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Will there be a Lexus IS Coupe or IS-F Convertible?

With the Lexus IS convertible arriving in dealerships, two questions have started to come up—Will there be an IS coupe? And what about an IS-F version of the convertible? The first question was posed to Lexus USA General Manager Mark Templin by Jalopnik, here was his reply: “Since all the hard work of getting a …

Kevin · June 15th, 2009

Latest on the Lexus LFA

Edmunds’ Inside Line has some new information on the upcoming Lexus LFA, including this new rendering (click for a larger version): (The front-end continues to be one of the remaining question marks about the LFA, this rendering has a lot of Ferrari in it.) Also reported is that the LFA engine will be controlled by …

Kevin · June 12th, 2009

New Rumors on the Production Lexus LFA

Japanese magazine Best Car has published the above computer rendering of a possible look for the Lexus LFA production model, and has also included some new information: The LFA will be receiving a new name, possibly the SS (for Super Sport) or GT (Gran Turismo/Tourer). The numeric designation could be 500 or 550, though it’s …

Kevin · May 26th, 2009

Next Autos Reviews the 2010 Lexus HS 250h

Next Autos has published one of the first reviews of the 2010 Lexus HS 250h, and it’s a mostly positive affair. There’s the expected praise of the interior, but what I was most interested in was the driving performance: The suspension gives a super smooth ride, and aimed totally at comfort. It’s still firm, and …

Kevin · May 26th, 2009

New Lexus LFA Spy Video

Stop everything and watch this video of the close-to-production Lexus LFA howling round Nürburgring: This car looks and sounds demonic, very exciting when you consider how close this will be to the real thing. Can not wait to see the production LFA. (Thanks Roberto!)

Kevin · May 19th, 2009

2010 Lexus GX 460?

According to Ward’s Auto, the next generation Lexus GX will be launched this fall, and will be powered by the 4.6L V8 engine that debuted in the 2010 Toyota Tundra. The 2010 GX 460 will see its exterior and interior redesigned, and should include Lexus’ Remote Touch system and a new rear door. When asked …

Kevin · May 19th, 2009

More Lexus LFA Spy Shots

More Lexus LFA photos are making their way online—World Car Fans has posted some additional images showing the supercar prototype at Nürburgring with its rear wing fully extended and the redesigned rear window air scoops visible: The LFA concepts have always been impressive, but this polishing towards production has the supercar looking better than ever. …

Kevin · May 12th, 2009

New Lexus LFA Spy Shots

A reworked Lexus LFA has been spotted, sporting some vinyl camouflage and looking much closer to production than ever before: Most of the changes over the last-seen mule are in the more aggressive front-end, but the whole vehicle looks more polished and sleek. Motor Authority also has some spy shots, including this brief look at …

Kevin · May 11th, 2009

Details on Lexus’ 1-Series Competitor

Details are emerging about Lexus’ compact car—according to Top Gear’s Foreman blog, the 1-series competitor will be a hatchback based on the Prius platform and only available as a hybrid: A Prius is designed to get small-car economy from a bigger car. But Lexus hybrids all have higher performance than their standard counterparts. Lexus has …

Kevin · May 6th, 2009

New Lexus HS 250h Videos

Lexus has published some new HS 250h videos: These videos give a better insight into just how important the ecological aspect was in the design and production of the HS—I’d say it’s the very definition of the vehicle, right down to how it looks. Speaking of which, take a look at this new photo of …

Kevin · April 21st, 2009

Toyota and Lexus Hybrids Top One Million Sales in the U.S.

Toyota announced today that the company has now sold 1,000,000 hybrids in the USA since the Prius’ introduction in 2000. An extrodinary number to say the least, it’s certainly a clear indicator that hybrid technology is a strong selling point. From the press release: The sales milestone was achieved with an industry-leading six Toyota and …

Kevin · March 11th, 2009

2010 Lexus LS Facelift?

Vince Burlapp, the same blogger that leaked an image of the possible 2010 ES facelift, now brings us some fuzzy photos of what could very well be the 2010 Lexus LS refresh: Leaked 2010 Image Current LS As far as I can see, the changes are mainly in the rear lights. The new reverse “L” …

Kevin · February 2nd, 2009

2010 Lexus RX 450h Colors (with Images)

While exploring Lexus Japan’s website, TPP commenter Eddie discovered images of all the 2010 Lexus RX colors: {embed=“site/gallery” gallery_id=“1145”} The Cerulean Blue Metallic is a much nicer hue than Breakwater Metallic, though I’ll have to see it in person first. Also, here are the interior colors: {embed=“site/gallery” gallery_id=“1146”} Personally, I’d probably go for Smoky Granite …

Kevin · January 29th, 2009

Lexus LS V6 Coming?

According to Paul Tan, the Lexus LS may be getting a new engine option this year: This could happen when Lexus unveils the facelift for the LS, which would be due anytime soon as it was launched in the year 2007. A Lexus LS 350 could be powered by the 2GR-FSE 3.5 liter V6 engine …

Kevin · January 28th, 2009

2010 Lexus RX Colors

Following the discovery of the Lexus IS-C colors, here are the hues of the upcoming 2010 RX: Exterior Starfire Pearl Smoky Granite Mica Tungsten Pearl Obsidian Matador Red Mica Golden Almond Metallic Truffle Mica Black Sapphire Pearl Cerulean Blue Metallic Interior Parchment Light Gray Black Wood: Dark Brown or Medium Brown Walnut Smoky Granite Mica, …

Kevin · January 22nd, 2009

Lexus 2010 RX Heads-Up Display (HUD)

Lexus Canada has launched a very nice promo site for the upcoming 2010 Lexus RX release, and one of their photos clearly displays the new Heads-Up Display (HUD) feature, which features a great looking navigational aid: The photo is Photoshopped, but obviously entirely accurate. Creating such clear and precise directional cues directly in front of …

Kevin · January 20th, 2009

Lexus Enform Video Presentation

This CNet video walks us through the features of the new Lexus Enform telematics service: There’s some very interesting technical points here, particularly the natural language interface to traffic and stock information. The eDestination feature could be a great addition as well, depending on the quality of information provided by Lexus.

Kevin · January 18th, 2009

Lexus HS 250h Cross-Section

After yesterday’s blocky video screencap of the Lexus HS 250h cut-away that’s being displayed at the Detroit Auto Show, TPP commenter TimeToy posted links to these three images from Autoblog (click for larger versions): From the looks of things, the battery pack seems to be tiered, with part behind the back seat and part under …

Kevin · January 14th, 2009

Lexus HS 250h Youtube Video

So far, the only video I’ve seen of the Lexus HS 250h was the Mark Templin Introduction speech, so I was looking forward to this Youtube footage: At least we know two full-grown men can fit in the trunk! On a serious note, the last 15 seconds show a cross-section version of the HS’ Hybrid …

Kevin · January 13th, 2009

No Lexus HS 250h in Europe, but IS Diesel Update Coming

In a follow-up to yesterday’s post, Lexus confirmed to the Automotive News that the HS 250h will not be sold in Europe. No reason was given, but an insider told me that the CO2 emissions weren’t low enough to justify the expense of introducing the model. However, on the plus side, I was also told …

Kevin · January 13th, 2009

Lexus HS 250h Not Available in Europe?

Looks like I was wrong, both Car Magazine and Auto Express are reporting that the Lexus HS 250h won’t be offered in Europe. If true, this is a real head scratcher. Here’s a 2007 quote from Lexus UK Chief Steve Settle talking about the HS in no uncertain terms: “We’ll add a specific hybrid model …

Kevin · January 12th, 2009

Live Lexus HS 250h Photos

There were plenty of live photos of the Lexus HS 250h posted online, some better than others. As always, Autoblog has plenty of photos to go through, including this photo of the HS trunk: Looks spacious, benefiting from the batteries being located under the car. Jalopnik posted a similar selection of on-stage shots, but give …

Kevin · January 12th, 2009

Lexus HS 250h Introduction Video

It was only a matter of time — an (edited) video of the Lexus HS 250h’s introduction at the Detroit Auto Show has been posted online: Some very interesting points that don’t really have a spot in an official press release. Lexus GM Mark Templin states that the HS will have better city MPG than …

Kevin · January 11th, 2009

Lexus Voice Command & Lexus Insider Service

There were two new features included in yesterday’s Lexus Enform press release that I thought needed special attention. The first feature is Lexus’ new voice control system: This new casual-speech voice recognition system, called voice command, features VoiceBox Technology’s award-winning, patented Conversational Voice Search, and allows drivers to speak more flexible, conversational commands for easier …

Kevin · January 8th, 2009

Lexus Enform: The New In-Car Telematics Service

Lexus has announced Lexus Enform, their replacement for Lexus Link in-car service. Referred to as a telematics service, this integrated system will be introduced with the new 2010 Lexus RX and adds a new layer of convenience and utility. There are the expected features, outlined here: Automatic Collision Notification (ACN): Safety Connect’s ACN will help …

Kevin · January 7th, 2009

2010 Lexus ES 350?

It looks like the rumor of a 2010 Lexus ES facelift is right on the mark, as blogger Vince Burlapp has posted a blurry photo of an ES with a revised front-end. The headlight treatment does seem a little derivative, but I really like the new grille. It has a strong, unique look, especially when …

Kevin · January 4th, 2009

2009 Lexus Models

Welcome to 2009! To prepare for this new year, let’s recap what we can expect over the next twelve months. The most definitive information regarding Lexus’ future was a WSJ interview with Lexus General Manager Mark Templin, where he promised four new models this year. Here’s a breakdown: New Lexus RX The biggest Lexus story …

Kevin · January 1st, 2009

Lexus LF-A Will Remain in Development

When Honda cancelled their plans to build a new NSX, there was some worry that Lexus might follow suit with the LF-A. Turns out there was nothing to it, Lexus has confirmed their intention to build the LF-A. Auto Express reports: The news was announced as parent firm Toyota also confirmed its commitment to the …

Kevin · December 29th, 2008

Lexus Files LFA Trademark

It’s been discovered that Toyota registered “LFA” at US Patent and Trademark Office on December 1st, 2008. It’s been interpreted by many as a positive sign, but this could be seen in two ways: Lexus is moving forward with the supercar, and taking care of the name trademark is one of the many steps necessary. …

Kevin · December 15th, 2008

Photochop of the Next Generation Lexus GS

Even thought the fourth-generation Lexus GS is still years away, it’s certainly fun to imagine what the next version will look like, and The Truth About Cars’ Andrei Avarvarii did just that, putting together this photochop: I do like some of the touches, particularly the front-light treatment, but I don’t think Avarvarii’s photochop is heading …

Kevin · December 12th, 2008

Lexus Sub-Compact in 2012?

Once again, Lexus Australia’s chief executive John Roca has spilled the goods on the future of Lexus, this time in regards to the oft-rumored sub-compact: Devised to take on the premium European small cars exemplified by the BMW as well as the Audi A3, the forthcoming compact is understood to be in co-development with the …

Kevin · December 8th, 2008

Lexus LS-F News!

Looks like the rumor of an Lexus LS-F is growing some legs — Last week, I reported the possibility that an F-Sport variant of the Lexus flagship could be released in 2009, and now Autoblog has “confirmed” the speculation, along with some bonus IS-F sales news: Hirokazu Koga, general manager of the Lexus Development Center …

Kevin · December 5th, 2008

Lexus Planning Four New Models in 2009

In a short interview with the Wall Street Journal, Lexus Group Vice President Mark Templin revealed that the company will be releasing four new models next year: …he’s cutting back spending now so he can invest in the marketing campaigns of these four products one of which, the new RX, was revealed Wednesday. In six …

Kevin · November 28th, 2008

Full Lexus 2010 Introduction from the LA Auto Show

The Auto Channel has posted the full LA Auto Show 2010 RX introduction (listed at over eighteen minutes, but only plays for twelve): First of all, the heads-up display was shown briefly, here’s a screen capture: Hard to get an accurate idea of the new feature’s implementation, but new details are certain to emerge shortly. …

Kevin · November 28th, 2008

2010 Lexus RX 350 & RX 450h Details

Lexus has issued their press release with details on the new 2010 RX 350 & 450h, which backs up the specifications and options I posted last month. Here’s some selected passages from the press release: Entering its second generation, the RX 450h will feature an enhanced Lexus Hybrid Drive system with a 3.5-liter V6 gas …

Kevin · November 19th, 2008

Official 2010 Lexus RX 350 Photos!

We’ve seen the 2010 Lexus RX 450h, and now here’s a set of images from Lexus of the upcoming RX 350 — details on the new models in my next post: {embed=“site/gallery” gallery_id=“1236”}

Kevin · November 19th, 2008

2010 Lexus RX 350 & 450h to debut at LA Auto Show

Lexus has confirmed that the next generation RX & RX hybrid will be revealed November 19th at the LA Auto Show, along with the American debut of the IS 250/350C: Lexus will stage the world premiere of the all-new 2010 RX 450h hybrid and RX 350 luxury utility vehicles at a press conference at the …

Kevin · November 12th, 2008

First Spy Photos of the Lexus HS 250h?

So not even twelve hours after seeing the Mag-X rendering of the upcoming Lexus HS 250h hybrid, TPP reader Dan posted a link to a series of photos by Mike Ingels, who very well may have captured the first spy shots of the new hybrid: Considering these photos were taken near the Chrysler proving grounds …

Kevin · November 11th, 2008

Is this the Lexus HS 250h?

Volkswagen website VWVortex isn’t the first place you’d expect to find information on the upcoming Lexus dedicated hybrid, but the Internet’s a strange place. Regardless, a member of their forum came across this page out of Japanese magazine Mag-X, featuring a rendition of the now-named Lexus HS 250h (click for a closeup): Other information gleaned …

Kevin · November 11th, 2008

More 2010 Lexus RX Photos

While last week’s leaked 2010 Lexus RX photos gave us our first peek at the new SUV, the brochure photos were anything but spectacular. Now we have some new photos to look at, and while they’re still of uneven quality, they capture the RX in real life: I remain incredibly impressed with the new model, …

Kevin · November 3rd, 2008

2010 Lexus RX 350 to Debut at LA Auto Show, In Dealerships in February 2009

According to The Car Connection, the next-generation Lexus RX will be making its debut at next month’s Los Angeles Auto Show. When you consider this alongside the Lexus SEMA lineup, November’s looking to be a big month for Lexus. Also, after confirming it with three separate sources, I can now able to say with certainty …

Kevin · October 24th, 2008

2010 Lexus RX 350 Optional Equipment

Continuing in on the breakdown of the 2010 Lexus RX 350, here’s a list of newly available optional equipment: Bi-Xenon HID Headlamps Automatic High Beam Feature Auto-dimming Rearview Mirror with Integrated Backup Camera Wallet-Size Card Key 12-Speaker Premium Audio System USB Audio Input 15-Speaker Mark Levinson Audio System Voice-activated HDD Navigation System XM Real-Time Traffic …

Kevin · October 22nd, 2008

2010 Lexus RX 350 Standard Equipment

As I mentioned in the previous post, due to a forwarded dealership document, I have the full breakdown of the next-generation 2010 Lexus RX 350. In that first post, I covered the specification side of things, and now here’s a list of the new standard equipment, along with the standard equipment no longer offered: New …

Kevin · October 22nd, 2008

Full 2010 Lexus RX 350 Specs!

Early this morning, I was sent a dealership document outlining the full details of the North American Canadian 2010 Lexus RX 350, right down to the available packages (still no production model photos though, the pic above is the LF-Xh concept). I’m going to break up the information over a series of posts today, starting …

Kevin · October 22nd, 2008

Lexus Confirms Compact Model

In an interview with German newspaper WirtschaftsWoche, Lexus Europe Managing Director Tadashi Arashima confirmed that Lexus will indeed be launching a compact entry-level model. From Motor Authority: “We will offer a Lexus in the compact class,” he told reporters, explaining that the company needs “smaller and more efficient vehicles” to meet Europe’s CO2 emissions regulations. …

Kevin · October 20th, 2008

Lexus to Move to Hybrid-Only?

When I read Toyota Managing Officer Toshio Furutani’s comments in the Nikkei Business News last week that “in the medium to long term, Toyota was considering making the Lexus lineup hybrid-only”, it barely registered. Now, after seeing it reported over and over, I’ve come to release it might be an idea to post here — …

Kevin · October 15th, 2008

Lexus IS 250C Showing at Australia International Auto Show

Fresh from its debut at the Paris Auto Show, the Lexus IS 250C is now making an appearance at the Australia International Auto Show. When asked about the new convertible, Lexus Australia GM John Roca had this to say: “For the first time in Lexus history we can now claim we have an IS range…[it] …

Kevin · October 9th, 2008

Europa Press Interviews Lexus Europe Vice-President

Some interesting facts came out of a Europa Press interview with Lexus Europe vice-president Andy Pfeiffenberger — from the translated text: …the vice president of the European subsidiary of Toyota said his company expected its sales this year on the European continent will be reduced by about 11%, to about 48,000 units, due to economic …

Kevin · October 7th, 2008

Collection of Live Lexus IS 250C Video Clips

I thought it would be good to post up all the different video segments of the Lexus IS 250C I’ve come across since the convertible’s introduction last week: Update: More videos: Have you seen any others? Post it in the comments and I’ll update the page.

Kevin · October 6th, 2008

Lexus IS 350C confirmed for North America

According to both the Lexus USA press release and a post on Toyota’s Open Road Blog, there will be an IS 350C (at least in North America): Powered by the same powertrain as the IS sedans, the IS 250C features a2.5-liter, 204-hp V6 mated to a six-speed manual or six-speed automatictransmission; the IS 350C contains …

Kevin · October 5th, 2008

Lexus confirms Prius-based Hybrid (Plus a Second Hybrid Bonus!)

Details are sparse, but there’s news today regarding the upcoming Lexus hybrids. Yes, that’s correct, there’s two hybrids in the works! Of course, this has been rumored for some time, but now we have something more in the way of facts: Fact #1: The first Lexus dedicated hybrid will be based on the new Toyota …

Kevin · October 3rd, 2008

Video of the Lexus IS 250C Convertible Roof

I’ve dug up the video that’s currently being displayed with the IS 250C at the Paris Auto Show, which shows the new Lexus IS 250C’s roof in action! What’s more, it’s a substantial 15 minutes in length, more than enough to satisfy even the most diehard retractible roof fans (my apologies with the autostarting video, …

Kevin · October 2nd, 2008

Lexus IS 250C Photo Gallery

Well, that will teach me to get sick! The Lexus IS 250C was unveiled early this morning at the Paris Motor Show, and with it came plenty of interesting information. First thing’s first, there’s a ton of official photos, more details in my next post:

Kevin · October 2nd, 2008

Lexus LF-A Continues Nürburgring Testing

Regardless of the rumor Autoblog was circulating about the Lexus LF-A’s demise, prototype testing is still ongoing at Nürburgring, and Motor Authority has the photos to prove it. Here’s a sampling: Nothing we haven’t seen before, though I can never pass up the chance to post matte black paint jobs. That last photo is curious, …

Kevin · September 18th, 2008

Lexus LF-Xh Press Release Photo

Having debuted last year, the announcement that the Lexus LF-Xh concept would be at the Paris Auto Show didn’t really elicit a reaction from me — that is, until I saw this stunning photo released by Lexus Europe to mark the occasion: (Be sure to click on the image to get the full version, it’s …

Kevin · September 17th, 2008

Lexus IS 250 C Convertible to be Introduced at Paris Motor Show

It’s been a rumor for a while now, but Lexus today confirmed that the IS 250 Convertible, or the IS 250 C, will be making its official debut at the Paris Motor Show. Details are sparse, the only thing the press release was clear about was the introduction date: Further information and images will be …

Kevin · September 10th, 2008

Assorted Lexus 2009 Price Changes

The remaining 2009 Lexus model updates & US price changes are small, so let’s just put them all together: ES 350: Unchanged for 2009, the ES 350 will see a fractional price increase of $200, bringing the base MSRP to $34,320. GS 350/460: All versions of the gas engine GS will have a $300 price …

Kevin · September 8th, 2008

Lightweight Lexus IS-F Planned

Although it seems like a rehash of known information, German Dutch magazine Autotelegraaph reports that Lexus will not only release a coupe/convertible version of the IS in 2009, but that work continues on a lightweight IS-F. Motor Trend summarizes: Autotelegraaph reports that Lexus has been channeling Lotus and already has a lightened test model running …

Kevin · September 1st, 2008

2009 Lexus IS Photos

No question now, this is the upcoming 2009 Lexus IS facelift: These photos, posted on the same site that leaked the 2009 IS brochure, reveal the new IS in some sort of Japanese Korean Lexus showroom, presumably where unreleased models are displayed for anyone to see. Enough talk, here’s the full gallery: {embed=“site/gallery” gallery_id=“1138”} [Source: …

Kevin · August 29th, 2008

Lexus Prius Sketch from Motor Trend

There isn’t much in the way of new information in Motor Trend’s article about the upcoming Lexus hybrid, but it did include this beauty of a mockup sketch: There were a few new points covered, though they seem entirely speculative: The difference between the Lexus variant and the Prius itself — as is generally the …

Kevin · August 20th, 2008

2009 Lexus IS Uncovered

It may be an elaborate hoax, but My.IS member nyjinwoo has uncovered what looks to be a brochure for the 2009 Lexus IS 250/350. First thing, here’s an overview of the exterior changes: The front grille has been given the same extended chrome border and integrated turn signals that were included in last year’s refreshed …

Kevin · August 13th, 2008

A Different Kind of 4-Wheel Lexus

Painted up in IS-F Ultrasonic Blue, this training bicycle is the latest proof of Lexus’ dedication to the environment, and also also highlights their commitment to future owners: No word on when the bike will be available or what type of distribution channel will be used, but Nürburgring spy shots should be arriving any day …

Kevin · August 12th, 2008

Lexus Future Forecasting

Automotive News has published a report detailing what seems to be Lexus’ entire future manufacturing plans, though it’s unclear as to the source of this information. Regardless, allow me to summarize: The LF-A, or the “LF-1″ as its referred to in the article, has been pushed back yet again due to the performance-to-cost ratio and …

Kevin · August 11th, 2008

Lexus Prius? The Ongoing Saga

UK Magazine AutoCar claims to have the inside scoop on the oft-mentioned Lexus hybrid debuting at the 2009 Detroit Auto Show: The new model is known internally as SAI but will be renamed before it goes on sale and will be based on the next generation Prius, also being shown for the first time in …

Kevin · August 4th, 2008

Lexus IS Coupe Photochops

These Lexus IS coupe photochops from Top Speed might be almost two years old, but when I spotted the thumbnails on Flickr today, I thought it was the real deal: I have a feeling the coupe is going to be a looker, but this example lacks the hard edge that I’d like to see. One …

Kevin · July 29th, 2008

Lexus SC 430, GX 470, & LX 570 to Remain Unchanged for 2009

The 2009 versions of the Lexus SC 430, GX 470 and LX 570 will remain unchanged save for some minor changes (all prices USD): The 2009 model year SC 430 luxury hardtop convertible receives new side mirrors with incorporated turn signals and will have a base MSRP $66,805, an increase of 0.7 percent or $450. …

Kevin · July 25th, 2008

Lexus LF-A Engine on display at London Motor Show

Even if there’s nothing really new to look at, this Car Magazine video clip of the London Motor Show does feature the LF-A’s engine suspended in glass: Looks smaller than I would expect.

Kevin · July 23rd, 2008

New Toyota Hybrid is Expected

Japanese newspaper Nikkei business daily is reporting that a new Toyota hybrid will be introduced next year: Toyota Motor Corp plans to produce 100,000 units a year of a new hybrid-only model slated for release in 2009 at a subsidiary in southern Japan, the Nikkei business daily reported on Saturday. The new car, which will …

Kevin · July 20th, 2008

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