FutureHybrids

Hybrid High Performance Coming from Lexus?

Jim Farley has been a busy man over the last twenty-four hours, first dishing the dirt on Lexus’ plans in Europe, then announcing in a Bloomberg interview that Lexus could pursue high performance hybrids aimed at “enthusiast groups”. No details were given, but there’s been rumblings for some time about the possibility of a LF-A …
EuropeFutureHybrids

Lexus to Launch a Small Luxury Car in Europe?

Toyota exec Tokuichi Uranishi, in an interview with German car magazine Auto Motor und Sport, has stated that in order for Lexus to compete in Europe’s luxury market, the lineup will have to be expanded, and should include a small luxury car, a la the BMW 1-Series/Mercedes 1-Class. Increasing European marketshare has become a #1 …
AutoshowsBody KitsLexus GSLexus GS: Third GenerationLexus SCLexus SC: Second GenerationModsUSA

Two Tuned Lexus Models from the Upcoming SEMA 2007

As previously mentioned, this year’s SEMA event will showcase nine Lexus models tuned up by aftermarket companies. Most of these companies make little or no mention of this fact on their websites, but two of the tuners have put up some teaser images: Blitz Tuned Lexus GS 430 The Blitz GS hasn’t gone over the …
1st GenerationLexus IS-FVideos

The Lexus IS-F Shows Off

When the Lexus IS-F hit the Laguna Seca Raceway during the California Taste of Lexus Event, there was a deluge of video released by spectators, but nothing, and I mean NOTHING that compares to the following video: Expert editing, amazing angles, fantastic sound — until I find out otherwise, I’m going to assume this is …
Lexus LSLexus LS: Fourth GenerationReviews

Motor Trend: Long-Term Lexus LS 460 Update 2

Now five months into their long-term test, Motor Trend continues to appreciate what the Lexus LS 460 brings to the table: [Truck Trend art director] Voehringer, a guitar-playing rock aficionado, adores the 19-speaker Mark Levinson reference surround-sound system, observing that it “supplies a lush spectrum of highs, mids, and especially bass” — the ideal setup …
Lexus GSLexus GS: Second GenerationPhotos

Flickr Find: A Scenic Lexus GS 400

Flickr photographer capt4inslow has posted up some incredible shots of a second-gen GS 400, here’s a couple of my favorites: I’ve always been a big fan of this GS generation, with its equally elegant and aggressive styling. More than anything, though, these photos remind me of the tough decision I had to make when choosing …
1st GenerationAutoshowsLexus IS-FUSA

SEMA 2007: Lexus IS-F Events

Also announced for 2007 SEMA Show is a host of events centering around the Lexus IS-F, which will be available for test drives for the first time ever. The car will also be mounted on a dynamometer, just like the recent Taste of Lexus events, where attendees can spin the wheels to their heart’s content …
AutoshowsModsOfficial EventsRacingUSA

SEMA 2007: Lexus to Launch Performance Accessory Line

Lots of SEMA news today, starting with the announcement of a new performance accessory line from Lexus: “The SEMA Show is the premier automotive specialty products trade event in the world, and Lexus is thrilled to participate this year,” said Brian Bolain, National Lexus Interactive and Automotive Events Manager. “SEMA is the perfect venue for …
1st GenerationAutoshowsEuropeLexus IS-FPhotos

Lexus IS-F in Silver!

As if on cue, photos emerged today on Club Lexus of a silver Lexus IS-F, taken by Claude Feltz at the 2007 Frankfurt Auto Show. Without a doubt, my point is proven, the IS-F doesn’t just look a little better in colors other than blue, it looks fantastic! (Special thanks to Claude for letting me …
1st GenerationLexus IS-FPreviews

Lexus IS-F Preview @ Edmunds

With all of the negative opinion circulating around the IS-F, this Edmunds preview seems almost upbeat: On paper the 2008 Lexus IS-F stacks up well against the M3, not to mention the Audi RS4 and Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG. In the metal, the IS-F’s appearance is polarizing (“F stands for FUGLY! The car looks wack,” said …
Site News

Site News: Most Popular, Latest Comments, & A WSJ Mention

With comments picking up and some of my older posts drawing in daily traffic, I have added links to the latest comments and most popular posts to the sidebar, underneath the category links. *** Though I’m sure it’s probably automated, my site has been linked to from a Wall Street Journal article dealing with strategic …
AutoshowsEuropeVideos

Lexus Press Conference @ Frankfurt 2007

The Auto Channel has posted the full Lexus press conference from the 2007 IAA Frankfurt Auto Show, presented by Karl Schlicht, Vice President of Lexus Europe: For the most part, the press conference confirms my earlier thoughts on Lexus’ presence in Frankfurt, revealing no new information, but there’s another side to it. With his singular …
FeaturesPhotos

The White Lexus IS-F Revelation

After yesterday’s lengthy post examining Lexus’ decision to create their F-Division, I was left with an uncomfortable feeling, and it was quite clear to me where it was coming from. There is, and will always be, a distinct difference between theory and practice, and while I think it’s important for Lexus as a brand to …
AutoshowsEurope

Lexus & The 2007 Frankfurt Auto Show

With the Tokyo Motor Show happening in less than a month, it’s no real shock that Lexus’ presence at the Frankfurt Auto Show was more than little subdued. The extent of their attendence seemed limited to only to a plastic molding of the LS 600h, pictured above, and the debut of the new GS refresh. …
Features

Lexus: Why the F?

A very interesting discussion is ongoing at The Truth About Cars, and what started out as an editorial criticizing the new IS-F’s marketing campaign has blossomed into a much deeper debate: Why does Lexus have a performance division at all? To be fair, the question does open up considerably, casting the same doubts onto Mercedes/AMG, …
Uncategorized

Lexus GX: 1st Generation Body Kits

Jaos Body Kit Manufacturer: Jaos Direct Link to Body Kit: Jaos Individual Pieces: Front Bumper, Side Step, Rear Bumper, Front Grille Toyota Aero SU Body Kit Manufacturer: Toyota Direct Link to Body Kit: Toyota Aero SU Individual Pieces: Front Bumper, Side Step, Rear Bumper, Front Grille, Replacement Rear View Mirrors,Rear Roof Spoiler, Clear Tail Lights …
BrandingDealershipsSales Reports

The Lexus Global Strategy

Lexus, which has focused primarily on the American market since its inception in 1989, has been attempting to grow into the global brand, yet the results have been mixed. The Detroit News has a very interesting article on this topic: In some of the most promising, fast-growing markets such as Russia and China, Lexus is …
1st GenerationLexus LSLexus LS HybridLexus LS: Fourth GenerationTech

A Look at the Lexus LS 600h/L’s Driver Monitoring System

When released next month, the Lexus LS 600hL will be equipped with a group of technologies, collectively dubbed the Driver Monitoring System, that takes automotive safety to an entirely new level. From the Lexus press release: The system uses an algorithm to map the position of the driver’s facial features and monitors movement of the …
SponsorshipsUSAVideos

Lexus US Virtual Open Winner Crowned

Happening much faster than I expected, the Lexus US Virtual Open tennis finals were held yesterday in a match between Benjamin Melinger and Peter Reyes, with Melinger winning after a fierce battle: Melinger, of course, wins the grand prize, a year-long lease of the upcoming Lexus IS-F. I can’t help but wonder how great this …
1st GenerationHybridsLexus GSLexus GS HybridLexus GS: Third Generation

2008 Lexus GS Press Release Confirms the Rumors

Lexus has issued a press release regarding the upcoming 2008 GS models, which confirms the previously leaked GS 460 details: All 2008 GS models will feature a revised front-end, with a new bumper, deeper intakes, and a subtly changed chrome grille. Other exterior changes: The alloy wheels have been redesigned, and turn signals have been …
AudioDealershipsModsTech

New Official Lexus iPod Integration Kit

If you’ve been bemoaning the lack of official iPod options in your Lexus, there’s some good news: An iPod Integration Kit, approved by Apple, will be available for all current Lexus and Toyota models in early 2008. Retailing for $300, the kit allows you to use your factory stereo (and any steering wheel controls) to …
AutoshowsOfficial EventsUSA

Lexus IS-F Test Drives @ SEMA 2007

Should you be lucky enough to be attending SEMA 2007, the premier annual automotive specialty trade event, you’re in for an extra-special Lexus treat: The Lexus IS-F will be available for test drives from October 30th – November 1st. No word if these quarter-hour test drives are attended by professional drivers (similar to the Taste …
Sales ReportsUSA

Lexus USA August 2007 Sales Report

Lexus’ August sales figures are in, and the automaker has posted 3.6% overall increase when compared to last year. Here’s the by-model breakdown of the numbers: 2007 2006 % Change IS250/350 5,381 5,553 -3.1 ES350 8,646 7,973 8.4 GS350 2,161 2,609 -17.2 GS430/450h 139 362 -61.6 SC430 298 493 -39.6 LS460 3,164 1,386 128.3 Total …
SponsorshipsUSA

Photos from US Virtual Tennis Open

The US Virtual Open, sponsored by Lexus, is taking place in New York right now, and while I had seen digital mockups of the court, WiiNintendo.net has posted up some photos from the event: From the photos, it looks to be a lot of fun, especially with the small tennis court that allows players to …
1st GenerationAdvertisingCommercialsHybridsJapanLexus LS HybridVideos

Lexus LS 600h Commercial: Hybrid Drive

The Lexus 600h is available only in Japan and Europe, which might explain why this commercial hasn’t made it to North American shores: It’s funny, because the invisible digital effect featured here reminds me of the car option I’m looking most forward to: the portable force field. Sure, there’s deeper, more important applications for the …
In the NewsUSA

New Lexus VP of Marketing Announced

In the wake of Deborah Wahl Meyer’s departure from Lexus to join Chrysler, Lexus has kept it all in the family, announcing a management shuffle that sees David Nordstrom, formerly the VP of Toyota Financial Services product and marketing, filling the vacant spot: Nordstrom will be responsible for all marketing activities for the Lexus Division. …
FutureLexus GSLexus GS: Third GenerationPhotochops

Lexus GS-F News!

Fantastic news has emerged regarding the existence of a Lexus GS-F: According to Motortrend, the GS-F will be receiving the LF-A’s V10 engine, meaning 500-plus horsepower, making it a worthy entry into the super sedan class. The next-gen GS, scheduled for a 2011 release, is being designed to allow for the V10 engine, which could …
Lexus LSLexus LS: Second GenerationVideos

Tony Soprano & The Lexus LS 400

It’s always a blast seeing your favorite cars featured in TV and movies, and what what an appearance the Lexus LS 400 made in the first episode of the Sopranos (Warning: Contains coarse language and violence, viewer discretion advised): I don’t even like my girlfriend driving my car, and she’s not in the habit of …
AutoshowsOfficial EventsUSAVideos

The Lexus IS-F 1/4 Mile Dyno Run

For the Taste of Lexus Evening Edition in Arcadia this past weekend, the IS-F was available for the public to test-drive — only catch was, it was on a dynamometer: The exhaust note is smooth and powerful, and the shifting is practically seamless. No dyno results were shown, but one Club Lexus tester felt there …
Uncategorized

Lexus SC: 2nd Generation Body Kits

Tom’s SC50 Body Kit Manufacturer: Tom’s Racing Direct Link to Body Kit: Tom’s SC50 Individual Pieces: Front Bumper, Side Step, Rear Bumper, Rear Spoiler, Trunk Lid Spoiler, Roof Spoiler, Replacement Hood Junction Produce Sports Body Kit Manufacturer: Junction Produce Direct Link to Body Kit: Junction Produce Sports Individual Pieces: Front Half Spoiler, Side Step, Rear …
Official EventsUSA

Taste of Lexus Evening Event in Los Angeles

The traveling Taste of Lexus event, where you can test drive all the current Lexus models, is having a special “Evening Edition” in Los Angeles this Saturday, August 25. This special edition is for driving enthusiasts, as all test drives will take place on a short performance track, which is normally reserved strictly for the …
Lexus GS HybridLexus GSh: First GenerationRussiaWebsites

Lexus Russia’s GS 450h Interactive Experience

Brandstudio, a Russian design firm, has been creating some wonderful websites for Lexus Russia, where each model has a separate Internet presence. Their latest work, for the GS 450h, is a incredibly interactive experience, though slightly confusing if you lack understanding of the Russian language. Still, with the extensive use of video, and a very …
FutureIn the News

Lexus’ Future is Upscale Only

Automotive News has revealed a number of significant facts about the future of Lexus, and it’s strictly upscale — with no plans to release a sub-$30,000 vehicle, Lexus will not be attempting to match their German competitors car-for-car, instead focusing their current lineup and all new vehicles at high-end segments. Broken down, what does it …
BrandingSponsorshipsTechUSA

The Lexus Virtual Tennis Open

Lexus will be sponsoring a “Virtual Tennis Open” to go with its sponsorship of the real-life U.S. Tennis Open taking place next month in New York City. The three-day virtual tournament will use the Nintendo Wii as the gaming platform, and will take place on a scaled down tennis court, pictured below: The winner of …
PhotosRacing

More Photos of the White Lexus IS-F

When the IS-F surfaced this weekend in multiple colors, I was quite surprised how different the car looked in shades other than blue. Even more than the red version, I loved the white, which seemed to diffuse some of the louder design characteristics, particularly the side vents. Sadly, there were only a few images to …
1st GenerationAutoshowsHybridsLexus GS HybridLexus GS: Third GenerationSpecial Editions

Lexus GS 450h Bridgehampton Concept

Lexus debuted a special edition this weekend at The Quail Event: The GS 450h Bridgehampton Concept: From the display plaque: In the late 1950’s, and through the “glory” days of the ‘60s, affluenty sports car racers descended on a unique racing circuit near Sag Harbor on Long Island to test their mettle and their machines. …
EventsUSAVideos

Lexus IS-F @ SoCal Taste of Lexus Event

The new Lexus IS-F was in Southern California this week, flown in from Japan for the Orange County Taste of Lexus event, where some members of Club Lexus were lucky enough to get some in-car time with chauffeured laps around the famous Laguna Seca racetrack. Here’s a great video look at the time on the …
Site News

TPP Improvements

With the rather exciting interest my Lexus Body Kit Series has been generating, this site has started to grow in traffic significantly, and now seems like the perfect time to start rolling out some planned site improvements. If my estimations are correct, there are over twenty-five changes and features in the pipeline, which I will …
Uncategorized

Lexus IS: 2nd Generation Body Kits

Tom’s IS45 Body Kit Manufacturer: Tom’s Racing Direct Link to Body Kit: Tom’s IS45 Individual Pieces: Front Spoiler, Side Step, Trunk Spoiler, Rear Under Spoiler Exiv Concept Body Kit Manufacturer: Exiv Concept Direct Link to Body Kit: Exiv IS Individual Pieces: Front Spoiler, Side Step, Rear Spoiler, Trunk Lid Spoiler Ings+1 LX Sport Body Kit …
AdvertisingCommercialsLexus SCLexus SC: Second GenerationSponsorshipsVideos

Lexus SC 430 Commercial with Andy Roddick for the U.S. Open

This SC 430 commercial featuring Andy Roddick and Christopher Fairbanks defies the usual Lexus formula of heightened drama and takes an altogether different route: This went completely over my head, with such a strange combination of elements. A famous tennis player, a comedian, a tree frog story and a sixties era green-screen, how could these …