Archive for the ‘Official Toyota/Lexus Press Release’ Category

Lexus Introduces 2010 IS 350C F-Sport Special Edition

March 8th, 2010

Following is the official press release from Lexus:

  • Only 100 Units Will Be Produced
  • Features F-Sport Performance Accessories and Unique Grille
  • Interior with Numbered Badging and Blue Contrast Stitching
TORRANCE, Calif.  (March. 8, 2010) – Lexus today announced the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $57,500 for the 2010 IS 350C F-Sport Special Edition which will arrive at dealerships later this month.  The MSRP does not include a delivery, processing and handling fee of $875.

“The F-Sport Special Edition builds on the IS 350C and takes the fun of the convertible up another notch,” said Mark Templin, Lexus Division group vice president and general manager.  “The F-Sport accessories on this car were precision engineered specifically for this vehicle, allowing us to provide sport-tuned performance without sacrificing ride quality.”

This 2010 IS 350C Special Edition was designed to engage driving enthusiasts with the performance and styling enhancements from the F-Sport accessories line.  This IS 350C, only available in two colors, Tungsten Pearl or Obsidian, can be distinguished from other IS convertibles by the following F-Sport equipment:
  • Newly designed 19-inch forged alloy wheels with a wheel lock set and Michelin Pilot Sport 225/35ZR19 tires in the front and 255/35ZR19 tires in the rear;
  • Front and rear brake upgrade for a firmer pedal feel and enhanced fade resistance;
  • New and unique F-Sport grille not previously available;
  • Shock set developed in cooperation with Bilstein®;
  • Lowering springs that reduce the ride height approximately one-inch in the front and rear;
  • Sway bar set that helps reduce body roll and provide flatter cornering;
  • Embroidered floor mats with F-Sport logo;
  • Leather-wrapped shift knob with F-Sport logo;
  • And exterior badging and an individually numbered badge on the center console complete the uniqueness of this vehicle.
The IS 350C F-Sport Special Edition also comes with black leather-trimmed seats with sporty blue contrast stitching.  Other Special Edition standard features include heated and ventilated front seats with wood trim; Bi-Xenon HID headlamps with Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS); headlamp washers; and Lexus Navigation.  The hard disk drive (HDD) navigation system has a seven-inch VGA touch-screen, Bluetooth®®® NavWeather, and XM® Sports and Stocks.  XM services include a complimentary 90-day trial subscription.  It is also features the new telematics system Lexus Enform™ with Safety Connect™ (includes complimentary one-year trial subscription). phonebook download capabilities, a rear back-up camera, Voice Command casual-language voice recognition system, Lexus Enform, XM NavTraffic, XM

“The IS 350C F-Sport Special Edition is a unique package of style and excitement.  With only 100 units available nationwide they’ll sell out fast to customers who want power, performance and a little more fun under the sun,” said Templin.

Posted in Lexus, Official Toyota/Lexus Press Release | Comments (0)

All-New Lexus CT 200h Premium Compact Hybrid Makes North American Debut at 2010 New York International Auto Show

March 3rd, 2010

Following is the official press release from Lexus:

  • Only Dedicated Hybrid Vehicle in the Premium Compact Segment
  • 1.8L Four-Cylinder Engine Paired with Lexus Hybrid Drive
  • Engineered for Dynamic Handling and Agility

NEW YORK – March 3, 2010 – The all-new Lexus CT 200h premium compact hybrid will be on display for the first time in North America at the 2010 New York International Auto Show March 31 through April 11. The sporty and versatile five-door, which had its global premiere at the 2010 Geneva Auto Show today, will be Lexus’ second dedicated hybrid and fifth hybrid vehicle in the line-up in the U.S.

“When the all-new Lexus CT 200h enters the market it will be the only hybrid vehicle in the emerging premium compact segment,” said Mark Templin, Lexus Division group vice president and general manager. “The CT 200h combines luxury features, eye-catching styling, and driving excitement that we know will attract a whole new buyer to the Lexus brand.”

The Lexus CT 200h evolved from the LF-Ch concept unveiled at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show and was styled with optimum aerodynamic efficiency. Its size, packaging and hybrid technology meet the requirements of the discerning, environmentally-conscientious consumer in the emerging premium compact market. It offers no compromise on the quality, refinement and driving pleasure which hallmark the progressive luxury inherent in every Lexus.

Lexus has offered consumers hybrid powertrain technology since 2005. Marking the introduction of Lexus Hybrid Drive technology to the premium compact segment for the first time, the all-new CT 200h not only reinforces the company’s clear leadership in hybrid technology, but also the unrivalled breadth of Lexus models available as a hybrid.

The CT 200h features a 1.8-liter gas engine with Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i), a high performance battery, power control unit, transmission with an electric motor generator, a power split device to re-allocate power from the engine and electric motor generator according to operational requirements.

Four drive modes enhance the capabilities of the CT 200h’s Lexus Hybrid Drive technology and change the rate of throttle opening for a given throttle-pedal angle. EV mode allows for ultra-quiet running on electric motor power alone. Normal mode has an essentially linear throttle response while Eco mode reduces throttle response relative to the pedal angle and adjusts air conditioning settings to emphasize fuel economy.

The new CT 200h has been specifically developed to combine superior handling agility and a sporty driving experience with the ride comfort expected of any Lexus. The Sport mode provides a more responsive throttle and modifies the Electronic Power Steering (EPS) settings to give a faster response to driver inputs.

In the interest of maximum fuel efficiency, particular attention has been paid to the aerodynamic efficiency of every aspect of the CT 200h’s design. The front and rear corners have been pulled in tight to improve the flow of air down the sides of the vehicle and minimize wind turbulence within the wheel arches. The sides of the cabin have been tapered, the rear edge of the roof lowered and even the lower body painstakingly detailed to optimize airflow. Completing the look are unique 17-inch alloy wheels and blue badging specific to Lexus hybrid vehicles.

The interior offers unprecedented levels of refinement in this segment. Efficient and elegant, the cabin combines superior ergonomics with hand-crafted, premium quality materials to create an outstanding driving environment. The extensive use of metallic finishes and dark, soft touch materials reinforces the luxury experience.

Despite the compact package, the CT 200h does not compromise interior roominess. Its long, 102-inch wheelbase offers front and rear seat passenger accommodation that is amongst the most spacious in the segment.

“Lexus has been at the forefront of luxury hybrid technology for the last five years. The CT 200h is just another example of our commitment to developing cars that are innovative and different from what’s already out there,” said Templin. “With its exceptional fuel economy, ultra-low emissions, dynamic handling, and beautiful styling, the CT 200h is a car that doesn’t sacrifice excitement for efficiency.”

Tags: , , , ,
Posted in Official Toyota/Lexus Press Release | Comments (0)

Official Lexus LFA press release

October 21st, 2009

Lexus LFA Supercar to Make North American Debut at 2009 SEMA and Los Angeles International Auto Shows

  • Lexus’ First Supercar Redefines the Segment for the 21st Century
  • 4.8L V10 Engine Generates 552 Horsepower for Powerful Rear-Wheel Drive Performance
  • Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer Helps Provide a Light and Strong Structure

TORRANCE, Calif. (Oct. 21, 2009) – 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 back-to-back premier venues — the 2009 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) trade show in Las Vegas this November and the 2009 Los Angeles Auto Show in December.

Next year, Lexus will show the LFA at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Chicago Auto Show, Dallas Auto Show and New York International Auto Show.

As the first Lexus supercar, the LFA serves as the flagship for the F portfolio of Lexus performance models and redefines the supercar for the 21st century. The Lexus F brand complements the core Lexus DNA by emphasizing serious performance. The LFA was carefully developed from a blank canvas by a small and dedicated team of hand-picked engineers that pushed every possible dynamic boundary.

“The development of the LFA was unlike any other Lexus,” said Mark Templin, Lexus division group vice president and general manager. “Minute details were engineered to provide an engaging and serious supercar that delivers impressive performance on and off the race track. Only 500 will ever be built worldwide, and each will be assembled to customer order, offering a once-in-a-lifetime chance to be part of a small, exclusive group of individuals.”

All 500 LFA supercars will be hand-assembled by skilled technicians in the “Lexus LFA Works” at the Motomachi Plant in Toyota City at a rate of no more than 20 per month.

The rear-wheel drive LFA is dynamically styled and powered by a sophisticated new high-revving 9,000 rpm (redline) 4.8-liter V10 engine that generates 552 hp and 354 lb.-ft. of torque for adrenaline-fuelled 202- mph performance. This specially-developed powerplant is paired with a unique six-speed Automated Sequential Gearbox (ASG) with blazing-quick paddle-activated shifts for ultimate driver control. Linked by a rigid torque tube for excellent drivetrain integrity, the ASG is located in a transaxle layout over the rear axle for an optimal 48:52 front-to-rear weight distribution. Motorsport-developed lightweight aluminum alloy suspension components are complemented by Carbon Ceramic Material (CCM) brake discs and an innovative electrically assisted rack and pinion steering system.

Lightweight, powerful and balanced, the LFA features advanced Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) construction for its chassis and much of its bodywork to deliver a light, incredibly strong and impact-resistant structure. Rather than outsource this sophisticated materials technology, the LFA team took the radical step of developing its own CFRP processes internally for ultimate quality control and to make a sound engineering investment in the future.

The LFA’s sporty styling is distinguished by coherent lines that flow from roof to sill in a seamless convex to concave line for sophisticated aerodynamics. Its front-mid engine layout, long wheelbase, short overhangs, and snug, low-slung cabin identify it as a supercar. CFRP also gave the LFA’s designers a far higher degree of design freedom, allowing them to create shapes, curves and edges that would have been impossible with metal. For example, the sharp trailing edges at the rear of the LFA that help provide superlative aerodynamics would not have been possible had traditional metal been used for the bodywork.

A dramatic low-slung cockpit has been intelligently designed and hand-assembled with the finest materials to reflect the car’s driver-centric dynamics. The intimate two-seat cabin has been conceived at every stage – ergonomics, acoustics, materials, comfort, versatility and visibility levels have all been painstakingly engineered – to put the driver at the center of the driving experience.

Production of the LFA supercar will begin in December 2010 with deliveries continuing for the following 24 months. Consumers may contact the Lexus LFA Information Center at 866-LFA-4794 to express interest or visit www.Lexus-LFA.com for more information.

Official LFA images from Toyota Pressroom:

Discuss about this blog entry in LexusNet Forums – Blog Discussion

Tags: ,
Posted in Lexus, Official Toyota/Lexus Press Release | Comments (0)

Lexus announced pricing for 2010 LS460 and GS models

October 9th, 2009

Following is the official press release from Lexus:

• New LS 460 Optional Sport Package Combines Sport Tuned Air Suspension, Brembo Brakes, 19-inch
Forged Wheels with Aero Body Design Elements and Exclusive Interior Features
• Updated Lexus Premium Audio System Adds USB /iPod® Connectivity, Bluetooth® Streaming Music Capability, Integrated XM® Satellite Radio Receiver
• New Subscription-Based Lexus Enform™ with Safety Connect™ Telematics System

TORRANCE, Calif. (Oct. 9, 2009) – Lexus today announced Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail
Prices (MSRP) for the 2010 LS 460 and LS 460 L premium luxury sedans, GS 350 and GS 460 mid-size luxury sport sedans, and GS 450h mid-size luxury sport hybrid sedan. The MSRPs do not include a delivery, processing and handling fee of $875. The GS and LS sedans will arrive at dealerships later this month.

For 2010, the 2010 LS 460 models receive a revised grille, bumper, and headlamps, taillamps, license plate surround and exhaust diffusers. In addition, new side mirrors feature integrated turn signals while the standard 18-inch wheels have a new 10-spoke design. The LS 460 and LS 460 L freshen their exterior color palette for 2010 with new shades: Peridot Mica, Satin Cashmere Metallic, Matador Red Mica and Deep Sea Mica. Inside the LS adds an Eco Drive indicator that can encourage economical driving. LS 460 L models also receive standard Intuitive Park Assist and Intelligent High-Beam.

The LS 460 rear-wheel drive (RWD) model offers a new Sport Package for 2010. The Sport Package enhances the overall driving experience with an exclusive perforated Black/Saddle leather interior with sport front seats, a unique leather-trimmed steering wheel and paddle shifters for the eight-speed automatic transmission. It also offers tighter handling with its sport-tuned air suspension, stabilizer bars and shock absorbers. A unique front grille, distinctive Aero kit, which features a front lower spoiler, side rocker panels, and rear lower spoiler, 19-inch 10-split spoke forged wheels, and Brembo brakes are also included in the package.

The Appearance Package, a stand-alone option for all LS 460 and LS 460 L models, is also new for 2010 and offers the unique front grille and Aero kit found in the Sport Package. For RWD models the package also includes 19-inch five-spoke wheels. The new Cold Weather Package featuring a deicer, more effective heater and heavy-duty battery is available for all LS 460 and LS 460 L models. Advanced Pre-Collision System (APCS) is now available for the LS 460 L models. LS 460 and LS 460 L models also receive power rear seats with lumbar massage and power butterfly headrests as part of the optional Comfort Plus, Rear Seat Upgrade and Executive Class Seating Packages.

The GS 350 and GS 460 enter the 2010 model year with active front headrests and updates to
exterior and interior colors. The GS 350 and GS 460 receive two new exterior colors, Deep Sea Mica and Satin Cashmere Metallic as Black Sapphire Pearl, Verdigris Mica, and Golden Almond Metallic are discontinued. Parchment-colored interior replaces Cashmere. GS 450h receives a few exterior enhancements to distinguish itself from the gas-only model, including a revised front grille, clear taillamp covers and unique 18-inch wheels.

The LS 460 and GS series enter the 2010 model year with an updated Lexus Premium Audio
System and a new optional hard disc drive (HDD) navigation system. The Lexus Navigation System includes a casual-speech voice recognition feature, voice command, and enhanced Bluetooth® with phonebook download. The updated Lexus Premium Audio System includes Bluetooth streaming audio and a USB port, in addition to the auxiliary port. When an iPod® is connected through the USB port, information such as artist, track and album is displayed on the head unit, while music can be controlled through the head unit or steering wheel audio controls. An integrated XM® Satellite Radio receiver is also standard.

Lexus Enform™ with Safety Connect™ is an all-new telematics system available by subscription.
Safety Connect alone is standard on all LS 460 and GS models. Lexus Enform with Safety Connect is standard on navigation-equipped LS 460 and GS vehicles. Complimentary one-year trial subscriptions of Lexus Enform and Safety Connect are included. The Lexus Enform and the Safety Connect response center operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week – every day of the year.

Lexus Insider™, a complimentary, opt-in service available without a subscription, is also standard on Lexus Enform equipped LS 460 and GS vehicles. The service offers in-vehicle audio casts with useful vehicle tips and event information, as well as insights into exclusive owners’ benefits. As part of the Lexus Enform navigation platform, XM NavTraffic® and XM NavWeatherTM are available via individual XM® subscriptions. All XM services include a complimentary 90-day trial subscription.

Model _________ MSRP _____ MSRP Increase __ Percentage Increase
GS 350 RWD ___ $45,000 ___ $0 _____________ 0.0%
GS 350 AWD ___ $46,950 ___ $0 _____________ 0.0%
GS 460 _______ $53,470 ___ $0 _____________ 0.0%
GS 450h ______ $56,550 ___ $0 _____________ 0.0%
LS 460 RWD ___ $64,680 ___ $855 __________ 1.3%
LS 460 AWD ___ $68,205 ___ $855 __________ 1.3%
LS 460 L RWD _ $70,225 ___ -$3,510 ________ -4.8%
LS 460 L AWD _ $73,750 ___ -$3,510 ________ -4.5%

Discuss about this blog entry in LexusNet Forums – Blog Discussion

Tags: , , , , , ,
Posted in Lexus, Official Toyota/Lexus Press Release | Comments (0)

Toyota FT-86 Concept – Picture aplenty

October 5th, 2009

From Toyota:

The FT-86 (“86″ pronounced “hachi roku”), a compact rear-wheel-drive sports car, provides driving joy and excitement.

  • Compact design gives driver greater control, while body’s lightness and low center of gravity allow racecar-like handling
  • Both power and environmental performance provided by 2-liter boxer engine and light body
  • Flash Red body color contains hint of blue; interior expresses modern feel with minimal coverage of the highly refined structural components evoking enthusiasm for cruising

Vehicle: FT-86 Concept
Length: 4,160 mm
Width: 1,760 mm
Height: 1,260 mm
Wheelbase: 2,570 mm
Seating: 4

So looks like after all these years of building dull and boring cars, Toyota has finally decided to bring the “fun” back… and building it based on the concept of the legendary AE86 (light, small and RWD) seems like a pretty darn good idea to me. It’ll be interested to see what the final production model will look like but at the mean time, let’s enjoy this sexy concept:

Discuss about this blog entry in LexusNet Forums – Blog Discussion

Image sources: [Motor Trend]

Tags: ,
Posted in Auto Industry, Auto Show, Official Toyota/Lexus Press Release | Comments (0)

Lexus Announces Pricing for 2010 ES 350

September 19th, 2009

Following is the official press release from Lexus:

• New Exterior Styling Includes Revised Front Fascia and Taillights
• Interior Enhancements Include New Console and Trim Choices
• New Subscription-Based Lexus Enform™ with Safety Connect™ Telematics System

TORRANCE, Calif. (Sept. 18, 2009) – Lexus today announced Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices (MSRP) for the revised 2010 ES 350 entry luxury sedan which will arrive at dealerships later this month. The 2010 ES 350 will have an MSRP of $34,800 which represents an increase of $330 or 0.9%. The MSRP does not include a delivery, processing and handling fee of $875.

The ES 350 debuts revised styling and new luxury amenities for 2010. Side mirrors with integrated turn signals, the front grille, grille surround, chrome body side molding, front bumper, and rain-sensing windshield wipers are new for 2010. Revised headlamps, lower intake with integrated foglamps, and taillamps define the entry luxury sedan. The standard 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels now have a split five-spoke design. The ES 350 also receives four new exterior colors: Truffle Mica, Peridot Mica, Satin Cashmere Metallic and Cerulean Blue Metallic. Moon Shell Mica, Amber Pearl, Aquamarine Pearl, Black Sapphire Pearl and Golden Almond Metallic were removed from the ES 350 color palette.

Inside, ES 350 receives revised steering wheel controls, new trim choices and driver’s seat memory. A revised center console offers more storage volume than before. Standard leather-trimmed seating is available in three colors including Parchment which replaces Cashmere. New Brown Walnut wood trim replaces Medium Brown Walnut, while the ES adds Espresso Bird’s Eye Maple trim. In addition, rear coat hooks and an Eco Drive indicator are standard. The ES 350 now has 10 standard airbags as rear seat-mounted side airbags are new for 2010.

The ES 350 enters the 2010 model year with an updated Lexus Premium Audio System and a new optional hard disc drive (HDD) navigation system. The Lexus Navigation System includes a casual-speech voice recognition feature, voice command, and enhanced Bluetooth® with phonebook download. The updated Lexus Premium Audio System includes Bluetooth streaming audio and a USB port, in addition to the auxiliary port. When an iPod® is connected through the USB port, information such as artist, track and album is displayed on the head unit, while music can be controlled through the head unit or steering wheel audio controls. An integrated XM® Satellite Radio receiver is also standard.

Lexus Enform™ with Safety Connect™ is an all-new telematics system available by subscription. Safety Connect alone is standard on all ES 350 vehicles. Lexus Enform is standard on navigation-equipped ES 350. Complimentary one-year trial subscriptions of Lexus Enform and Safety Connect are included.

Lexus Insider™, a complimentary, opt-in service available without a subscription, is also standard on Lexus Enform equipped ES vehicles. The service offers in-vehicle audio casts with useful vehicle tips and event information, as well as insights into exclusive owners’ benefits. As part of the Lexus Enform navigation platform, XM NavTraffic® and XM NavWeatherTM are available via individual XM® subscriptions. All XM services include a complimentary 90-day trial subscription.

Discuss about this blog entry in LexusNet Forums – Blog Discussion

Tags: , ,
Posted in Lexus, Official Toyota/Lexus Press Release | Comments (3)

Official HS250 Pricing!-We Bring it to you First!

July 20th, 2009

Hot off the press..HS250 Pricing Released by TMS USA

Lexus Announces Pricing for New 2010 HS 250h, World’s First Hybrid-Only Luxury Vehicle

• Hybrid Car for Forward-Thinking Luxury Consumers, to Start at $34,200
• Best Combined EPA MPG Rating of Any Luxury Vehicle in the U.S.
• 70 Percent Fewer Smog-Forming Emissions Than the Average New Car
• First Vehicle to Offer Lexus Enform™ with Safety Connect™


TORRANCE, Calif. (July 20, 2009) – Lexus today announced the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the new HS 250h hybrid, which has the best combined EPA mpg rating of any luxury vehicle in the U.S.

The 2010 HS 250h, Lexus’ first dedicated hybrid and the fourth offering in its lineup, is available in standard and Premium models. The standard version will have an MSRP of $34,200, while the Premium model will carry an MSRP of $36,970. They will arrive at dealerships in late August. The MSRPs do not include a delivery, processing and handling fee of $875.

Both models, which emit 70 percent fewer smog-forming emissions than the average new car, received EPA-estimated ratings of 35 mpg city and 34 mpg on the highway for a combined 35 mpg utilizing regular 87-octane gasoline . The HS 250h has the best combined EPA mpg rating of any luxury vehicle in the U.S. and its MSRP is nearly $10,000 less than one of its entry luxury sedan segment competitors.

“The creation of a dedicated luxury hybrid vehicle speaks volumes about Lexus’ commitment to our customers and hybrid technology,” said Mark Templin, Lexus group vice president and general manager. “Forward-thinking, well-informed entry luxury consumers are seeking a social statement and technology with a clear benefit in their next car. HS 250h delivers this with its unique package and modern luxury that fits their advanced lifestyle.”

Standard features on the HS 250h include leather-trimmed seats; 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with eight-way power-adjustable front passenger seat; a 10-speaker, 137-watt audio system with a six-disc CD changer, a subwoofer and center speaker; Bluetooth® for phone and music streaming capabilities; integrated subscription satellite radio (includes 90-day trial); USB/ iPod® connectivity operated via steering wheel controls or the display screen; and 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels. The HS 250h incorporates a standard class-leading 10-airbag Supplemental Restraint system and front active head rests.

The HS 250h Premium model adds heated/ventilated front seats trimmed in semi-aniline leather; 18-inch aluminum alloy wheels; rain-sensing windshield wipers; heated electrochromic exterior mirrors; genuine wood interior trim; and a new memory system that allows individual driver settings for seat, powertilt-telescopic steering wheel, outside mirrors and air conditioning settings to be recalled automatically by individual key fobs.

The HS 250h utilizes Lexus’ first four-cylinder gas engine and the latest hybrid system to take advantage of the company’s continuous engineering advances to help minimize emissions and maximize fuel economy. The twin-cam Atkinson-cycle engine with Variable Valve Timing with Intelligence (VVT-i) alone has an output of 147 horsepower (hp). In combination with the hybrid drive motor, the HS 250h generates 187 total system hp. HS 250h has nearly zero evaporative emissions.

The HS 250h features four drive-modes: Normal, Power, Eco and EV; which can help enhance efficiency and involves driver and car interaction. Each drive-mode changes the rate of throttle opening for a given throttle-pedal angle.

The HS 250h’s forward-thinking interior design implements extensive bioplastic material, or Ecological Plastic, for parts of the interior upholstery. It covers approximately 30 percent of the interior and trunk helping to result in a reduction of carbon emissions by approximately 20 percent over the estimated life of the vehicle.

The optional sixth-generation navigation system features Lexus’ exclusive Remote Touch controller with user-adjustable haptic feedback. The innovative controller, similar to a computer mouse, eliminates the need for touch screen controls, allowing the pop-up navigation system screen to be mounted further up the center stack and away from the driver. This helps the driver benefit with a clear, high-resolution screen, improved site lines and reduced eye movement. The navigation system also comes equipped a rear-view camera. Also on navigation-equipped HS vehicles is the availability of XM® Sports and Stocks, a new service that is included with an XM® satellite radio subscription.

HS 250h Premium models can add an optional Wide-view Front Monitor to help enhance the driver’s ability to see in certain areas around the front of the vehicle by sending images to the navigation system display. Standard HS 250h models can also add an optional Touring Package; heated front seats; LED headlamps with Adaptive Front-lighting System, Intelligent High-Beam with headlamp washers; and 18-inch alloy wheels. The optional Technology Package, available only on the Premium model, includes the Heads-Up Display (HUD); Lane Keep Assist (LKA) with Lane Departure Warning (LDW); Pre-Collision System with dynamic radar cruise control; Driver Monitor and Intuitive Park Assist. HUD projects a miniature display on a small portion of the windshield in front of the driver, helping to reduce eye movement to see frequently viewed information such as vehicle speed, turn-by-turn navigation arrows, drive-assist warnings, audio information and Touch Tracer (sensors on steering-wheel switches will show an image of switch layout in the HUD). Another new feature to the Lexus line, LKA, helps drivers stay within their chosen lane and works in cooperation with the LDW function and the dynamic radar cruise control.

Other optional equipment available for the Premium model includes a Mark Levinson® 5.1-channel Premium Surround Sound system with 15 speakers and 330 watts, and the Park Assist Package. An all-new telematics system, Lexus EnformTM with Safety ConnectTM, available by subscription will also be available on HS 250h. Complimentary one-year trial subscriptions of Lexus Enform and Safety Connect are included with all new HS 250h purchases. One-year renewal subscriptions to Safety Connect alone will be available for $139.95 and to Lexus Enform with Safety Connect for $264.90 per year. Multi-year subscriptions will also be available. The Lexus Enform and the Safety Connect response center operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week – every day of the year.

Safety Connect, the cornerstone of the services, is available on both non-navigation and navigation-equipped HS 250h and offers four safety and security features: Automatic Collision Notification, Stolen Vehicle Location, Emergency Assistance Button (SOS), and Enhanced Roadside Assistance, which adds GPS data to the already included warranty-based Lexus roadside service.

Lexus Enform, available only on navigation-equipped vehicles, includes all of the Safety Connect features and builds upon them with the premium services of Destination Assist and eDestination. Destination Assist agents are available via the on-board cellular equipment and can help drivers find a specific address, a business by name, or a type of business (e.g., gas station, movie theater, etc.), and even Zagat®-rated restaurants, and then send the coordinates to the navigation system for routing. With eDestination, drivers can go online via LexusDrivers.com to save and sort destinations in up to 20 folders, each holding as many as 10 destinations. Then drivers can send the locations – up to 200 at a time – to their vehicle, where they will be available for download into the navigation system. Online, drivers can create personalized location names (e.g., “Favorite sushi,” “1 PM Appt,” “Kids’ doctor,” etc.) and even list notes about their saved locations – all helping them see exactly the information they choose in the vehicle.

Lexus Insider™, a complimentary, opt-in service available without a subscription on all navigation-equipped HS 250h vehicles is launching at the same time as Lexus Enform. This feature offers in-vehicle audio casts that provide owners access to useful vehicle tips and event information, and insights into exclusive owners’ benefits – all designed to further enhance the Lexus experience. As part of the all-new Lexus EnformTM navigation platform, the HS 250h also features XM NavTraffic®, XM NavWeatherTM , and XM® Sports and Stocks services. XM NavTraffic® and XM NavWeatherTM are available via individual XM subscriptions while XM® Sports and Stocks is included with an XM® Radio subscription. XM services offer a 90-day trial.

Pictures to soon Follow
-Jay

Tags: ,
Posted in Official Toyota/Lexus Press Release | Comments (0)

Toyota & Lexus Earn 10 Segment Awards in The J.D. Power & Associates 2009 Initial Quality Study

June 23rd, 2009

TOYOTA AND LEXUS EARN TEN SEGMENT AWARDS IN THE
J.D. POWER AND ASSOCIATES 2009 INITIAL QUALITY STUDY
Lexus Regains Top Nameplate Ranking, LX 570 and LS 460 Finish One-Two

TORRANCE, Calif., June 22, 2009 –
Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., today earned 10 segment awards in the 2009 J.D. Power and Associates Initial Quality Study (IQS). The Lexus nameplate finished first overall, with the LX 570 capturing the top spot as the most problem-free vehicle.
“We’re quite pleased to lead 10 segments and Lexus’ top position overall,” said TMS President Jim Lentz. “The dependability of our vehicles has always been a major factor in the company’s success. The IQS 90-day feedback is just one measurement – along with warranty claims, long-term durability, resale value and buyer loyalty – that helps us gauge our overall quality.”

Congrats to the Lexus Team on:
Lexus received awards in all five segments in which it had eligible vehicles, and it finished first overall with 84 problems per 100 , a 15 Parts Per 100 and two-ranking position improvement over last year. Lexus LX 570 ranked first among all segment winners and in the Premium Large Multi-Activity Vehicle (MAV) category with the fewest Parts Per 100., at 52. The LX 570’s score was the best ever for a segment-leading model since the IQS was redesigned, and it was half of the Premium Luxury average of 104 PP100. The LS 460 was the Large Premium Car segment winner with 59 Parts Per 100 and it was the ninth time in 12 years that the LS earned that achievement.

Highlights For TMS include:

It also earned four segment awards overall.

  • 4Runner was tied for the top Midsize MAV,
  • Sienna was highest in the Mid-size Van segment,
  • Yaris topped the Sub-compact Car segment,
  • Tundra was tied in the Large Pickup segment.

As for Scion: The Scion tC sports coupe led the Compact Sporty Car segment.

Lets also have a round of Applause for the Toyota Manufacturing Centers, and their hard workers for recieving awards,

Toyota production facilities took the top three Asia Pacific honors including the Platinum Award,
a global award that goes to the best plant overall regardless of region, which went to the Higashi-Fuji, Japan, plant (Lexus SC and Toyota Corolla). The Fujimatsu, Japan, plant (Toyota Prius) earned the Silver Award and the Kyushu, Japan, plant (Lexus ES 350, IS 250/350, RX 350/400h, and Toyota Highlander/Highlander hybrid) won the Bronze. The Georgetown, Ky., plant (Camry, Camry Hybrid, Avalon and the all-new Venza) earned the Bronze Award in the North/South America region.

Source: Toyota Motor Sales USA.
Copy by: Jay J

About Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.
Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc. is the marketing, sales, distribution and customer service arm of Toyota, Lexus and Scion. Established in 1957, TMS markets products and services through a network of more than 1,400 Toyota, Lexus and Scion dealers. With more than 35,000 direct employees and 165,000 indirect employees in the U.S., TMS sold more than 2.2 million vehicles in 2008. For more information about Toyota, visit http://www.toyota.com/, http://www.lexus.com/, http://www.scion.com/ or http://www.toyotanewsroom.com/.

Well congrats Toyota, keep up the good work

Jay.

And Members Please feel free to discuss and applaud Toyota and their hard workers here:
LexusNet Forums – Blog Discussion

Tags: ,
Posted in Lexus, Official Toyota/Lexus Press Release | Comments (3)