Happy Tuesday fans! As you all know the big 2013 Lexus LS reveal was last night. We want to know, what is your favorite aspect of the beautiful new car?

In 1989 the Lexus LS launched our pursuit of perfection, and others have been pursuing Lexus ever since. Now, the legend continues!

2013 Lexus LS Information

Plenty of information to go through with the new 2013 Lexus LS — let’s start with the press release and some photos.

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• First-Ever LS F SPORT Offers More Engaging Driving Experience
• New, Bold Signature Lexus Design Cues
• New Instrument Panel with a High Resolution 12.3” Navigation Screen
• Advanced Safety Innovations including Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Advanced Pre-Collision System

With its dynamic handling, bold new design and superior craftsmanship, the 2013 LS flagship models hail the future of the Lexus brand as it embarks on its third decade in the premium luxury category.

While retaining many of the qualities that have defined Lexus for more than 20 years, the LS reaches new heights with an exciting blend of beautiful design, modern refinement and advanced technology.

The 2013 LS line-up includes the LS 460, LS 460L, LS 600hL hybrid, and the first-ever LS 460 F SPORT. LS 460 and LS 460L are available in RWD and AWD. The LS Hybrid is available with a full-time AWD system.

The all-new LS 460 F SPORT combines a more aggressive exterior with a unique sport interior featuring F SPORT seats with larger bolsters, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with paddle shifters and genuine aluminum trim. With a sport tuned air suspension that has been lowered 0.4 inches, a Torsen® limited slip rear differential (RWD model), Brembo six-piston caliper brakes, and 19” forged wheels with summer or all-season tires, the LS F SPORT promises to be the most engaging LS ever.

The entire 2013 LS lineup is refined with dynamic, fresh styling that reflects the bold new face of Lexus. The aggressive spindle grille gives the new LS a greater road presence and stronger brand identity while heralding a significant improvement in driving dynamics, responsiveness and handling.

Increased body rigidity enhances stability, and allows for a more comfortable ride. Pitch and bounce control has been enhanced by adopting new frequency dependent shock absorbers, resulting in an even flatter, road-hugging ride. Revised steering offers improvements in accuracy and turn-in response. The braking system has been adjusted for more immediate power and greater pedal feel.

Available safety enhancements include the industry’s most advanced Pre-Collision Safety (A-PCS) system with Collision Avoidance Assist. This system is designed to assist the driver in avoiding or mitigating collisions with vehicles and pedestrians under a wide range of city and highway speeds. At speeds lower than 24 miles per hour, this technology helps the LS to avoid accidents by automatically bringing the LS to a full stop.

The driver-focused interior integrates modern refinement with intuitive technology. The Advanced Illumination System (AIS), an all-LED interior lighting system, illuminates to greet the approaching occupants and then fades in sequence with the vehicle starting procedure.

The new, available Lexus Climate Concierge offers maximum comfort for every LS occupant. The customizable system uses multiple sensors to automatically regulate not only the temperature of the cabin, but also the climate control seats and the heated steering wheel, quickly bringing each occupant to their preferred temperature.

The standard navigation system is displayed on a 12.3-inch, split-screen, high-resolution multi-media display which is large enough to support simultaneous viewing of a large map display and other vehicle functions.

A next-generation Remote Touch, with one-push confirmation, is standard on all models and enables smooth, intuitive control of many vehicle systems. The Remote Touch allows the user to operate the climate, audio, phone controls, navigation system and more. The screen menus are selected with a controller conveniently located within easy reach on the center console. A number of well-placed buttons on the steering wheel and instrument panel enable the direct control of frequently used functions (e.g. temperature setting, fan speed, preset audio stations, etc.)

Lexus Enform® with App Suite leverages the customers’ mobile phone technology to provide a new level of connectivity and information management. Users can conduct local searches through Bing™, utilize voice-enabled apps to make restaurant reservations through OpenTable®, get movie tickets via MovieTickets.com, tap into internet radio, including Pandora® or iHeartRadio, search business reviews on Yelp and check in on Facebook places. A one-year trial subscription is included for the App Suite.

Chassis/Body/Suspension/Brakes/Tires

• Numerous stabilizing fins help the LS to be one of the most aerodynamically efficient cars in its segment with a coefficient drag of 0.26.

• Laser screw welding, body adhesives and other structural reinforcements increase rigidity and enhance stability, steering feel and handling.
• New standard Drive Mode Select allows the driver to choose from 3 distinct drive settings (Eco, Normal and Sport). Vehicles equipped with the available air suspension add Comfort and Sport S+ modes.
• The available Air Suspension with Variable Gear Ratio Steering automatically adjusts the damping force for optimal comfort and performance.
• The available AWD system features a central, permanently engaged, Torsen Limited Slip center Differential (LSD) to further enhance grip, traction and cornering stability.
• Noise-reduction wheels channel resonant noise from the main air chamber to adjacent hollow areas within the wheels via resonator holes, resulting in an incredibly quiet ride.

Safety/Security

• The Advanced Pre-Collision Safety system (APCS) can detect stationary pedestrians and those moving at speeds of up to three miles per hour and stop the vehicle from a speed of 24 miles per hour if a collision with another vehicle is imminent.

• Available Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) constantly monitors the distance to vehicles ahead and is capable of operating at any speed. The system can bring the vehicle to a complete stop, and accelerate away once the road ahead is clear
• An upgraded, optional Lane-Keep Assist system (LKA) helps the driver stay in the intended lane.
• New to LS, the Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) uses rear millimeter-wave radar to monitor the vehicle rear side blind spots at 10 miles per hour or more. This feature includes Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) which automatically operates when the vehicle is in reverse, alerting drivers to the approach of other vehicles when backing out of a parking place.
• The Available Automatic High Beam system features a camera located in the inner mirror that detects light sources in front of the vehicle — including the headlamps of oncoming vehicles, the tail lamps of a vehicle ahead and street lighting – to automatically switch the high beams on and off accordingly.

Luxury/Comfort/Convenience

• Enhancements have been made to the sound insulation for an even quieter cabin.

• Redesigned front seats minimize pressure peaks and increase support. Both front seats feature an improved standard heating and cooling system with larger heating and cooling areas and reduced heating and cooling times.
• All AWD models including the LS600hL feature a heated steering wheel and Positive Temperature Coefficient (PTC) heating elements which warm the front cabin area quickly after vehicle start-up. Windshield de-icer and headlamp washers are standard on AWD models.
• The LS features a standard Lexus Premium Audio System with a nine channel amplifier, 10 speakers, CD / DVD player changer, DVD audio and video compatibility, MP3 sound enhancement, HD Radio™ with iTunes tagging, and a three-month trial subscription to SiriusXM™ Satellite Radio. Standard entertainment and connectivity advancements include enhanced Bluetooth® capability with automatic phonebook download and streaming audio.
• The optional Mark Levinson Reference Surround System provides a 5.1 home theatre surround with 7.1 architecture , discrete circuitry, 15 channel, ML3-16 Processor Power Amplifier covering a frequency range of 20Hz-20kHz, and 450 watts with less than 0.1% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD).

Luxury Options

• Available Power rear seats with Climate Concierge.

• An available Ottoman Seating Package with Shiatsu Massage and a Rear Seat Entertainment System featuring a Blu-ray DVD player, an SD card slot and a retractable, ceiling mounted, nine-inch full-color VGA screen.

Exterior Design

• The inverted trapezoidal upper grille and slanted lower grille that were first introduced on the GS sedan have been combined and integrated into a single element on the LS to create a more prominent spindle shape.
• When equipped with the optional three projector LED headlamp unit, the LS offers all LED exterior lighting, including turn signals an fog lamps
• LS 460 F SPORT features a unique front fascia with an enhanced three-dimensional mesh grille, larger cooling openings, black grille surround, and round fog lamps. A chrome-plated bar running along the bottom edge of the rear bumper accentuates the lowered center of gravity. F SPORT exterior badging completes the look.
• LS F SPORT offers six exterior colors; Ultra White is exclusive to F SPORT.

Interior Design

• The dashboard is divided into two distinct zones: an upper Display Zone, with the large, 12.3-inch, LCD multi-display screen, and a lower Operation Zone, which allows access to system controls such as the second generation Remote Touch Interface (RTI).
• The driver’s instrument meter cluster incorporates high-visibility, large diameter Optitron dials; a 5.8-inch Thin Film Transistor (TFT) Multi-information screen; and an aluminum analog clock with a GPS-based time correction function.
• The interior is offered in 5 color schemes: Ivory, Light Gray, Black, Black and Saddle Tan, and a newly available Topaz Brown.
• Optional wood includes Walnut, Shimamoku Espresso, Matte Brown Bird’s Eye Maple. The LS 600h L also offers an eco- friendly Bamboo wood trim.
• The new, Shimamoku finish is an example of the finest traditional Japanese craftsmanship. Shimamoku, translated as “striped wood,” involves the painstaking layering of angle-cut dark and light shaded wood veneers in a unique process which involves 67 manufacturing steps over the course of 38 days.
• The LS 460 F SPORT features aluminum ornamentation and a unique interior, featuring a black Alcantara headliner.

Courtesy of The Lexus Enthusiast

It's almost here! The new 2013 Lexus LS is going to be revealed in 5 hours, whose ready?

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Thank you to the author of this tremendous review! Way to go William!

Lexus of Orlanddo - (4.8) Star Review on DealerRater

• William Tijerina is a wonderful service consultant. He is courteous, technically competent, and honest. He is definitely a positive influence on our continued patronage. He has been the best service consultant we have had the pleasure to work with. He clearly demonstrates the high standards that Lexus built its reputation on. -Coolt69
  

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Next LS limo to grace Sydney show in October as Lexus prepares Paris show-stopper

Lexus will officially launch its latest LS limousine to media in San Jose, California, on July 30 before its public world debut at the Paris show in September, where the Japanese luxury brand is also preparing to unveil a show-stopper.

Following its global launch and Paris debut, the next stop for the LS will be at the Sydney motor show in October before an anticipated Australian launch around the time of the Melbourne Cup in November, where event sponsor Lexus gave the GS its first Australian outing last year.

Lexus first provided a glimpse of the new LS at the Detroit motor show in January, with a darkened front-on shot revealing the limo’s interpretation of the ‘spindle grille’ family face with what are either circular vents or arrays of LEDs inside the headlights.

Lexus Australia marketing manager Peter Evans told GoAuto that, in addition to the new LS, the Paris show will “be worth looking at from our perspective”.

Indicating how important the still-secret reveal will be to the Australian market, he said the Australian arm hopes to send CEO Tony Cramb or another executive to Paris to “manage the opportunities” at the show and conduct interviews.

However, Mr Evans was reticent to provide more details as his employers would be “really upset if I blew the cover on what is going to happen at Paris”.

The mystery unveil could be a product to fill one of the gaps in the Lexus line-up, such as a compact SUV or sports coupe – both of which Mr Evans said are “on the horizon and under consideration”.

He said Lexus “globally recognises the opportunity” of a sub-RX SUV, although he thought such a product was more important in the European, Australian and Japanese markets than the brand’s core US market.

A compact SUV would be big news for Lexus Australia, which has just launched a front-drive, four-cylinder version of its RX as a way of providing a product priced to compete with models from the next size down such as the Audi Q5 and BMW X3.

This move suggests a long wait for a true compact luxury SUV competitor, so a production version of the LF-LC hybrid coupe that emerged at Detroit is also a possibility – and Mr Evans spoke of the potential for two coupes in the Lexus line-up.

Another likely unveil for Paris is a hot hatch variant of the CT200h and Mr Evans revealed its arrival is “a matter of when rather than if – or rather when and what because there are a few alternatives”.

“I am quietly optimistic based on the feedback and the whispers I’ve had,” he said.

The rumoured BMW M5-rivalling GS F sedan could also make an appearance – and Mr Evans said he is “certain the skunkworks is studying the options on how they’d do it”.

Lead engineer for the GS, Yoshihiko Kanamori, has previously spoken about the potential for shoehorning a detuned version of the LFA’s 4.8-litre V10 engine into a GS and indicated that Lexus “has some plan for the next F model”.

Asked whether Lexus would bow to the same pressure that has prompted BMW, Audi and Mercedes-Benz to downsize their flagship performance V8s and resort to turbocharging, Mr Evans pointed to the experience of journalists who told him they struggled to match those cars’ official fuel consumption figures in the real world.

He also referred to a preference for the instant throttle response that comes with naturally aspirated engines, and the ability to properly modulate the throttle without being “overtaken by boost coming down the pipe”.

Mr Evans revealed that “early publicity” for the third generation of the volume-selling IS sedan will begin towards the end of this year, suggesting a Detroit reveal in the New Year.

The front-drive ES sedan, which sits between the IS and GS in the Lexus range overseas, is still under consideration for Australia, but the company has to first work out whether it has the engineering resources to adapt it for Australian Design Rule (ADR) certification.

Mr Evans said the potential volume would have to be taken into account and suggested the ES – which has been confirmed for right-hand-drive production – would have to provide sufficient profit margins for the “cost recovery of those internal (engineering) resources”.

On the other hand, he said existing ES owners “are a loyal troop who are still contacting us asking when we are releasing a new one” and that the car’s packaging provides more interior and luggage space than the GS while being of a similar size.

“It is also styled quite differently; it is less muscular, less aggressive, a little bit more sophisticated and elegant,” he said.

“It’ll appeal to an older, empty-nest audience as opposed to a 45-year-old audience; that’s certainly been the experience in America.”

Courtesy of GoAuto.com

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Eight Toyota Manufacturing Facilities Recognized by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for Improved Environmental Performance

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has recognized eight Toyota manufacturing sites in North America for achieving a ten percent reduction in energy intensity through its ENERGY STAR Challenge For Industry program. Collectively, these eight sites have reduced energy intensity by nearly 24 percent from baseline.
 
Energy intensity is measured relative to efficiency improvements in process and equipment.
 
The ENERGY STAR Challenge For Industry program is only awarded to individual industrial sites. To gain recognition, the site’s company must be an ENERGY STAR partner. Earlier this year, Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc. (TEMA) received its eighth consecutive ENERGY STAR Sustained Excellence Award for its continued leadership in protecting the environment through energy efficiency and management.
 
“Thanks to the efforts of our team members, Toyota has reduced our total energy use per vehicle over the last five years as we achieved greater energy efficiency across North America,” said TEMA Executive Vice President Steve St. Angelo. “This demonstrates that when good ideas are shared, great things can happen as we continuously identify new opportunities to reduce energy consumption while improving our processes.”
 
The eight Toyota facilities recognized by the EPA include: Bodine Aluminum (Jackson, Tenn., and St. Louis, Mo.); Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Alabama (Huntsville); Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada (Cambridge and Woodstock, Ont.); Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Indiana (Princeton); Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Texas (San Antonio); and Toyota Motor Manufacturing, West Virginia (Buffalo).
 
Several examples of reduction in energy intensity include:

Plant Kaizen (Improvement) Example	Description	Benefits	Industry Challenge Energy Reduction (From Baseline)
Lighting efficiency (Bodine Aluminum, Jackson, Tenn.)	Replacement of lighting in several plant areas with energy efficient florescent lights with sensors	• Reduce CO2 emissions • Cost savings • Reduce energy usage	13.8%
Innovative lighting technology (Toyota Motor Mfg., Alabama)	Installation of Ultra Constant Discharge lighting in the plant’s parking lot	• Reduce CO2 emissions • Cost savings • Reduce energy usage	24.1%
Hot water boiler linkage (Toyota Motor Mfg. Canada)	Installation of new controls allowing proper mixture without numerous adjustments	• Reduce CO2 emissions • Reduce water usage	28.5%
		• Reduce energy usage • Less complexity
Paint booth HVAC system (Toyota Motor Mfg., Indiana)	Elimination of using outside air to cool/heat paint booth; current air intake is taken directly from plant, making temperature consistent	• Reduce CO2 emissions • Reduce energy usage • Less use of HVAC system, natural gas and electricity during peak times	36%

Since 2006, Toyota’s U.S. manufacturing operations have received 18 Energy Star Plant Awards from the U.S. EPA, recognizing each plant’s energy performance over the past year and scoring in the top 25 percent of its industry.

 

Courtesy of Toyota Pressroom

Toyota to Expand Lexus RX Production in Canada

Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada Inc. (TMMC) announced today that it will invest more than $100 million and hire approximately 400 team members to increase Lexus production at its Cambridge, Ontario facility. Overall Lexus capacity will increase by 30,000 vehicles to 104,000 units, including 15,000 RX450h vehicles, the hybrid electric version of the popular Lexus.

Toyota is targeting early 2014 for expanded Lexus production. “This is a big and ambitious project with new technology, exacting standards and tight timelines,” said TMMC President, Brian Krinock. “Our team members have demonstrated time and time again that they thrive on these kinds of challenges.”

TMMC currently manufactures the Toyota Corolla, Matrix, RAV4, RAV4 EV models and the Lexus RX model in plants located in Cambridge, ON and Woodstock, ON. The company currently employs approximately 6,500. 

“The team members at TMMC have shown tremendous dedication to creating high-quality Lexus vehicles,” said Mark Templin, Lexus General Manager. “With rising demand for our RX 450h hybrids, moving that production to an award-winning North American plant is great news for Lexus. We look forward to partnering with TMMC to continue the tradition of manufacturing outstanding RX luxury utility vehicles.”

Today’s announcement is the latest in a string of Toyota North American production increase announcements since February at plants in Indiana, West Virginia, Kentucky, Alabama and the second in Canada. Cumulative investment total is approximately $745 million and more than 1,500 jobs are being added.

"This Lexus production increase, and the several announcements before it, reflects our growing optimism for an improving North American market and our intent to localize more production," said Steve St. Angelo, Executive Vice President of Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.

Courtesy of Toyota Pressroom

Happy Tuesday fans! Do you remember making the decision to buy a Lexus? Share the deciding factor(s) with us.

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Top 10 Reasons to Upgrade to Lexus GS 450H

The Lexus GS 450H is the latest in Lexus’s mid-sized luxury high power Lexus GS series. It’s a huge upgrade from previous incarnations of the car. The exterior of the car is peppered with fine improvements, from the L shaped LED lights to the spindle-shaped front girdle. The real magic, however, is in the car itself.

Why upgrade to the Lexus GS 450H? Here are the top 10 reasons.

    1. It’s a Hybrid. You get all the class and prestige of driving a luxury car, while knowing that you’re helping preserve the environment by investing in a hybrid. It’s still one of the few luxury hybrids on the market.
    2. It Has Incredible Power. The Lexus GS 450H clocks in at an incredible 252 kW or 338 hp horsepower. The previous GS 350 by comparison only clocked in at 306 horsepower. Flooring the gas pedal on this hybrid is every bit as exhilarating as accelerating any other luxury vehicle on the market – And perhaps more so.
    3. Better Fuel Economy. The combined EPA fuel efficiency rating of the Lexus GS 450H is 31 mpg. That’s a drastic improvement from the GS 350, which has only 23 mpg combined. And that’s with a 32 horsepower improvement!
    4. Improved Trunk Space. The Lexus GS 450H has more trunk space than any of its predecessors. That makes it uniquely equipped to be both a daily functional car, as well as a luxury vehicle. It’s a fantastic car for both families and individuals.
    5. Improved Interior Design. The Lexus GS 450H comes with a bamboo trimmed interior, stainless steel cuff plates, leather seats and more room than of its predecessors. The inside of the car feels lush yet powerful, just like the car itself. The driver’s seat is a bolstered 10-way electric adjustable chair, making it easy for anyone to get comfortable. The car comes with a 7 inch touch screen, fully equipped with rear camera, audio controls, climate controls and an optional navigation system.
    6. Improved Electric Steering. The Lexus GS 450H runs off of a system called the Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS). In past versions of the Lexus GS, customers complained that the electric steering didn’t feel as “natural” as hydraulic steering. In the latest version of the GS, Lexus as more than fixed that. Today’s Lexus GS 450H feels incredibly responsive and smooth to drive.
    7. Sport Mode. Feel like pushing your GS to the max? Just switch it to Sport Mode. This changes the suspension and allows you to make sharp twists and turns. You don’t feel the weight of the car at all. In fact, while your car is in sports mode, it feels more like you’re drinking a limber race car than a mid sized sedan.
    8. Seat Warmer and Seat AC. Having leather seat warmers is pretty much expected across the board on today’s luxury cars. However, the Lexus GS 450H comes with a pretty unique feature: Seat AC. If you’re warm on a summer day, just switch on the seat AC for some personalized coolness.
    9. Near Zero Cabin Sound. The car runs off a V6 hybrid engine and has the power of a V8 engine – But inside the cabin, it’s quieter than a sleeping baby. You don’t hear the engine at all, even when you’re pushing the gas. It’s fantastic for having conversations, listening to music or just having a peaceful and tranquil drive.
    10. World Class Audio. In the audio department, the Lexus GS 450H takes no shortcuts. There are 14 speakers distributed through various points in the car. This Mark Levinson speaker system is designed to create an even sound throughout the entire vehicle. The bass reverberates strongly, as if you were listening to a Surround Sound system. To top things off, the car can fully integrate with the iPhone, allowing you to see your playlists from the display and control the tracks from your steering wheel.

The Lexus GS 450H is truly a force to be reckoned with. It outstrips its previous versions by leaps and bounds, especially in fuel efficiency and power. When it comes to luxury, class, fuel efficiency and raw horsepower, the Lexus GS 450H has it all.

Courtesy of GreenerIdeal.com

Get an inside look at the all new Lexus ES 350. It will leave you wanting more!

On this day in 1969 the Lunar Module of Apollo 11 touched down on the moon's surface and, as the world watched, Neil Armstrong took his first steps on this previously unexplored territory. If you had the chance to go to the moon would you?

A big thank you to everyone who attended our New Owner Welcome last night. The event wouldn't have been possible without you!

Lexus LFA sportscar 100% chrome wrapped

A certain influential Australian buyer will be able to buy the completely chrome wrapped edition of Lexus LFA sportscar, which according to Lexus is the first of the 500 limited edition run. Lexus LFA No.304 is only one of 10 such models to make their way into Australia, remaining 490 units will be distributed globally. Lexus LFA is powered by a 4.8-litre V10 that delivers 560 PS at 8700rpm and 480 Nm at 6,800 rpm. It handles a 0-100 kmph (0-62 mph) sprint in 3.6 seconds while reaching a top-speed of 325 kmph (203 mph).

Exotic Graphix in Melbourne has given the LFA Lexus a chrome makeover and this takes it base price to AU$700,000 (USD 721,000 or Rs 4 crores). There is no disclosure as to who the new owner will be, but he will be taking delivery of the chrome wrapped Lexus LFA only after it is put on display at the MotorEx show in Homebush Bay, Sydney this weekend where it will rub shoulders with other modified luxury vehicles.

Production of LFA commenced in December 2010 at LFA Works facility set up in the Motomachi Manufacturing Plant in Toyota City, Japan. 20 hand built LFA supercars are being produced each month for 25 consecutive months to reach a maximum of 500 vehicles. Out of these Australia will receive 10 LFA supercars.

Courtesy of RushLane.com

Next Lexus LS to be revealed in San Francisco on July 30

Lexus has announced the automaker will show off its new 2013 LS line in San Francisco on July 30. The shindig will be an invitation-only event, thought the premium automaker isn't serving up too many details beyond the locale and the date. The LS family will eventually be available in a total of four variants, including a racier-looking F Sport model. We're also holding out hope that eventually the much fussed-over LS TMG Edition we've seen racing around the Nürburgring recently will make the scene. Lexus has kept a pretty tight lid on what we can expect from the next-generation LS.

Courtesy of AutoBlog.com

 

The countdown to the LS reveal is on. As the excitement builds, share the memories of your favorite reveal with us on Throwback Thursday.

The countdown to the LS reveal is on. As the excitement builds, share the memories of your favorite reveal with us on Throwback Thursday.

The countdown to the LS reveal is on. As the excitement builds, share the memories of your favorite reveal with us on Throwback Thursday.

The Making Of The Lexus LFA Supercar. An Inside Report, Chapter 3: Call Me Names

After a general introduction in the first chapter, the last chapter of this inside report showed us  how the body-in-white of the LFA is hand-made layer by layer, and that it is actually a body-in-black. When finished, the body goes on a transfer cart and travels one third of a mile to the second stage of the LFA production, painting and final assembly. We take a bus.

In the bus, we talk about the name of the LFA. There are all kinds of apocryphal stories of how the name came about and what it stands for, that it means “Lexus Future Advance”, or whatever. Tanahashi say it is all nonsense, and as I listen to him talk, I know that I am finally hearing the true story.

“Like all cars, the LFA started as an internal project, code 680,” Tanahashi says. Now you know what the 680 means in Tanahashi’s  diary.

“At the Detroit Motor Show 2005, we showed a concept. We needed a name. At Lexus, concept cars for the motor show follow a strict name regime. LF for ‘Lexus future’, then a dash, followed by two letters. I racked my brain for a good two letter combination. I could not find one, and settled on A.”

The concept was shown as  LF-A.  Four years later, Tanahashi gave the name equally short shrift:

“In 2009, we announced the car at the Tokyo motor show, and we needed a real name. Again, I had a hard time. I thought, why not simply remove the hyphen? The LFA was born.”

Many decisions in the car industry happen that way. Rich and deep symbolism often is an after-the-fact addition born from an insatiable quest for meaning.

The titanium muffler.

We are back at the LFA’s assembly building. Painting and assembly is a place where Toyota’s past meets Toyota’s future. This was an old press shop before the LFA moved in. The trusses and riveted girders of this 10,000 sqm hall remind more of the Brooklyn Bridge than of a breeding ground for yet to come car architectures. A large overhead crane, now retired, could, if reactivated, travel the full length of the hall. During the LFA’s prototype phase, birds had entered the building and left their signatures on cars and workers. Now, piano wires invite the birds to sit elsewhere.

A quarter of the hall is walled-off to house the LFA’s paint and assembly shop. Most of the LFA’s body, 65 percent to be exact, is made out of carbon fiber reinforced polymer, or CFRP, the remainder is made out of aluminum. Attempting to apply my newfound knowledge, I point at a shiny metal object, and am told that it is a muffler.

“It is made from titanium,” says Tanahashi.

The SR-71 Blackbird spy plane ($ 33 million MSRP) was made largely from titanium, the LFA uses the metal for a muffler. Titanium has the highest strength-to-weight ratio of any metals. Titanium is strong as steel, at approximately half the weight. The only heavy part of titanium is its heavy price: Titanium costs approximately 20 times as much as steel. To replace that muffler – not that you would ever have to, titanium is extremely corrosion resistant – would cost the price of a Corolla, I am told.

When the bonded body-in-black rolls into the assembly hall, it already has fasteners in place to which other parts are mounted. Lighter parts, such as wire harnesses, are attached with fasteners that are bonded to the surface of the CFRP body.

While we are discussing fasteners, Tanahashi brings a cutaway piece of foam-cored carbon fiber. What he shows is testament to the compulsive attention to the minutest detail. In the LFA, through-fasteners don’t simply go through holes that are cut into the shell. They use special aluminum inserts that prevent the carbon fiber from being weakened by the pressure of a lug nut, or the chafing of a thread.

“Definitely not a monocoque.”

At this point, a discussion ensues. I call the body of the LFA a monocoque, because this is what everybody seems to call it. Tanahashi and Tamura disagree. In a monocoque, the external skin supports the load of an object, I am told. An egg is a monocoque. The hen is not. In the LFA, the car’s structure is delivered by a rigid center cell with attached front and rear subframes. To that, removable body panels are applied, and I watch how they do it.

These panels act like a skin, for internal protection and outward beauty, but not for bearing the LFA’s load. When we discuss the architecture, Chief Engineer Tanahashi declares with deep conviction and utmost finality that this is “definitely not a monocoque.”

Asked what it is, Tanahashi describes it as a “body-kokkaku” which can loosely be translated as “body frame structure.” After a long discussion, we come to the conclusion that “space frame” probably comes closest, but not close enough for a tough Tanahashi, who thinks it is an old-fashioned term, “suitable for the birdcage of, say, a Maserati Tipo 61.” Once again, the LFA defies definition.

Japanese laquerware.

Painting takes place in another cleanroom. The body panels are first wet-sanded and sealed with a gelcoat. Next comes a middle coat in one of four colors, depending on the final color. Then comes the top coat in the requested color, and finally, a clear coat. The layers are dried at 90 C for 20 minutes. Every coat is inspected under special bright lights.

The LFA can be had in 30 colors. Strangely, the simplest ones, matte black and whitest white are the most difficult. Matte black cannot be polished and is tricky to handle. The paint specialists are glad that this much talked-about color is in low demand. Only 12 out of 500 LFA have been ordered in matte black.

The by far most popular color is whitest white. Its base coat is covered with a layer that shines in blue and white under fluorescent light, on top of that comes an enamel coat that in turn is covered by a clear coat. “Regular” pearl white is the second-most requested color, followed by regular black and red.

Whitest white is highly popular with the paint booth staff also. That color is so complex, “it creates overtime,” says Tanahashi.

The Natural.

Assembly of the LFA takes four days, the second half of the supercar’s eight day metamorphosis from space-age twine to blissful bolide. In those four days, the car crawls down a slow, but deliberate assembly line. It is manual work, but it is the manual work of a symphony orchestra. Each grip, each part, each turn of a wrench has its set time and purpose. The orchestra has its sheet music: Placards at every station list what needs to be done when. One can feel the rhythm, even hear the distinct melody of the line.

The LFA’s 170 piece orchestra of course has its conductor. His name is Shigeru Yamanaka, and he cuts an imposing figure. Before he managed the LFA Works, Yamanaka was the coach of Toyota’s corporate baseball team.

Yamanaka will disappoint you if you are fishing for a story of him selecting only the very best and most highly skilled workers that are run through some astronaut-type selection process.

Instead, Yamanaka surprises us with refreshing honesty.

Asked how he picks his team members, Yamanaka replies: “I request them from Human Resources.”

“I look for passion,” says Yamanaka. “I look for people who want to make special things. Skills I can train. Enthusiasm you are born with.”

Indeed, I see only two types of facial expressions as I walk down the line: Smiling faces. Or deeply concentrated ones. The LFA is made 65 percent from CFRP, 35 percent from aluminum alloy, and 100 percent from dedication.

Courtesy of TheTruthAboutCars.com

Tomorrow is the New Owner Welcome at Lexus of Orlando! Don't miss out on a great time, good food, and the chance to win a one night stay at the Ritz Carlton Orlando Grande Lakes, so RSVP now!

Thank you to the authors of these glowing reviews! Great job team, keep up the great work!

Lexus of Orlando - Two (5) Star Reviews on DealerRater

• Mr. Gonzalez is very detail oriented and has excellent customer service skills. He is very knowledgeable and trustworthy. He answered all my questions and I felt very
  comfortable with his advise. -Kltorres

• Always a pleasure to work with Francisco. Very efficient, friendly and helpful. Explains what was done on the car and what is needed in the future. -Siestavette

Remember the very first Lexus vehicle, the LS 400 in 1989? On July 30, they will reveal the all-new 2013 LS. Share which generation you have liked best.

Coils, shocks, sway bars and more... Watch pro driver Joe Bacal explain how F SPORT Accessories create the ultimate driving experience on this edition of F SPORT!

Summer heat getting to you? What better way to beat the heat than to jump into an RX 350, the perfect road trip car, and hit the road!

Click Here for Details!

Lexus LF-LC Headed to Production Within Three Years

The Lexus LF-LC Concept debuted at this year’s Detroit International Auto Show, which impressed not only us, but the general public, so much that the Japanese automaker has reportedly given the green light to send it into production.

 

No doubt looking to fill the void left with the discontinued SC 430 luxury sports coupe, the LF-LC will see a production variant within three years as Lexus continues trying to gain lost ground against German luxury rivals BMW and Mercedes-Benz.

Unfortunately at the time of its debut, the automaker kept quiet as to what would power the LF-LC, other than the fact that it will feature a next-generation hybrid powertrain.

Since its debut at the auto show however, Lexus has received overwhelming response from the general public that the LF-LC Concept must be made. And well, when the general public is that favored towards your next-generation sports coupe, your only move is to produce it. Hopefully it lives up to expectations once it hits our streets.

Courtesy of AutoGuide.com

Can't you see yourself behind the wheel of this stylish ride? Come by and test drive this pre-owned 2011 ES 305!

Click Here for Details!

Don't forget about the New Owner's Welcome we are hosting this Thursday! With great food and prizes it will definitely be a great time. Make sure to RSVP and we will see you there!

Thank you to the author of this glowing review! Keep up the great work Luis!

Lexus of Orlando - (5) Star Review on DealerRater

• Luis is doing a fantastic job as Service Consultant! I've dealt with him several times now when bringing my RX330 in for service. He is personable and provides outstanding customer service. He is an outstanding employee and deserves recognition for his hard work. -gcboing
  

Lexus Announces Pricing for 2013 ES 350 and ES 300h

Lexus today announced Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices (MSRP) for the all-new 2013 ES 350 and first ever ES 300h which will arrive at dealerships next month. The 2013 ES 350 luxury sedan carries a base MSRP of $36,100, reflecting a decrease of 1.7 percent versus the previous generation’s MSRP. The ES 300h luxury hybrid sedan will have a MSRP of $38,850, representing a difference of $2,750 over the ES 350, the lowest hybrid premium in the Lexus line-up. The ES 350 and ES 300 hybrid will arrive at dealerships in August. The MSRP does not include a delivery, processing and handling fee of $895.

For the first time, the Lexus ES will be available with Lexus Hybrid Drive. Featuring a 2.5-liter four-cylinder Atkinson cycle engine, the ES 300h is expected to earn EPA fuel economy ratings of approximately 40 mpg city, 39 mpg highway and 40 mpg combined. The ES 300h generates 200 total system horsepower.

The ES 350 is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine with Dual VVT-i that delivers 268 horsepower at 6,200 rpm and 248 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 4,700. The six-speed sequential-shift automatic Electronically Controlled Transmission with intelligence (ECT-i) provides enhanced driving performance, fuel efficiency and smooth shifts. Low friction materials further improve efficiency and help with the ES 350‘s EPA-fuel economy estimates of 21 mpg city, 31 mpg highway and 24 mpg combined.

Both the ES 350 and ES 300h feature a Drive Mode selector. Normal mode provides a blend of performance and efficiency that is suited to everyday driving, while Eco mode favors fuel economy. Sport mode increases powertrain and steering responsiveness. The ES 300h adds an EV mode which allows short distance drives, at reduced speed, using only the power from the hybrid battery pack.

A stiffer chassis is achieved through lightweight, high tensile strength steel, added bracing and more body welds. Revised suspension geometry, shock absorber dampening and a quicker steering gear ratio deliver more precise handling while enhancing ride comfort.

The ES features a class-leading 10 airbags as standard equipment. The optional Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) helps detect vehicles in side blind spots. The RCTA alerts the driver to rear cross traffic when backing out of a parking spot. Available Lane Departure Alert (LDA) is integrated with automatic high beam dimming technology. The available Pre-Collision System (PCS) uses sub-millimeter wave radar, designed to detect certain obstructions traveling ahead and prepare the vehicle for a potential collision.

Lexus Safety Connect^®, including Enhanced Roadside Assistance, an Emergency Assistance Button (SOS), Stolen Vehicle Location services, and Automatic Collision Notification, is offered on all new Lexus vehicles with a one-year trial subscription.

The standard Lexus Premium Sound System features eight-speakers with Automatic Sound Levelizer (ASL), in-dash CD player, USB/iPod^® connectivity, and an integrated SiriusXM Satellite Radio receiver with a 90-day trial subscription. The available Display Audio package adds a seven-inch screen, HD Radio™ with iTunes^® tagging, Bluetooth^® audio, automatic phone book transfer, a vehicle information display and a rear backup camera.

An available 15-speaker 835 watt Mark Levinson^® audio system features an eight-inch display screen, DVD audio/video. Exclusive GreenEdge technology from Mark Levinson doubles the output of the amplifier, while reducing energy consumption by fifty percent.

The optional HDD Navigation System includes voice command, an integrated backup camera, an eight-inch screen, and the next generation Lexus Enform^® system with App Suite. Lexus Enform provides seamless connectivity with Bing™ search, iHeartRadio, MovieTickets.com, OpenTable^®, Pandora^®, Yelp^® and Facebook Places through compatible smart phones. Apps are updated through over-the-air downloads, so new apps and content can be added as they become available. (A one-year subscription to Lexus Enform with App Suite is included.)

Courtesy of Toyota Pressroom

Here's $1,000 for a CT 200H

Lexus owners: no doubt you know somebody who just graduated from college—and no doubt that smart, go-getting college grad also appreciates the premium automobile in your driveway.

Lexus owners: no doubt yIf so, then spread the word (and add this tip to your graduation gift): Between now and January 3, 2013, college graduates receive a $1,000 reward toward the purchase or lease of a new Lexus CT 200h, IS 250, or IS 350.

Nice, huh?

Called the Lexus College Graduate Finance Program[1], the deal, of course, has a few qualifications, among them a requirement that the buyer must have graduated from an accredited four-year college, university, or registered nursing degree program during the last two years (or within the next six months) or have graduated from an accredited two-year college during the last two years or be enrolled in an accredited graduate degree program or have received a degree from an accredited graduate program during the last two years.

Also, at contract signing, the grad will need to show proof of present employment or future employment with a start date within 120 days of the contract date, plus Lexus financial services must deem his or her income sufficient to cover living expenses and vehicle payments.

All in all, a great way to get one’s adult car-ownership life off to a good start.

Courtesy of Lexus Magazine

Our New Owner Welcome is next week! There will be great food, raffle prizes, and the chance to win a one night stay at the Ritz Carlton. Don't miss out on this great event and RSVP today!

Click Here for More Information!

Eyes on Design

To gain insight on the design aspects of the new Lexus ES, we talked to Yasuo Kajino, group manager in the Lexus Division Design Center (abbreviated as YK below), and Shinno Kato, project manager in the Lexus Division Design Center (SK).

What are the most important exterior design changes in the new ES?

YK: One significant change is the adoption of the spindle grille, which was first used on the new GS. This enhances the emotional impact of the face, which is immediately identifiable as a Lexus and helps to strengthen the brand identity.

Another big change is in the packaging. We maintained the basic vehicle size, but lengthened the wheelbase by 45mm. Lexus vehicles always have a long cabin, and the new ES follows that direction. One major benefit is that there is an extra 60mm of rear legroom. Also, the stance is more pronounced with the wider tread both improving the driving dynamics and creating a sporty, ground-hugging look. This emphasis on the car's stance definitely moves the ES in a sportier direction.

What were the design considerations in making the cabin bigger?

Currently, the global trend is to reduce size and make cars more compact. However, as we considered the personality of the ES, we felt we needed to provide more comfortable seating in the rear, to deliver on our luxury promise.

From a design point of view, we wanted to show our off uniqueness.

The previous model expressed a sporty feeling with wedge-like shapes, but in this model we convey sportiness even though the basic stance is horizontal.

To make the side view more dynamic, we developed the visual aspect of the wheels to better show off the stronger and wider crouching stance. And, from the spindle grille to the vehicle's aero stabilizing fins, the design of the ES embraces three-dimensional shapes. The same thing happens with the headlamps, in the corner areas, and the cross-dimensional shape of the door. All this is crafted so the vehicle's expression alters and intrigues as you move around it. We call this "time in design", an expression of our L-finesse philosophy.

And aerodynamics?

To make the ES more aerodynamic, the rear bumper corner has been streamlined. Design-wise, these are visually fascinating features that look different, depending on your viewing perspective. Again, this is L-finesse at work.

One of the exclusive new design features of the ES is the stitching on the instrument panel upholstery. Why stitching?

YK: With the ES we're using more ecologically sustainable materials that also express a progressive feel. So we came up with the combination of a leading-edge material plus Takumi craftsmanship. If the instrument panel upholstery were simply stamped, it would feel very mechanical. With stitching done at the Lexus Kyushu plant, the feeling changes and there's more warmth.

Let me elaborate though. Warmth is important, but it doesn't need to be applied excessively, everywhere you look. One basic strength of Lexus is in the area of advanced technology. This is seen in areas such as the meters on the instrument panel. Balance is crucial to us, however, so in contrast we include handcrafted elements that are well designed and meticulously produced. This produces a more harmonious feeling.

Tell us about the ambient lighting of the ES.

YK: Rather than focus specifically on the ambient lighting on its own, we coordinated it completely with the interior. This follows our philosophy of seamless anticipation. For example, ceiling lights directed towards the gearshift area anticipate the start of driving. But more recently, we have introduced lighting linked to driving stages.

When stopped, the ambient lighting is bright. As the door is closed, the ambient lighting is completely off. Once the engine is running, the lights come back on again. Then, as vehicle starts moving, they dim. This is our way to cue anticipation of the act of driving. The colors of ambient lights on the meter, linked to the drive mode selector, also have this communicative nature. With the hybrid, when you're running in Eco, Normal, or Sport, the colors change according to mode. In this way, the driver gets an enhanced feeling of driving.

Generally speaking, how do you decide which luxury features to include in the ES? And how did you add additional value on top of that?

SK: When it comes to the interior, there are things we can use to create a more luxurious feeling and thus add value. For example, the stitching or the ambient lighting. Often the best way to differentiate our design is to apply the principle of incisive simplicity, a principle that unites function with form in the most harmonious possible way. For instance, when you look at the door panel section, it's very minimal and we avoided adding character lines to the door. Instead, we removed items to increase the appeal of the strong body framework, coming out of the core essence of the car. This also reduces weight and, as a result, improves fuel efficiency. Additionally, if you take a look at the each corner of the ES, you can find what we call "double corners" design. From the side, the rear, and the front, the curve toward the wheel appears different. But as the wheel arch flares out, this design also contributes to the better aerodynamic performance. What's more, from the side, the ES looks compact, yet, from front or rear, it has a sportier crouching stance. These design changes highlight the Lexus value of "time in design": the more you look, the more you see and experience.

Have there been any notable external influences on this car's design?

One visual image that has inspired our design philosophy from the beginning is a picture of a person practicing kyudo, or Japanese archery. There is a feeling of stretching, of movement, even though it's a still image. And it's important that it's Japanese archery, as opposed to the Western version.

In Western archery, the bowstring is symmetrical, and it takes a lot of strength to make the arrow fly far. In kyudo, though, the arrow is in the lower part of the bow, not the middle, and using that method, the arrow can be made to fly further while using less strength.

This is a kind of minimalist intelligence. When you remove unnecessary items, you're left just with what is necessary. You can create maximum effects with minimum power. This is something that expresses a unique aspect of Japanese character. And it's a value that I think you can see and experience in the new ES.

Courtesy of Lexus Global

The LF-LC concept coupe embodies Lexus' aggressive new approach to design and styling. What do you think of the edgy design?

Calling all teachers! Don't forget about our Teacher Appreciation Program. You can receive some great deals on luxury vehicles, so don't miss out!

Click Here for Details!

Did you know you can lease an all new 2013 GS 350 for the low price of $519 a month! Don't miss out on this great offer and stop by Lexus of Orlando today!

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Help us spread the word and help out a great organization!

Hey fans, help us spread the word! For every new like we get we will donate $5 to the American Red Cross! So get all your friends and family to like Lexus of Orlando and help this great cause!

Click Here to "Like" Lexus of Orlando!

Another glowing review for Lexus of Orlando! Keep up the great work team!

Lexus of Orlando - (4.8) Star Review on DealerRater

• C.J. is one of the best customer representatives I have had the pleasure of working with. He always explains in detail the repairs ( service ) I need for my car without ripping me off. -Recruiter1

Black Amethyst Lexus LFA Arrives in USA

The first and only Black Amethyst Lexus LFA has arrived in the USA, and photos of the purple supercar have been posted on Facebook & Club Lexus.

(This LFA is number #366, and has a black interior with white contrast stitching.)

Courtesy of Lexus Enthusiast