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Lexus HS 250h Inside Story

CanadianDriver has put up an interesting piece on the HS 250h interior as part of the website’s “Inside Story” series. Billed as a 7-day “review of interior comfort features, cabin controls, storage options, trunk space and under-hood accessibility,” this review features a non-Remote Touch equipped HS 250h, and describes the storage options available instead: At …

Kevin · April 18th, 2010

Lexus USA & Canada Temporarily Halt GX 460 Sales

Both Lexus USA & Lexus Canada have issued a sales stoppage on the new GX 460 until the stability problem discovered by Consumer Reports is resolved—here is the full press statement from Mark Templin, Lexus Group Vice President and General Manager: “For more than 20 years, Lexus has made customer safety and satisfaction our highest …

Kevin · April 13th, 2010

Lexus RX 450h Review

My three month winter road test of the 2010 Lexus RX 450h wrapped up last month, and it’s safe to say that the experience has changed my opinion of Lexus’ most popular vehicle. It’s not that I didn’t understand the success of the RXh — from a purely practical point, it’s easy to see how …

Kevin · April 11th, 2010

Lexus March 2010 Sales Report

USA The March sales numbers for Lexus USA are in: MONTH Year to Date (*DSR) 2010 2009 % CHG* 2010 2009 % CHG* ES 3,860 3,225 15.1 9,132 8,771 5.5 HS 1,494 0 N/A 3,453 0 N/A LS 894 852 0.9 2,785 2,456 14.9 SC 30 78 -63.0 81 227 -63.8 GS 645 625 -0.8 …

Kevin · April 1st, 2010

Lexus CT 200h to Make North American Debut at New York Auto Show

Fresh off the news that Lexus will be offering the CT 200h in North America, it was announced today that the hatchback will be making its official US debut at the New York Auto Show, which takes place from March 31st through April 11th. Read the Lexus Press Release

Kevin · March 3rd, 2010

Lexus February 2010 Sales Report

USA The February sales numbers for Lexus USA are in: February Year to Date 2010 2009 % CHG 2010 2009 % CHG ES 2,349 2,575 -8.8 5,272 5,546 -1.0 HS 712 0 N/A 1,959 0 N/A LS 799 700 14.1 1,891 1,604 22.8 SC 27 76 -64.5 51 149 -64.3 GS 488 595 -18.0 1,017 …

Kevin · March 2nd, 2010

Lexus CT 200h Coming to North America

Big news for North America—according to the Lexus Europe Twitter account: CT 200h will be offered for sale in ALL markets where Lexus is present While I never had real doubt that the CT would be North America bound, it’s still a relief that there’s been some official verification. This model will do wonders for …

Kevin · February 26th, 2010

Interview with Toyota Canada’s Stephen Beatty

I had a chance at last week’s Toronto Auto Show to have a quick chat with Toyota Canada’s Managing Director, Steven Beatty, about the growing Canadian Lexus sales and the possibility of a production LF-Ch coming to Canada (keep in mind that this conversation took place before Lexus’ announcement of the CT 200h). TLE: In …

Kevin · February 15th, 2010

Lexus LF-Ch @ The Toronto Auto Show

Click for a larger image I had an unexpected surprise today while attending the Toronto Auto Show today—turns out the LF-Ch concept was set to receive its Canadian debut, which meant I had a chance to take some interior photos like this: Click for a larger image The concept’s interior is handmade and essentially left …

Kevin · February 11th, 2010

Toronto Auto Show Coverage

I’ll be attending the Canadian International Auto Show in Toronto today and will be bringing you coverage of the Lexus exhibit along with plenty of photos (as usual). My major focus will be taking interior photos—every single interior picture I snapped at the Detroit Auto Show didn’t turn out due to my insistence on using …

Kevin · February 10th, 2010

Lexus HS 250h Voluntary Recall Announced

A voluntary recall of the 2010 Lexus HS 250h has been announced by Toyota USA—from the press release: The ABS, in normal operation, engages and disengages rapidly (many times per second) as the control system senses and reacts to tire slippage. Some 2010 model year Prius and 2010 HS 250h owners have reported experiencing inconsistent …

Kevin · February 8th, 2010

A Note on the Recent Toyota Recall

In order to head off the emails I’ve been receiving over the last couple days regarding Toyota’s recent accelerator pedal recall—it is important to note that this is strictly a Toyota issue and does not affect any Lexus car or SUV. There was a Lexus ES 350 & IS 250/350 recall announced in December regarding …

Kevin · February 3rd, 2010

Lexus January 2010 Sales Report

USA The January sales numbers for Lexus USA are in: January Year to Date 2010 2009 % CHG 2010 2009 % CHG IS 2,203 2,400 -0.6 2,203 2,400 -0.6 HS 1,247 0 N/A 1,247 0 N/A ES 2,923 2,971 6.6 2,923 2,971 6.6 GS 529 898 -36.2 529 898 -36.2 SC 24 73 -64.4 24 …

Kevin · February 2nd, 2010

Lexus RX 450h Long Term Review: Week 5

I’m now halfway through my time with the 2010 Lexus RX 450h— after six weeks, the interior controls and options has become second nature, and that familiarity has increased my appreciation of the design decisions throughout the cabin, particularly with the steering wheel layout.

Kevin · January 26th, 2010

Lexus December 2009 Sales Report (Plus Year-End Numbers)

USA Lexus USA has reported their sales numbers for December, putting 2009 in the books: December Year to Date 2009 2008 % CHG 2009 2008 % CHG IS 4,153 3,539 9.0 38,077 49,432 -23.0 HS 1,980 0 N/A 6,699 0 N/A ES 6,531 5,236 15.8 48,485 64,135 -24.4 GS 1,063 1,200 -17.7 7,430 15,759 -52.9 …

Kevin · January 5th, 2010

2010 Lexus RX 450h Long Term Report: Week 1

Last week, I took the delivery of my first long-term road test vehicle from Lexus Canada—a 2010 Smoky Granite Mica RX 450h: This is the full deal—an RX 450h with the Ultra Luxury package that includes Heads-Up Display, rear entertainment system, LED headlights, and fifteen-speaker Mark Levinson audio system. As far as I can tell, …

Kevin · December 21st, 2009

Lexus GX 460 First Impressions

I wanted to wait a little while after the Lexus GX 460’s introduction before weighing in with my own impressions of the SUV, which I had a chance to see for myself at a Lexus Canada sneak peek dinner a couple weeks ago. Much like the RX redesign, the new GX is a more masculine …

Kevin · December 3rd, 2009

Lexus November 2009 Sales Report

Note: I’m going to try something new this month and collect worldwide Lexus sales in one post. This will be updated as country numbers become available. USA Lexus USA has reported their sales numbers for November 2009: November Year to Date 2009 2008 % CHG 2009 2008 % CHG IS 2,851 2,749 12.7 33,924 45,893 …

Kevin · December 1st, 2009

Lexus ES 350 & IS 250/350 Recall Extended to Canada

The Lexus ES 350 & IS 250/350 safety recall that was announced in the USA has been extended to Canada. The recall will address the possible risk of unintended acceleration due to improperly installed floor mats by installing a new accelerator pedal and by installing a brake override system that will cut engine power went …

Kevin · November 27th, 2009

Lexus ES 350 & IS 250/350 Recall Announced

Toyota has announced the recall of the Lexus ES 350 & IS 250/350 models to have their accelerator pedals reshaped and/or replaced. This recall is to be a permanent solution to the risk of unintended acceleration, no matter what floor mat is being used. Starting in early 2010, dealerships will be equipped to reshape the …

Kevin · November 25th, 2009

Lexus LFAs Limited to 150 Units in USA, 10 in Canada

There’s news today on the USA’s allotment of Lexus LFAs—initially thought to be “undetermined” and dependant on worldwide demand, it has now been announced that the USA will receive 150 of the total run of 500 units: A Lexus spokesman told Inside Line only 150 cars will be coming to the U.S. Previously, Lexus said …

Kevin · November 24th, 2009

More Information on the Lexus LFA Buying Process

As time goes on, we’re going to find the process of selling the Lexus LFA will almost be as interesting as the car itself—case in point, the Toronto Star has published some background information for potential Canadian buyers: For the first time in mainstream automotive memory, a car is being brought to market that drivers …

Kevin · November 2nd, 2009

Lexus LFA to make North American Debut Next Month

The Lexus LFA will be making its North American debut at November’s SEMA trade show in Las Vegas as it starts a serious cross country tour: The highly anticipated LFA supercar, which just made its global debut at the Tokyo Motor Show, will be on display for the first time in North America at two …

Kevin · October 22nd, 2009

Lexus HS250h Photos from Winnipeg

Given the short time frame, I wasn’t able to take too many photos during the Lexus HS 250h event in Winnipeg, but what I lacked in quantity I made up for in quality: {embed=“site/gallery” gallery_id=“1389”} I found the HS 250h in Matador Red very easy to photograph—unlike the Aurora White Pearl that absorbed all light. …

Kevin · October 19th, 2009

2010 Lexus HS 250h Canadian Preview

To mark the Canadian release of the Lexus HS 250h, Lexus Canada invited media from across the country to test drive the new hybrid sedan in Winnipeg, Manitoba, one of the most environmentally friendly cities in Canada. The event took place over two days, where we were blessed with some exceptionally wonderful weather and plenty …

Kevin · October 15th, 2009

2010 Lexus LS 460 Sport Information & Photos

Even bigger than the 2010 LS 460 refresh is the introduction of an LS 460 Sport model, which brings a number of performance enhancements to the Lexus flagship: Mesh front grille Aero kit, which features a front lower spoiler, side rocker panels, and rear lower spoiler New 19” split 10 spoke wheels Bremo brake system …

Kevin · October 6th, 2009

2010 Lexus LS 460/460L Information & Photo Gallery

Information on the 2010 Lexus LS 460/460L was also released today, here’s a breakdown of the flagship design, which received a minor mid-cycle refresh this year: The headlamps, grille & bumper were all revised, as were the taillamps, license plate surround and exhaust diffusers. The side mirrors now have integrated turn signals. The standard 18-inch …

Kevin · October 6th, 2009

Lexus USA Looking for LF-Ch Feedback

Although it was designed primarily with Europe in mind, the LF-Ch concept has generated plenty of buzz on the North American shores—and Lexus USA is looking to gauge just how interested American customers are in the hatchback concept. To that end, a short survey has been added to the concepts page on the Lexus USA …

Kevin · September 28th, 2009

Spending Time with the 2010 Lexus HS 250h

Recently, I had a chance to get a quick look at a Lexus HS 250h prototype that was being used to develop dealership training materials by the people at Lexus Canada. Glenn Alkema of the Lexus Academy was nice enough to give me a tour of the new hybrid, which will be introduced here in …

Kevin · August 31st, 2009

2009 Lexus IS-F Review

As the story goes: the Lexus IS-F began as a secret project by Lexus chief designer Yukihiko Yaguchi, who wanted to build a Lexus that could rival Europe’s top sports sedans. Yaguchi, who also worked on the last Toyota Supra and the first generation LS 400, saw a unique opportunity to extend the Lexus brand …

Kevin · August 5th, 2009

Lexus IS-F Photo Gallery: In Paris (Ontario)

During my time with the Lexus IS-F, I would jump at the chance to drive pretty much anywhere, so my wife took advantage and had us on the road to Paris, Ontario so that she could buy yarn at some craft store. I took the long way though some nice rural roads, and after a …

Kevin · August 2nd, 2009

2010 Lexus LX 570 Changes

Details on the 2010 Lexus LX 570 have been announced by way of a Lexus Canada press release, and as expected, changes are minimal. Four new features have been added: The latest generation of the Lexus Voice-Activated, Hard Disc-based Navigation System A USB audio input connection The Lexus customizable settings system Privacy glass for the …

Kevin · July 28th, 2009

White Lexus IS 250 F-Sport Photos

Gabriel Forcier from the Spinelli Lexus Lachine in Quebec sent me this great photo of an IS 250 with all the F-Sport trimmings: I’m a huge fan of the Starfire Pearl, and it goes well with the F-Sport wheels. Gabriel also included some other photos of the IS, I’ve included them here: {embed=“site/gallery” gallery_id=“1256”}

Kevin · July 17th, 2009

2009 Lexus LX 570 Review

The 2009 Lexus LX 570 is, at its very heart, a contradictory vehicle. After all, Lexus’ flagship SUV attempts to bridge together two contrary styles — ultimate luxury and ultimate utility. It seats eight, yet has a fixed rear axle and can tow up to 8,500 lbs(3,856 kg). It’s packed with every conceivable automotive luxury …

Kevin · July 10th, 2009

Lexus RX 450h to be Built in Canada?

Even more manufacturing news—Automotive News is reporting that Lexus RX 450h production may move from Japan to the Toyota Cambridge plant. Motor Authority has more details: During a press event, a Lexus executive Paul Williamsen said the first hybrid built outside of Japan will go into production this summer in Ontario, Canada, reports Automotive News. …

Kevin · June 30th, 2009

Driving the Lexus RX 450h & Lexus IS 350C

This past Friday, I attended a Lexus Canada press event in Kingston, Ontario, where I had the opportunity to test out the 2010 RX 450h and the IS 350C convertible. After an a quick briefing, we all loaded up into our first vehicle of the day and set out on a route through the surrounding …

Kevin · June 23rd, 2009

Lexus Enthusiast Contest Winners

The deadline is up, all the entries are in, and it’s time to announce the winners of the Lexus Enthusiast Second Anniversary Contest! There were over 500 contestants from around the globe—five names were randomly selected—here they are: USA Detailing Kit prize pack: Aaron Seligman USA Lexus Logos prize pack: Andrew Patterson Canadian IS-F prize …

Kevin · June 5th, 2009

Spending Time with the 2009 Lexus LX 570

Late last week, I picked up a review LX 570 from Lexus Canada with more than a little anxiety. After all, this is a two ton, sixteen-foot tank of a vehicle, immense in every sense of the word, and I had to jump straight into big-city traffic immediately after taking the keys. Intimidating. Of course, …

Kevin · June 3rd, 2009

Lexus Canada May 2009 Sales Report

Lexus Canada May 2009 sales slipped 13% under last year, with a total of 1,587 units sold—but there was also good news, as SUV sales hit their highest point ever with 913 units sold, besting the previous record by 14.1%. Of course, this was due entirely to the success of the new 2010 RX 350, …

Kevin · June 3rd, 2009

The Lexus Enthusiast Second Anniversary Contest

Hard to believe, but it was two years ago today that I started posting daily Lexus news at The Passionate Pursuit. Since then, the site has gone through a name change, four redesigns, eight million pageviews, over 1,000 news stories, and close to 5,000 comments on its way to becoming a premier source of Lexus …

Kevin · May 29th, 2009

Photos of the Lexus GS Passionate Black Interior

Lexus enthusiast Harinder from Vancouver has done me two big favors—first he told me about the Passionate Black availability in Canada, and now he’s sent photos of his very own PB Lexus GS: {embed=“site/gallery” gallery_id=“1126”} (The all-season mats are in place, but Harinder assured me that black carpet mats were also included. Also, in Canada, …

Kevin · May 5th, 2009

Lexus Canada April 2009 Sales Report

While auto sales are enduring a major slump in the US, Lexus Canada has just reported their best April ever, moving a total of 1,621 vehicles last month. This is a 4% increase over last year. Some specific points: The new Lexus RX 350 enjoyed an all-time record month, selling 748 units, up 48.4% over …

Kevin · May 4th, 2009

Lexus GS Passionate Black Interior Now Available in North America!

In what could only be described as “my dreams come true”, Lexus USA and Canada have started offering the Passionate Black interior on select models of the GS! This unique blood red & black interior color combination was first seen in a Japan-only limited edition of 500 models—here are some more photos: In Canada, the …

Kevin · April 16th, 2009

Lexus RX 450h Commercial from Canada

Last up is a Lexus RX 450h commercial from Canada, which also manages to feature a canine (however brief): Strange that it’s taken me so long to post this, considering that I’ve seen this commercial repeatedly over the last month or so. Filmed in Vancouver, the song is Clair de Lune by Debussy. I’m always …

Kevin · April 7th, 2009

Lexus Canada March 2009 Sales Report

The release of the 2010 RX 350 has been a huge success for Lexus Canada, helping them set an all-time March sales record of 1,363 units sold, 25.5% higher than last year. Most importantly, these positive numbers certainly a nice change in the face of the automotive meltdown in the USA. The new RX 350 …

Kevin · April 2nd, 2009

Canadian Driver Reviews the Lexus ES 350

The Lexus ES 350 doesn’t get a lot of play, particularly with it in the third year of its design cycle, but this Canadian Driver review of the 2009 model is worth noting, as it manages to capture the ES’ appeal and includes a previously unheard (and likely untrue) rumor: The 2009 model retains the …

Kevin · March 23rd, 2009

Lexus Commercial: H is for Hybrid

I don’t know about the rest of the world, but here in Canada, the Lexus commercial Moments was in heavy rotation for quite some time, and was incredibly received (I know this, because people actually talked to me about it). In light of that, it comes as no surprise that the ad execs went for …

Kevin · October 12th, 2007

Lexus IS 350 Paddleshift Mini-Game

I found a neat little Lexus IS 350 mini-game today after clicking on a banner while reading the New York Times article on the BMW M Division. There isn’t much to it, you’re only in control of up/down shifting as you race other IS 350’s through a super short course, but there’s a leaderboard and …

Kevin · October 5th, 2007

Lexus GS 450h Completes Targa Newfoundland Rally

Targa Newfoundland, a 2,200 km (1,367 miles) rally through the winding province of Newfoundland, Canada, had an interesting entry this year, a 2007 Lexus GS 450h. The course is so grueling that it’s an accomplishment to finish, which the GS 450h did, coming in 18th overall, eight minutes behind the leader, a 1969 BMW 2002. …

Kevin · September 19th, 2007

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