2011 Lexus IS gets Minor Facelift

There has been some subtle design changes done on the new 2011 Lexus IS, like the inclusion of a new headlamp cluster. These new headlamps incorporate LED daytime running lights. The other prominent changes include the restyled lower front bumper with round fog lamps. Besides, the interior too has been subjected to a once over so that there is some minor trim upgrades here as well.

The changes came out in the open due to some leaked brochure shots that revealed, for the very first time, pictures of the Japanese domestic market (JDM) version of, the new 2011 Lexus IS 250 / 350 sedans though the changes has only been subtle at best. However, not all of the above changes may be visible in the leaked out pictures.

The JDM Lexus IS has also added an F-Sport grade car, which is a first for the JDM Lexus IS. The F-Sport grade is alike the 2010 IS 250 and 220d models that the company has made available in the UK market. However, the Japanese version of F-Sport comes bundled with a front bumper along with what is described by Lexus, a new sport suspension that has been created by the LFA team.

2010 Lexus GX 460

2010 Lexus GX 460
Big SUVs may be out of favor because of their generally low fuel economy, but the 2010 Lexus GX 460 reminds us how comfortable it can be to cruise around in one of these behemoths. Lexus fits the GX 460 cabin in leather, soft plastics, and wood trim, and its third-row seats fold out of the cargo floor, letting the big vehicle transport seven people.

The 2010 GX 460 is the successor to the 2009 GX 470. With the GX 460, Lexus uses a more advanced variable valve timing to downsize the engine yet increase horsepower and fuel economy. With the GX 460, Lexus uses more advanced variable valve timing to downsize the engine yet increase horsepower and fuel economy.

However, don't expect a dramatic difference in fuel economy. Weighing in at 5,305 pounds, the engine has a lot of metal to move. Mated to its six-speed-automatic transmission, the engine turns in EPA fuel economy ratings of 15 mpg city and 20 mpg highway. In our driving, we averaged 16.2 mpg through city, freeway, and mountain roads.

Lexus sells all its LFA supercar

Lexus has allready sold all its LFA supercars. 500 lucky buyers already own a brand new Lexus LFA, the super sports car manufactured by Toyota allready sold out, even for a price of 350,000 euros.

The Lexus LFA is manufactured by hand at the Toyota Motomachi plant in Japan. This was a bad business for the manufacturer because each one of these 500 Toyota sports car costs 350,000 euros to make.

2010 Lexus GS 450h is a performance hybrid

It's the car that makes you scratch your head: the 2010 Lexus GS 450h.

The reason it comes across as confusing is because this rear-wheel-drive sedan is one of the most fun Lexus cars to drive. It's all sport on the highway.

The pickup is phenomenal. It boasts nearly 300 horsepower from its 3.5-liter V-6 and on the open road, it's library quiet. The steering is crisp. While heavy, the body remains stiff through turns and its adaptive variable suspension holds the car nicely to the road.

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Oh, and, it's a hybrid.

But this is a hybrid for enthusiasts, one that uses electricity for power and not just efficiency. What other mainstream hybrid goes 0-60 mph in 5.2 seconds?

Of course, boosting a V-6 to provide V-8 type power is nothing new (the GS 450h has a combined 340 horsepower). It's the wave of the future as carmakers around the world look to provide power and fuel economy. Already, other carmakers are talking about four-cylinder turbos replacing V-6 engines and others have said three-cylinder engines could replace fours.
Amazing highway ride

The GS 450h shies toward the power side, which takes away from the efficiency, enabling 22 miles per gallon in the city and 25 mpg on the highway. Great mileage numbers for a V-8, so-so for a six-cylinder engine.

And while this hybrid can drive on electric motors only, it rarely does. Instead, the electric motors seem to act as a boost for the car, pushing it quickly forward and inspiring the driver to push the accelerator a little harder.

Toyota recalls 3,800 Lexus cars for steering fix

Toyota Motor Corp. said Friday it is recalling about 3,800 Lexus LS sedans in the U.S. to fix a problem with the vehicle's steering system following a similar recall in Japan.

The company said the recall affects some 2009 and 2010 LS 460 and LS 600h sedans. The recall is designed to fix a problem in which the steering wheel becomes off-center after a specific driving maneuver. The problem should not occur during normal driving, the company said.

Toyota earlier Friday recalled 4,500 of the same models in Japan to address the steering issue. The recall affects roughly 2,750 vehicles elsewhere around the world.

The automaker has been working to react faster to problems after coming under government scrutiny and being slapped with a record $16.4 million U.S. fine for its slow response to its accelerator pedal recalls. It is also facing hundreds of state and federal lawsuits. Those recalls affected more than 8 million vehicles worldwide.

On Thursday, lawmakers in the U.S House of Representatives accused Toyota of failing to keep its promise to get to the bottom of what caused unintended acceleration in some of its vehicles. Jim Lentz, Toyota's top U.S. sales executive, told lawmakers that the company has no evidence that electronics are to blame for the sudden acceleration reports.

Toyota's safety concerns have triggered to the first major review of U.S. auto safety laws in Congress since the large tire recalls by Bridgestone/Firestone Inc. in 2000.

On models affected by its latest recall, Toyota said the steering wheel can briefly become out of alignment with the car's wheels when the steering wheel is turned to the extreme right or left and then re-centered. Toyota will remedy the problem by replacing the computer processor in the vehicle's variable gear ratio steering system, Toyota spokesman John Hanson said.

Full hybrid Lexus GS 450h enhanced for 2010

Lexus has introduced a series of styling, technical and equipment revisions that further strengthen the full hybrid GS 450h's appeal in the premium saloon market. It has rationalised the model line-up into two equipment grades – SE and SE-L – and introduced new exterior colour choices, alloy wheel designs and interior trims.

Lexus GS 450h

The GS, powered by a smooth and ultra-efficient combination of a 3.5-lire petrol V6 and a compact 650V electric motor, delivers sharp performance with fuel economy and emissions that are unmatched by its conventional petrol-powered rivals.

The Pre-Crash Safety system in the GS 450h has been revised to include pre-crash brake technology to support the established pre-crash seatbelt and brake assist functions.

Both front seats have new, inflator-operated active headrests, which are activated by a signal from the ECU should the car suffer a rear-end impact.

Toyota will recall Lexus LS flagship on Friday

Ouch. This one is going to hurt: Toyota will recall its Lexus LS flagship, the super-premium car that is the only in its lineup to list for more than $100,000, over steering problems on Friday, the company just said.

Normally, the embarrassment might be considered just another recall. But atop all the other recalls that Toyota has had this year, including another congressional hearing tomorrow and a mood of general discouragement, this one could be painful.

In the U.S., it's only 3,800 cars. Worldwide, it's 11,500. Small numbers, but this is the ultimate Lexus, the one car that Toyota tries to make perfect. Toyota has tried its best to insulate its Lexus line from the raft of recalls involving its Toyotas:

The incident that sparked the nightmare, the crash near San Diego last year that killed a California Highway Patrolman and his family, was in a Lexus ES. Just last month, Lexus recalled and briefly stopped selling the GX 460 sport-utility vehicle after Consumer Reports said it posed a rollover risk. But Lexus sales never dipped like those of Toyota as a whole.

2010 Lexus HS 250h Luxury Hybrid sale is down

Well, it seems like the U.S. market agrees with us. While Lexus had expected to sell 20,000 or more HS models a year--down from projections of 30,000 before the recession--Ward's Auto now reports that the total may be considerably lower than that.

Demand in Japan has been high for the car, so high in fact that early reports suggested U.S. supplies of the car might be affected. But Ward's projects U.S. sales of less than 14,000 units.

Part of the problem may be that upper-end models of the 2010 Toyota Prius not only offer a higher level of luxury equipment than on any previous Prius, but also get considerably higher gas mileage: 51 mpg city, 48 mpg highway versus 35 mpg city, 34 mpg highway for the HS.

The situation could change if fuel prices rise again, but so far this spring, increases have been moderate.

2010 Lexus HS 250h Road test

the HS 250h is something of a misfit. The four-cylinder Atkinson-cycle engine naturally doesn't have the refinement of the V6s and V8s that power the other Lexus hybrids (RX 450h, GS 450h and LS 600hL). It's suitably inconspicuous at cruising speeds, but it gets raucous when acceleration is called for. There's also some whine from the electric motor under deceleration. More vexing is the wind, road and tire noise at highway speeds -- each is not overly obtrusive, but, cumulatively, it's enough to intrude on the quietude that's expected. The ride, for the most part, is firm not harsh, although sharper tarmac imperfections will make their presence known. The electric power steering has a slightly numb feel to it, but the sedan turns where and when it's supposed to and body roll is minimal.

2010 Lexus HS 250h

Moving inside, the HS's interior is more upscale than luxurious. The car has a starting price of $39,900; the topline Ultra Premium edition (there's also Premium and Premium Sport) adds another $8,850 to the sticker, all of it in content. That includes heated and ventilated leather seats, voice-activated navigation system with integrated backup camera, outstanding 15-speaker Mark Levinson audio system, auto-levelling LED headlamps, 18-inch aluminum alloy wheels, power rear sunshade and auto-dimming side-view mirrors.

The front seats are almost bisected by the protruding centre stack, which contains the audio and climate controls as well as flip-up nav screen and "Remote Touch" joystick controller. While it's all busy and off-putting at first, the various control functions are within easy reach. The joystick and its computer mouselike interface work well, keeping the eyes at windshield level. However, programming the radio presets are overly complicated, requiring more steps than should be necessary.

One cool feature is the fact that 30% of the combined interior and trunk are covered in "Ecological Plastic," a bioplastic material that uses plant sources as raw material and is used for parts of the upholstery as well as a number of injection-moulded, foam and board components throughout the car, including trunk compartment trim, cowl side trim, door scuff plates, seat cushions and the package tray.

Warning Is Lifted On a Lexus S.U.V.

Consumer Reports magazine is lifting a “Don’t Buy” warning for a Lexus sport utility vehicle that failed an emergency handling test.

The magazine said on Friday that the 2010 Lexus GX 460 luxury S.U.V. passed its test after a dealership updated the software that runs the vehicle’s electronic stability control system.

The Toyota Motor Corporation recalled about 10,000 of the S.U.V.’s in the United States in April after the magazine told readers not to buy them. The automaker also stopped selling them.

Mark Templin, the Lexus group vice president and general manager, said in a statement that the automaker was pleased that the magazine had lifted the designation. He said about 75 percent of GX 460 vehicles had received the software update.

2010 Lexus GX 460

2010 Lexus GX 460 sport-utility vehicle, says Toyota Motor Sales.

Last week, Toyota had promptly halted sales of the GX 460 after Consumer Reports noted an unexpected handling behavior, and possibly a malfunction of the electronic stability control system.

The test behavior, in which the stability system allowed the back of the vehicle to slide out sideways when the driver lifted abruptly off the accelerator while going tightly around a corner (lift-off oversteer), could potentially result in a higher chance of rollover if the vehicle were tripped by a curb, dropoff, or change in surface.

Consumer Reports subsequently gave the 2010 Lexus GX 460 a rare "Don't Buy: Safety Risk" designation.

Toyota later confirmed that its own engineers had duplicated the behavior

Curiously, there's more to the story. Now Toyota Motor Corporation has also released a confession of sorts, explaining that several different conditions contributed to the issue:

- In the GX 460 and Land Cruiser Prado, heavy components, such as the fuel tank, are located on the left side, and in left-hand drive versions, the left side is made even heavier because of the presence of the driver.
- For vehicles with certain tires (on 18-inch wheels) and equipped with the Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS*) and VSC, the activation of the VSC may not be sufficient in certain circumstances due to the setting of the VSC program.

Toyota will recall Lexus GX460, DOT officials say

Toyota Motor Corp. is recalling the Lexus GX460 sport utility vehicle to correct a problem that could lead to rollover or loss of control, according to Department of Transportation officials.

Problems with that model surfaced last week when Consumer Reports magazine reported that the vehicle had slid out of control during routine testing. In response to the findings, Consumer Reports issued a rare "do not buy" advisory to the public.

Toyota's recall would affect roughly 6,000 vehicles in the U.S. To date, Toyota has responded by testing all of its SUVs for potential stability problems. It acknowledged that it was able to duplicate the problem with the GX460. Toyota officials could not immediately be reached for comment.

Consumer Reports Puts 2010 Lexus GX 460 On Don’t Buy List

For the first time since 2001, Consumer Report has indicated serious concerns of rollover for an SUV. This time, it is one of the most popular brands, the new Lexus GX 460. Three months and 5000 SUV sales later, Consumer Reports have cautioned users not to buy Lexus GX 460 SUV until Toyota (NYSE:TM) engineers are able to fix stability issue. According to Consumer Report experts, when they tested new SUV on track handling course, the vehicle nearly fell sideways due to a potential rollover problem. On sharp turns whenever test drivers took off their feet from accelerators, the SUV had tendency to veer off sideways due to high center of gravity. Although, electronic traction control takes over to keep Lexus GX 460 in an upright position but engineers found that the sudden impact was too quick even for computers to handle.

2010 Lexus IS 250C

2010 Lexus IS 250C

The IS 250C, from certain angles, is no exception. To provide ample space to stow the roof and still leave a little carry-on luggage room, the entire rear end often grows out of proportion to the rest of the car. The IS C's overall length grows a little more than two inches, and it shows. It's also impossible to hide the massive cut lines for the trunk lid, which only adds to the feeling of extra mass. Then you add 400 pounds to the curb weight, and that extra mass becomes a real issue, especially in car packing a 204-hp V6.

To be fair, the car looks sharp from the front three-quarter angle, and--like all good convertibles--is fine with the top down. It also is fitted with some damn nice equipment--the super-powerful and clean sound of the Mark Levinson audio system is worth the money, along with the strong navigation system and the adaptive headlights which both do a great job of helping guide and light the way forward.

If your tastes run to luxury and you're willing to forego serious power to get everything for less than $50,000, the IS 250C is a good option.

Lexus Hybrid Adds Economy To Luxury

The Lexus RX 450H shows just how far hybrids have come. It was the first luxury crossover SUV as well as the first luxury full-hybrid SUV, and it couldn’t be more different from the teeny Insight or even the first-generation Prius, which absolutely defined dorky in automotive terms.

The RX crossovers have been a huge success among upscale drivers, and with the RX 450H, they can have their luxury SUV steak with a side order of smug frugality. Instead of the non-hybrid RX 350 with its 18 city, 25 highway fuel mileage, RX 450H breaks out with 30 city and 29 highway.

That difference probably won’t pay back the $7,000 extra cost over the regular gas-powered car for a whole lotta years unless gas prices spike into the stratosphere, but there is the daily psychological benefit of driving lean and clean. Plus, those sublime interludes when the Lexus is cruising through city streets in near silence on electric power only.

The Lexus RS was completely restyled for 2010, with a sleeker exterior and a more luxurious interior for its third generation. For many people, the RX pushes all the right buttons for versatility, accommodations, refinement and luxury.
The ride is soft and cornering is accompanied by plenty of body roll from the hefty SUV. But what it may lack in drivability, RX makes up for in cushy comfort. If insulation from the rough edges of the outside world is what you desire, then here it is, in spades.

The hybrid drive is generally seamless, though there is some jerkiness as the RX shifts between the electric motor and the gas engine. At low speeds, electric power become the only motivation up to about 40 mph, when the gas engine cuts in. At traffic lights and other stops, the engine shuts down to save fuel.

In the city and suburbs is where you save the bulk of your gas money. On the highway, it is what it is, though on downhill grades the engine will turn itself off until it’s needed again. A nicely designed video graphic helps the driver monitor the hybrid functionality around town, and saving gas can become something of a game to see how well you can do.

Acceleration is decent, though if you go poking too hard on the throttle at start ups, you’ll foil the fuel savings. Throttle response is fairly languid, anyway. The continuously variable automatic transmission is designed to make the most of the hybrid’s functionality, but it sets up an annoying drone when the gas engine is running.

2010 Lexus IS F-Sport in UK

2010 Lexus IS F-Sport

New F-Sport grade
The new F-Sport grade, available for both 2010 Lexus IS F-Sport and 220d models, takes its cue from the high impact styling of the IS F and is positioned in the IS line-up between the established SE-I and SE-L models.

The dedicated 2010 Lexus IS F-Sport exterior features include lowered suspension (IS 250 only), exclusive 18-inch wheels and an IS F-style front grille and rear bootlid spoiler. In the cabin there are aluminium sports pedals, IS F-style sports seats, steering wheel and (on the IS 250 automatic) gear lever. The seats are finished in a combination of Alcantara upholstery with leather side bolsters.

A black-on-black interior colour scheme is complimented by a black headlining and grey stitching detail on the front seats and steering wheel.

F-Sport models share a number of premium equipment features with SE-L grade, including rain-sensing wipers, HID headlights with AFS, 13-speaker audio system and memory settings for the front seats and door mirrors.
Lexus IS prices, insurance and VED

MODEL OTR PRICE INSURANCE
50 group VED BAND
IS 220d SE £24,350 27 F
IS 250 SE manual £24,625 29 L
IS 250 SE automatic £25,285 29 K
IS 220d SE-I £26,610 28 F
IS 250 SE-I manual £26,885 29 L
IS 250 SE-I automatic £27,545 29 K
IS 220d F-Sport £28.290 TBA F
IS 250 F-Sport automatic £29,365 TBA K
IS 220d SE-L £29,075 29 F
IS 250 SE-L automatic £30.150 30 K

Option prices

HDD navigation £2,350
Multimedia package £3,120
ACC/PCS (250 SE-L only) £2,640
DAB audio £360
18-inch Hoshi wheels £1,425
18-inch Baransu wheels £1,425
18-inch Tsuki wheels £1,550
Metallic/mica paint £595

Best overall: Lexus 460L

Lexus 460L
Price: $70,925

Mileage: 24 Hwy, 16 City

Parent company Toyota has been taking its lumps lately, but the carmaker and its luxury division Lexus still makes some very good vehicles. Case in point: the Lexus LS full-size luxury sedan scores a near-flawless 99 on Consumer Reports 100-point scale.

Toyota's recall mess has caused some problems, though. Toyota would have had four cars in this Top 10 list instead of just two. Two vehicles -- the Rav4 and Highlander SUVs -- have had their recommendations suspended as a result of recalls that resulted in "stop sale" orders by the carmaker.

Lexus Planning Wagon For Next-Gen IS

Some of you will remember that from 2001 to 2005, Lexus sold a wagon variant of the IS, dubbed SportCross. Unfortunately, relatively dismal sales numbers didn't really make a business case for keeping that car alive, and Lexus canned it when the second-generation IS debuted in 2006. However, all hope of seeing a SportCross redux has not been lost – Autocar is reporting that the third-generation IS, set to arrive in 2011, could spawn a wagon variant once again.

Now, let's be realistic. If Lexus does build an IS SportCross again, it probably won't make it to American soil. Why? In Europe, wagons are hot sellers, with the BMW 3 Series Touring and Audi A4 Avant leading the pack. Lexus even admits that not offering a wagon in Europe has hurt overall sales of the car. Mercedes-Benz made a similar decision with the current-generation C-Class to only offer the wagon version in Europe, while in previous years, the C-Class Estate could be found at American dealerships as well.

Lexus CT 200h Hybrid Hatchback Planned for the US

The Lexus CT 200h Hybrid hatchback is planned to coming to the U.S. market, and will have a starting price under $40K.

When Toyota debuted the production version of its Lexus CT 200h compact hybrid late last month, it was almost certainly destined to be a European-only vehicle. European buyers love smaller vehicles and hatchbacks in general, and the vehicle didn’t seem likely to appeal to the buying tastes of traditional U.S. Lexus buyers.

However, that doesn’t appear to be the case now. Following the success of its midsize Lexus HS 250h hybrid which slots in below ES 350, Toyota has confirmed that the compact CT 200h will come to the U.S. in 2011. According to Edmunds Inside Line, Lexus officials in the U.S. practically had to beg the execs in Japan to get the sporty vehicle to appeal to a younger clientele.

BMW has the 1-Series, Audi has the A3, and the U.S. officials too wanted a vehicle in the same mold. With the exception of the IS range and the ultra-exotic LFA, Lexus doesn’t have anything in its lineup that would exactly raise the pulse of many younger buyers.

Lexus launches GX460 SUV in UAE

Lexus GX460 has been launched in the UAE

The new Lexus GX460, showcased at December’s Dubai Motor Show, has been launched in the Middle East.

The GX460, based on the fourth generation Toyota Land Cruiser Prado, combines the inherent strengths of the off-roader with luxury and prestige of a Lexus. The SUV will fill the gap between the high-end LX570 and the crossover RX350.

The GX460 shares most of its underpinnings with the Toyota Prado including the 292bhp, 4.6-litre V8 engine, the six-speed automatic transmission with 4WD and all the off-road oriented techno wizardry.

However, it sets itself apart from the Prado thanks to a mildly revised exterior and plush interior, which are differently laid out than the Prado. Premium plastics, wood trim, chrome and leather abound giving the cabin an upmarket feel.

The Lexus comes in a choice of three dual combination interior colours. The third row seats feature a power flush-with-floor function, which automatically folds and stows the seats flush with the floor at the touch of a button. The GX460 also comes loaded with a Mark Levinson 17-speaker system and headrest-mounted displays in the second row as part of the Rear Seat Entertainment system in the top end model.

2010 Lexus GX 460

Lexus, and its parent company, Toyota, seem bent on producing an SUV or crossover for every possible market niche. Between the two, if you count the Matrix (which is basically a small crossover), they offer no fewer than 10 distinct models.

Filling the gap between Lexus's car-based RX crossover and its top-dog LX SUV, the mid-sized Lexus GX line has been with us for more than six years. Still, you'd be forgiven for not ever having seen one; of the 15,802 vehicles Lexus sold in 2009, just 198 were GX 470s. Admittedly, this was the final year of that model's cycle; after a thorough redesign for 2010, Lexus expects to sell 600 GX 460s.

Those who follow such things may have noticed the slight name change. In Lexus nomenclature, model names for non-hybrids reflect their engines' displacement, and last year's 4.7-litre V8 has been replaced by a 4.6-litre unit.

This is not a loss. Essentially the flagship LS 460's engine, the GX 460's "1UR-FE" V8 provides gains of 38 horsepower and six lb.-ft. of torque (to 301 and 329, respectively), while returning 11 per cent better fuel economy. Lexus claims that at 14.1 L/100 km in the city and 9.8 L/100 km on the highway (20/29 m.p.g.), it's best-in-class, although the GX does still require premium fuel. Unfortunately, there are no official plans to join similar models from Mercedes and Audi in offering a diesel alternative.

Lexus CT 200h breaks cover

First official pictures of Japanese 1-Series released ahead of its Geneva show debut

The hybrid revolution is gathering momentum! These are the first official pictures of the Lexus CT 200h - the firm's first compact five-door car and the first full hybrid to enter a segment that until now has been ruled by the BMW 1-Series and Audi A3.

Previewed by the LF-Ch Concept shown at Frankfurt last year, the production car, which will debut at Geneva next week, has retained many of the show car's design cues, albeit toned down for the showroom. Up front there's Lexus' familiar family face, but the rest of the hatchback design, including a stylish wraparound rear windscreen, represents new territory for the Japanese manufacturer.

The cabin uses a plethora of luxury materials to compete with its premium rivals, and there's a useful 700-litres of boot space with the rear seats folded. Infotainment features are displayed on the eight-inch LCD screen and controlled via the Remote Touch pad which works much like a computer mouse.

Lexus already has ten years experience with hybrids and the CT 200h uses the latest iteration of the technology. A 1.8-litre VVTi petrol engine works alongside a electric motor to produce similar performance to a 2.0-litre engine, but class-leading CO2 emissions. The system is capable of working in petrol and electric modes alone, as well as a combination of both.

Lexus 460L

Parent company Toyota has been taking its lumps lately, but the carmaker and its luxury division Lexus still makes some very good vehicles. Case in point: the Lexus LS full-size luxury sedan scores a near-flawless 99 on Consumer Reports 100-point scale.

Toyota's recall mess has caused some problems, though. Toyota would have had four cars in this Top 10 list instead of just two. Two vehicles -- the Rav4 and Highlander SUVs -- have had their recommendations suspended as a result of recalls that resulted in "stop sale" orders by the carmaker.

Lexus CT 200h compact hybrid not planned for the U.S. for now

Even though the United States was the first country to get the Lexus brand (in 1989), the luxury Toyota brand will be ditching us with the upcoming Lexus CT 200h. Scheduled to make its debut at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show in March, Inside Line has learned that stateside consumers are unlikely to see the new compact hybrid.

“There are no plans, at present, to bring this vehicle to the U.S.,” Toyota spokesman Curt McAllister said.

2010 Lexus IS-F CCS Concept

Lexus IS-F CCS Concept is a Lexus with the goal to build the concept of lightweight vehicles. Carbon fiber engine hatch, carbon fiber wing, carbon fiber lip end to end, carbon fiber side skirts, carbon fiber roof, carbon fiber center console etc. The mechanical parts major changes include: the engine intake and exhaust system, more suited to track racing, high-performance suspension , athletic-type braking system and 19-inch lightweight forged wheels. Lexus IS-F CCS Concept vehicle also spend bright orange - this is the battle against BMW M3 GTS?

2010 Lexus GX 460 Detail

Lexus Introduces Second-Generation GX 460 Luxury SUV for 2010

* New 301-hp V8 with Six-Speed Transmission
* Standard 10 airbags and Available Pre-Collision System
* More Versatile Interior with a New Standard Power Fold Third Row

Lexus has introduced an all-new, second-generation GX 460 luxury utility vehicle for 2010 that is more powerful, more efficient, quieter and more luxurious than the GX 470 model it replaces. The 2010 GX 460 achieves all of these significant developments while its 10 standard airbags and the available Pre-Collision System help enhance safety.

Positioned between the brand’s LX 570 premium luxury utility vehicle and unibody-based RX models, the 2010 GX 460 combines “right sized” midsize packaging with family-friendly comfort and premium craftsmanship. The GX 460 has a standard seven-passenger configuration. Once again built with rugged body-on-frame construction, the 2010 GX 460 is also equipped with full-time four-wheel drive and the advanced Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS) to help provide both exceptional on-road ride and handling and true off-road capability.

The 2010 Lexus GX 460 is powered by an all-new 4.6-liter V8 that is both more powerful and more efficient than the 4.7-liter V8 it replaces. The new engine produces 301 horsepower and 329 lb.-ft. of peak torque, and is teamed to a new six-speed automatic transmission with sequential shift. Combined city/highway fuel economy is improved by 13 percent to an EPA-estimated 17 mpg (vs. 15 mpg in the 2009 GX 470) — better than other V8 luxury utility vehicles and competitive with some six-cylinder models. The GX 460 has an EPA-estimated 15 mpg city and 20 mpg highway.

With the same vehicle footprint as the GX 470 it replaces, the 2010 GX 460 provides a more versatile interior. The second row seat slides 4.1 inches fore/aft to maximize passenger and cargo carrying ability. The foldable and reclining second row seats also feature a 60/40 walk-in function to access the standard power fold-flat third row seats. The rear door window uses a flip-up glass panel for added convenience.

Luxury is enhanced in the 2010 GX 460 by an even quieter cabin, as well as new additional standard features and options. The 2010 GX 460 features standard heated and ventilated front seats for example. Among the new luxury options are semi-aniline leather, a heated steering wheel, and heated outer second-row seats. New multimedia features – both standard and optional – expand onboard family entertainment choices.

Engine/Transmission/Drivetrain/Performance
The 2010 GX 460 takes its model designation from an all-new 4.6-liter V8 engine. The new 32-valve DOHC engine features aluminum alloy cylinder heads and block with dual Variable Valve Timing with Intelligence (VVT-i), which controls valve timing and overlap on both the intake and exhaust camshafts to optimize power, fuel efficiency and emissions. (The previous 4.7 had VVT only on the intake camshafts.) Peak torque is also up for the new 4.6, now 329 lb.-ft. at 3,500 rpm vs. 323 lb.-ft. at 3,400 rpm for the 4.7-liter engine.

The new 4.6-liter V8 is teamed to a six-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission, compared to a five-speed automatic with the previous 4.7-liter, benefiting both performance and fuel economy. The new transmission fits in the same space as the previous five- speed and features a higher top gear ratio. The new powertrain helps make the 2010 GX 460 feel more responsive in everyday driving and quieter than the previous model. The 2010 GX 460 retains the same 6,500-lb. towing capacity as the GX 470 offered.

The GX 460 comes equipped with standard full-time four-wheel drive using an electronically controlled transfer case and a TORSEN® torque-sensing center differential. It also offers a low range for off-road driving. The TORSEN differential distributes power 40:60 under most driving conditions and changes the ratio as needed based on steering input and wheel slip.

The ability to change to a 30:70 ratio during steering maneuvers helps enhance vehicle tracking through curves. If the rear wheels spin, the center differential can change the ratio to 50:50 to help control the slippage. The TORSEN differential also helps make the GX 460 less prone to slippage caused by sudden changes in road-surface conditions, such as driving through a puddle or over an ice patch. The rear differential has also been strengthened for 2010.

Chassis/Body/Suspension/Tires/Brakes
The 2010 Lexus GX 460 is one of the few premium brand luxury utility vehicles that can deliver genuine trail driving capability. Combining that capability with Lexus luxury and on-road performance makes it even more exceptional. Lexus studied vehicle usage of current owners and found that many use their GX models for family hauling during the week and vacations and camping trips on weekends. They often tow a boat or watercraft and sometimes drive to areas with unpaved and rugged trails.

Like the previous GX 470, the 2010 GX 460 has robust body-on-frame construction and does not compromise on- or off-road performance; the high-strength chassis and dynamic suspension control technology support both.

The available Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) with three modes: Normal, Sport and Comfort, and independent front suspension delivers a smooth on-road ride without compromising rugged off-road capabilities. The 2010 GX 460 rides on larger standard 18-inch alloy wheels with 265/60 R18 tires, versus 17-inch wheels for the 2009 GX 470 model.

The power rack-and-pinion steering system helps make it easier to maneuver the GX 460 in tight spaces. Rear Adjustable Height Control (AHC) enhances the vehicle’s flexibility in a wide range of driving situations.

Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS)
KDSS is standard on the GX 460, and enhanced for 2010 with steering and yaw sensors. By adjusting roll resistance provided by the front and rear stabilizer bars, KDSS can reduce maximum body-roll angle by as much as 50 percent to help enhance both on-road handling response and off-highway capability.

Using hydraulic cylinders acting on each stabilizer bar and linked by a pressure-sensing valve, KDSS reduces the degree of roll stiffness provided by the stabilizer bars in response to changing road conditions and driver inputs. Because KDSS allows the stabilizer bars to disengage in certain situations like off-road driving, the nominal stiffness of the bars can be notably increased to help reduce body-tilt and improve on-road handling.

During on-road cornering, when both front and rear cylinders are compressed, no fluid flows in the system and the stabilizer bars work conventionally to help reduce body lean. In off-road driving situations, KDSS allows the wheels on each axle to move with a larger degree of side- to-side independence, helping to minimize any tendency for wheel lift. When the GX 460 encounters an uneven surface, one compressed cylinder causes fluid to flow between the front and rear cylinders, allowing the stabilizer bars to move freely. That action increases wheel travel and articulation and helps to equalize wheel loading.

Crawl Control and Downhill Assist Control
In addition to KDSS, the 2010 Lexus GX 460 offers optional Crawl Control a new technology that helps make driving off-road easier. The Crawl Control feature automatically modulates the throttle and brake, allowing the driver to concentrate on steering. Crawl Control is also useful for helping to free the vehicle from sand, mud or snow.

When the transmission is shifted into low range, Crawl Control regulates engine speed and output, along with braking force, to propel the vehicle forward or in reverse at one of five low- speed settings. This allows the driver to maintain focus while steering over very rough level ground or steep grades, without having to also modulate the throttle, or brake, pedals. Crawl Control also actuates the front and rear “virtual” locking differentials to help reduce tire slippage and optimize chassis behavior.

Without canceling Crawl Control, the driver can reduce vehicle speed by braking or adjusting the crawling speed with a selector switch. Hill-start Assist Control (HAC) provides additional control for off-road driving by helping to keep the vehicle from rolling back while starting on a steep incline or slippery surface.

Downhill Assist Control (DAC) is designed to augment the low-speed descending ability of the transmission’s low range by helping to hold the vehicle to a target speed with no intervention from the driver. Active traction control (A-TRAC) provides the traction benefits of having locking front and rear differentials, but with lower weight. The system can apply the brake to a slipping wheel, while transferring torque to the wheels with better traction.

A steering angle indicator in the gauge panel shows the driver at a glance which direction the front wheels are pointing – useful for situations where this can be difficult to discern, such as driving off-road or when parking.

Safety/Security Features
The GX 460, like all Lexus models, is equipped with an array of dynamic safety systems. Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) helps keep the GX 460 going on its intended course by detecting front- and rear-wheel slide during cornering and attempting to control either condition with a combination of torque intervention and individual wheel braking. Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) utilizes the anti-lock brake system (ABS) and distributes proper brake force between the front and rear wheels according to driving conditions and wheel-load.

Brake Assist (BA) is designed to determine if the driver is attempting emergency braking, and if the driver has not stepped firmly enough on the brake pedal to engage ABS, the system supplements the applied braking power.

The Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) includes a class-leading standard 10 airbags: dual front and side airbags; driver and front passenger knee airbags; second-row seat-mounted side airbags, and roll-sensing side curtain airbags covering all two or three rows. The front airbags are designed to inflate according to collision severity. The roll-sensing side curtain airbags are designed to deploy when a severe tilt angle, roll or lateral G-force is detected.

The optional Pre-Collision System (PCS) can help reduce collision damage. The package includes Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, which uses millimeter-wave radar to measure and help maintain a pre-set distance from a vehicle traveling ahead. The multi-information display within the combination meter will show a car icon with the selected following distance. If, based on a variety of inputs, PCS determines that a collision is unavoidable, the system preemptively retracts the front seat belts and pre-initializes BA so that increased braking will be applied the instant the driver depresses the pedal.

In addition, an available Pre-Collision System with Driver Attention Monitor and Lane Departure Alert (LDA) is now available for the 2010 GX 460. Using two small cameras mounted at the front of the vehicle that work in conjunction with millimeter-wave radar, the system is sensitive enough to detect certain nonmetallic objects. The Driver Monitor System uses a third camera, mounted on the steering column, monitors the orientation of the driver’s face.

If the camera detects that it appears the driver is not looking directly ahead for a few seconds or more, and if an obstacle is detected ahead, then it alerts the driver, first with a warning chime and a flashing light. As the car gets closer to the obstacle, PCS can begin to gently apply the brakes on its own.

To help assist the driver in maneuvering around the obstacle, the system reprograms the steering ratio, amplifying the intensity and quickness of the steering response. At the same time, PCS automatically retracts the front seatbelts and prepares the brake system to respond with full force when activated by the driver in anticipation of a possible impact.

LDA alerts the driver of unintentional lane departure by sounding a warning buzzer and displaying an alert. It does not steer the vehicle independently and it requires the driver to maintain active steering control.

New for 2010, active front headrests move up and forward almost instantly in the event of certain lower speed rear-end collisions when the force of the occupant’s body is applied to the seat back. Also new, the available Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS), illuminates a turn or curve as the driver steers into it and includes high intensity discharge (HID) headlights. The available Pre-Collision System with Driver Attention Monitor Package includes new Intelligent High Beams with headlamp cleaners automatically adjust the high beams to avoid blinding drivers in oncoming vehicles. The cleaners help ensure optimal headlight performance in all weather conditions.

Luxury/Comfort/Convenience
The GX 460 presents a luxurious passenger environment with the fit and finishes expected in a Lexus. Standard features include: eight-way power-adjustable, heated/ventilated front seats; automatic climate control; leather trimmed seats and surfaces; steering wheel audio controls; rain-sensing windshield wipers; power moonroof; a wood and leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob; memory system for the driver’s seat, steering wheel position and outside mirrors; and an overhead console with integrated HomeLink® transmitter.

Equipped for family multimedia entertainment, the 2010 GX 460 comes standard with a Lexus Premium nine-speaker audio system with integrated iPod® control and XM® Radio receiver. Bluetooth® capability includes music streaming and hands free phone.

A rear back-up camera is standard on the 2010 GX 460. The camera provides the driver a view of what its lens can detect behind the vehicle when engaged in reverse gear, projecting the image on the standard 4.2-inch multi-information display, or the optional navigation system’s LCD display.

Luxury Options
Lexus makes personalizing the GX 460 easy for 2010 by offering a Convenience Package and a Comfort Plus Package, as well as making many of the packages’ features available as stand-alone options. The Convenience Package includes electrochromic exterior mirrors with power retract, 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 three- zone automatic climate control.

The new-generation hard disc drive (HDD) navigation system is a standalone option for 2010 and features Voice Command casual language-based voice recognition system and Bluetooth phonebook download to enhance owner convenience. The available Mark Levinson Premium Audio system is the platinum standard for OEM mobile audio and for 2010 features 17 speakers, up from 14 in the 2009 model. The available Rear Seat Entertainment (RSE) system now includes two LCD screens, one in each of the front seat backrests. Three-zone automatic climate control for enhanced third-row passenger comfort is also available as a standalone option.

The newly available Wide-view Front and Side Monitor, which debuted on the 2009 LX 570 premium luxury utility vehicle, is designed to enhance visibility in tight settings, such as parking garages, and to help the driver view blind spots when pulling out of parking spaces into traffic, and stopped at intersections and T-junctions. The new available Intuitive Parking Assist helps the driver detect obstacles at the front, rear or corners of the vehicle and helps guide the GX into street or garage parking spaces.

Exterior Design
Lexus designed the 2010 GX 460 to combine function and elegance, with unmistakable brand identity rooted in the L-finesse design language. The overall effect conveys the vehicle’s full-range capability and luxury credentials. A key goal of the designers was to have the vehicle create the impression of being sculpted from a single block of metal.

The distinctive grille features three horizontal bars and, upon closer inspection, intricate detail and texture that conveys renowned Lexus attention to detail. Distinctive character lines on the hood and a chrome surround frame the grille. The front bumper features standard integrated fog lamps.

Functional design elements include low-profile roof rails and an acoustic insulation windshield that help reduce wind noise. Tasteful luxury touches abound, including green-tint UV protection front glass, privacy glass on rear windows, and running board courtesy lamps.

Interior Design
The 2010 GX 460 provides the luxury appointments and workmanship of a Lexus sedan. Reduced drivetrain noise, especially in the 3,000-4,000 rpm range, combined with new sound
insulating, dampening and absorbing materials used throughout the frame and body, provide an even quieter cabin than before. Adopting a feature from the flagship LS sedans, the GX 460 uses one-touch power windows with motors that reduce speed near the closure point to minimize the sound of the window closing.

The instrument panel is designed to appear as if formed from a single metal bar and is arranged to place all vital controls within easy reach. Optitron® instrument gauges are a traditional and functional Lexus design element. Leather-trimmed seat facings, headrests, armrests, door trim, shift knob and steering wheel also add to the Lexus touch. For 2010, expanded wood trim, instrument panel stitching and soft-touch surfaces enhance the luxury feel. The GX offers three interior colors for 2010: Ecru, Black and Sepia.

Lexus Enform™ with Safety Connect™
Two all-new telematics features are available on the 2010 GX 460 by subscription. Safety Connect™ is standard on all vehicles, while Lexus Enform™, is available on navigation- equipped vehicles. Complimentary one-year trial subscriptions to Safety Connect are included on all purchases of new Lexus vehicles, while complimentary one-year trial subscriptions to Lexus Enform with Safety Connect are included with all purchases of new Lexus vehicles equipped with navigation. The Lexus Enform and Safety Connect response centers operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week – every day of the year.

Safety Connect, the cornerstone of the services, is standard on all GX 460 vehicles and offers four safety and security features: Automatic Collision Notification, Stolen Vehicle Location, Emergency Assistance (SOS), and Enhanced Roadside Assistance, which adds GPS data to the already included warranty-based Lexus roadside service.

Lexus Enform, available on navigation-equipped vehicles, includes all of the Safety Connect features and builds upon them with the premium services of Destination Assist and eDestination. Destination Assist agents are available via the on-board cellular equipment and can help drivers find a specific address, a business by name, or a type of business (e.g., gas station, movie theater, etc.), and even Zagat®-rated restaurants, and then send the coordinates to the navigation system for routing.

With eDestination, drivers can go online via LexusDrivers.com to save and sort destinations in up to 20 folders, each holding as many as 10 destinations. Then drivers can send the locations-up to 200 at a time-to their vehicle, where they will be available for download into the navigation system. Online, drivers can create personalized location names (e.g., “Favorite sushi,” “1 PM Appt,” “Kids’ doc,” etc.) and even list notes about their saved locations, all helping them see exactly the information they choose in the vehicle.

Lexus Insider™, a complimentary, opt-in service is also available without a subscription on all Lexus Enform-equipped vehicles. This feature offers in-vehicle audio casts that provide owners access to useful vehicle tips and event information, and insights into exclusive owners’ benefits – all designed to further enhance the Lexus experience.

XM – Beyond Radio
As part of the Lexus Enform navigation platform, the GX 460 is factory-ready for a variety of innovative services including XM NavTraffic® , XM NavWeather TM and XM ® Sports and Stocks.

XM NavTraffic informs the driver of current traffic conditions with real-time traffic displays. When traffic problems are detected the navigation system alerts the driver so that the route can be adjusted.

XM Sports and Stocks features in-vehicle updates on sports and stocks so drivers can stay connected to their favorite teams and investment data while on the road. XM Sports provides game results and schedules for up to five personally selected North American national league sports teams while XM Stocks supplies data for up to 10 personally selected stocks. After inputting their selections, drivers can access the reports either by the navigation system, or by using the voice command system, adding a new level of flexibility.

XM NavTraffic and XM NavWeather are available via individual XM subscriptions while XM Sports and Stocks is included with an XM Radio subscription. All XM services offer complimentary 90 day trial subscriptions.

Warranty
All new Lexus vehicles come with a 48-month/50,000-mile basic limited warranty with roadside assistance for 48 months/unlimited miles. Powertrain and restraint system coverage is provided for 72 months/70,000 miles. Corrosion perforation protection is covered for 72 months, regardless of mileage.

2010 Lexus LF-A Car Pictures

2010 Lexus LF-A Picture

2010 Lexus LF-A Front View

2010 Lexus LF-A Side Picture