Autoblog

Toyota to pay $17.35M federal fine for delayed Lexus RX recall

George Kennedy — Tue, 18 Dec 2012 13:28:00 EST

Filed under: Hybrid, Government/Legal, Recalls, Safety, Crossover, Lexus, Toyota, Luxury

This summer, we brought you news that Lexus was recalling over 150,000 RX and RX hybrid crossovers tied to its massive pedal entrapment issue. An update to that story included word from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration that it was considering launching a federal investigation into potential delays by the automaker in notifying owners about the problem. Now comes news that parent company Toyota will pay a hefty $17.35 million in fines for delaying its recall of the 2010 Lexus RX 350 and RX 450h. According to The Detroit News, the Japanese automaker is being forced to pay the maximum fine for delaying recalls - and this isn't the first time. In fact, this is the fourth time since 2010 that Toyota has been required to do so, including paying $48.8M in civil penalties in 2010 for failing to recall vehicles in a timely manner - in three separate campaigns.

In addition to the fines, Toyota has agreed to restructure the way it handles quality control and review "safety-related issues." Though the Japanese automaker has not admitted any wrongdoing, Toyota has agreed to meet with NHTSA for six months on the matter and may extend the meetings another six months.

US Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood says he is counting on Toyota to improve its ability to address such safety issues: "With today's announcement, I expect Toyota to rigorously reinforce its commitment to adhering to the United States safety regulations," he said in a statement.

According to the report, Toyota has recalled more vehicles than any other automaker so far this year - 5.3 million in 13 separate campaigns - putting it about two million units ahead of second-place Honda.

This latest fine is a drop in the bucket compared to Toyota's expected global profits of $9.7 billion by the end of March, 2013. That said, Congress has already agreed to a new fine that will push the maximum penalty for delayed recalls up to $35 million. This increase will take effect in 2013.

Toyota to pay $17.35M federal fine for delayed Lexus RX recall originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 18 Dec 2012 13:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Toyota looking to shift some Lexus RX production from Japan to Canada

Chris Tutor — Fri, 27 Jul 2012 09:15:00 EST

Filed under: Plants/Manufacturing, Crossover, Lexus, Toyota, Canada, Luxury

In an effort to reduce the Yen's impact on its bottom line, Toyota says it will invest $100 million in its Cambridge, Ontario plant to increase output of the Lexus RX CUV. The Ontario factory is Toyota's only Lexus producer outside of Japan.

"This is a big and ambitious project with new technology, exacting standards and tight timelines," Brian Krinock, president of Toyota's Canada manufacturing unit, said in a press release. "Our team members have demonstrated time and time again that they thrive on these kinds of challenges."

The expansion will take the plant's Lexus capacity from 74,000 units a year to 104,000, including 15,000 RX 450h hybrids. By the time production begins in early 2014, the plant is expected to have added about 400 new jobs and take overall employment to 6,900 workers.

Continue reading Toyota looking to shift some Lexus RX production from Japan to Canada

Toyota looking to shift some Lexus RX production from Japan to Canada originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 27 Jul 2012 09:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Lexus adding over 150,000 RX crossovers to pedal entrapment recall, may face NHTSA investigation [UPDATE]

Steven J. Ewing — Fri, 29 Jun 2012 14:14:00 EST

Filed under: Hybrid, Recalls, Safety, Crossover, Lexus, Luxury

Remember the giant Toyota pedal entrapment recalls that all started in late 2009? Well, it's not over yet. No, we aren't just talking about the various lawsuits that the automaker still faces in connection with the recalls, we're talking about yet another set of vehicles that are being added to the list. Welcome to the gang, 2010 Lexus RX 350 and RX 450h.

Toyota states that the duo of Lexus crossovers are being recalled for "unsecured or incompatible floor mat entrapment of the accelerator pedal." In total, 154,000 RX models are affected by this latest addendum to the recall - 131,800 RX 350 and 22,200 RX 450h vehicles.

Between the two different pedal entrapment cases, Toyota has now recalled around 7.8 million vehicles.

The automaker will notify customers via first class mail beginning in August. Concerned owners can contact the manufacturer directly at 1.800.255.3987 or visit lexus.com/recall for more information. Scroll down to read the official press release.

UPDATE: According to the International Business Times, the National Highway Traffic Safety administration may consider launching an investigation on Toyota "regarding delays in notifying the agency about the problem." The government agency released a statement saying, "NHTSA is requesting additional documentation from the manufacturer and is considering opening an investigation into whether Toyota met its obligation to notify the agency and conduct a recall in a timely manner."

Continue reading Lexus adding over 150,000 RX crossovers to pedal entrapment recall, may face NHTSA investigation [UPDATE]

Lexus adding over 150,000 RX crossovers to pedal entrapment recall, may face NHTSA investigation [UPDATE] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 29 Jun 2012 14:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Lexus prices updated RX among other models

Jeff Sabatini — Mon, 09 Apr 2012 16:30:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, Crossover, Lexus, Luxury

So a new front-drive Lexus RX 350 will now set you back $40,185, but that's really not the most interesting pricing news from Lexus. That would be the RX 350 F Sport, which debuts for the 2013 model year in July, carrying a base sticker of $47,875.

While all versions of the RX get the new spindle grille, the F Sport packs Lexus' eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters and a performance-tuned suspension that employs Lexus Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management, akin to what's available on the GS line. Cosmetic enhancements include a mesh grille and F Sport badges, aluminum pedals and black leather seats with contrasting white stitching. A unique set of 19-inch wheels completes the package, which we look forward to getting our hands on.

Lexus has also announced the base price of its hybrid RX, which will start at $46,805, and the hybrid GS. When the 2013 GS 450h goes on sale in May, it will be priced from $59,845. Additionally, the 2012 Lexus IS will see the price bumped $200 across the board. Scroll down to read the full press release.

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Lexus prices updated RX among other models originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 09 Apr 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2013 Lexus RX dons its family's new face

Steven J. Ewing — Tue, 06 Mar 2012 07:15:00 EST

Filed under: Hybrid, Geneva Motor Show, Crossover, Lexus, Luxury

It certainly isn't the sexiest car to debut here at the Geneva Motor Show, but let's be honest: the Lexus RX crossover is hugely important, especially in the U.S. market. And while the 2013 model you see here isn't an all-new model, it gets a host of upgrades that will make it a fresher, more attractive offering in the luxury CUV segment.

Up front, the 2013 RX now wears its own version of Lexus' new corporate face, including the spindle grille that we now see on the GS, LX and CT, complete with LED running lamps. On top of that, there's a new F Sport model for 2013, incorporating smoked out headlamps and taillamps, darker wheels, and a bolder, sportier front fascia.

The RX 350 and RX 450h models will carry over with largely unchanged powertrains, the former available with a 270-horsepower V6 and the latter with a 295-hp electrically assisted V6. Both models can be had with either front- or all-wheel drive.

Inside, there's a modestly updated interior with a new steering wheel and IP cluster, as well as a refreshed center stack. Of course, there's a smattering of luxury options available including a Mark Levinson premium audio system, a HDD navigation unit and Lexus Enform. Hit the jump for the full details and click through our high-res image galleries to see the new RX for yourself.

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2013 Lexus RX dons its family's new face originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 06 Mar 2012 07:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2013 Lexus RX facelift leaked prior to Geneva debut

Steven J. Ewing — Fri, 02 Mar 2012 12:30:00 EST

Filed under: Geneva Motor Show, Crossover, Lexus, Luxury

While it's not a complete redesign, Lexus has quite a few tweaks planned for its 2013 RX range. We got an initial glimpse of the crossover's new face via a grouping of leaked brochure scans, and now, it appears that some semi-official stock shots have hit the Interwebs prior to the CUV's debut at the Geneva Motor Show next week.

We like the look of the RX's new front fascia, but that's probably because we already like it on the CT, GS and LX, not to mention the forthcoming ES; it's that same pinched spindle grille with LED running lamps flanking either side. What's most interesting about the 2013 RX, however, is that an F Sport model (pictured right) will be produced, offering a sportier appearance that includes things like a new front bumper, honeycomb grille, larger wheels and tinted front and rear lamps, among other things.

The 2013 RX's interior is slated to get a decent overhaul as well, with a new center stack with an infotainment screen that's now recessed into the top tier of the dash. Expect both RX 350 and RX 450h models to be offered with their powertrains likely untouched from the current models, save a slight massaging or two. We'll have the full scoop as part of next week's Geneva madness.

2013 Lexus RX facelift leaked prior to Geneva debut originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 02 Mar 2012 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2013 Lexus RX redesign revealed in leaked brochure

Noah Joseph — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 11:30:00 EST

Filed under: Crossover, Lexus, Design/Style, Luxury

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.

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Is BMW poised to take the luxury sales crown from Lexus?

Chris Shunk — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 19:28:00 EST

Filed under: BMW, Lexus

2009 BMW 3-Series - Click above for high-res image gallery

Lexus has been the undisputed king of luxury automotive sales in the U.S. for the 21st century. It hasn't even been close. BMW has played second fiddle the entire decade, but through the first eight months of 2009, the German luxury car maker has made some major gains on its Japanese luxury competitor. In fact, through August only 2,293 vehicles separate BMW from becoming the new king of the mountain.

BMW's climb to the top of the sales charts comes during a sales downturn the likes of which hasn't been seen in decades, yet the Bavarian automaker has weathered the storm much better than Lexus. BMW sales are down 33,000 units versus the first eight months of 2008, a 28 percent decline. Lexus is down an amazing 40 percent through eight months, a 40,000 unit decline. BMW owes much of its momentum to the venerable 3-Series, which is down 24 percent on the year yet still handily outselling the Lexus IS and ES. Lexus is staying in the lead on the back of its perennially successful RX crossover, which is down only four percent over the year.

While BMW has plenty to be proud of in a down year, catching Lexus is no sure thing. Lexus actually bested BMW by a substantial 3,600 units in August, proof that Toyota's luxury arm is getting stronger as the year progresses. In the end, top luxury sales is only good for one thing, and that's marketing. Lexus has been number one so long that it doesn't even need to brag any more, but if BMW manages to pull out the win in 2009, we're sure there'll be more than a couple celebratory commercials.

Gallery: 2009 BMW 3 Series

[Source: Free Press]

Is BMW poised to take the luxury sales crown from Lexus? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Sep 2009 19:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Forbes names 12 hardest new cars to find

Chris Tutor — Mon, 07 Sep 2009 12:31:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, Hybrid, Plants/Manufacturing, Audi, Chevrolet, Ford, Infiniti, Lexus, Mini, Toyota, Luxury

2010 Audi Q5 - click above for high-res gallery

With many automakers scaling back production to better balance supply with demand, it's not surprising there are several hard-to-find models right now. Forbes Magazine made some calls and did a little research and turned up what they say is the top 12 most difficult to find cars. After the run on high-mileage cars recently, you'd expect to see hybrid models like the Toyota Prius at No. 2 on the list. Tied for second is a car on the other extreme, the Chevrolet Camaro. Both model are spending an average of 18.5 days on dealer lots.

But Forbes says the hardest to find new car recently is actually the Audi Q5. The Four-Ringed crossover sat around in showrooms an average of only 16.8 days in June and July. Audi had another hit on the list with its S5, which tied for 12th place with the Mini Cooper.

Only one other American nameplate showed up as a hot seller, and that was Ford's Escape and Escape Hybrid, slipping in at No. 10. Toyota had a whopping five vehicles on the list, including the Prius and the Lexus RX 350/RX Hybrid. The Matrix was No. 4, the FJ Cruiser No. 8, and the RAV4 was No. 9. Said another way, "Thanks, Cash for Clunkers!"

Oddly, the Volkswagen Jetta Sportwagen TDI didn't show up on Forbes' list. From our personal experience and reports from readers, the car is almost impossible to find due to production issues and demand -presumably that's because the study calculated days on lots for the entire Jetta lineup, not just specific models therein.

Gallery: Beijing '08: 2009 Audi Q5

[Source: Forbes]

Forbes names 12 hardest new cars to find originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 07 Sep 2009 12:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Chicago 2008: the Lexus RX 350 Pebble Beach Edition

Jonathon Ramsey — Wed, 06 Feb 2008 17:28:00 EST

Filed under: Chicago Auto Show, SUV, Lexus, Lifestyle

Click above for a high-res gallery of the Lexus RX 350 Pebble Beach Edition.

Lexus showed up in Chicago with two special edition cars from a different time in a different state. Lexus has been making limited edition vehicles for the Pebble Beach glitterati since 2003, which up to now has always been a Lexus SC 430 unveiled at the concours' Vogue fashion show. This year marks the first time the line has expanded beyond the hardtop coupe, and the RX 350 gets its chance to try on a swanky paint job and some of them there special features. In case you're wondering what color that is, it's Truffle Mica -- but it comes in two others, in case speckly fungus isn't exactly your flavor. Buyers will even get to choose from three packages that come with the special edition -- which would make them even more special. But we won't spoil the surprise -- the full press release is after the jump, and check out the gallery of hi-res photos below.

Gallery: Chicago 2008: Lexus RX 350 Pebble Beach Edition

Continue reading Chicago 2008: the Lexus RX 350 Pebble Beach Edition

Chicago 2008: the Lexus RX 350 Pebble Beach Edition originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 06 Feb 2008 17:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2008 Lexus RX 350 pricing announced

Chris Shunk — Sun, 28 Jan 2007 14:19:00 EST

Filed under: Crossover, Lexus, Toyota

Lexus has announced pricing for the 2008 Lexus RX 350. The perennial best-seller will carry carry over 2007 prices with an entry fee of $37,400 for the front-drive model and $38,800 for the AWD model. New features for the vehicle include an updated grille, black wood trim, new 18' wheels, chrome door handles, and two new exterior colors.

With 108,000 sales in 2006, the RX-series (along with the RX 400h) is the highest selling luxury vehicle in the US. Its price tag is about $4000 more than the similar-looking Lincoln MKX and right in line with the larger and more powerful Acura MDX. With the RX being the biggest reason Lexus is the number one luxury brand in the US, there's little doubt as to why it seems to be getting updated every year. The Lexus press release is posted after the jump.

[Source: Lexus]

Continue reading 2008 Lexus RX 350 pricing announced

2008 Lexus RX 350 pricing announced originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 28 Jan 2007 14:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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