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More Lexus Photos from the Tokyo Motor Salon

Website Speedhunters also posted some photos from the Tokyo Motor Salon, including this rather unique Mercedes/Lexus love child: Well, considering this is Japan, I should have said Soarer/Mercedes love child, but let’s move along. Take a look at this Artisan Spirits SC 430: I’m not usually a fan of such high contrast two-tones, but that …

Kevin · January 16th, 2009

Lexus Photos from Toyko Motor Salon

Photographer Anthony Carbone attended the Tokyo Motor Salon and came away with some great photos of the Lexus in attendance (click the photos to go to the full gallery): Wald International Lexus IS-F Black Bison Edition Club Linea Lexus LX 570 DAD Lexus LS 460 I had to do a double take on that DAD …

Kevin · January 15th, 2009

Flickr Find: Lexus IS-C in Blue

Going through Davidjst’s Flickr photos from the Silicon Valley Auto Show, I spotted the Lexus IS-C painted in what looks to be IS-F ultrasonic blue: We’ve only seen primary colors so far, I wonder if we’ll see the return of the yellow IS?

Kevin · January 14th, 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

Visual Comparison: Lexus HS 250h vs. Toyota Corolla

There’s been a lot of talk about the Lexus HS 250h resembling the Toyota Corolla, so let’s take a look (and why not throw in the new Prius for good measure). I scaled all the vehicles, so sizing should be close-to-correct: The resemblance to the Corolla, it turns out, is all in the front nose. …

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 HS 250h Official Photos

Lexus didn’t hold back with the HS 250h photos, there’s images from every conceivable angle: {embed=“site/gallery” gallery_id=“1098”} Early reaction focuses on the HS’ resemblance to the Toyota Corolla, though I see a lot of the IS & ES in the design. Really though, with the vehicle’s focus on gas mileage, much of the design is …

Kevin · January 11th, 2009

Lexus HS 250h Unveiled at the Detroit Auto Show

The wait is over, Lexus unveiled the much anticipated HS 250h today at the Detroit Auto Show. There’s plenty to go over, but let’s start by breaking down the most noteworthy points about this new hybrid: The HS 250h sports Lexus’ first four-cylinder gas engine, a 2.4L Atkinson-cycle powerplant that generates 187HP. No exact fuel …

Kevin · January 11th, 2009

2010 Lexus RX 350/450h Gas Mileage Figures

We’ve known since the LA Auto Show that the 2010 Lexus RX would be returning better gas mileage, but a press release issued yesterday gave us the exact EPA figures, which I’ve compared with last year’s numbers (broken down as city/highway/combined): Model 2010 2009 Change RX 350 FWD 18/25/21 18/23/20 +0/2/1 RX 350 AWD 18/24/20 …

Kevin · January 9th, 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

CNet Previews the 2010 Lexus RX 450h

CNet has published their take on the 2010 Lexus RX 450h, and it includes a more critical look at the new Remote Touch controller: Along with the voice command, Lexus updated the controller, using a square joystick on the console to control an onscreen cursor…you can change the settings for the cursor, choosing a different …

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

Edmunds Previews the 2010 Lexus RX 350

The second in what’s bound to be an absolute torrent, Edmunds has posted their 2010 Lexus RX preview. Like Popular Mechanics, Edmunds liked the new driving feel, but they were more impressed with the new Remote Touch: Our experience with iDrive, COMAND and MMI tells us that Remote Touch will be more cumbersome than using …

Kevin · January 7th, 2009

First Test Drive of the 2010 Lexus RX

Popular Mechanics has published the first journalist test drive of the new 2010 Lexus RX, which reveals a surprising side to the SUV: Based on a car-like platform, the RX drives with reassuring stability. The electric power steering has been recalibrated to lose the somewhat digital on/off feel afflicting most Toyota/Lexus systems and now provides …

Kevin · January 6th, 2009

Lexus USA 2008 Year-End Sales Report

It feels like the only automotive topic left, but the slumping automotive sector certainly left its mark on Lexus USA’s 2008 sales, dropping 21.2% compared to 2007. Here are the year-end totals: 2008 2007 % Change IS250/350 49,432 54,933 -10.3 ES350 64,135 82,867 -22.9 GS350/460/450h 15,759 23,381 -32.8 SC430 1,986 3,927 -49.6 LS460/600h L 20,255 …

Kevin · January 5th, 2009

Lexus USA December 2008 Sales Report

The sales for Lexus USA’s last month of 2008 are in, and it wasn’t exactly a December to Remember. Here are the model-by-model numbers: 2008 2007 % Change IS250/350/F 3,539 5,651 -37.4 ES350 5,236 8,005 -34.6 GS350/460/450h 1,200 2,579 -53.5 SC430 116 348 -66.7 LS460/600h L 1,451 3,257 -55.4 Total Cars 11,542 19,840 -41.8 RX350/400h …

Kevin · January 5th, 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

TPP’s Ten Most Popular Posts of 2008

It’s the last day of 2008, making it the perfect day to list the most popular stories over the last year. Let’s start: 10. Is the Lexus LF-A really the new SC? Early this year, I was struck by the idea that the Lexus LF-A was actually the F-Sport version of the next SC, and …

Kevin · December 31st, 2008

Belated Lexus Christmas Commercial

It comes a little late, but this Lexus December to Remember commercial makes an interesting contrast to the other adverts that ran this season: Per usual, the music selection is fantastic, and the animation is certainly cute, but I have to admit some disappointment that the RX wasn’t actually growing underneath the bow.

Kevin · December 30th, 2008

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 HS 250h Spy Shots!

Leftlane News has published possible spy shots of the upcoming Lexus HS 250h hybrid sedan (click for larger versions): I can certainly see some Lexus cues with the hybrid door badging and the LS rear lights, but obviously this is an extremely well-camouflaged vehicle. Update: TPP commenter Eddie also brings up the obviously Lexus side …

Kevin · December 29th, 2008

Lexus RX Museum in Japan

Lexus Japan has built a museum to display the new RX before its launch in February, though I think it’s safe to say it’s more of an art installation. Take a look at some of these photos: The site is certainly unique, unfortunately it’s also entirely in Japanese so there I can’t really grasp more …

Kevin · December 27th, 2008

Happy Holidays from The Passionate Pursuit

Festive cheer is kicking into high gear, so I’d like to take the opportunity to wish everyone a safe and happy holidays! Regular posting will resume on the 27th, and then next week, I’ll be taking a look back at 2008’s top stories and outlining just what we can expect in the new year. All …

Kevin · December 24th, 2008

Lexus Launches HS 250h Teaser Site

In preparation of the debut of the new HS 250h hybrid sedan at the Detroit Auto Show, Lexus has updated their website to include a small microsite. While it’s basically just an email form and the above badge image, there is one other interesting detail. According to the microsite, the HS 250h will not be …

Kevin · December 24th, 2008

Top Gear’s Jeremy Clarkson Destroys a Lexus

Just in case you didn’t know how Jeremy Clarkson felt about Lexus, his position should be abundantly clear after viewing this excerpt from his new DVD Thriller: Sure, we’ve heard him refer to the SC 430 as the “worst car currently available”, and last month he refused to even admit he liked the IS-F, but …

Kevin · December 23rd, 2008

Custom Lexus IS-F Exhaust by Royal Muffler

Listen to this custom Lexus IS-F exhaust treatment from Royal Muffler, a company based out of California: This design is unique among the current IS-F options as it’s using four race mufflers rather than the more typical muffler/resonator combination. According to Club Lexus, the price is $2,300, which includes install and lifetime warranty. Certainly on …

Kevin · December 22nd, 2008

Former Lexus VP Leaves Chrysler

It’s only been eighteen months since Deborah Wahl Meyer left Lexus to become Chrysler’s Chief Marketing Officer — unfortunately, it was eighteen months that were especially unkind to the automotive industry: As Chrysler heads into a month-long plant shutdown, the automaker has announced a realignment of its sales and marketing operations. After 18 months on …

Kevin · December 22nd, 2008

Subwoofers with a Side Order of Lexus GS

Here’s a Lexus I missed covering during SEMA 2008 — this GS 350’s sound system packs such a massive punch, they had to take the roof right off: Besides the fact that it’s part of California’s Swift Car club, there isn’t much in the way of details. I did find this massive photo gallery, though. …

Kevin · December 18th, 2008

New Sponsor: VAIS Technology

Allow me to welcome VAIS Technology as a new sponsor of The Passionate Pursuit! VAIS Technology, as you may know, manufactures audio/video integration solutions for Lexus, making it possible to connect almost any media device to your vehicle. Most importantly, VAIS Tech lets you manage these devices using your standard audio controls. An ideal solution! …

Kevin · December 18th, 2008

The Power of H

Turns out, the Lexus shipping crate video that I posted earlier this week is the first part of a series of green movement infomercials. Here’s a small intro to The Power of H: More details on the next two parts showed up in Brandweek: “Landfill,” which is currently online at NBC.com, details Wilkinson and De …

Kevin · December 17th, 2008

The Swarovski Crystal Lexus SC 430

To promote the launch of their Crystallized collection in Taiwan, Swarovski partnered up with Lexus and designer Zheng Zhiren to create this one-of-a-kind crystal SC430: All told, there’s over 300,000 Swarovski crystals covering the SC, pushing its total value up to NT 10,000,000 ($306,045USD). Now that’s a lot of bedazzle! [Source: YAM | Via: Born …

Kevin · December 17th, 2008

Lexus Wallpaper of the Week: IS-F Gunmetal

Designed to resemble samurai swords, the Lexus IS-F gunmetal forged aluminum rims are the subject of this week’s wallpaper of the week: 1680×1050 | 1440×900 | 1280×1024 | 1280×800 | 1024×768 (It could be the gunmetal coloring, but the IS-F rim is probably my favorite Lexus wheel design ever.)

Kevin · December 16th, 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

New Lexus Power of H Commercial: Landfill

Not really a Lexus commercial in the traditional sense, this video illustrates the growing movement towards sustainable reusable manufacturing: It’s a good direction, and I understand the idea here is to associate Lexus with the sustainable manufacturing process, but if Lexus plants have earned Zero Landfill status, why not explain that further? I’d certainly like …

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

Japanese Lexus IS Commercial

Surely, the main point of this Japanese IS Commercial isn’t to say that Lexus owners are vain: It certainly made me laugh — mostly because I’ve done something similar many times since getting my LS. Bonus: Be sure to check out this bizarre Toyota Corolla commercial if you get the chance.

Kevin · December 11th, 2008

Lexus Cuts Output from Ontario Factory

Reuters is reporting that the only Lexus plant outside of Japan will also be idling its production, as the Toyota factory in Cambridge, Ontario will halt RX 350 production for five days in January. This news comes after a report that the Lexus plants in Japan would be offline for ten days during December. Both …

Kevin · December 11th, 2008

Behind-the-Scenes of a New Lexus Commercial

Photographer Kyle Wong was on his way to Los Angeles’ MOCA Museum when he came across the filming of a Lexus commercial. Here’s a couple action shots: Anyone want to hazard a guess to what models these flying cars might be? Looks like a pair of GS’ to me. [Via: Flickr]

Kevin · December 10th, 2008

Lexus Wallpaper of the Week: LS Generations

Welcome to a new feature here at TPP, the Wallpaper of the Week! From now on, every Wednesday will bring a brand new desktop image from every era of Lexus, from the ES 250 right down to the LF-A, and everything in between. This first edition, which stands as one of my favorite desktop images …

Kevin · December 10th, 2008

Lexus IS’ V6 Named to 2009 Best Engines List

The Lexus IS 350’s V6 engine has once again been selected to the Ward’s Auto 10 Best Engines award: Toyota Motor Corp. scores its fourth consecutive 10 Best Engines win with its Lexus 3.5L DOHC V-6, a brilliant design that employs a unique, combination direct- and port-injection fueling system that helps generate 306 hp and …

Kevin · December 9th, 2008

Woodfield Lexus’ Service Veosk

I have no idea if it’s exclusive to Woodfield Lexus in Chicago, but the kiosk shown in this video would be a great addition to every dealership: There’s certainly a strong case for this to become company-wide. It wouldn’t just be informative to the customer, but it would definitely cut down on the misunderstandings and …

Kevin · December 8th, 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 Cuts Production in December

To cope with the worldwide automotive sales slump, Lexus will be cutting its management bonuses by 10% and will be taking its Japanese manufacturing plants offline for two days: According to Automotive News, Toyota will idle one of its three assembly lines at its Tahara plant in Japan for two days, wiping about 5,000 vehicles …

Kevin · December 4th, 2008

New Lexus LF-A Videos

Here’s a couple new Lexus LF-A Racing Concept videos for you — first up is some stellar footage of a rocketing LF-A, which perfectly captures the engine belting it out full-force: The other video of note is from the LF-A’s appearance at last week’s Toyota Motorsports Festival in Japan. As you might remember, the supercar …

Kevin · December 4th, 2008

Lexus Canada November 2008 Sales Report

With November 2008 sales up 19.1% over last year, Lexus Canada continues to see strong growth. A total of 1,152 models were sold, marking the eighth consecutive record sales month. One interesting fact, Lexus RX 350’s are built in Cambridge, Ontario, and are marketed heavily as a Made-in-Canada product. This has resulted in an opposite …

Kevin · December 3rd, 2008

Lexus USA November 2008 Sales Report

The November sales for Lexus USA have been reported today, and at least the numbers are better than last month’s drop: 2008 2007 % Change IS250/350/F 2,749 3,849 -28.6 ES350 4,116 5,902 -30.3 GS350/460/450h 721 2,205 -67.3 SC430 83 268 -69.0 LS460/600h L 1,272 2,668 -52.3 Total Cars 8,941 14,892 -40.0 RX350/400h 5,850 8,038 -27.2 …

Kevin · December 2nd, 2008

Lexus Hybrid Primer

Since starting this website, I’ve been asked numerous times about the overall benefits of Lexus hybrid technology, so I thought it would be a good idea to put together a basic primer. First off, here’s a direct-from-Lexus video explanation on how a hybrid engine works: Now, everyone knows the primary advantage that (most) hybrids have …

Kevin · December 2nd, 2008

Top Gear Video Review of the Lexus IS-F

The Lexus IS-F finally made its Top Gear appearance this weekend, competing against the BMW M3: Also part of the episode was the Stig pushing the IS-F around the Top Gear track: The results were a forgone conclusion, I can’t imagine anyone’s all that surprised that Jeremy Clarkson preferred the BMW M3 over the IS-F. …

Kevin · December 1st, 2008

Bizarre 2010 Lexus RX Feature from Car & Driver

This Car & Driver video preview of the new 2010 Lexus RX is worth watching if only for the last ten seconds: The all-German diesel comparisons were funny enough, but I had to rewind the closing remarks three times before I could watch it without laughing. Seriously, what strange circumstances had to occur where an …

Kevin · November 30th, 2008

Lexus December to Remember 2008 Commercials

You knew it was coming — Lexus kicks offer their annual December to Remember event in the US with their Red Bow commercials. Have no fear, this year’s crop is especially excellent: Very well done. Given the economic climate and overall auto market meltdown, it’s no surprise that a slightly different tact was taken. Getting …

Kevin · November 30th, 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

Behind the Scenes of the Lexus ES Commercial: Cards

Last week, I posted up a new Lexus ES commercial that featured the talents of Bryan Berg, a professional cardstacker. Well, now we have a backstage pass at the making of this video: I can’t imagine the tension that must have existed on this set, considering that if the filming of the collapsing cards had …

Kevin · November 26th, 2008

Welcome to TPP 3.0

Welcome to the new and improved TPP! At first glace it might not look like a big change, but I’ve made a big switch with the software powering the site, moving from Drupal back to WordPress. Don’t worry, even if you don’t know what I’m talking about, the difference is going to be apparent. Let’s …

Kevin · November 25th, 2008

Lexus Remote Touch Controller Demonstration

CNet has posted a LA Auto Show recap of the Lexus RX 450h, which includes a demonstration of the new Remote Touch controller: Looks to be a very impressive solution — my experience with haptic control is limited to the Nintendo Wii, but the continual feedback moving from menu item to menu item is intuitive …

Kevin · November 24th, 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

Official 2010 Lexus RX 450h Photos!

Today’s the big day, both the Lexus RX 350 & RX 450h have been unveiled at the LA Auto Show! So far, no live images of the new 2010 Lexus RX 450h have been posted, but luckily Lexus has pushed out a ton of official photos: {embed=“site/gallery” gallery_id=“1105”}

Kevin · November 19th, 2008

Video of the 1997 Lexus RX300 SLV Concept

On the eve of the new 2010 Lexus RX debut, I thought it would be a good time to reach back and take a look at the introduction of the original RX, including some footage of the Lexus SLV concept, courtesy of Motor Week: Would the RX have been as successful with that trunk spoiler …

Kevin · November 18th, 2008

Lexus ES 350 Commercial: Cards

This new Lexus ES commercial continues the “behind every detail, there’s a detail” marketing campaign: It might not be as successful as the first riff on this theme, but the nod to the original LS champagne glass commercial more than makes up for it.

Kevin · November 17th, 2008

The Quantum of Lexus

I found this promo video for the Lexus LS 600hL a few days ago, but decided to wait on posting it until today’s release of Quantum of Solace — while they’re totally unrelated, but the music is straight out of a James Bond movie: (Been looking forward to this movie for months — so much …

Kevin · November 14th, 2008

Flickr Find: Key to the Future

Lexus of Tulsa is in the process of building a new dealership building, and employee Austin Colbert decided to commemorate the event with this photo: Edited for clarity: It reminds me of my ‘94 LS valet key, but commenters have told me valet keys are now grey and this is now the standard key design. …

Kevin · November 13th, 2008

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