbon fiber bodies, thankfully, they supported the running gear in a wireframe cutaway of sorts that mimics the overall shape of the production car. It was even done up in white just like the real thing on the other side of the stand. While some saw it as a novel way to display the internals, we think this might be a sneak peek at the cheaper, simpler Lexus LFA we had hoped for. Or, you know, not.

Check out the gallery below, and do yourself a favor - Take a few extra seconds to ogle that engine.


Gallery: LA 2009: Lexus LFA wireframe cutaway


Photos copyright (C)2009 Frank Filipponio/Weblogs, Inc.

LA 2009: Lexus LFA wireframe cutaway wows us originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Dec 2009 13:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>la 2009la auto showLA Auto Show 2009LA ShowLa2009LaAutoShowLaAutoShow2009LaShowlexusLexus LF-Alexus lfalexus supercarLexusLf-aLexusLfaLexusSupercarLF-Alfalos angeleslos angeles 2009LosAngelesLosAngeles2009Thu, 03 Dec 2009 13:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Toyota tops Kelley Blue Book best resale value awards]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/toyota-tops-kelley-blue-book-best-resale-value-awards/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/toyota-tops-kelley-blue-book-best-resale-value-awards/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/toyota-tops-kelley-blue-book-best-resale-value-awards/#commentsFiled under: , ,

According to the experts-of-such-things at Kelley Blue Book, the average vehicle will only retain about 35 percent of its original value after the initial five-year ownership period, often making depreciation the greatest expense incurred by drivers over that time period. That's a hefty chunk of change to be sure, so a vehicle's anticipated resale value should be of prime concern when shopping for your next car or truck.

Since 2003, KBB has published its Best Resale Value Awards, which seek to inform consumers of projected resale value for any particular model after five years and 75,000 miles worth of service. Considering its historic reputation for quality, it comes as little surprise that Toyota takes home the trophy as the brand with the best projected resale value and that its subsidiary Lexus grabs the award in the luxury category. We have to wonder, though, how the company's many current woes might damage its perceived value down the line.

Making up the Top 10 Models for 2010 are the Audi A5, BMW M3, Chevrolet Corvette and Camaro SS, Honda CR-V, Mini Cooper and Clubman along with the Prius, RAV4 and Tacoma from Toyota. See here for a more comprehensive list and make the jump for the official press release.

[Source: KBB]

Continue reading Toyota tops Kelley Blue Book best resale value awards

Toyota tops Kelley Blue Book best resale value awards originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Dec 2009 07:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auto awardAutoAwardbest resale valueBestResaleValuecar awardCarAwardkbbkbb resaleKbbResalekelley blue bookkelley blue book resaleKelleyBlueBookKelleyBlueBookResalelexuslexus resaleLexusResaleresaleresale valueResaleValueresidualresidual valueresidualsResidualValuetoyotatoyota resaleToyotaResaleThu, 03 Dec 2009 07:58:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Lexus LFA illicitly investigated by fanboy in secret warehouse]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/video-lexus-lfa-illicitly-investigated-by-fanboy-in-secret-ware/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/video-lexus-lfa-illicitly-investigated-by-fanboy-in-secret-ware/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/video-lexus-lfa-illicitly-investigated-by-fanboy-in-secret-ware/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Motor Mavens sneaks a look at Lexus LFA - Click above to watch video after the break

If Motor Mavens legitimately got a call from a well-placed friend and truly snuck in to fiddle with a $400,000 car that's ostensibly in trustworthy care, we apologize, but it smells really staged from here. It doesn't matter, though, the LFA looks fantastic in this video, and the LCD gauges are cool to watch in action. That's the real value of this video, watching the interior come alive like the bridge of some kind of spaceship.

Damon talked about the way the gauges animate to display different information, but watching the display slide around makes us want to be the guy sitting in the driver's seat, twiddling all the buttons with meaty, indiscriminate paws. The entirety of the car is as worthy of "dude, check this out" as you'd expect from a supercar-class vehicle. Check it out after the jump, and let us know if we're being too suspicious.

We're just having trouble with details like interested-looking parties reflected in the window of the opening shot, and the fact that it's supposed to be poor quality, but looks pretty decent and apparently, when you drop everything and run out of the house, you take the time to call a cameraman. Now, if you'll excuse us, we have to go line our winter hats with tinfoil. Thanks for the tip, Michael!


Gallery: First Drive: 2011 Lexus LFA


Photos copyright (C)2009 Damon Lavrinc / Weblogs, Inc.
[Source: Motor Mavens]

Continue reading VIDEO: Lexus LFA illicitly investigated by fanboy in secret warehouse

VIDEO: Lexus LFA illicitly investigated by fanboy in secret warehouse originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Dec 2009 12:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lexuslexus fanLexus LF-ALexusFanLexusLf-aLF-Alfalfa fanLfaFanWed, 02 Dec 2009 12:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Lexus announces pricing for 2010 GX460 will begin at $51,970]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/lexus-announces-pricing-for-2010-gx460-will-begin-at-51-970/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/lexus-announces-pricing-for-2010-gx460-will-begin-at-51-970/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/lexus-announces-pricing-for-2010-gx460-will-begin-at-51-970/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2010 Lexus GX460 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Adding one last bit of important information to the release they issued Sunday, Lexus today announced pricing for its second-generation 2010 Lexus GX460 SUV. As we told you yesterday, the 2010 GX460 will (for the first time) be available in two trim levels. The base model will start at an MSRP of $51,970, and the Premium will start at $56,765. Neither figure includes the obligatory $875 delivery, processing and handling fee. The public will get its first glimpse of the newest midsize luxury SUV next week at the 2009 LA Auto Show.

No pricing was given for options, which include two packages and several standalone extras, but you can read about some of the standard features in the press release we've pasted after the jump. We'll have our own first impression of this vehicle for you very soon and plenty more photos and thoughts when we see it next week in Los Angeles


Gallery: 2010 Lexus GX460


[Source: Lexus]

Continue reading Lexus announces pricing for 2010 GX460 will begin at $51,970

Lexus announces pricing for 2010 GX460 will begin at $51,970 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 23 Nov 2009 15:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Lexus GX 4602010 lexus gx4602010LexusGx460GXGX 460gx460lexusLexus GX 460LEXUS GX460LexusGx460Mon, 23 Nov 2009 15:58:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Justin Bell shows off Lexus LFA in Jay Leno's Garage]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/video-justin-bell-shows-off-lexus-lfa-in-jay-lenos-garage/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/video-justin-bell-shows-off-lexus-lfa-in-jay-lenos-garage/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/video-justin-bell-shows-off-lexus-lfa-in-jay-lenos-garage/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2011 Lexus LFA at California Speedway - Click above to view the video after the jump

The lease-only 2011 Lexus LFA supercar has been getting a lot of exposure lately. We had a chance to drive it a few weeks ago and just showed you some pics of the matte black car when it showed up at Cars & Coffee in Irvine this Saturday, but now we have something even better. LeMans-winner and Jay Leno Show racing coach, Justin Bell, heads out onto Fontana's California Speedway with this very same LFA, getting some instruction himself from fellow racer Scott Pruett before taking the better seat for a lap.

The segment was shot for the latest episode of Jay Leno's Garage, the Jay Leno webshow that highlights a different car every week, sometimes with Jay driving and sometimes with Justin doing the heavy lifting. Follow the jump to see the video for yourself and be sure to check out Jay's Garage regularly if you don't already. Listening to this thing rip up to 9,000 RPM is worth the nine-minute investment of your time, trust us. Thanks for the tip Gabriel!

[Source: Jay Leno's Garage]

Continue reading VIDEO: Justin Bell shows off Lexus LFA in Jay Leno's Garage

VIDEO: Justin Bell shows off Lexus LFA in Jay Leno's Garage originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 23 Nov 2009 13:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 Lexus2011 lexus lf-a2011 Lexus LFA2011Lexus2011LexusLf-a2011LexusLfacalifornia speedwayCaliforniaSpeedwayjay lenojay leno showjay lenos garageJayLenoJayLenosGarageJayLenoShowJustin BellJustinBelllexusLexus LF-Alexus lfaLexusLf-aLexusLfaLF-AlfaScott PruettScottPruettMon, 23 Nov 2009 13:56:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Lexus to lease - not sell - all U.S. LFA supercars in order to foil speculators]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/report-lexus-to-lease-not-sell-all-500-lfa-supercars-in-ord/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/report-lexus-to-lease-not-sell-all-500-lfa-supercars-in-ord/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/report-lexus-to-lease-not-sell-all-500-lfa-supercars-in-ord/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2011 Lexus LFA - Click above for high-res image gallery

In an interesting bid to foil exotic car speculators who drive up the prices of limited-availability models, Lexus will reportedly lease - not sell - its forthcoming LFA supercar when it hits the U.S. market in January of 2011. As Automotive News reports, Lexus will only offer two-year leases of its 552-horsepower supercar at a fixed price (which has not yet been disclosed). At the conclusion of the two year period, leaseholders will get the opportunity to purchase the vehicle outright, at which point the title would be handed over. As Lexus' vice president of sales and dealer development Brian Smith tells it, his company wants "people out driving the car and not just parking it in a museum or selling it at an inflated price."

As part of the gearing-up process to sell this markedly different kind of vehicle, Lexus will also reportedly train 15 LFA specialists that will be located at the company's four regional outposts, and the Japanese automaker will also pay for dealers to receive the special tools and training that will service the vehicles.

Despite being a lease, all cars will still be individually tailored to the customer and built-to-order beginning in December of 2010.

This is certainly an interesting and potentially very clever end-around on the speculator's market. If it works, look for other exotic car companies like Ferrari and Lamborghini to follow suit.


Gallery: First Drive: 2011 Lexus LFA


Photos copyright (C)2009 Damon Lavrinc / Weblogs, Inc.
[Source: Automotive News]

REPORT: Lexus to lease - not sell - all U.S. LFA supercars in order to foil speculators originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 23 Nov 2009 11:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>car leasecar leasingcar speculatorCarLeaseCarLeasingCarSpeculatorexotic carexotic car leasingExoticCarExoticCarLeasingleaseleasinglexusLF-ALFAspeculatorspeculatorssupercarMon, 23 Nov 2009 11:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Lexus introduces second-generation 2010 GX460]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/2010-Lexus-GX460-introduced/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/2010-Lexus-GX460-introduced/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/2010-Lexus-GX460-introduced/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2010 Lexus GX460 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Two steps forward and one step back seems to be the rally cry of the new 2010 Lexus GX460. This second-generation, three-row, mid-size, body-on-frame SUV from Lexus replaces the GX470, which, as its name implies, had a slightly larger engine. That 4.7-liter V8 engine, however, couldn't touch the combination of power and efficiency found in this new 4.6-liter V8. The new engine manages to pump out 301 hp and 329 lb.ft. of torque while returning 13 percent better fuel economy, now ringing in at 15/20 mpg. It also uses a second-generation frame and an all-new body with some class-leading features.

There's a lengthy press release after the jump with all the specifications and features of this new GX, but here are some of the highlights (take a deep breath): New standard power-folding third row, flip-forward second row slider for better third row access, rear swing gate with new pop-up glass for quick access, optional Pre-Collision System (PCS) with Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Driver Attention Monitor and Lane Departure Alert (LDA), full-time four-wheel drive, off- and on-road balancing Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS) with available Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS), 6,500-pound towing capacity, 18-inch alloy wheels, Crawl Control and Downhill Assist Control (DAC), ten standard airbags, Bluetooth, nine-speaker audio system with integrated iPod control and XM Radio receiver, rear back-up camera, optional Lexus Enform with Safety Connect, XM NavTraffic, XM NavWeather and XM Sports and Stocks by subscription. Got all that?

The 2010 Lexus GX460 will come in two different trim levels, base and Premium, identifiable by chrome strips surrounding the greenhouse and along the lower door contours. In addition to the features listed above, GX buyers can opt for a Convenience Package and a Comfort Plus Package. The Convenience Package adds power-retracting outside mirrors and Intuitive Parking Assist. The Comfort Plus Package includes semi-aniline leather, heated second-row outer seats, wood-trimmed steering wheel and shift knob, and a three-zone automatic climate control system. Major standalone options include the next-gen hard disc drive (HDD) nav system, a Mark Levinson Premium Audio system, a Rear Seat Entertainment (RSE) system with two LCD screens, a three-zone automatic climate control system, and the Wide-view Front and Side Monitor, which debuted on the 2009 LX 570.

We recently had a chance to sample this new GX460 and we'll have a lot more to say about it in our upcoming First Drive, but for now, here are the full details and a massive gallery of pics for you to enjoy.


Gallery: 2010 Lexus GX460


[Source: Lexus]

Continue reading Lexus introduces second-generation 2010 GX460

Lexus introduces second-generation 2010 GX460 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 23 Nov 2009 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 GX4602010 lexus2010 lexus gx4602010Gx4602010Lexus2010LexusGx460gx460lexusMon, 23 Nov 2009 00:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Cars & Coffee: Lexus LFA shows up ahead of LA Auto Show]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/21/cars-and-coffee-lexus-lfa-shows-up-ahead-of-la-auto-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/21/cars-and-coffee-lexus-lfa-shows-up-ahead-of-la-auto-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/21/cars-and-coffee-lexus-lfa-shows-up-ahead-of-la-auto-show/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2011 Lexus LFA at Cars & Coffee - Click above for high-res image gallery

The Lexus LFA supercar might not be in dealerships for another year or more, but the two prototypes are getting quite a workout. After driving the car in Miami, we heard the white one was shipped off to Europe while the black one took up residence in its new home: a trailer. The car has made a few appearances around the country, most recently at SEMA and a private showing in the Los Angeles area. Next stop on the LFA tour appears to be the LA Auto Show, but apparently it couldn't stand to be cooped up too long.

Along with a handful of other Lexus show cars, it showed up at our favorite Saturday morning car meet. The handler fired it up several times so the crowd could marvel at that V10 shriek. Reactions were mixed, mainly where price was concerned. We heard more than one person say that if it had a Supra badge and sub-$100K pricetag, it would be a killer. At four times that price, the Lexus badge just doesn't seem to win as many people over. One thing almost everyone loved was that changeable display with the sliding center gauge.


Gallery: 2011 Lexus LFA at Cars & Coffee

Cars & Coffee: Lexus LFA shows up ahead of LA Auto Show originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 21 Nov 2009 20:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 Lexus2011 lexus lf-a2011 Lexus LFA2011Lexus2011LexusLf-a2011LexusLfaCars CoffeeCarsCoffeelexusLexus LF-Alexus lfaLexusLf-aLexusLfaLF-AlfasupercarsupercarsSat, 21 Nov 2009 20:03:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: New Lexus small car may be headed for U.S. by 2012 - perhaps sooner]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/20/report-new-lexus-small-car-may-be-headed-for-u-s-by-2012-per/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/20/report-new-lexus-small-car-may-be-headed-for-u-s-by-2012-per/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/20/report-new-lexus-small-car-may-be-headed-for-u-s-by-2012-per/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Lexus LF-Ch concept - click above for high-res image gallery

Lexus introduced its LF-Ch concept at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September and it's believed to be a shoe-in for production for the European market. However, in a new Detroit Bureau interview with the brand's general manager, Mark Templin, it is confirmed that Lexus is seriously considering bringing a production version of the hatchback to the U.S. market as well. If it does come here, it would be the smallest Lexus and would compete against the likes of the Audi A3, BMW 1 Series, Volvo C30 and Mini Cooper - only the latter of which has managed to sell in big numbers. The Lexus concept will be shown again at the upcoming Los Angeles Auto Show as well as in Detroit, where Lexus officials will be evaluating reactions to a premium priced small car.

Such cars are already well accepted in Europe and the idea of smaller premium cars may yet hold some appeal in the U.S. - especially if fuel prices rise. Lexus has no intention of decontenting the LF-Ch to keep the price down if it does come to the States. While the Detroit Bureau cautions that a production LF-Ch is likely to have a conventional powertrain as standard fitment, a hybrid will probably be needed to compete with the A3 TDI and a possible 1 Series hybrid or diesel down the line.


Gallery: Lexus LF-Ch Concept

01-lexus-lf-ch-concept-high02-lexus-lf-ch-concept-high03-lexus-lf-ch-concept-high04-lexus-lf-ch-concept-high05-lexus-lf-ch-concept-high

[Source: The Detroit Bureau]

REPORT: New Lexus small car may be headed for U.S. by 2012 - perhaps sooner originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 20 Nov 2009 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gas-electrichybridlexusLexus hybridlexus lf chLexus LF-Chlexus lf-ch conceptlexus lf-ch hybridLexus small carLexusHybridLexusLf-chLexusLf-chConceptLexusLf-chHybridLexusLfChLexusSmallCarLF-ChFri, 20 Nov 2009 10:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Lexus GX460 to debut in China at Auto Guangzhou 2009]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/16/lexus-gx460-to-debut-in-china-at-auto-guangzhou-2009/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/16/lexus-gx460-to-debut-in-china-at-auto-guangzhou-2009/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/16/lexus-gx460-to-debut-in-china-at-auto-guangzhou-2009/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2009 Lexus GX 470
2009 Lexus GX470: Its days are numbered

The arrival of the 2010 Toyota 4Runner meant that a luxury-badged cousin would soon follow. Sure enough, Toyota has announced that the new 2010 Lexus GX460 will be among the array of vehicles to be shown next week at China's Auto Guangzhou 2009 show. As the nomenclature would suggest, the next-gen GX will be powered by a 4.6-liter V8, which is rumored to make 300 horsepower in the GX460, a 37-hp bump over the 4.7-liter V8's output in the current vehicle (shown above).

According to scuttlebutt posted to ClubLexus.com following last year's New York City dealer meeting, we should look for the new GX to arrive in January 2010 with styling that borrows heavily from the full-sized LX570 SUV and electrically-folding third row seating. We'll keep our eyes peeled for photos and additional info, but in the meantime you can check out Toyota's brief PR after the jump.

Continue reading Lexus GX460 to debut in China at Auto Guangzhou 2009

Lexus GX460 to debut in China at Auto Guangzhou 2009 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 16 Nov 2009 17:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20102010 lexus gx4602010LexusGx460breakingGuangzhouGuangzhou 2009Guangzhou Auto ShowGuangzhou2009GuangzhouAutoGuangzhouAutoShowgx460lexuslexus gxLexusGxnew lexus gxNewLexusGxMon, 16 Nov 2009 17:59:00 EST<![CDATA[SEMA 2009: Meet the world's most desirable Lexus RX450h by Branew]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/sema-2009-meet-the-worlds-most-desirable-lexus-rx450h-by-brane/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/sema-2009-meet-the-worlds-most-desirable-lexus-rx450h-by-brane/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/sema-2009-meet-the-worlds-most-desirable-lexus-rx450h-by-brane/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Branew Lexus RX450h - click above image to view hi-res gallery

Let me be blunt: I don't like luxury crossovers. At all. It's a niche with no appeal to me whatsoever. Not a car, not a truck - just a fat sedan jacked up on stilts to woo trophy wives with fancy badges and reassure soccer mammas that their children are "safe." And the Lexus RX gets the sharp point of my spear of anger because it's basically responsible for the high-end CUV craze. Not a fan of hybrids, either. That said, I'm absolutely smitten with Branew's Lexus RX450h.

I think it's the stance, has to be. But there is just something very desirable - from an aesthetic standpoint. The big 24-inch wheels help tremendously, perching Branew's at just the right height. And the lower fascia helps the quite handsome - if not distinctive - OEM grill pop. And I know it's going to be a controversial opinion, but the koi fish on the hood totally work. In fact, I know a certain Subaru WRX that could use a koi or two. Anyhow, while I'd rather gargle nails than rock a luxo-CUV, if forced at gunpoint, Branew's RX450h would be my first (and only) choice.


Gallery: SEMA 2009: Branew Lexus RX450h

SEMA 2009: Meet the world's most desirable Lexus RX450h by Branew originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Nov 2009 18:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BranewBranew LexusBranew Lexus RX450hBranewLexusBranewLexusRx450hLexuslexus RXLexus RX450hLexusRxLexusRx450hluxury crossoverluxury CUVLuxuryCrossoverLuxuryCuvRX450hSEMASEMA 2009SEMA ShowSema2009SemaShowThu, 05 Nov 2009 18:20:00 EST<![CDATA[SEMA 2009: Lexus F-Sports sitting in the sun]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/sema-2009-lexus-f-sports-sitting-in-the-sun/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/sema-2009-lexus-f-sports-sitting-in-the-sun/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/sema-2009-lexus-f-sports-sitting-in-the-sun/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Lexus GS 350 F-Sport - click above image for hi-res gallery

It's tempting to dismiss Lexus' F-Sport as a direct Audi S-Line rip off. But unlike Audi's visual-only appearance upgrades, F-Sport actually offers some performance (intake, exhaust, brakes, etc.), handling and exterior body mods. Advantage, Lexus.

And we like the Yakuza-y stance of this GS 350 F-Sport. The GS has in many ways been the forgotten Lexus for the past few years (it's a 5 Series competitor, don't you know), but this TRD tuned GS has us remembering. First, is the paint - in this case Vibrance Orange Glow Candy. Hubba bubba. There's also a full ground effects package and a grill insert (which kind of makes it look like the new Subaru Legacy), F-Sport wheels, shocks, springs and brakes. All in all a well done if not enticing package. And get this -- the IS 350 C F-Sport is done up in the exact same way.


Gallery: SEMA 2009: Lexus F-Sport

SEMA 2009: Lexus F-Sports sitting in the sun originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Nov 2009 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>F-SportGS 350 F-SportGS F-SportGs350F-sportGsF-sportLexusLexus IS 350 C F-SportLexusIs350CF-sportSEMASEMA 2009SEMA ShowSema2009SemaShowThu, 05 Nov 2009 08:01:00 EST<![CDATA[SEMA 2009: A trio of modded Lexus customs drop their tops]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/04/sema-2009-a-trio-of-modded-lexus-drop-tops/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/04/sema-2009-a-trio-of-modded-lexus-drop-tops/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/04/sema-2009-a-trio-of-modded-lexus-drop-tops/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Lexus IS250 and 350 Cs at SEMA - Click above for high-res image gallery

While it might be tempting to dismiss the Lexus C (either the 250 or 350) as a bustled buttocksed luxury faux-sports car, Lexus implanted enough good handling (in the 250 C) and/or POWA! (in the 350 C) to make 'em pretty much OK in our book. Still, this is SEMA -- pretty much OK is never even kinda close to good enough.

Meet the IS 350C by Fox Marketing. First of all, check out that Foxy Green paint. We like it, and it reminds us of the Snake Skin Green found on the Dodge Viper -- bonus! But Fox's IS 350C is much more than several coats of high-gloss paint, there's a supercharger bolted to the 3.5-liter V6 making six pounds of boost and increasing the motor's gumption from 300 horses to a pretty dang respectable 405 hp. There are no less than eleven custom body panels, including a Foxy Green Lexus badge. We like this one.

Next up is the IS 350 C by Auto Salon and JTuned.com. Unlike the shiny Foxy Green C, this one is matte. And red. With a touch of black. And while there's (sadly) no supercharger, there is about $15,000 worth of mods and baubles, including performance enhancing goodies like a custom intake, exhaust and air filter. There's also a reworked fuel mapping schema and a new throttle system. There's also a set of big old Hankooks and more carbon fiber than a Boeing Dreamliner. Just kidding on that last bit, but you get the idea.

Lastly, we've got 0-60 and Design Craft Fabrication's custom IS 250 C. From a handling perspective, this might be pick of the litter, as we've always dug the more balanced dancing ways of the smaller 250 to the faster but nose-heavier 350. Add to that a KW coilover setup, chipped ECU, tuned exhaust and custom Brembos stopping one-piece Advan racing wheels and you've got quite a tasty package. And the Pontiac G8 looking twin hood vents are kinda growing on us.


Gallery: SEMA 2009: Lexus' tuned trio of IS Cs

SEMA 2009: A trio of modded Lexus customs drop their tops originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 04 Nov 2009 17:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Fox MarketingFoxMarketingFoxy GreenFoxyGreenLexusLexus IS 250 CLexus IS 350 CLexus IS 350 C by Fox MarketingLexusIs250CLexusIs350CLexusIs350CByFoxMarketingSEMASEMA 2009SEMA ShowSema2009SemaShowWed, 04 Nov 2009 17:20:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Weaving the Lexus LFA's carbon fiber A-pillar is mesmerizing]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/29/video-weaving-the-lexus-lfas-carbon-fiber-a-pillar/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/29/video-weaving-the-lexus-lfas-carbon-fiber-a-pillar/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/29/video-weaving-the-lexus-lfas-carbon-fiber-a-pillar/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



If you read our First Drive of the Lexus LFA, you might recall an interesting little factoid we threw in to illustrate the OCD-level of detail Toyota used to produce its first ever supercar.

With over 150 years of looming experience, ToMoCo owns a rotary weaver -- one of two in existence -- which it repurposed to create the carbon fiber A-pillars on the LFA. The process is mindbogglingly awe-inspiring and we were finally able to snag video of the device in action. Make the jump to check it out and get a better idea of why the LFA carries its steep $375,000 price tag.

UPDATE: Toyota asked us to take down the video. Something about proprietary technology. Lame.

Gallery: First Drive: 2011 Lexus LFA

VIDEO: Weaving the Lexus LFA's carbon fiber A-pillar is mesmerizing originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 29 Oct 2009 19:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carbon fibercarbon fiber weaverCarbonFiberCarbonFiberWeaverlexuslexus lfalexus lfa carbon fiber weaverLexusLfaLexusLfaCarbonFiberWeaverlfavideoThu, 29 Oct 2009 19:56:00 EST<![CDATA[NHTSA releases new info about crash that prompted Toyota floormat recall]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/26/nhtsa-releases-new-info-about-crash-that-prompted-toyota-floorma/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/26/nhtsa-releases-new-info-about-crash-that-prompted-toyota-floorma/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/26/nhtsa-releases-new-info-about-crash-that-prompted-toyota-floorma/#commentsFiled under: ,



Contrary to previous reports, the death of a four people and the largest recall in Toyota's history was caused by a compound of errors. The initial buzz/word on the virtual street suggested that it was simply an improperly placed floor mat that doomed CHP officer Mark Saylor and three family members when the Lexus ES350 they were traveling in got jammed open at over 100 MPH before crashing and bursting into flames. But it turns out it was more than just a floor mat.

First of all, the floor mat in question didn't belong to the ES350 (actually, the ES350 didn't belong to Officer Saylor -- it was a dealer loaner while his car was being worked on). The mats in the ES350 that crashed were from a RX400h. Not only that, they were those thick, all-weather hard rubber mats. Regardless, because the dealer had placed the wrong mats into the wrong car, there was no way to properly mount them. Also, it seems that the pedal design of the ES350 also played a role. The NHTSA discovered that, "Beyond the main pivot, the lever is not hinged and has no means for relieving forces caused by interferences." We think that means it can easily get stuck.

But that's not all. The NHTSA had also learned from a previous ES350 investigation that, "the Lexus ES braking system loses power-assist when the throttle is fully opened, increasing braking distance fivefold." That's not good. And the brakes had signs of heavy wear and damage, "Rotors were discolored and heated, had very rough surfaces, had substantial deposits of brake pad material, and showed signs of bright orange oxidation on the cooling fins consistent with endured braking."

Additionally, because the Lexus has push button start, the operator must push the button for three seconds before the engine will shut off. A piece of info obviously and sadly not known by Officer Saylor. The San Diego County Sheriff's office is leading the investigation and has not yet released their final report. We'll keep you posted on that, but as they say in plane crashes, looks like the holes in the swiss cheese all lined up.

[Source: LA Times]

NHTSA releases new info about crash that prompted Toyota floormat recall originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 26 Oct 2009 15:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Floor MatsFloorMatsLexusLexus Floor MatLexus Floor MatsLexus RecallLexusFloorMatLexusFloorMatsLexusRecallNHTSAToyota Floor Mattoyota floor mat recallToyota Floor MatsToyota RecallToyotaFloorMatToyotaFloorMatRecallToyotaFloorMatsToyotaRecallMon, 26 Oct 2009 15:32:00 EST