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, …

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Kevin · September 12th, 2007

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 …

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Kevin · September 11th, 2007

The Lexus Body Kit Series: GX 470

At first, the latest part in my Lexus Body Kit Series seemed to be taking the same road as my last feature, the ES 350, which yielded no kits at all. However, it turns out that there are a couple body kits for the GX 470. Two of the kits come from Toyota, built for …

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Kevin · September 11th, 2007

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 …

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Kevin · September 10th, 2007

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 …

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Kevin · September 8th, 2007

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 …

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Kevin · September 7th, 2007

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 …

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Kevin · September 7th, 2007

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 …

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Kevin · September 6th, 2007