Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[2013 Lexus RX redesign revealed in leaked brochure]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/13/2013-lexus-rx-redesign-revealed-in-leaked-brochure/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/13/2013-lexus-rx-redesign-revealed-in-leaked-brochure/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/13/2013-lexus-rx-redesign-revealed-in-leaked-brochure/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2013 Lexus RX brochure leak

There's no doubting the importance of the Lexus RX. It's one of the top-selling models from one of the top-selling luxury marques. At the cutting edge when introduced in the late '90s, the RX is now on its third iteration, with a fourth on the way - and this appears to be our best look at it yet.

Coming your way via a leaked brochure, the 2013 Lexus RX is apparently undergoing a facelift that will bring its appearance in line with the brand's latest design language - centering around the pinched chrome-edged "spindle" grille that characterizes the front of the latest GS sedan. Reshaped headlamps with a strip of LEDs flank either side, and, of course, it's all riding on new wheels.

While the RX may not be exactly what you'd call "performance-oriented" - floating as it does down the road and communicating less through the steering wheel than you'd expect from a pouting pre-teen behind a slammed bedroom door - the new model is apparently getting an F Sport trim kit. That would include a new front bumper, honeycomb grille, rear spoiler, bigger wheels and tinted lamps, with sportier trim to match on the inside.

We'd expect to see Lexus officially release the new RX sometime within the next few weeks, with a probable debut at the New York Auto Show in April, but in the meantime you can scope it out right here.

2013 Lexus RX redesign revealed in leaked brochure originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 13 Feb 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 lexus rxlexuslexus rxlexus rx350rxrx 350rx-350rx350Mon, 13 Feb 2012 11:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20170562/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/13/2013-lexus-rx-redesign-revealed-in-leaked-brochure/20170562/article-detail.xml 20170562 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/web-00-rx-leak_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/web-00-rx-leak.jpg <![CDATA[Screaming green Lexus LFA likely to split opinions]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/02/screaming-green-lexus-lfa-likely-to-split-opinions/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/02/screaming-green-lexus-lfa-likely-to-split-opinions/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/02/screaming-green-lexus-lfa-likely-to-split-opinions/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Green Lexus LFA

The fabulously wealthy face all sorts of dilemmas that the rest of us never have to bother with. If you can afford a Lexus LFA, for example, what color do you opt for? Red is clearly for the Ferrari in your stable. Black belongs on your hearse, and... copper? Well, that's best left for your LX570. What you want is something that makes a statement. A color that kicks puppies and steals candy from kids on Halloween. Green. You want the kind of green that will make Lamborghini Gallardo owners look tasteful by comparison.

That's exactly what the buyer of LFA number 250 went with. We aren't entirely sure what the color is called, but our retinas won't be the same for a week. The hue is almost a more violent version of the Emerald Green found on early '70s Porsche 911 models. The paint might not look quite as at home as it does on vintage Porsche sheetmetal, but we still love it (something tells tells us there will be plenty of you who fall on the other side of the fence). What do you think? Have your say in Comments.

Screaming green Lexus LFA likely to split opinions originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 02 Feb 2012 11:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 lexus lfagreen lexus lfagreen lfalexuslf-alfavip auto salonThu, 02 Feb 2012 11:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20162719/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/02/screaming-green-lexus-lfa-likely-to-split-opinions/20162719/article-detail.xml 20162719 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/01-green-lexus-lfa-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/01-green-lexus-lfa-628.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Lexus GS unleashed in Super Bowl ad]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/31/2013-lexus-gs-unleashed-in-super-bowl-ad/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/31/2013-lexus-gs-unleashed-in-super-bowl-ad/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/31/2013-lexus-gs-unleashed-in-super-bowl-ad/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Lexus Super Bowl commercial

Lexus has a redesigned GS that it truly believes can compete with the likes of the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. So it's going where the eyeballs are with its marketing, ponying up for the brand's first-ever Super Bowl ad. Lexus' commercial is just a 30-second spot, joining the likes of Acura, Audi, Cadillac and other brands buying time during the big game.

Lexus is calling its ad, "The Beast," which calls to mind both President Obama's limo and the 2009 documentary by Eric Bana. The actual spot, however, has a rather hackneyed sci-fi theme: A GS350 is locked up in a shipping container sized cage in a lab, and uses its new "Lexus spindle grille" to break free in a destructive orgy of CGI.

Click past the jump to watch the whole ad.

Continue reading 2013 Lexus GS unleashed in Super Bowl ad

2013 Lexus GS unleashed in Super Bowl ad originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 31 Jan 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 lexus gs 350gsgs 350gs350lexuslexus super bowllexus super bowl commercialsuper bowlsuper bowl commercialsuper bowl commercialsvideoTue, 31 Jan 2012 15:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20161054/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/31/2013-lexus-gs-unleashed-in-super-bowl-ad/20161054/article-detail.xml 20161054 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/lexus-beast-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/lexus-beast-opt.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Lexus LX 570 price increased to $81,805*]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/20/2013-lexus-lx-570-price-increased-to-81-805/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/20/2013-lexus-lx-570-price-increased-to-81-805/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/20/2013-lexus-lx-570-price-increased-to-81-805/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2013 Lexus LX 570

A new Lexus LX 570 is going to set you back nearly $82k after you add $875 delivery to its $80,930 base price. The luxury version of the Toyota Land Cruiser wears a new Lexus spindle grille, one that's big enough to make Rumplestiltskin proud, and it has revised front and rear fascias among the other upgrades that Lexus says justify its 1.9-percent price increase.

Among the other new-for-2013 features are an updated Crawl Control mode and terrain-select for the all-wheel-drive system, because what Lexus owner doesn't enjoy serious rock-crawling? A new multimedia system with the next-generation Lexus Enform system is also part of the deal, which seems much more in line with real-world customer behavior, as Enform allows drivers to use Facebook and Yelp, among other services.

For those LX 570 buyers who just must have it all, there's also a $1,510 luxury package that adds some higher grade trim and features, and a backseat entertainment system for $2,005.

Toyota only sold 3,167 units of the Lexus LX last year, down by about 20 percent.

To read the full release, click past the jump.

Continue reading 2013 Lexus LX 570 price increased to $81,805*

2013 Lexus LX 570 price increased to $81,805* originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 20 Jan 2012 09:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 lexus lx 570lexuslexus pricinglx 570Fri, 20 Jan 2012 09:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20152571/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/20/2013-lexus-lx-570-price-increased-to-81-805/20152571/article-detail.xml 20152571 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/01-2013-lexus-lx570-detroit-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/01-2013-lexus-lx570-detroit-opt.jpg <![CDATA[First Lexus Super Bowl ad to star 2013 GS]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/18/first-lexus-super-bowl-ad-to-star-2013-gs/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/18/first-lexus-super-bowl-ad-to-star-2013-gs/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/18/first-lexus-super-bowl-ad-to-star-2013-gs/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Lexus Super Bowl ad teaser screencap

Given a moment's thought, it's a little surprising that Lexus, a luxury brand that changed the game, has never run an ad during the Super Bowl. But the home of L-Finesse not only has nine new or updated cars coming out this year, led by the 2013 GS, it has a new attitude, which will be "uncontained" in a 30-second spot while the Niners play the Patriots the NFL champion is decided.

The ad will be supported by a campaign called "TweetDrive Engineered by Lexus," and those with a Twitter account and a bunch of correct answers will have a chance to win a trip to that Bowl of Superness. The spot arrives on February 5. For now, you can watch the teaser trailer and check out the press release and contest details after the jump.

Continue reading First Lexus Super Bowl ad to star 2013 GS

First Lexus Super Bowl ad to star 2013 GS originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 18 Jan 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 super bowlgs 350gs 450hgs 460gs350gs450hgs460lexuslexus gssuper bowlsuper bowl adssuper bowl commercialssuperbowlvideoWed, 18 Jan 2012 10:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20150852/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/18/first-lexus-super-bowl-ad-to-star-2013-gs/20150852/article-detail.xml 20150852 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/lexussuperbowlad_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/lexussuperbowlad.jpg <![CDATA[Lexus pondering CT variants, seven-seat people mover]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/16/lexus-pondering-ct-variants-seven-seat-people-mover/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/16/lexus-pondering-ct-variants-seven-seat-people-mover/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/16/lexus-pondering-ct-variants-seven-seat-people-mover/#commentsFiled under: ,



What's good for the goose is good for the gander. Only in this case, when we say "goose," we mean Toyota, and when we say "gander," we mean Lexus.

Take, for instance, the Japanese auto giant's hybrid strategy. Leave aside hybrid drivetrains available in conventional models (like the Toyota Camry Hybrid or the Lexus GS 450h) and look directly at the stand-alone hybrid models like the Prius, which has grown from a single model into an entire range into an of itself. Now Lexus is reportedly preparing to follow suit.

Fortunately that won't mean more vehicles like the HS, which is being discontinued, but more variants based on the CT 200h. In the coming years we could be looking at more body-styles based on the hybrid hatchback, though details remain scarce at this point.

The expansion of the CT family is only part of a larger product push for Lexus, which reportedly plans nine new or significantly updated models before the end of this year. The new GS sedan is to come first, followed by new versions of the ES, IS and LS, plus hybrid and F-Sport versions. A facelifted LX sport-ute just debuted at the Detroit Auto Show, and we could see the addition of a seven-seat crossover (to compete with the new Infiniti JX) and a new coupe to succeed the long-gone SC.

All in all it's shaping up to be quite an ambitious campaign to propel Lexus back to the top of the luxury car market, a position reclaimed in recent years by the likes of Mercedes-Benz and BMW.

Lexus pondering CT variants, seven-seat people mover originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 16 Jan 2012 15:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ctct 200hlexuslexus ctlexus ct 200hMon, 16 Jan 2012 15:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20149635/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/16/lexus-pondering-ct-variants-seven-seat-people-mover/20149635/article-detail.xml 20149635 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/08-2011-lexus-ct-200h-review_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/08-2011-lexus-ct-200h-review.jpg <![CDATA[Lexus LFA Roadster makes appearance at Japanese drift event]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/13/lexus-lfa-roadster-makes-apperance-at-japanese-drift-event/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/13/lexus-lfa-roadster-makes-apperance-at-japanese-drift-event/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/13/lexus-lfa-roadster-makes-apperance-at-japanese-drift-event/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Lexus LFA Roadster drifting

If top-down motoring is your cup of tea, there are few droptops that could elicit as many smiles per sun-drenched hour than the long-rumored Lexus LFA Roadster. We first saw the V10-powered 552-horsepower machine at the 2008 Detroit Auto Show, but the automaker has kept its lips firmly sealed on the potential of a production version since that showing.

Interestingly enough, though, it appears that Toyota's luxury division may not be done trotting proproduction LFA Roadsters around the auto show circuit. As can be seen in the video after the break, the Lexus droptop stunner made an appearance at the most recent Tokyo Auto Salon, where it took part in an exhibition run for the D1GP Kick Off Drift event.

Here's where things get a little murky. We have no idea if this is a factory-made LFA Roadster - it could be a custom job, or it could be the same exact car Lexus showed off in Detroit four years ago, albeit wearing a new coat of white paint and an unfortunate rollbar. Whatever the case, you can see exactly how easily the V10-powered machine can smoke its rear tires after the break.

Special Bonus: Watch now and you'll see extra drifting footage of a Toyota GT 86!

Continue reading Lexus LFA Roadster makes appearance at Japanese drift event

Lexus LFA Roadster makes appearance at Japanese drift event originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 13 Jan 2012 19:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lexuslexus lfalexus lfa convertiblelexus lfa roadsterlf-alfalfa convertiblelfa roadstertokyo auto salonvideoFri, 13 Jan 2012 19:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20148658/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/13/lexus-lfa-roadster-makes-apperance-at-japanese-drift-event/20148658/article-detail.xml 20148658 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/lexus-lfa-convert-drift_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/lexus-lfa-convert-drift.jpg <![CDATA[Ford Fusion, Lexus LF-LC win Eyes on Design awards]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/13/ford-fusion-lexus-lf-lc-win-eyes-on-design-awards/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/13/ford-fusion-lexus-lf-lc-win-eyes-on-design-awards/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/13/ford-fusion-lexus-lf-lc-win-eyes-on-design-awards/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Every year at the Detroit Auto Show, the Eyes on Design awards honors the best designs among production vehicles and concepts debuting that year. Unlike, say, the North American International Car and Truck of the Year awards, the only vehicles eligible for an Eyes on Design award are the ones that introduce themselves to the world - well, really just North America - in Detroit.

What's particularly interesting is that the judges for these two awards (one for production vehicles and the other for concepts) are all active or retired designers themselves, so they know a little something about the topic. This year's group includes, among others, Volkswagen head of design Walter de Silva, President and CEO of SRT Ralph Gilles, and GM Vice President of Global Design Ed Welburn.

This year, the Eyes on Design awards were handed out to the 2013 Ford Fusion in the production category and the Lexus LF-LC in the concept category. The Fusion's fellow finalists were the 2013 BMW 3 Series and 2013 Cadillac ATS, while the LF-LC eked out a W over the Chevrolet Tru 140S and Lincoln MKZ.

Ford Fusion, Lexus LF-LC win Eyes on Design awards originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 13 Jan 2012 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 ford fusiondetroitdetroit 2012detroit auto showeyes on designfordfusionlexuslf-lcFri, 13 Jan 2012 18:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20148169/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/13/ford-fusion-lexus-lf-lc-win-eyes-on-design-awards/20148169/article-detail.xml 20148169 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/ford-fusion-eyes-on-design_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/ford-fusion-eyes-on-design.jpg <![CDATA[LF-LC concept proves Lexus can do sexy sports coupes]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/09/lexus-lf-lc-concept-detroit-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/09/lexus-lf-lc-concept-detroit-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/09/lexus-lf-lc-concept-detroit-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Lexus LF-LC Concept

The Lexus LF-LC concept has been leaking on the Internet longer than most Detroit-bound reveals, but that doesn't make the 2+2 coupe any less stunning. The concept clearly shows the design progression that started with the CT 200h and made real strides with the 2013 GS.

The hot-looking coupe was penned by Lexus' Calty design studio in Newport Beach, California. It comes as no surprise to us that this rolling design study also packs hybrid power, but Lexus claims that the sleek sports car will also deliver cutting-edge driving dynamics.

We're all for a Lexus with track aspirations, but this coupe is a design study that promises to further reveal the future of Lexus design. The LF-LC boldly displays Lexus' new spindle grill, while also mixing in sharp angles and elegant curves. The LF-LC also suggests to us that the LF-A may not be a one-and-done foray into the exotic sports coupe segment, but at the same time Lexus promises that the LF-LC could "remain within reach for premium buyers."

Outside of audacious LED headlamps and about two inches of ground clearance the exterior of the LF-LC looks production ready. The same cannot be said for the futuristic but still very cool cabin. the cabin is dominated by rich leather, tons of suede, thin yet elegant seats and more polished wood than a bowling alley. Actually, the center stack looks like it could spit out a 14-pound ball with three holes, and that's not a bad thing.

The tech story is equally impressive, as a pair of 12.3-inch screens that pull information and navigation duties, respectively. The impressive screen dominating the center stack is of the touch-sensitive variety, and it also controls audio, climate and navigation. The LF-LC also features a keyboard that helps the driver with more complex entries... hopefully for when this high-end Lexus remains in park. Lexus has gone further still with the touch tech, as doors, windows, mirrors, seats and entertainment systems are all manipulated through similar controls on the doors.

The LF-LC is clearly a concept vehicle, but it's definitely sexy enough to help improve the design forecast for the (still) visually underwhelming Lexus lineup. We're hoping to get more information on what the LF-LC has under the hood when it is officially unveiled at the Detroit Auto Show momentarily. Hit the jump to read over the Lexus press release and feel free to click through the high-resolution image gallery above.

Continue reading LF-LC concept proves Lexus can do sexy sports coupes

LF-LC concept proves Lexus can do sexy sports coupes originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 09 Jan 2012 13:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cesdetroitdetroit 2012detroit auto showgs 350lexuslf lclf-lclfalflcMon, 09 Jan 2012 13:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20143359/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/09/lexus-lf-lc-concept-detroit-2012/20143359/article-detail.xml 20143359 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/lexus-lf-lc-concept-detroit_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/lexus-lf-lc-concept-detroit.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Lexus LX 570 gets GS-inspired minor facelift]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/09/2013-lexus-lx-570-detroit-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/09/2013-lexus-lx-570-detroit-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/09/2013-lexus-lx-570-detroit-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2013 Lexus LX570

Lexus has put the LX 570 under the knife for 2013. The sprawling SUV makes its debut at the 2012 Detroit Auto Show wearing a revised front fascia, complete with the company's "spindle" grille design and new LED daytime running lights - very similar to its sister SUV, the Toyota Land Cruiser. The vehicle's side-view mirrors now come equipped with integrated turning indicators for the first time, and around back, the 2013 Lexus LX 570 wears redesigned tail lamps alongside a revised rear valance with stainless steel accents. A new 20-inch wheel design is also part of the update.

Indoors, the 2013 LX 570 comes equipped with a new Easy Access system for the driver, which automatically retracts the steering wheel and driver's seat for easier ingress and egress. Designers sprinkled new mahogany wood trim throughout the cabin as well as additional 120-volt power adapters. Likewise, the instrument cluster now comes in a new color scheme for 2013. Snazzy.

Otherwise, expect to find the same 5.7-liter V8 underhood that's powered LX 570 models of yore. That means buyers can look forward to a stout 383 horsepower and 403 pound-feet of torque. Click past the jump for the full press release.

Continue reading 2013 Lexus LX 570 gets GS-inspired minor facelift

2013 Lexus LX 570 gets GS-inspired minor facelift originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 09 Jan 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 lexus lx 570detroitdetroit 2012detroit auto showlexuslxlx 570Mon, 09 Jan 2012 13:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20142449/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/09/2013-lexus-lx-570-detroit-2012/20142449/article-detail.xml 20142449 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/2013-lexus-lx570-detroit_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/2013-lexus-lx570-detroit.jpg <![CDATA[More photos of hybrid Lexus LF-LC Concept hit the web [UPDATE]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/04/more-photos-of-hybrid-lexus-lf-lc-concept-hit-the-web/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/04/more-photos-of-hybrid-lexus-lf-lc-concept-hit-the-web/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/04/more-photos-of-hybrid-lexus-lf-lc-concept-hit-the-web/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Lexus LF-LC Concept

Thanks to our friends over at Road & Track jumping the embargo gun, we received our first sneak peak of the Lexus LF-LC Concept. Now the rest of the story has been published, with R&T taking a thorough look at how Toyota's California-based Calty Design Research facility came up with the look of the racy hybrid 2+2 coupe.

"Only a few written attributes were given as criteria: avant-garde beauty, originality, driving joy and unequaled technology," according to the story, which says Toyota CEO Akio Toyoda himself weighed in with a mandate that the car "have the 'wow' factor."

Lexus has been working on the LF-LC Concept for a year and a half, so the concept is no mere auto show roller. That kind of attention-to-detail shows in the new photos, especially inside the car. A finely detailed interior with wave designs stitched into the leather door panels is a nice touch that reinforces the car's exterior design language, which R&T says Lexus is calling "tumbling ribbon." The car also has a multi-layered instrument panel that looks like it could have been inspired by any number of sci-fi video games.

One thing missing from the article is any further information about the hybrid drivetrain system in the car. Curiously, while the press release on Toyota's Japanese website announcing that it would be unveiling the car mentions "Advanced Lexus Hybrid Drive," that line was omitted from the release on the American site. Apparently we'll have to wait until the car's official reveal at the Detroit Auto Show on January 9 to find out what (if anything) is under the hood of the LF-LC.

There's plenty more to take in, including two new beauty shots from Autocar, so be sure to check out all the photos in the gallery.

UPDATE: Lexus has released two high-res images and we've added them to the gallery above.

More photos of hybrid Lexus LF-LC Concept hit the web [UPDATE] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 04 Jan 2012 10:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advanced lexus hybrid driveconceptdetroitdetroit 2012detroit auto showhybridlc-lc conceptlexuslexus lf-lclexus lf-lc conceptlf-lcWed, 04 Jan 2012 10:56:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20140077/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/04/more-photos-of-hybrid-lexus-lf-lc-concept-hit-the-web/20140077/article-detail.xml 20140077 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/lexuslflcconcept007-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/lexuslflcconcept007-628.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Lexus GS 450h [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/30/2013-lexus-gs-450h-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/30/2013-lexus-gs-450h-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/30/2013-lexus-gs-450h-w-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Lexus' Best Compromise Yet



Ever since the Prius unexpectedly became the Xerox of hybrids and a greenie icon, Toyota has been trying to figure out how to apply the technology to its other models. Its results have been decidedly mixed, nowhere more so than with its luxury lineup. But with the 2013 Lexus GS 450h, Toyota thinks it has finally figured out what a hybrid luxury car should be.

From a sales perspective, the first-generation GS 450h was a disappointment. While we liked it quite a bit when we test-drove it a couple years ago, Lexus just hasn't been able to move the metal. Introduced to much fanfare in 2006 as a 2007 model, the GS was Lexus' second hybrid and the first rear-wheel-drive hybrid on the market. Lexus touted it as a performance sedan, even as Toyota was heavily marketing its hybrids as fuel sippers. Whether consumers were confused or not, they never took to the hybrid GS. Sales peaked at just below 1,800 in that first year and have gone down in each successive year. In 2010, Lexus sold barely 300 GS hybrids, roughly four percent of total GS sales, which were about 7,000.

The cognitive dissonance presented by Lexus hybrids has been an issue since the brand launched its first, the 2006 RX 400h SUV. Only marginally more powerful than the standard RX, its improvement in fuel economy was similarly slight at launch. The LS 600hL - the brand's halo car before the LFA sports car came along - is a six-figure, 20-mile-per-gallon hybrid marketed as having V12 performance with V8 fuel economy, the rough equivalent of ordering a Diet Coke with your Super Size Big Mac Extra Value Meal. The "Lexus Prius" HS 250h, with neither particularly good fuel economy (35 mpg combined) nor any sporting aspirations, has been a critical and sales disaster and is rumored to be on the chopping block. While Toyota's simple, "better mileage" definition of its hybrids is clear, Lexus has combined green machine and muscle car in varying doses, such that you never quite know what you'll be getting with a gas-electric Lexus.

Continue reading 2013 Lexus GS 450h [w/video]

2013 Lexus GS 450h [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 30 Dec 2011 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 lexus gs 450hfeaturedfirst driveFirstDrivegsgs 450hgs hybridgs450hhybridlexuslexus gstoyotaFri, 30 Dec 2011 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20137444/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/30/2013-lexus-gs-450h-w-video/20137444/article-detail.xml 20137444 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/03-2013-lexus-gs-45h-fd-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/03-2013-lexus-gs-45h-fd-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Lexus releases official LF-LC image]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/21/lexus-releases-official-lf-lc-image/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/21/lexus-releases-official-lf-lc-image/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/21/lexus-releases-official-lf-lc-image/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Thanks to the folks at Road & Track, we got our first glimpse at the Detroit-bound Lexus LF-LC concept yesterday, and to follow suit, Lexus has released its first official image showing the new two-plus-two in all its glory. We don't know much about the new coupe, except that the design was "crafted from a clean sheet of paper," and that "the LF-LC blends both high technology and organic shapes to connect the driver to the machine."

Alright then.

We've suggested that the LF-LC could be a Lexus LS-based coupe to take on the likes of the Mercedes-Benz SL and BMW 6 Series, but we won't know exactly what's in store until the concept car is revealed next month. For now, scroll through our attached image galleries - one of the official Lexus shots, the other of the leaked R&T images - and follow the jump for Lexus' brief press release.

Continue reading Lexus releases official LF-LC image

Lexus releases official LF-LC image originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 21 Dec 2011 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>concptdetroitdetroit 2012detroit auto showlexuslf-lcWed, 21 Dec 2011 13:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20132973/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/21/lexus-releases-official-lf-lc-image/20132973/article-detail.xml 20132973 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/lexuslflcconcept001628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/lexuslflcconcept001628.jpg <![CDATA[<i>Road & Track</i> leaks Lexus LF-Lc concept]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/20/road-and-track-leaks-lexus-lf-lc-concept/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/20/road-and-track-leaks-lexus-lf-lc-concept/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/20/road-and-track-leaks-lexus-lf-lc-concept/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



We're still a couple weeks away from the Detroit Auto Show, but the Lexus LF-Lc concept has leaked thanks to the crew at Road & Track and their YouTube account.

We still don't know much about Lexus' Detroit-bound concept, but the swoopy coupe combines some of the more emotive elements of the LFA, along with the grille of the LF-Gh concept that eventually formed the basis of the Lexus GS. The massively elongated hood terminates with headlamps that plummet deep into the air intakes and a more extreme grille than that found on the Predator-esque fascia of the Gh.

With an "Lc" designation, this could signal Lexus' intention of building an LS-based coupe to take on the likes of the Mercedes-Benz SL, but until the official curtains are pulled in Detroit, we'll have to wait and see.

In the meantime, check out the video after the jump for the unintentional early reveal. As long as it stays on YouTube...

Continue reading Road & Track leaks Lexus LF-Lc concept

Road & Track leaks Lexus LF-Lc concept originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 20 Dec 2011 21:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>detroitdetroit 2012detroit auto showlexusLexus LF-Lclf-lcnaiasroad trackroad and trackTue, 20 Dec 2011 21:55:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20132501/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/20/road-and-track-leaks-lexus-lf-lc-concept/20132501/article-detail.xml 20132501 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/lexus-concept-detroit-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/lexus-concept-detroit-628.jpg <![CDATA[2011 Lexus IS F [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/20/2011-lexus-is-f-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/20/2011-lexus-is-f-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/20/2011-lexus-is-f-review/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

New Updates Soften Japan's Super Sedan

2011 Lexus IS F

Mid-course corrections are a common occurrence when speaking about high-flying commercial aircraft and oceangoing freighters - both are often pushed off track by errant winds and powerful currents. But when it comes to automobiles, a mid-course correction can be a sign that something was wrong the moment a new model was unveiled.

The Lexus IS F was introduced at the 2007 Detroit Auto Show. The compact, high-performance sports sedan was a fresh Japanese alternative to the Audi RS4, BMW M3, Cadillac CTS-V and Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG. Yet, despite a full suite of performance enhancements that lifted it above and well beyond the standard IS, the 416-horsepower rear-wheel-drive sedan arrived lacking the refinement and performance to properly battle its competition.

Lexus reviewed the situation, noted it was not on the proper path and made a series of corrections this past year. The 2011 IS-F four-door boasts a host of improvements, both inside and out, promising a smoother ride, better handling, improved ergonomics and a freshened exterior. So is the Lexus IS F firmly back on track?

Continue reading 2011 Lexus IS F [w/video]

2011 Lexus IS F [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 20 Dec 2011 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 is f2011 lexus2011 lexus is f2011 lexus is-ffeaturedisis fis f reviewis-fisflexuslexus islexus is flexus is-flexus performance sedanlexus reviewreviewreviewsTue, 20 Dec 2011 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20131421/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/20/2011-lexus-is-f-review/20131421/article-detail.xml 20131421 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/2011-lexus-is-f-review_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/2011-lexus-is-f-review.jpg <![CDATA[New BMW-Toyota deal doesn't include diesels for Lexus]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/20/new-bmw-toyota-deal-doesnt-include-diesels-for-lexus/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/20/new-bmw-toyota-deal-doesnt-include-diesels-for-lexus/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/20/new-bmw-toyota-deal-doesnt-include-diesels-for-lexus/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Lexus Emblem

Automotive News reports Lexus won't be getting any diesel engines from BMW as part of the new collaboration between parent company Toyota and the German automaker. BMW and Toyota are set to team up on next-generation green technology, though the two will apparently stick to crafting a new lithium-ion battery instead of swapping diesel tech. BMW will serve up a few small-displacement diesel engines for use in European Toyota models, but it won't supply direct-competitor Lexus with any oil-burning lumps. Right now, European buyers can expect to see 1.6-liter and 2.0-liter BMW diesel engines to show up under the hoods of certain Toyota products soon.

That should help Toyota immensely in a market where 52 percent of all vehicles sold are diesels. Lexus, meanwhile, will continue to focus on plug-in hybrid and hybrid models to position itself as a niche innovation company. Automotive News reports Lexus has nailed down a European market share of just 0.2 percent over the past 11 months.

New BMW-Toyota deal doesn't include diesels for Lexus originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 20 Dec 2011 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw dieselbmw toyotadiesellexuslexus dieseltoyotatoyota bmwtoyota dieselTue, 20 Dec 2011 10:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20130811/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/20/new-bmw-toyota-deal-doesnt-include-diesels-for-lexus/20130811/article-detail.xml 20130811 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/lexus-emblem-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/lexus-emblem-628.jpg <![CDATA[Lexus offers interior glimpse of new Detroit-bound concept]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/19/lexus-offers-interior-glimpse-of-new-detroit-bound-concept/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/19/lexus-offers-interior-glimpse-of-new-detroit-bound-concept/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/19/lexus-offers-interior-glimpse-of-new-detroit-bound-concept/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Lexus interior concept

As you likely know by now, Lexus is planning to pull the curtains off a new concept car at the 2012 Detroit Auto Show. Besides the fact that it's red and appears to be a sporty coupe of some sort, we have no real details on what to expect.

What we do know, however, is that the concept will be sporting a rather inviting interior, thanks to the second teaser image that you see above (click here to enlarge). We note lots of attractive waves of stitching and a plethora of different leather colors and textures.

We also spy some genuine wood trim and what appears to be a mighty large sweeping information center making up most of the dash. And finally, judging by the serious plunging roofline, we're pretty sure this will be a two-seater. Looks like Detroit is shaping up to be an interesting show, with stunning coupe concepts promised from both Lexus and Acura.

Continue reading Lexus offers interior glimpse of new Detroit-bound concept

Lexus offers interior glimpse of new Detroit-bound concept originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 19 Dec 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 detroit auto showdetroitdetroit 2012detroit auto showlexuslexus conceptlexus coupe conceptMon, 19 Dec 2011 13:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20131067/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/19/lexus-offers-interior-glimpse-of-new-detroit-bound-concept/20131067/article-detail.xml 20131067 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/lexusconceptinterior-lead_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/lexusconceptinterior-lead.jpg <![CDATA[Updated Lexus LX to debut at Detroit Auto Show]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/15/updated-lexus-lx-to-debut-at-detroit-auto-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/15/updated-lexus-lx-to-debut-at-detroit-auto-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/15/updated-lexus-lx-to-debut-at-detroit-auto-show/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



A spokesperson from Lexus has confirmed that an updated version of the company's range-topping LX 570 sport utility vehicle will debut at the 2012 Detroit Auto Show next month. The current LX - and its corporate cousin, the Toyota Land Cruiser - have been with us since the 2008 model year, so it's about time for a nip/tuck.

Don't expect a major overhaul, however. Bill Kwong, Lexus Communications Specialist, tells Autoblog that the changes to the LX will mostly be cosmetic, consisting of slightly updated sheetmetal as well as changes to both the front and rear fascias. We expect the interior to carry over largely unchanged (perhaps some infotainment upgrades), and the 5.7-liter V8 underhood will likely carry over, as well, though some slight massaging for the sake of fuel economy could be in order.

Still, Lexus knows that the $80,000 LX is not a high volume model here in the United States. Kwong reminds Autoblog that changes to the LX as a whole are largely dictated by the European and Australian markets, where the vehicle has more substantial sales figures. In 2010, Lexus moved just 3,983 LX 570s here in the States. During the same year, Cadillac sold 26,874 Escalade SUVs and Mercedes-Benz hustled 19,943 GL-Class models out the door.

We'll have the full details on the updated LX direct from Cobo Hall in just a few weeks.

Updated Lexus LX to debut at Detroit Auto Show originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 15 Dec 2011 13:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 detroit auto show2012 lexus lx 570detroit 2012detroit auto showlexuslxlx 570lx-570lx570naiasThu, 15 Dec 2011 13:53:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20128889/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/15/updated-lexus-lx-to-debut-at-detroit-auto-show/20128889/article-detail.xml 20128889 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/01-2011-lexus-lx570628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/01-2011-lexus-lx570628.jpg <![CDATA[Lexus previews new design direction with Detroit-bound concept]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/12/lexus-previews-new-design-direction-with-detroit-bound-concept/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/12/lexus-previews-new-design-direction-with-detroit-bound-concept/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/12/lexus-previews-new-design-direction-with-detroit-bound-concept/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Lexus concept teaser

The Detroit Auto Show is right around the corner, now just a few weeks away. And with each approaching day, we get a clearer picture of what to expect when the doors open at Motown's Cobo Hall on January 9.

Here we have our first glimpse at a new concept car which Lexus will be unveiling at the show. All we have to go on so far is the teaser image you see above (which you can click to view in high resolution) and a brief statement (after the jump), but from what we can tell it looks very aggressive, and rather sportscar-like.

Penned by Lexus' Calty studio in Newport Beach, the concept is said to preview a bolder new design language for the Toyota luxury division. We're sure to get more information and a better look as the show approaches, so watch this space for more and feel free to speculate in Comments.

Continue reading Lexus previews new design direction with Detroit-bound concept

Lexus previews new design direction with Detroit-bound concept originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 12 Dec 2011 12:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 detroit auto show2012 north american international auto showconcept cardetroitdetroit 2012detroit auto showlexuslexus conceptnaiasstyling languageMon, 12 Dec 2011 12:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20126127/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/12/lexus-previews-new-design-direction-with-detroit-bound-concept/20126127/article-detail.xml 20126127 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/web2012naiaslexusconceptteaser_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/web2012naiaslexusconceptteaser.jpg <![CDATA[NHTSA proposing panic stop system for keyless ignition]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/12/nhtsa-proposing-panic-stop-system-for-keyless-ignition/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/12/nhtsa-proposing-panic-stop-system-for-keyless-ignition/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/12/nhtsa-proposing-panic-stop-system-for-keyless-ignition/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



In the wake of the heavily publicized fatal crash involving a Lexus ES 350 with keyless ignition in California, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is proposing standardizing keyless ignition systems. The government regulator wants all vehicles with keyless ignition to turn off after a button press of just half a second, according to a report by Bloomberg.

The proposal states that among the concerns are "drivers' inability to stop a moving vehicle in a panic situation," according to the report. That's what happened in the Lexus crash that killed four people in 2009, in which a three-second button press was necessary to turn off the engine, according to Bloomberg. The incident was one of many that led to recalls of Toyota vehicles in 2009 and 2010.

Automakers have already discussed standardizing their keyless ignition systems, according to an Alliance of Automotive Manufacturers spokeswoman. The half-second delay falls within a range recommended by the Society of Automotive Engineers.

While this new regulation is clearly a good thing, we do wonder what was wrong with just using keys?

NHTSA proposing panic stop system for keyless ignition originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 12 Dec 2011 07:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eses 350keyless ignitionlexusnational highway trafiic safety administrationnhtsapush button startrecallsaesociety of automotive engineerstoyotatoyota recallMon, 12 Dec 2011 07:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20124840/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/12/nhtsa-proposing-panic-stop-system-for-keyless-ignition/20124840/article-detail.xml 20124840 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/lexus-es350-ignition-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/lexus-es350-ignition-opt.jpg -1 2