Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Did you know? If You Purchase a New Lexus During the December to Remember Sales Event Your First Payment Will be Compimentary of Lexus!
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Lexus Unveils The Lexus Fashion Workshop with Four Original Designs Made of Recyclable Lexus CT Hybrid Parts
The Lexus Fashion Workshop designs to be exhibited at Art Basel Miami Beach
From crank bearings to exhaust gaskets, the designers took on the challenge with verve, turning some of the best engineered auto parts into innovative fashion accessories – all while driving home the beauty of recycling.
- “Environmental Crown of Virtue”—A truly head-turning piece designed by Moss Lipow using a transmission starter and exhaust manifold gasket.
- “The Valve Collection”—Designed by jewelry creator Eddie Borgo using valve lifters, crank bearings and hose clamps.
- “Nomadic Sanctuary”—A sleek trench coat, shorts and clutch designed by John Patrick, featuring floor mats made from plant-based plastic, sustainable sound-dampening material, wire harness, leather seat covers and cargo covers
- “The Luna Shoe”—Created by Alejandro Ingelmo using armrest leather trim and clear plastic tubing.
The four pieces will be highlighted in a six-page advertisement in the January 2012 issue of Vogue. Behind-the-scenes videos of the Lexus CT hybrid being dismantled piece-by-piece are available at Vogue.com/Promotions/Lexus. Additionally, a series of exclusive interviews with the four designers will be posted throughout December.
The collection will be on display December 1-2, 2011, opening day of Art Basel Miami Beach, one of the most prestigious art show in the Americas. The pieces will be sold at private auction during Art Basel Miami Beach, with proceeds benefiting the Council of Fashion Designers of America/Vogue Fashion Fund (CFDA), a not-for-profit trade association representing more than 400 of America’s foremost womenswear, menswear, jewelry, and accessory designers.
Monday, November 28, 2011
Lexus IS F Circuit Club Sport Package comes into focus
Outside, engineers have fitted the IS F with a new front spoiler, rear diffuser and hood, all of which are fabricated from weight-saving carbon fiber. You may have also noticed the vehicle's sizable rear wing. A performance damper kit is also part of the package, offering buyers two separate settings that independently adjustable compression. The luxury bruiser also comes equipped with lightweight forged aluminum wheels, though magnesium rollers are also available.
Mechanically, the IS F Circuit Club Sport Package utilizes a TRD limited-slip differential as well as a TRD big brake kit. At this point, there's no word on how much the package will cost or when it will be available. We aren't even sure American buyers will be able to sink their teeth into the factory-bred racer, so stay tuned.
Courtesy of AutoBlog
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
2011 Progress Report on Quality, Safety, Reliability & Value
Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE
Two years ago, Toyota Motor Corporation President Akio Toyoda recommitted the entire company to ensuring that Toyota products met the highest standards for quality, safety, reliability and retained value. The results of this global effort have become increasingly evident based on the long list of third-party accolades Toyota and its vehicles have recently received in recognition of this progress.
QUALITY
Lexus was the highest ranking nameplate in the industry in the 2011 J.D. Power Initial Quality Study and earned more segment awards than any other premium brand. The Toyota Division moved up 14 positions to place seventh in the study.
Toyota ranked as the #1 manufacturer for lowest percentage of “check engine”-related failures and lowest average related repair costs, looking at 2001 to 2011 Model Year vehicles over the past year, according to the first annual CarMD Vehicle Health Index.
According to ALG’s Fall 2011 Perceived Quality Study, Toyota’s perceived quality score rose more than 2 percent over the last six months, closing the gap with Honda, while Lexus once again was ranked #1 among luxury brands.
The Lexus IS won the entry premium car segment in the 2011 J.D. Power and Associates Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study.
Toyota and Lexus won 11 awards – more than half the 21 total awards – in IntelliChoice.com’s Best Overall Values of the Year.
SAFETY
Eleven Toyota, Lexus and Scion vehicles were named 2011 “Top Safety Picks” by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, including the Toyota Avalon, Corolla, Highlander, Prius, Sienna, Tundra and Venza, the Scion tC and xB, and the Lexus CT 200h and RX.
RELIABILITY
Toyota and Lexus brands took home seven top awards in J.D. Power’s 2011 Vehicle Dependability Survey -- more than any other full line manufacturer.
Toyota was rated the “Best Durability of any full-line manufacturer" by R.L. Polk, based on longevity for U.S. vehicles in operation registration statistics MY1987-2010.
90% of Toyotas sold new in the 15 years between MY1996 and MY2010 are still on the road, according to R.L. Polk.
RETAINED VALUE
Kelley Blue Book named Toyota the 2012 Best Resale Value Brand for the second time in three years and Lexus as the Best Resale Value Luxury Brand in the 2012 Best Resale Value Awards.
ALG named Lexus the Best Luxury Brand in its 2011 Residual Value Awards. Toyota and Lexus segment award winners include Toyota Tacoma, Toyota Tundra and Lexus CT 200h.
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITMENT
Toyota was ranked #1 overall among Interbrand’s 2011 Best Global Green Brands.
Toyotas account for two-thirds of all hybrids on the road today (R.L. Polk)
o Toyota and Lexus hybrids comprise nearly three-quarters (73%) of all hybrids
o Prius alone makes up half (52%)
o Nine out of 10 (91%) of all hybrid-only models on the road are Prius vehicles
o In April 2011Toyota announced the one-millionth sale of the Prius in the U.S., while worldwide sales have topped the 3 million mark
The 2012 Toyota Prius Plug-in, which will go on sale in the spring of 2012, earned Decisive magazine’s annual Urban Green Vehicle of the Year Award.
2013 Lexus GS 350: Drive Review
The new Lexus GS range is the fourth generation of the company's luxury sport sedan that competes against cars such as the BMW 5-series and Mercedes-Benz's E-class. In this iteration, the GS previews new design language that eventually will carry over to the rest of the Lexus range. Reactions to the new look have diverged, but it's clearly not bland.The model will be available with available premium, luxury and F-Sport packages, powered by a revised version of the 3.5-liter V6 that now combines direct and port fuel injection. The V6 produces 306 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque, three more of each than before, while also improving fuel consumption to 19 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.All-wheel-drive versions of the GS 350 are available, as is the standard rear-drive format. While the GS loses a V8 variant for 2013, it gains an F-Sport model, which is equipped with firmer springs, a three-level variable-damping suspension, thicker antiroll bars, variable-speed steering and a rear-wheel-steer mechanism for optimal handling characteristics. The F-Sport car also has front and rear styling revisions, larger brakes and 19-inch wheels with summer tires.As before, the GS will feature a hybrid variant, the GS 450h, which employs an Atkinson-cycle version of the V6 in combination with an electric motor to produce a combined maximum of 338 hp with 29/34mpg fuel consumption. The electric motor is mounted at the rear axle, and drives the rear wheels, so GS 450h models are rear-drive only.The use of extra spot welds, increased use of high-strength steel and the adoption of a bolted-in triangular engine-box brace in the new GS body shell increases torsional rigidity by 14 percent. But weight has not increased beyond the previous car's mass, despite a full complement of technologies and luxury equipment, because of an intensive exercise to pare weight in every area--right down to hose-clamp widths!
What is it like to drive?
Because of the aforementioned advances in design and materials, the new GS is as solid, quiet and refined as one might hope. Intensive aerodynamic simulations and the adoption of a flat underbody and numerous surface tweaks reduce wind noise significantly, adding to the car's admirable road-going refinement.So, to add some sporting flavor to the new GS, Lexus fitted a Helmholtz-type resonator that pipes the engine's induction noises into the cabin. The contrast to an older GS 350 that we had on hand was startling. While not really noisy, the new GS 350 provides a fantastic aural accompaniment to performance driving while retaining the hushed atmosphere of a luxury car when operated at modest speeds.Of all the new models in the range, the F-Sport is one to make Lexus's rivals take serious note. The combination of ride and handling technologies provides the new GS with fast turn-in, brilliant roll control, amazing stability and a scintillating turn of speed. Its extraordinary range was perfectly showcased by a long autocross course laid out on the old air base at El Toro in Orange County, Calif. Since the rear wheels can steer in either direction, they can be used to speed turn-in by steering in the opposite direction to the fronts, then to stabilize the car by steering in the same direction.The variable-steering gear massively speeds response in slaloms and chicanes, and none of the motion is lost to wayward body roll. Meanwhile, forces felt inside the car are easily contained by the excellent new seats. If chassis tuning was the way that rival companies' sport sedans built their reputations in the past, then technology is what might knock them off the perch today.All of this clever technology hugely broadens the GS's bandwidth. Even the sport-optimized F-Sport version will tour suburbia with suave serenity, catering to its occupants' every need with the latest telematics package, connecting them to Internet radio or allowing them to make a reservation at a restaurant, then directing them to that location.Everything one expects of a luxury car is available. High-end stereo? There's an 835-watt Mark Levinson system so tight and clean it is hard to describe in words. The navigation display is a 12.3-inch monster. There's a night-vision system and a precollision system. The seats are heated and ventilated. There is a blind-spot monitor and a heads-up display.Not all of these things are standard, but all of them are available. Short of power doors, it's hard to think of anything not offered in one or another of the optional packages. Lexus always had the luxury part down. Now the company wants to inject some sporting essence into the experience. Some of the technology that makes the cars work so well is like that used by recognized sport superstars such as Ferrari.With the LF-A proudly stationed on the Lexus stand at auto shows these days, maybe the two brand names aren't as far apart as they once were.
Do I want it?
It's hard to knock the idea of a refined ride for everyday activities, particularly if it comes courtesy of a beautifully made product. When Lexus first appeared, hard-nosed auto writers complained of too much isolation and not enough involvement. Now all of the rival luxury brands are more like Lexus than they were like themselves in the old days.So, when you add performance bandwidth to a polished product such as the GS 350, allowing it to strafe a canyon road like a sports car as well as glide serenely to the office, it makes a fine argument for what the company has done here. All that's left to debate is the controversial new styling.
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
We would like to thank the author of this wonderful review for sharing their encouraging feedback!
- I recently went to Lexus of Orlando to "look" at the cars. I was greated by Doug who proceeded to show me the vehicles. Doug is very knowledgeable about the cars, this guy really knows his stuff! He was very informative without being pushy and listened well to me. He helped me my find a car for my specifications and price. I am very satisfied with his customer service and expertise and would recommend him to anyone trying to find the best car for their budget. -viapharmd
For more great reviews like this one click here!
Monday, November 21, 2011
First Lexus LFA Available to the Public hits the Road Atlanta Track
The Lexus LFA has caused quite a stir among supercar aficionados. Despite its lack of pedigree that rivals sports cars from Ferrari and Lamborghini can lay claim to, it’s an incredible machine.
Then again, with a carbon fiber chassis, exotic looks and a high-revving V10 that produces 552HP with all the right sounds, that’s to be expected.
The first-ever LFA delivered to a customer is chassis No# 003 – the first two production models were allegedly given to company insiders. The owner of the car, Roy, lives in the U.S. and according to Forged Performance, which has also prepared a Nissan GT-R for him, he likes to actually drive his cars instead of keeping them locked up in a garage and admiring them.
Luckily, Roy decided to take his brand-new LFA to the Road Atlanta race track to find out if it lives up to its promise. See how it went down in the video below.
Courtesy of CarScoop
<p>Forged Performance: #003 Lexus LFA from Forged Performance on Vimeo.</p>
Toyota/Lexus vehicles “healthiest,” says CarMD
The first annual CarMD Vehicle Health Index ranked vehicles using real-world, statistically-based data for the fewest average repair incidents and lowest average repair costs for model-year 2001 to 2011 vehicles in the U.S.
Toyota had the lowest percentage of red light reports/problems seen, followed in order by Hyundai, Honda, Ford, General Motors, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Kia, Volkswagen and Chrysler.
The top-ranking vehicle was the 2009 Toyota Corolla, which had the lowest combined repair incidents and lowest average repair costs. It was followed in order by the 2008 Honda CR-V, 2007 Honda CR-V, 2009 Honda Accord, 2009 Toyota RAV4, 2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2009 Toyota Camry, 2009 Honda Pilot, 2005 Chevrolet Blazer and 2008 Toyota Highlander.
CarMD said that the most common check-engine repair in the U.S. is a faulty oxygen (O2) sensor, which accounted for about 15 per cent of Toyota’s check-engine repairs over the past year. O2 sensors measure the amount of unburned oxygen in the exhaust and tell the car’s computer when there is too much air or not enough fuel for ideal operation. If a faulty sensor is not replaced, the vehicle’s fuel efficiency can drop by as much as 40 per cent.
Courtesy of Autos.ca
Friday, November 18, 2011
Thursday, November 17, 2011
Toyota and Lexus Are Back on Top in Kelley Blue Book Resale Value Survey!
The distinction is based on how well new models are expected to retain their original list price after five years of ownership.
According to the used-car pricing service, the average vehicle, irrespective of brand, is expected to retain about 35.5 percent of its original value after five years, which means that a $50,000 new car today would be worth approximately $17,750 after five years. The average 2012 Toyota, however, would retain 41.5 percent of its original value, while a Lexus would retain 37.9 percent, according to the service.
Toyota and Lexus, which were winners in the report for the 2010 model year, were ousted last year by Subaru and BMW.
“Toyota has done well primarily with their trucks, which are holding value quite well,” said Eric Ibara, director of residual consulting at Kelley Blue Book, in a telephone interview.
Residual values in the survey reflect projected future auction values for vehicles in average condition with 75,000 miles at the end of a five-year lease or ownership period. Low-volume vehicles or vehicles with a list price of more than $60,000 are excluded from consideration for the awards, except in the luxury and high-performance categories.
Residual values improved across all surveyed brands, Mr. Ibara noted — on average they were 1.5 percentage points higher than last year.
The Jeep Wrangler is the vehicle with the highest resale value, at 55 percent. In dollars and cents, a base 2012 Sport model, with two-wheel drive and a list price of $22,845, would have a resale value of $12,564 after five years.
The top 10 cars from the 2012 model year expected to achieve the best resale value were the Audi Q7, Chevrolet Camaro, Honda CR-V, Hyundai Tucson, Infiniti FX, Jeep Wrangler, Lexus RX, Nissan Frontier, Toyota FJ Cruiser and Toyota Tacoma.
There are also winners in 19 categories, ranging from subcompact car to full-size pickup. They are, in alphabetical order: Audi A5 and Q7; Chevrolet Camaro V-6, Camaro SS, Traverse and Volt; Ford F-Series Super Duty; Honda Civic, Civic Hybrid, Fit and Odyssey; Jeep Wrangler; Lexus IS and RX 450h; Nissan Maxima; Subaru Outback; and Toyota Camry, FJ Cruiser and Tacoma.
A number of vehicles singled out Wednesday were winners in their categories or were among the top 10 last year as well. When a vehicle is included two years in a row, it is an indication that its value is not a fluke, Mr. Ibara said.
“A good example is the Mini Cooper,” he said. “It was the top vehicle in its segment for nine years in a row. That’s a very strong record.”
A new, catch-all category for electric cars, which does not discriminate between purely electric cars or plug-in hybrids, was added this year. The 2012 winner in this segment was the Chevrolet Volt, with a projected residual value of 27 percent. The only other vehicle in the running was the Nissan Leaf, with a residual value of 25.5 percent.
These residual values were lower than the 35.5 percent average, Mr. Ibara said, because a $7,500 federal tax credit would lower the $39,995 Volt’s transaction price. That, in turn, would push its residual value lower, he said.
From: TheNewYorkTimes
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
'Tis the Season! Don't miss out on our December to Remember sales event like this page to keep up to date on all the details!
Thank you to the author of this wonderful review for sharing their feedback with us!
- Always satisfied with the service at Lexus. Kevin Sinker is a great consultant. Not only is he friendly but he's always working hard to get you out in a timely matter and keeps you informed on the status of your vehicle. -lingari
For more great reviews click here!
Don't miss your chance for a live conversation via Twitter with Lisa Kudrow and Rosie O’Donnell today. Details inside!
Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE
L Studio's award-winning series was picked-up by Showtime earlier this year, marking the first and only time to date that a branded content web series has migrated to a premium cable channel. “Web Therapy” seasons 1 through 3 are currently available on LStudio.com and feature celebrity guests such as Courtney Cox, Meryl Streep, Molly Shannon, Julia Louis-Dreyfus and others.
To help promote season 4 of "Web Therapy," Rosie O'Donnell and Lisa Kudrow will be doing a live tweet chat on Twitter today from 2:15-3pm PST. They will be answering questions from fans directed to @LisaKudrow and @Rosie. You can follow the conversation on Twitter by searching the hashtag #asklisaandrosie.
L Studio is a unique online entertainment channel created by Lexus to attract a younger consumer to the brand by entertaining them with engaging and inspiring content.
Just as you have done before, we would like your help spreading the word about season 4 of “Web Therapy” and have prepared messaging for you to share through your social channels:
Facebook:
Need your daily dose of laughter? Tune in to the award-winning show "Web Therapy" to find out why Rosie O'Donnell thinks Lisa Kudrow has no morals. Only on Lexus’ L Studio. http://bit.ly/sPoXzJ
Twitter:
Need a laugh? Watch "Web Therapy" to find out why Rosie O’Donnell thinks Lisa Kudrow has no morals on Lexus' #Lstudio. http://bit.ly/sPoXzJ
From: LStudio
Lexus Takes Top Honors in Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com 2012 Best Resale Value Awards for Luxury Brand
“We are proud that Lexus has won the highly respected Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com 2012 Best Resale Value Award in the Luxury Brand category,” said Mark Templin, Lexus group vice president and general manager. “Lexus customers appreciate the importance of resale value as part of the overall ownership experience, and that’s something we strive to deliver better than anyone else.”
Kelley Blue Book’s Best Resale Value Awards are based on projections from the Kelley Blue Book® Official Residual Value Guide, determined by a skilled staff of automotive analysts. These prestigious awards honor vehicles expected to maintain the greatest proportion of their original list price after five years of ownership.
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
All-New 2013 Lexus GS Family Makes North American Auto Show Debut at Los Angeles Auto Show
- Sport Sedan with World-Class Luxury and Evocative Design Shows New Identity of Lexus
- Exceptional Driving Dynamics and Innovative Technology
- GS 450h Fuel Economy Expected To Be Improved by More Than 30 Percent
- F SPORT Package Features Dynamic Handling with F SPORT Tuned Adaptive Variable Suspension
LOS ANGELES, Nov. 15, 2011 – The bold new Lexus GS 350, GS 450h and GS 350 F SPORT make their first North American auto show appearance this week at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The vehicles will be on display in the Lexus exhibit from November 18-27, 2011.
“We are excited to bring the GS family to the Los Angeles Auto Show, the first major auto show of the season,” said Mark Templin, Lexus group vice president and general manager. “The bold design of the new GS signals the advanced technology, performance and driving dynamics that combine with a roomier passenger cabin to deliver the complete package in a luxury sport sedan.”
Distinguished by the elegant beauty of its aerodynamic body, the precisely sculpted exterior of the all-new Lexus GS luxury sport sedan glows with aggressive performance and precision handling. Powered by an advanced 3.5-liter V6, putting 306 horsepower to the pavement, the four-cam, four valve per cylinder engine with dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) propels the 2013 GS 350 from 0-60 mph in just 5.7 seconds. The six-speed sequential shift automatic transmission, equipped with paddle shifters, offers four driving modes: Normal, ECO, SPORT S, and SPORT S+. An optional electronically controlled all-wheel-drive system is designed to enhance traction in a variety of driving conditions.
The cockpit of the new GS 350 continues the motif of design for the driver. A horizontal-themed instrument panel emphasizes spaciousness through its wide layout. Equal attention has been paid to maximizing space for rear passengers, with generous headroom, legroom, knee room and foot space.
GS buyers will also have access to next-generation Lexus Enform® with Safety Connect, along with advanced DVD audio and video compatibility. An SMS text-to-speech feature allows the driver to be read text messages and send preset responses with a compatible smart phone. With the optional navigation system, GS owners get an industry-first 12.3-inch, split-screen, high-resolution multi-media display.
The 2013 Lexus GS features a class-leading 10 airbags, along with new Whiplash Injury Lessening (WIL) front seats. Available options to help further enhance occupant safety include a pre-collision system, featuring a first-in-class infrared camera to monitor the driver’s eyes to check on driver status. Other available safety systems include a Night Vision System that enhances driver visibility at night; Heads Up Display (HUD); a Blind Spot Monitor that helps detect vehicles in rear/side blind spots; and Lane Keep Assist (LKA) with Lane Departure Warning (LDW).
GS 450h
Unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September, the hybrid version of the 2013 GS 350 incorporates improvements to its hybrid powertrain and is equipped with a second generation Lexus Hybrid Drive system. GS 450h engineers have aimed for reductions in fuel consumption and emissions, while providing exhilarating performance.
With a total system power output of 338 hp, the GS 450h will accelerate effortlessly from 0-60 mph in 5.6 seconds. Conversely, fuel consumption is expected to be improved by more than 30 percent. The GS 450h is targeting certification as a Super-Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle II (SULEV II). The new GS hybrid also features a Drive Mode selector. In addition to the Normal mode, the driver can customize the driving experience using ECO, SPORT S, SPORT S+ and EV modes.
GS 350 F SPORT Package
Introduced this month at the 2011 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show in Las Vegas, the 2013 GS 350 with F SPORT package takes performance to an entirely new level. Unique to the F SPORT package will be aggressive 19-inch wheels, F SPORT-tuned Adaptive Variable Suspension, thicker anti-roll bars, bushing changes, and new larger front brakes with high friction pads. In addition, rear-wheel drive models will be equipped with 19-inch staggered width wheels and Variable Gear Ratio Steering. Inside, the all-new package also features a sporty attitude with a new 16-way power driver’s sport seat, unique interior design treatment and available F SPORT exclusive Cabernet Red leather interior.
Following the inspirational design cues of the IS line-up and CT 200h, the F SPORT package separates itself from the GS line-up with distinctive exterior details. To display its aggressive attitude, the GS 350 with F SPORT package will be outfitted with a sport front bumper and rear lower valence, rear lip spoiler, unique F SPORT mesh grille inserts and F SPORT badging.
The Lexus exhibit will also feature the latest Lexus models, including plenty of performance vehicles such as the inspirational and aspirational 552-horsepower V10 LFA supercar and special edition models of the 2012 LS 460 Sport, ES 350 Touring Edition and the CT 200h F SPORT Special Edition. An F SPORT accessories display will be featured as well.
From: ToyotaNewsRoom
Toyota Prius c Provides a Subcompact Entry Point to Prius Family of Hybrid Vehicles
Among the Most Advanced Vehicles in its Class Will Debut at 2012 NAIAS
–Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc., will offer a fuel-efficient hybrid at a more accessible price when the Prius c joins the Prius Family of vehicles in the spring of 2012. The U.S. debut of the Prius c will be next January at the 2012 North American International Auto Show in Detroit.
This highly anticipated subcompact member of the Prius Family will bring Toyota’s renowned Hybrid Synergy Drive® technology to a new segment of buyers when it joins the third-generation Prius Liftback hybrid vehicle, the versatile new Prius v midsize hybrid vehicle and the Prius Plug-in Hybrid model, which will also debut next spring. Positioned as an entry into the Prius Family appealing to youthful shoppers seeking fuel efficiency, technology, and spirited driving dynamics in the subcompact segment, the Prius c will offer:
- Expected class-leading fuel economy better than 50 mpg in the city, which is the highest city mpg of any non-plug-in vehicle.
- Proven hybrid technology, with 14 years of heritage, available at a more accessible price.
- A high degree of convenience features and premium in-car electronics, uncommon in a five-door configuration, creating a less compromised compact-car experience
As with other Prius models, Prius c combines its revolutionary Hybrid Synergy Drive® with excellent aerodynamics to achieve outstanding fuel efficiency. The new Prius c is unique in the Prius Family with a more youthful expression and a sportier dynamic character that offers a more fun-to-drive experience. The vehicle’s five-door format and flexible packaging will adapt to a broad range of owners’ needs.
The Prius c offers an unexpected level of convenience, capability and technology in a compact hybrid-electric at an attractive price. Bluetooth® hands-free phone connectivity, steering-wheel audio controls, and nine airbags will be among the standard features on the 2012 Prius c.
In addition,owners will enjoy a new dimension of connectivity courtesy of the available Toyota Entune™ multimedia system. Entune™ leverages the mobile smartphone to provide a richer in-vehicle infotainment experience with fully integrated access to navigation, entertainment, and information services. It allows users to connect with popular apps such as Bing™, OpenTable.com, and movietickets.com. Entune™ also provides access to real-time information services, such as live weather, traffic, fuel information (location and price), stocks, and sports. The Prius c also offers voice recognition, music streaming, and email/text to speech capabilities.
Toyota Entune™ brings one of the largest selections of music options available to a vehicle, including iheartradio’s 750+ stations and Pandora® internet radio’s personalized music. In addition, the driver’s personal songs from portable media players and iPods (via USB or Bluetooth® audio streaming), and more than 170 stations from SiriusXM™ satellite radio are also available.
Making premium technology available to compact-car shoppers, the Prius c offers superior fuel economy in a stylish, user-friendly package.
# # #
Prius Family Specifications
|
| Prius c | Prius | Prius v | Prius Plug-in |
| Length (in.) | 157.3 | 176.4 | 181.7 | 176.4 |
| Width (in. | 66.7 | 68.7 | 69.9 | 68.7 |
| Height (in.) | 56.9 | 58.7 | 62 | 58.7 |
| Wheelbase (in.) | 100.4 | 106.3 | 109.4 | 106.3 |
| Gasoline Engine | 1.5-liter DOHC four-cylinder, 16–valve with VVT-i | 1.8-liter DOHC, four cylinder, 16-valve with VVT-i | 1.8-liter DOHC, four-cylinder, 16-valve with VVT-i | 1.8-liter DOHC, four-cylinder , 16-valve with VVT-i |
| Emission Certification | SULEV | SULEV with AT-PZEV | SULEV | SULEV with AT-PZEV |
Monday, November 14, 2011
Auto Review: Lexus CT 200 h
There is no question that the combination of petrol and electric motors continues to be a fantastic idea to simply cut down emissions and optimize fuel economy. However, I questioned whether the general public was ready to pay a premium over regular automobiles for the sake of being “green.”
Since then, I tried very hard to embrace this alternative method in vehicle propulsion. After a series of turns in various hybrids, namely all third generations of the Prius, the Honda Insight and the Ford Fusion Hybrid, my internal conflict worsened. I ultimately asked myself if there was a hybrid automobile out there that drove the way I liked. Something that was actually engaging, but spewed almost no carbon in the air and sipped fuel like it was a fine wine.
Toyota’s luxury brand has been playing the hybrid game for quite some time. The Lexus Hybrid Drive had been tacked onto some of the better petrol engines offered to its consumers. The RX crossover, the GS sports sedan and the LS flagship benefitted from the Lexus Hybrid Drive as an additional offering these models. Then, Lexus decided it was time to make an exclusive hybrid vehicle for its customers: The HS. Some consumers balked at the HS for being an overpriced, overstuffed Prius – attracting only a couple of hundred customers each month according to the latest sales figures.
Enter the CT. The smallest car ever made for Lexus.
Originally designed for the European market as a premium urban hatchback, the CT was created to combine proper road manners with the driveline from the third generation Prius. The result was a Lexus for upscale urbanistas with a sustainable bent. It also gave us enthusiasts a sporty hatchback with honest green cred.
I wanted to find out whether the CT achieved this delicate balance between sustainability and enthusiast motoring. Furthermore, I wanted to know whether this CT would make me love the hybrid once and for all.
From looking at the CT, one can decipher some key elements of Lexus’ future design language inside and out along with influences from the brand’s $375,000 supercar – the LFA. These Lexus design elements were melded into this squat, sporty hatchback, which may seem like a cross between a Toyota Matrix, a MINI Clubman and an IS-F. Overall, it was intriguing and somewhat polarizing. Frankly, I found the CT quite fun to look at.
Perhaps the most polarizing part of the CT was the color. The Daybreak Yellow Mica on this Premium example elicited split opinions from everyone that had witnessed it. They either loved the lime-ish, yellow-ish, gold-ish finish or hated it. It is a youthful color that may fit the CT’s potential clientele, but most enthusiasts would rather abhor it. It also brought up the debate over the return to rich and deep pastel colors – raspberries, limes and the sort – to vehicles aimed at younger buyers.
Step inside the cabin, and you are treated to a mix of luxury, sport and technology. There’s simply a lot going on in front of the driver that one would appreciate the soft, supportive leather seats after figuring out all of the functions of the CT. These are perhaps one of the best seats I’ve experienced as a driver in a long time. Never had a seat ever loved me back – that speaks volumes considering what I’ve driven over the same course of time.
Room is fine up front, but rear seat room can be a challenge for tall and thick passengers where legroom is the biggest complaint above anything else. The smallish rear doors do not help matters at all.
Cargo space is achieved through an expandable and useful space. The rear seats fold absolutely flat which will help with larger items, given they are not taller than the headliner. Even with the rear seats up, there’s plenty of space for a week’s road trip for two people.
The CT has plenty of tricks up its sleeve for the driver. In one of the packages for the Premium model, the navigation screen flips up from the top of fascia. It is just a part of an interactive screen that switches to a reversing camera, menus for audio, Bluetooth and other Lexus Enform functions. You also get XM NavTraffic and NavWeather when you get into the Premium model.
Controlling the screen comes from a computer mouse-like device permanently installed where gear selector is normally located. The Remote Touch allows you to switch between screens just like your desktop computer. There are also buttons to click between the navigation screen and the main menu.
If you are also familiar with the Prius, then you will recognize the toggle-like gear selector. The only difference is the nice, shiny chrome handle that makes switching to reverse or drive easier to do than in the larger Toyota. Park is engaged with a button. You also start the car with another button. You get used to these buttons because they’re placed in a sporty matter that reminds one of another small premium machine from another continent.
The one feature I found handy was the throwback phone holder just to the side of the Remote Touch controller. Back in the 1980s, you had your cellular phone on a cradle tacked to your center console. Today’s smart phones are indeed an extension of what we do, so they created a phone holder that swivels as well as being easily connectible to the USB and auxiliary ports nearby.
The instrumentation featured an interchangeable left dial based on your selection from the Drive Mode Select knob in the center console. When you turn the Drive Mode Select dial to Eco, the left dial is a monitor ranging from Power (i.e. the petrol engine in use) to Charge (regenerating the batteries). Not to mention it is all lit up in blue. Flip the Drive Mode Select to Sport and that power monitor becomes a tachometer with everything lit in red.
What actually happens when you work the Drive Mode Select knob is evidenced right beyond the instrument panel. The knob actually controls the balance between the 134-horsepower, 1.8litre petrol engine and the Lexus Hybrid Drive’s electric motor. In Eco mode, the power relies on the electric motor with the petrol engine kicking in when it’s needed – on the onset. If you flip it over to Sport mode, the power is weighted towards the petrol engine with little assistance from the electric motor. In Sport, the petrol engine truly comes into life and gives the CT some exciting moments on the road. One push of the knob neutralizes the system in Normal mode. It provided a more flexible power band between the two motors.
If you just want to drive in the city – and at slow speeds – there’s the EV button near the Drive Mode Select knob. It basically runs the electric motor only up to around school zone speed limits. EV mode is great in the city where you don’t need to race through the neighborhood for a quart of milk from the corner store.
The result of using these modes were what you’d expect from a hybrid. Optimal fuel economy is achieved in Eco mode, while you lose that precious economy in Sport. Either way, I found the CT to be actually fun for a hybrid.
Why is this hybrid fun? Because it had the one thing I want in one: True driving dynamics. It’s not boring like the garden-variety green machines out in the marketplace. This kitten had claws.
The CT’s claws are shod with a set of Michelins that balanced efficiency with grip. They’re tacked onto a nice set of 17-inch alloy rims. The combination helped maintain a solid, but firm ride in the CT, despite the oft resistance on not so great road surfaces.
Hybrids need not be compromised when it comes to cornering and handling. For the most part, they are. The CT changes that paradigm for good. Being a small hatchback with a low center of gravity, the CT managed corners very competently. There was no resistance from the tires or the car itself when pushed through a cloverleaf or a winding road. The steering helps tremendously. For an electronic system, the steering response was actually was sharp. It had a tight turning radius that will get you out of trouble better than most hybrids in the market.
As for stopping power, I’m afraid this is not a strong point. In most Lexus models, you have solid and strong brake response. You’d expect it to be true on sporty hatchbacks. Not so in the CT. It does stop OK, but I would have preferred a sharper brake response even with the regenerative system used to recharge the battery. To sell a sports hatch, even with green cred, the foot has to be assured of a solid stop every time – both in normal and panic situations.
Where the CT shines above all is attaining the ultimate result for a hybrid – fuel economy. I was extremely impressed that this lime-ish, yellow-ish, gold-ish kitten with claws got an average of 43.9MPG. That’s very impressive – and much better than I expected! This is not only a V&R (and its former nomenclature) record – it’s a personal record.
The drawback on hybrids had been the premium charged for admission. The CT starts under $30,000. The Premium model is a few hundred dollars more. The fully loaded example tested here scaled up to just over $38,200. That’s a huge chunk of change for a compact hybrid hatchback.
Despite the sticker price, the CT turned heads and provoked curious glances. However, the question remains whether this will be the hybrid that will change people’s minds? Compared to the more popular green vehicles in the marketplace, the CT’s formula of creating a premium sporty hatch with a hybrid driveline would only attract a niche clientele.
The Lexus CT 200h is the proverbial Catch-22 for the enthusiast with a sustainable lifestyle. However, I would have no qualms driving a hybrid with true driving dynamics. This CT was worth every mile of petrol sipped through its kitten-like veins.
From: LavanderMagazine
We would like to thank the author of this great review for sharing their experience with us! Way to go Joel for once again providing the Lexus standard of "world class service"!
- I can't say enough about Joel, he made this experience of buying my 2012 RX 350, the most satifying ever. He made sure i understood and was able to use all of the features on my automobile. He called later to ask if i had more questions. He's friendly and very knowledgeable. -krackles
For more great reviews click here!
Friday, November 11, 2011
Lexus of Orlando would like to thank all past and present Veterans and their families for their service and sacrifice on behalf of our country.
Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE MicrosoftInternetExplorer4
Written by Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae, MD (1872 – 1918)
Canadian Army
In Flanders Fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses row on row,
That mark our place; and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.
We are the Dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved and were loved, and now we lie
In Flanders fields.
Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hands we throw
The torch; be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders fields.
Thank you to Jan for sharing this great review!
- Appoint making is easy. Greeting picture perfect. Leaving my garage I scratched the car because I did not notice a visitor. Repair estimates reasonable. Execution just like nothing happened. Loaner car drove fine. Timing of the repair well done. Car looks and drives like new after 35000 miles.( Comparison my neighbor just bought a new Hyundai Sonata, after a week malfunction of air conditioning, Service response "fully booked will check the car in six days) Jose Huartas is a superb ambassador for lexus. -Jan van Dam
For more great reviews click here!
Here at Lexus of Orlando we are commited to demonstrating our support for the service men and women that comprise the United States Armed Forces. .
In a joint effort between Lexus Financial Services (LFS) and Lexus, we are pleased to announce that the Lexus Military Rebate Program has been extended through March 31, 2012. Under the program, active military personnel can receive a rebate by leasing or financing a New or Certified Pre-Owned Lexus vehicle through LFS and a participating dealership. Check out the details below!
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
Lexus/Toyota/Scion Issues 2011 North American Environmental Report. Stays on top of environmental technology developments.
Remains the Industry’s Leader in Fuel Economy and Advanced Fuel Vehicles, with Further Growth Expected from Expansion of Prius Family
Makes Substantial Progress in Meeting or Exceeding Its Aggressive Five-Year Environmental Action Plan
Makes Substantial Progress in Meeting or Exceeding Its Aggressive Five-Year Environmental Action Plan
NEW YORK – November 9, 2011 – Toyota, the most fuel-efficient full line auto manufacturer in the United States today reaffirmed its commitment to sustainability throughout its operations and beyond as it released its 2011 North America Environmental Report. The report details the substantial success that Toyota has had in meeting or exceeding the goals of its aggressive, five-year Environmental Action Plan (EAP). These include groundbreaking enhancements to its industry-leading fleet of sustainable, advanced technology vehicles as well as strengthened environmental practices and partnerships across its manufacturing, sales and service operations.
Among the key achievements outlined in the 2011 report are:
- Major developments in advanced technology vehicles, including the launch of an expanded family of four Prius vehicles, a new partnership with California’s Tesla Motors to produce an electric, zero emission version of the RAV4 crossover SUV, and the opening of the first pipeline-fed hydrogen filling station in the U.S.;
- Significant improvements in fuel economy across Toyota’s fleet over the past five years, including a 12% improvement in Corporate Average Fuel Economy (or CAFE standards) for U.S. cars and a 10% improvement in U.S. truck CAFE standards;
- Near zero-landfill status at each of Toyota’s North American manufacturing plants as well as a 35% decrease in the amount of nonsaleable waste per vehicle produced; and
- Expanded local partnerships to improve the environment, including helping towns and counties reduce energy use, donating used plastics that are recycled to fund a local program for the disabled, and working with dealerships and suppliers to build “greener” facilities.
“Toyota is more committed than ever to being an environmental leader, but we know we must continue to earn it with our actions, our products and our dedication to communities” said Dian Ogilvie, senior vice president & secretary, Toyota Motor North America, Inc. “We are proud of the success we have had throughout Toyota in improving the fuel economy of our vehicles and minimizing the environmental impact of our operations, and we look forward to continuing to work closely with our dealers, suppliers and partners throughout North America to make even greater strides in the years ahead.”
New Environmental Report Shows Substantial Progress on Toyota’s Five-Year Environmental Action Plan
In April 2006, Toyota began working to meet the guidelines of its second consolidated Environmental Action Plan, an aggressive five-year roadmap for improving and enhancing sustainability efforts across the company’s North America operations. This EAP covered five fiscal years through March 2011, a period that coincided with a strong economic downturn, product recalls and a major natural disaster in Japan. The company met or exceeded more than 80 percent of its EAP benchmarks.
“Despite the challenges, production slow-downs and hard decisions we faced, Toyota found ways to reduce environmental impacts in all areas of our business,” Ogilvie noted. “We used downtime to train employees and challenged them to find opportunities for improving our performance and sharing their knowledge with others. As a result, we met or exceeded many of the targets in our plan and, where targets were missed, still made progress reducing our impact.”
The results of this EAP, as well as environmental activities in Fiscal Year 2011, form the foundation of the new North America Environmental Report. Other highlights include:
Advanced Vehicle Technology and Fuel-Efficient Vehicles
- Toyota continues to be the most fuel-efficient full line auto manufacturer in the United States and remains committed to bringing a portfolio of advanced technologies to market, including hybrid, electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles. In addition to exceeding U.S. CAFE standards, the company continues to top Canadian Car Company Average Fuel Consumption (CAFC) targets for cars and light-duty trucks, performing better than the industry average.
- Prius topped both the U.S. EPA’s and Natural Resources Canada’s lists of the most fuel-efficient vehicles for 2011, and was named the best overall value of the year for the last nine years in a row by IntelliChoice.
- Prius continues to be the world’s best selling fuel-efficient vehicle, with more than 3 million vehicles sold worldwide. Since its introduction in the U.S. in 2000, Prius – when compared to the average car – has saved American consumers more than an estimated $2.19 billion in fuel costs, 881 million gallons of gas and 12.4 million tons of CO2 emissions.
- Prius v, the second of an expanded family of four Prius vehicles, launched in 2011, bringing Toyota to a total of 9 hybrid vehicles. Next year Toyota will add the Prius C and the Prius Plug-in as well as its new electric RAV4 crossover SUV to the company’s portfolio of advanced technology vehicles.
- Over the course of the five-year EAP, Toyota achieved a 6% decrease in CO2 emissions at U.S. Plants per vehicle produced and a 10% decrease in Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) Emissions.
- At our manufacturing plants, we’ve achieved our goal of near-zero waste to landfill for each of the last three years. Toyota’s vehicle distribution division recycled a total of 94 percent of waste generated.
- A photovoltaic system at our southern California sales headquarters has generated over 4.6 million kilowatt-hours of electricity, enough energy to power an average size household for approximately 383 years.
- In 2011, Toyota’s North American manufacturing affiliate (Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.) received an ENERGY STAR® Sustained Excellence Award for the seventh consecutive year. An employee competition at our plant in Georgetown, KY has reduced CO2 emissions by more than 11,000 metric tons. This program has now been rolled out at all of Toyota’s plants in North America.
Sustainable Buildings and Dealerships
- Four more Toyota buildings achieved LEED® certification last year, for a total of 10 LEED certified buildings.
- Toyota has also helped 15 Toyota and Lexus dealerships in the U.S. and Canada in obtaining LEED® certification for their facilities.
- The company introduced a battery recovery program to educate dealers on the proper handling of large format nickel-metal hydride batteries from our hybrid vehicles. Spent batteries are collected from the dealers and transported by Toyota for proper recycling and disposal.
Environmental Stewardship and Community Engagement
- TogetherGreen™, our signature environmental philanthropic program with the National Audubon Society, continues to support conservation projects across the country. To date, TogetherGreen volunteers – including more than 700 Toyota employees in New York, Kentucky, Indiana, Missouri, Texas and California – across the country have donated over 700,000 hours of their time.
- For the 12th year, Toyota sponsored National Public Lands Day in partnership with the National Environmental and Education Foundation. More than 170,000 volunteers maintained existing trails and built new trails and bridges, cleaned stream beds, removed trash and invasive plants, and planted 1.6 million trees.
Toyota 100 Cars for Good Program Helps Fill Need for Mobility Vehicles
16 Winners of 100 Cars for Good Will Receive Specially Built Toyota Sienna Minivans to Serve Mobility-Impaired Community
• A total of 100 nonprofit organizations were selected by the public to receive a new Toyota vehicle
TORRANCE, CALIF. (November 9, 2011) – Providence TrinityKids Care, the only children’s hospice program serving Los Angeles and Orange counties, will today receive a Toyota Sienna minivan, courtesy of Toyota’s 100 Cars for Good program, which awarded 100 vehicles over the course of 100 days to 100 deserving non-profit organizations. The Sienna minivan for Providence is one of 16 donated vehicles that have been specially built by Toyota to better assist those who are mobility-impaired, whether due to illness, age or disability. The delivery took place at Toyota’s Torrance campus.
Providence TrinityKids Care is a pediatric hospice service for critically ill children and their families, whose team of medical experts provide their expertise to help keep children comfortable at home. The organization is the only dedicated in-home children’s hospice and palliative care program in Los Angeles and Orange counties. The organization plans to use its Toyota Sienna to develop its Transportation Program, which will help families get to and from medical appointments.
Toyota introduced the U.S. auto industry’s first factory-installed, power rotating lift-up seat in the Sienna, which is the minivan selected by Providence TrinityKids Care. Toyota calls this feature Auto Access Seat, a lift-up seat designed to assist passengers to get in and out of the vehicle with ease and safety. Ten other winning organizations will also receive a Toyota Sienna with this equipment. Five of the winners will receive a Toyota Sienna Rampvan®, a lowered-floor minivan with a power ramp for wheelchair access. These five Sienna minivans were converted by BraunAbility, a Toyota business partner, and the largest manufacturer of wheelchair-accessible vans and wheelchair lifts worldwide.
Program Overview
Winners of the Toyota 100 Cars for Good program were determined based on voting from the public. Each day, five organizations were profiled on Toyota’s Facebook page where the public was invited to show their support by voting to determine the winning non-profit organization. Each daily winner was awarded a new Toyota vehicle to help the organizations continue to do “good” in their local communities. The remaining finalists each received a $1000 grant from Toyota.
Public voting for the 100 Cars for Good program opened May 9, 2011 and continued through August 16. Voters were allowed to place one vote per day, each day, over the course of the program. Each day, the previous day’s winner was announced and five new nonprofit organizations were featured for voting. Winning organizations could choose from the following vehicles: Prius, Tacoma, Tundra, Highlander Hybrid, Sienna or Sienna Mobility. Toyota Financial Services will provide a six-year, 100,000-mile Toyota Vehicle Service Agreement to provide extended protection beyond the vehicle warranty.
The 500 finalists, from which the 100 winners were ultimately selected, were chosen by an independent panel of judges who are experts in the fields of philanthropy and corporate social responsibility. To learn more about all the finalists, including winning organizations, visit www.facebook.com/toyota and click on the 100 Cars for Good tab.
Quotes
“Toyota is proud to add these modifications for the 16 winners of the Toyota 100 Cars for Good program that serve those who live with mobility impairment. We know that these changes will help each of the winning organizations further the ‘good’ they do each day. Being a part of this program has been a joy and an honor as we got to know each of the winning organizations and the work they do. They all represent truly the best of human compassion, ingenuity and dedication, and we thank them for their ongoing service.” – Jim Lentz, president of Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.
“We are so grateful to Toyota for the generosity they have shown to organizations like us through the 100 Cars for Good program. The Sienna will help us provide safe, reliable transportation to families in need, and since mobility is a challenge for many, the Auto Access Seat makes it that much more valuable. We know that all of the winners of 100 Cars for Good feel the same appreciation we do!” – Terri Warren, Chief Executive, Providence TrinityCare Hospice.
“The Braun Corporation was delighted to play a role in the 100 Cars for Good program. We see the need for mobility vehicles every day, and the enormous impact just one of these cars can make. We applaud Toyota for making this investment for 16 of the program’s winners, and congratulate each of the organizations.” – Nick Gutwein, President, The Braun Corporation.
The other winning organizations that will receive a specially built Sienna minivan are:
| ORGANIZATION | LOCATION |
| Plainview, New York | |
| Soldotna, Alaska | |
| Washington, DC | |
| Austin, Texas | |
| Nebraska City, Nebraska | |
| Wilmington, North Carolina | |
| Chicago, Illinois | |
| Mountainside, New Jersey | |
| Colorado Springs, Colorado | |
| Dubuque, Iowa | |
| Louisville, Kentucky | |
| Deland, Florida | |
| Fort Mitchell, Kentucky | |
| Austin, Texas | |
| Rockingham, North Carolina | |
| Springfield, Illinois |
From: PressRoom.Toyota
Hold on to your hats! The Festivals of Speed will be roaring through Orlando this weekend, don't miss it!
For more details click here!
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
UCF to get Big East invitation! Let's hear a cheer for the home team!
The University of Central Florida will receive an invitation to join the Big East Conference.
The conference held its annual meeting Tuesday, during which officials decided to extend formal invitations to UCF and other schools.
University officials said in a statement they have not yet received the invitation, but "understand that things are moving in that direction."
The Big East is trying to replace four schools that are leaving to join other conferences.
Monday, November 7, 2011
Lexus Teases 2013 GS350 F-Sport and GS Hybrid; Models Will Debut at SEMA and Frankfurt
Although not as exciting as the 416-hp V-8–powered IS F, we did find the F-Sport GS to be noticeably more engaging to drive than the standard car. The F-Sport we drove was covered in camouflage, however, and from what we can see in the teaser, the model will feature an appropriately aggressive front fascia. The intakes under the headlights are much larger than those on the pedestrian GS350, and their edges are more sharply defined. The F-Sport trades the standard car’s horizontal grille slats for sportier mesh, and also inherits IS F–style dark-gray wheels.
It should be noted that a GS350 F-Sport is a different animal from an IS F. While Lexus F can be thought of along the lines of BMW’s M or Mercedes-Benz’s AMG—an in-house tuning arm that cranks out high-powered street burners—F-Sport is Lexus’s brand for its line of performance accessories. The F-ized GS will follow the IS350C F-Sport convertible and IS250 and 350 F-Sport sedans in offering the parts from the factory; a CT200h is due to come for 2012, too. The GS350 F-Sport will be unveiled at this year’s SEMA show in November.
From: CarAndDriver
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)