Throughout the year, Lexus sponsors Meals on Wheels' Cart for a Cause food truck. On December 15, Lexus General Manager Mark Templin and members of the Lexus marketing team visited St. Vincent Meals on Wheels in Downtown L.A. to get an inside look at how this amazing organization supports the hungry and home-bound.
To make your own $5 donation to St. Vincent Meals on Wheels, simply text MEALS to 20222 or visit www.StVincentMOW.org. (Standard text messaging rates apply. Contact your cell phone carrier for details.)Thursday, December 29, 2011
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Lexus of Maplewood - December Newsletter
Season's Greetings from all of us at Lexus of Maplewood!  We would like to wish you and your loved ones a joyous, safe and happy holidays. We hope the coming year brings you all good fortune and heath! | ||
| Vehicle Profile: The 2012 Lexus CT 200h  Last year, the five-door CT 200h hybrid became the fifth hybrid vehicle to join the Lexus stable, slotting in as the high-value, high-efficiency gateway for younger buyers, along with environmentally conscientious buyers of all ages, looking to enter the Lexus fold. The new 2012 Lexus CT 200h continues to offer incredible fuel economy, superior refinement and remarkable value while broadening the model line with a new limited F SPORT special edition that puts the emphasis on the car’s sporty side.
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Tuesday, December 27, 2011
Toys for Tots Charity Drive - 'Share a Bow' through January 3!
Thursday, December 22, 2011
'Tis the season for the Lexus Holiday Pandora channel! What is your favorite holiday song?
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Lexus LF-LC Revealed!
In a screwup of epic proportions, Road & Track accidentally published a video on their Youtube page revealing the Lexus LF-LC concept set to debut at the Detroit Auto Show in January.
The video has since been taken down, but not before spreading like wildfire across the Internet — here’s some screenshots taken from the ten second clip:
Also mixed through the video were cut-up shots of the side profile — here’s my attempt to composite them together (click for a larger version):
The image doesn’t respond well to boosting the brightness, but it does reveal one crucial detail — the LF-LC will be a hybrid:
Considering the poor quality of the video, there’s still plenty left to see of the new concept — but I have to say, this LFA-inspired coupe is nothing short of amazing.
More tomorrow (after I have some time to absorb all this awesomeness)!
Courtesy of Lexus Enthusiast
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Lexus reveals another concept teaser!
The only official information offered on the Lexus Concept coming to the Detroit Auto Show is that the car was designed at the Calty design studio in Newport Beach, California. We do not know what type of vehicle this is, whether it sports a traditional or hybrid (or electric) drivetrain or what – if any – existing Toyota product the new Lexus Concept will be based on.
Lexus has shown their sporty spirit with models like the IS-F, the GS350 F Sport and, of course, the incredible Lexus LFA supercar. The issue is that the sport-inspired IS and GS models are the range topping so they are among the most expensive vehicles in the lineup and the LFA carries a $375,000 price tag…making it well out of reach of even most Lexus buyers. However, Toyota and Subaru have seemingly done a great job of developing the new rear wheel drive, Boxer engine powered vehicle so packing the Toyota GT-86 full of luxury amenities and giving it a Lexus name of its own could help Lexus appeal to a younger crowd with a lower price than any of the other sporty Lexus models.
Of course, this is all speculation and until the 2012 North American International Auto Show opens in January, we may not know exactly what Lexus is going to unveil. Hopefully Lexus and parent company Toyota will continue to issue teasers of what could be a very exciting new concept from Lexus.
Courtesy of TorqueNews
Monday, December 19, 2011
Your Monday Maintenance Tip: Oil Changes
Should I do this service when it's recommended?
In general, yes. Changing your vehicle's oil is one of the most important things you can do to avoid bringing large bags of money to your mechanic later on.
However, there's a lot of controversy about exactly when engine oil gets old and how often it should be replaced with new oil. Because there are many factors at work -- how you drive, the condition and age of the engine, the external environment you drive in, and stop-and-go versus highway driving -- it's an inexact science. Owner's manual recommendations for oil and filter changes vary from 3,000 to 10,000 miles.
We recommend that you change your oil and filter every 5,000 miles. That's our best estimate. It may be too soon for many people and too late for a few, but for the vast majority, 5,000-mile oil changes will help your engine last to a ripe, old age.
You may want to consider changing your oil more frequently if:
- You drive like a knucklehead: jackrabbit starts, heavy acceleration or high-speed driving
- You live where the climate is extremely hot or cold
- You often drive on dirt roads
- Your engine is old and burns oil
- You frequently carry heavy loads (several mothers-in-law or other cargo)
Why do I have to do this?
Oil undergoes thermal breakdown due to high operating temperature. When this occurs, the oil becomes less effective as a lubricant. And without a good lubricant (read: expensive), parts of the engine rub together and wear each other out.
Oil also contains additives that have the ability to neutralize acids. Over time, these additives get used up and stop being effective.
Finally, oil can absorb water, dust and combustion byproducts and also hold them in suspension. Eventually, the oil gets saturated with this stuff and can't absorb any more. Then that stuff remains in the engine and can cause corrosion.
What happens if I don't do this?
Your engine won't last as long as it could. Oil serves many crucial functions, and clean oil performs those functions better than dirty oil. Oil is relatively cheap, and changing your oil every 5,000 miles is a very cheap insurance policy against major repairs down the road.
Courtesy of CarTalk
Friday, December 16, 2011
Lexus Vehicles Earn Top Safety Pick Awards
Commenting on today’s announcement, Steve St. Angelo, executive vice president of Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc., said, “Safety is a core value that dates back to the foundation of our company. IIHS’ awards further recognize our commitment to helping protect drivers and passengers.”
The 2012 model year winners are: Lexus CT 200h and Lexus RX
According to the IIHS, Top Safety Pick awards recognize vehicles that do the best job of protecting people in front, side, rollover, and rear crashes based on ratings in IIHS tests.
Courtesy of Toyota.com
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
Talk about a road trip! On this day, 100 years ago, Amundsen became the first explorer to reach the South Pole.
Amundsen, born in Borge, near Oslo, in 1872, was one of the great figures in polar exploration. In 1897, he was first mate on a Belgian expedition that was the first ever to winter in the Antarctic. In 1903, he guided the 47-ton sloop Gjöa through the Northwest Passage and around the Canadian coast, the first navigator to accomplish the treacherous journey. Amundsen planned to be the first man to the North Pole, and he was about to embark in 1909 when he learned that the American Robert Peary had achieved the feat.
Amundsen completed his preparations and in June 1910 sailed instead for Antarctica, where the English explorer Robert F. Scott was also headed with the aim of reaching the South Pole. In early 1911, Amundsen sailed his ship into Antarctica's Bay of Whales and set up base camp 60 miles closer to the pole than Scott. In October, both explorers set off--Amundsen using sleigh dogs, and Scott employing Siberian motor sledges, Siberian ponies, and dogs. On December 14, 1911, Amundsen's expedition won the race to the Pole and returned safely to base camp in late January.
Courtesy of History.com
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
Lexus to Unveil Concept Vehicle at North American International Auto Show
The Detroit Auto Show is right around the corner, now just a few weeks away. And with each approaching day, we get a clearer picture of what to expect when the doors open at Motown's Cobo Hall on January 9.
Here we have our first glimpse at a new concept car which Lexus will be unveiling at the show. All we have to go on so far is the teaser image you see above (which you can click to view in high resolution) and a brief statement (after the jump), but from what we can tell it looks very aggressive, and rather sportscar-like. Penned by Lexus' Calty studio in Newport Beach, the concept is said to preview a bolder new design language for the Toyota luxury division. We're sure to get more information and a better look as the show approaches, so be on the lookout for more.Courtesy of Autoblog
Thursday, December 8, 2011
Lexus and Scholastic Announce First Round of Winners in the 2011 - 2012 Lexus Eco Challenge
Students across the country demonstrated their commitment to the planet with programs aimed at protecting land and water. Each winning team has earned $10,000 in scholarships and grants to be shared among the students, teacher and school. Their win has secured each team an invitation to participate in the Final Challenge for a chance at one of two $30,000 grand prizes and eight $15,000 first-place awards. In addition, the winning action plans will be featured on a special Web page to inspire other students to take action in their communities at www.scholastic.com/lexus.
“Today’s teens have the energy and dedication to make the world a better place,” said Mark Templin, Lexus group vice president and general manager. “At Lexus, we’re proud to give them the opportunity to show their capabilities to others, as well as discover their own potential to improve the environment around them.”
For each of the challenges, teams are required to define an environmental issue that is important to them, develop an action plan to address the issue, implement the plan, and report on the results. The Challenge #1 winning teams that best addressed environmental challenges associated with land and water are:
High School Teams:
• New York (LaGrangeville) – “Team S.A.L.T. (Save Another Living Tree)” – Arlington
High – Experimented with new road salt to minimize impact on plants and trees near roads.
• New York (LaGrangeville) – “Invasive Annihilators” - Arlington High – Cleared a local
park of invasive species to restore the natural habitat.
• New York (Jericho) – “The Green Musketeers” – Jericho High School – Developed a
water filtration system.
• New York (Stony Brook) – “Trash Talking Teens” – Stony Brook University High
School – Worked with local small businesses to survey recycling habits and develop a
recycling plan.
• Massachusetts (Boston) “Climate Action Network” – Boston Latin School -- Created a zero-sort recycling program to cut trash at their school by 50%.
• Ohio (Chesterland) – “Environmental Discovery Project” - West Geauga High School -
Worked at their school and in their community to educate and implement composting ideas.
• Georgia (Atlanta) – “ECO (Westminster Environmental Campus Organization)” – The Westminster Schools – Installed low-flush toilets, recycling bins and replaced the in-organic produce in their school cafeteria.
• California (Vista) – “The Preservation Foundation” – Guajome Park Academy –
Developed corridor drains to divert trash from their local wetlands.
Middle School Teams:
• New Jersey (Manahawkin) – “Get Mugged” - All Saints Regional Catholic – Persuaded their teachers and parents to use refillable mugs instead of plastic-lined paper cups.
• New Hampshire (Meredith) – “Weedbusters” – Inter-Lakes Middle Tier School – Rallied the community to reduce a non-native plant, milfoil, in the region’s lakes and ponds.
• Florida (Lakeland) – “Organic Waste” - Lawton Chiles Middle Academy – Launched a campaign to prevent grass clippings from entering their storm drains.
• Kentucky (Lexington) – “Purpledinowolficorns” – Tates Creek Middle School – Conducted fund raisers at their school to generate money to build a rain garden.
• Iowa (Charles City) – “The Batmen” - Charles City Middle School – Educated their city about bats which installed bat houses to help minimize the negative impact of local insects.
• Michigan (Byron Center) – “SASS – Students Advancing Scientific Studies” – Byron Center West School -- Reduced paper use at their school by 50 percent.
• California (Arboga) – “Threatening Stingerz” – Arboga Elementary School – Created awareness of the threat of mosquitoes and advised the community on how to reduce mosquito populations.
• California (Arboga) – “Team Aqua” - Arboga Elementary School – Presented ways to increase water conversation to the community.
This year’s Lexus Eco Challenge launched on Sept. 26, 2011, and concludes with the announcement of the first place and grand-prize-winning teams in spring 2012. Challenge #2, which asks students to address the environmental challenges for air and climate, is currently underway and has an entry deadline of Dec. 19, 2011.
In addition to the ongoing contest, the Lexus Eco Challenge also includes educational materials created and distributed by Scholastic, the global children’s publishing, education and media company, to encourage teachers to integrate creative lesson plans about the environment into their classrooms.
For each challenge, the Web site (www.scholastic.com/lexus) has lesson plans and teacher instructions, including questions to help guide a discussion about the current challenge topic, facts about the topic, and guidelines for a specific classroom project.
Courtesy of Toyota Newsroom
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
Key Lexus unit shifts to California - HQ may follow
The shift begins in January with the creation of an office at Toyota Motor Sales USA Inc.'s campus in Torrance, Calif. It will handle creative marketing and some brand communications worldwide, said Karl Schlicht, head of Lexus' global product and marketing planning division.
The decision was made last summer. One person has been appointed to open the unit. The staff will expand to three in January.
Executive Vice President Yukitoshi Funo said the move is part of Lexus' attempt to remake itself as a "transnational" -- rather than Japanese -- brand.
Schlicht said Toyota Motor Corp. is weighing a global headquarters outside of Japan for its luxury brand. One option could be the United States, the country where the Lexus brand was launched in 1989. But no decisions have been made, he said.
"We're thinking about it," Schlicht said, adding that other global functions could be shifted to the California office as well.
"If they do a good job, their responsibilities could grow. We have a lot of people raising their hands for it."
In April, Infiniti, the luxury brand of Nissan Motor Co., will move its global headquarters to Hong Kong from Japan, to handle global marketing, sales and communications. Engineering and manufacturing will remain in Japan.
Lexus aims to bolster its brand image by strengthening its performance credentials and assuming a more international flavor.
As an example of the new mentality, one executive cited the decision not to serve sushi or offer chopsticks at a Lexus dinner reception held in advance of the Tokyo Motor Show. He said: "We don't want to be blatantly Japanese."
Monday, December 5, 2011
Your Monday Maintenance Tip: Air Filters
The air filter stops airborne contaminants from getting sucked into your car's engine. It's a paper filter that stops debris such as dust, leaves and wayward pelicans before they get inside the engine and do damage.
Should I do this service when it's recommended?
Yes.
Why do I have to do this?
Because, eventually, your air filter will get plugged up.
What happens if I don't do this?
If your air filter gets too dirty or clogged, your engine won't be able to suck enough air into the combustion chambers. The engine will then run rich (i.e., too much gas and not enough air). When this happens, your car will lose power and run roughly. Your Check Engine light also may come on.
If you really neglect the air filter for a long time, your car may stop running altogether. While permanent damage is unlikely, it is possible. If an air filter were sufficiently dirty and damaged, it could allow harmful, abrasive contaminants into the combustion chamber.
Courtesy of CarTalk
Thursday, December 1, 2011
Statement from Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc., Regarding 2011 J.D. Power and Associates' Sales Satisfaction Index
Courtesy of Toyota.com
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Crystal Fusion Windshield Treatment: Durability, Clarity, Cleanliness, and Safety.
Love Your Lexus!
Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE This special glass treatment fills the tiny irregularities in your windshield making it harder for dirt and grime to stick. It also makes the glass more hydrophobic (repels water more easily). This treatment dramatically cuts down on night time glare. Your windshield will be retreated every time you are in for service.
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Lexus Unveils The Lexus Fashion Workshop with Four Original Designs Made of Recyclable Lexus CT Hybrid Parts
TORRANCE, Calif. (Nov. 29, 2011) -- Elevating the notion of recycling to an art form, Lexus challenged four of fashion’s most inventive designers to rethink their notions of automotive design for an advertising campaign to appear in Vogue. Using some of the more than 2,000 individual parts of a completely dismantled Lexus CT hybrid, a vehicle that is 90 percent recyclable*, the designers created fashionable works of art as part of The Lexus Fashion Workshop. 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.
“Merging the worlds of luxury automobiles, art and fashion is another example of how Lexus is 'Engineering Amazing' or maybe more appropriately, 'Engineering Unexpected',” said Brian Smith, vice president of marketing for Lexus. “We were able to challenge four designers to turn one of our most progressive hybrid vehicles into innovative fashion pieces, inspiring the designers, and the world, to see things differently.”
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. * Based on ISO 22628 standards.# # #
Courtesy of Toyota Newsroom
Monday, November 28, 2011
We are a registered Toys for Tots drop off site. Get into the holiday spirit with Lexus of Maplewood!
Once again we are privileged to be a Toys for Tots drop site. We will be collecting toys to donate until 5pm Monday, December 19th. Stop in and have a cup of Caribou coffee and donate to this great cause.
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
Monday, November 21, 2011
This luxury vehicle is loaded with value. Drive this cool, classy certified RX home today!
2009 Lexus RX 350 AWD 4dr
- Price
- $33,497
- 4
- 3.5L V6
- Classic Silver Metallic
- Black
- 66351A
- Automatic
- 2T2HK31U19C099765
- 43,628
Thursday, November 17, 2011
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Lexus Insider
Hello, I'm Mark Templin, General Manager of Lexus. You are listening to Lexus Insider, a complimentary opt-in service included with your Lexus vehicle. For those of you that have already experienced Lexus Insider, we have some updates to share with you. And, for those of you that are new to this feature, welcome and thank you for being a part of our Lexus family. We want to provide you with the best Lexus ownership experience possible. So from time to time, you'll receive messages covering a variety of helpful tips to get the most out of your vehicle. Topics can range from:
Plus, you'll hear about exclusive benefits and special events reserved for Lexus Owners.
Courtesy of Lexus.com
Monday, November 14, 2011
This deal is hot! Experience luxury, class, and quality - hurry in for a test drive!
2009 Lexus ES 350
Other Specials
- Pre-Owned Special - Expires 11/30/11
- Price
- $29,848
- 4
- 3.5L V6
- Black
- Black
- 14352P
- Automatic
- JTHBJ46G992283113
- 22,604
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
Lexus Gets Top Reliability Score For Alternative-Fuel Cars!
Among alternative-fuel vehicle makers, Lexus has the best reputation for quality, according to a new study by ALG, a data and consulting company. While electric-car maker Tesla Motors got the best rating among companies that build only alternative vehicles, it fared less well in the wider group of car makers.
In the fall 2011 study, Lexus scored 89.8 out of a maximum possible score of 100 points in what ALG, a unit of auto-industry analysis and forecasting company TrueCar Inc., calls its Perceived Quality Study or PQS. The rest of the top-five brands in the survey were Mercedes-Benz with 88.8 points; Porsche, 86.7; BMW, 86.7; and Honda, 85.6.
Tesla, which is known for its high-performance battery-powered Roadster, scored 69.5 points — enough to top the list of purely alternative manufacturers. But when compared with brands that sell both alternative-fuel and gas-powered vehicles, Tesla wound up in the middle of the pack.
“That Lexus made a strong entrance into the survey and took the crown after not being a part of the 2010 survey for alternative fuel vehicles, is a testament to the brand’s overall reputation,” said Eric Lyman, director of residual value solutions at ALG. However, because Lexus also leads in the ALG survey of the overall market, it is no surprise that it takes the top spot in this sub-category, Lyman said.
Other rankings of interest among alternative-only brands include Fisker, which took second place with 49.5 points; Phoenix, 44.8; Aptera, 40; and Zenn 39.6. Among brands selling both alternative-fuel and gasoline-powered vehicles, Jeep saw the most upward movement, scoring 55.9 this year after finishing last a year ago.
ALG says the low rankings in general for alternative-fuel car makers in part reflects consumers’ lack of familiarity with the brands.
For the Perceived Quality Study, ALG surveys about 3,000 to 4,000 U.S. consumers twice a year to gauge perceptions of a number of luxury and mainstream brands. This is the second year the company has surveyed the public about alternative fuel vehicles.
By Jonathan Welsh
Courtesy of blogs.wsj.com
Thursday, November 3, 2011
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
2011 SEMA Show: Lexus IS 350C - VIP Auto Salon
WHEELS/TIRES
• F SPORT 19” Full-Face Forged Alloy Wheels
• Michelin Pilot Sport tires
SUSPENSION
• TOMS upper shock tower brace
• F SPORT Lowering Spring Set
• F SPORT Bilstein Shock Absorber Set
• F SPORT Sway Bar Kit
EXTERIOR
• Custom Carbon Fiber Aero Styling Package
• Consists of a Front Lip Spoiler, Side Diffuser, Rear Diffusers, Rear Trunk Spoiler, and Eye lines
• Seibon Carbon Fiber Hood
• Custom head light housing
• Custom Chameleon paint by K&W
• Huper Optik Ceramic film by STM
INTERIOR
• Custom Seat inserts by Top Stitch
• F SPORT Carbon Shift Knob
• F SPORT Floor mats
• F SPORT Carbon fiber Engine Cover
LIGHTING
• Interior and Exterior Bulb replacements by VLEDS
• Consists of LED interior package, D4S 6k replacement
• HID Fog Light kit, and DRL LED replacement
PERFORMANCE
• Power Enterprise Rotex Supercharger kit by Apexi x Vip Auto Salon
• 386hp @5800 rpm 372lb-ft @ 5200 rpm
• PTS Joe Z Series Header Back Exhaust System
• Apexi Smart Accel Controller
Monday, October 31, 2011
You can't go wrong with this beauty! Take our 2008 Mercedes-Benz E-Class for a spin today!
Price - $29,987
- 4
- 3.5L V6
- Capri Blue Metallic
- Cashmere
- 66561A
- Automatic
- WDBUF87X58B315005
- 28,053
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
2013 Lexus GS 350 F Sport Details
- F SPORT Package Features 19-Inch Staggered Width Wheels
- Dynamic Handling with F SPORT Tuned Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS)
- Stopping Power with New Larger Front Brakes with High Friction Pads
TORRANCE, Calif., Oct. 25, 2011 – Lexus will reveal the all-new 2013 GS 350 mid-size luxury sedan with F SPORT package at the 2011 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show in Las Vegas.
The Lexus press conference to reveal the 2013 GS 350 with F SPORT package will take place on Tuesday, Nov. 1 at 1:30 p.m. PDT at the outdoor Lexus exhibit tent, located between the Central and South Halls of the Las Vegas Convention Center. Following the press conference, media will have an opportunity to experience track rides in the all-new GS 350 with F SPORT package.
The GS 350 with F SPORT package will be on display at the Lexus tent from Nov. 1 – 4. JT Grey Racing Lexus LX 570 Team driver, Joe Bacal and race car driver, Scott Pruett will be on hand signing autographs on Tuesday, Nov. 1 from 10:00-11:00 a.m. and 12:00-1:00 p.m., respectively, at the Lexus tent. Joe Bacal will also be available to sign autographs throughout the day on Nov. 2.
Building on the excitement of the fourth-generation GS 350 which was revealed at Pebble Beach in August, the GS 350 with F SPORT package was designed to engage driving enthusiasts with factory engineering and the ability to take performance to an entirely new level. Unique to the F SPORT package will be aggressive 19-inch wheels, F SPORT-tuned Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS), thicker anti-roll bars, bushing changes, and new larger front brakes with high friction pads. In addition, rear-wheel drive (RWD) models will be equipped with 19-inch staggered width wheels and Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS). 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.
“The all-new GS 350 with F SPORT package will offer our customers more agility and a sportier appearance,” said Mark Templin, Lexus group vice president and general manager. “The racing-inspired F SPORT components were precision engineered for this vehicle, providing quality performance without compromise.”
Engine/Transmission/Drivetrain/Performance
As with the GS 350, the GS 350 with F SPORT package is powered by an advanced 3.5-liter V6, with four cams, and four valves per cylinder and dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence. At 306 horsepower, it is one of the most powerful base engines in the segment, as well as the only one with both port and direct injection. It propels the car from 0-60 mph in 5.7 seconds and at the same time, fuel economy has been improved.
Acceleration from 30 to 50 mph can take just 3.0 seconds, and improved engine sound characteristics complement the bolder, more energetic personality of the new GS. The six-speed sequential shift automatic transmission has paddle shifters and sport driving functions as standard equipment.
The transmission incorporates many features adopted from the Lexus IS F high-performance sedan — including faster shifts, and downshift throttle blips — to support four driving modes that can be operated by toggling the Lexus Drive Mode selector. In addition to the Normal mode, the driver can customize the driving experience using ECO, Sport S and Sport S+ modes.
An optional electronically controlled all-wheel-drive system is designed to enhance traction in a variety of driving conditions. The system can vary front-to-rear torque balance from 50/50 to as much as 30/70, depending on driving conditions, for exceptional control.
Chassis/Body/Suspension/Tires/Brakes
To provide a more engaging driving experience, including a new aerodynamic body, a completely new platform with a wider stance and stiffer structure, a transmission with quicker shifts, distinctive engine sound and exhaust notes, and better seat support, Lexus engineers looked to the Lexus LFA supercar for inspiration.
The new platform has been designed to be more rigid. Engineers conducted extensive platform testing, ultimately increasing the number of spot welds and adding laser welds in very specific locations. The track, wider by almost two inches, works in combination with a revised suspension design to help ensure a more solid stance and superior cornering performance.
The new suspension system is designed to help guide the 2013 GS through corners with precision. In the front, upper and lower control arms are made from aluminum and employ larger bushings. The rear subframe has been completely redesigned to accommodate an all-new multi-link rear suspension, using improved suspension geometry that helps retain tire cornering force and enhances rear control. With the stiffer platform and lighter components, the shocks can use lighter-viscosity oil, so they move easily and respond to small inputs more quickly.
The use of front and rear aluminum control arms helps reduce unsprung weight and results in significant improvements in agility, roll damping, ride comfort, body control and steering precision. Overall, the suspension is lighter and stronger, allowing it to react to driver input readily, and ride quietly without harshness.
The GS 350 with F SPORT package will offer an optional newly developed Lexus Dynamic Handling (LDH) system with Dynamic Rear Steering (DRS) for those seeking more agility. This leading edge platform technology offers Lexus’ first integration of DRS; Electric Power Steering; and Variable Gear Ratio Steering. Monitoring vehicle speed, steering direction and driver inputs, the system calculates the optimum angle for all four wheels. LDH helps to optimize the vehicle slip angle. Using VGRS in the front and DRS in the rear, the system can independently manage both front and rear wheel steering angles to help improve turn-in response, rear grip, vehicle control and overall agility when cornering.
The latest generation of Lexus’ unique Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management system coordinates Lexus Dynamic Handling; the Anti-lock Braking System; Traction Control; Vehicle Stability Control; and Adaptive Variable Suspension. Adaptive Variable Suspension helps front and rear wheel control and provides agile, sharp and confident driving behavior with a more direct response to the driver’s actions. The LDH system monitors vehicle speed and yaw rate, steering angle and speed, and lateral G to calculate the required rear wheel steering input, to a maximum DRS angle of 2.0 degrees. At most speeds below 50 mph the front and rear wheels turn in opposite directions. In certain conditions at speeds over 50 mph the front and rear wheels turn in the same direction.
Further coordinating DRS with VGRS and AVS, the Lexus Dynamic Handling system will automatically customize the adaptive suspension tuning and active safety systems to suit road conditions, vehicle speed and driving style, giving drivers the confidence to fully utilize the exceptional driving performance of the GS with F SPORT package.
The GS 350 RWD with F SPORT package will be exclusively equipped with 19-inch staggered width wheels paired with 235/40/19 front and 265/35/19 rear tires, the widest rear tires ever on a Lexus sedan. The wider width wheels allow for a sportier look, and will also help provide added traction. All-wheel drive (AWD) models will be paired with 235/40/19 all-season tires in the front and rear.
Safety/Security Features
As with the GS 350, the GS 350 with F SPORT package will be standard equipped with 10 airbags, including a knee airbag for both front driver and passenger. Rear seat occupants have seat-mounted side airbags, and all four outboard occupants are equipped with side curtain airbags. Also standard are new Whiplash Injury Lessening front seats designed to help limit excessive head movement, and help decrease the severity of whiplash-type injuries in certain types of rear-end collisions. Standard seatbelts with pretensioners with force limiters used for front and outboard rear seats further assist occupant protection.
Available options to help further enhance occupant safety include a Pre-Collision System, which uses the Dynamic Radar Cruise Control System to provide early warning of certain objects traveling directly ahead that might result in a front-end collision. The system also uses a Lexus-first infrared camera with new scanning technology to monitor the driver’s eyes. In the event that the driver does not appear to be looking forward when a collision appears imminent, the system will initiate the warning at an earlier threshold. If the driver still does not respond and make the appropriate maneuver, the system will initiate braking intervention up to 1.2 seconds prior to impact, helping to lessen the severity of the collision. With available Lexus Dynamic Handling, PCS will help further mitigate the occurrence of a collision.
Other available safety systems include a Night Vision System that enhances driver visibility at night; Heads Up Display; a Blind Spot Monitor that helps detect vehicles in rear/side blind spots; and Lane Keep Assist (LKA) with Lane Departure Warning (LDW). GS is the first in its segment to offer LKA with active steering torque to provide a small amount to assist in maintaining course, while the LDW feature alerts the driver if the system detects that the vehicle is beginning to drift out of the lane.
Exterior Design
The 2013 GS expresses a new generation of Lexus’ design philosophy with its precisely sculpted exterior and will lead the rest of the lineup in an entirely new direction. When designers shaped the GS they visualized the flow of air around it and, like the LFA supercar, maximized aerodynamic efficiency for low coefficient of drag.
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 GS fuses distinctive style with engineering functionality. The signature spindle grille with its trapezoidal contours fully integrates into the aggressive front bumper allowing for efficient airflow. Air inlets located on the outer edges of the lower grille serve as cooling ducts. This distinctive Lexus design feature combined with the deep-set, high-tech headlamps and L-shaped LED daytime running lamps further express the vehicle’s confident and dynamic character. The headlamps use a projector beam design, adding a strong, chiseled appearance and excellent illumination. Fins incorporated into the side of the tail lamps and the design of the trunk area all help direct air over and past the car. The rear bumper underbody area was designed for reduced wind resistance to help keep the car firmly planted on the ground.
From the side, the GS projects the image of a spacious sport sedan with a road-hugging wider stance. The tapered lower rocker panel and the short front overhang give the vehicle a sense of motion. Width-enhancing front and rear wheel arches add an athletic stance-enhancing the vehicle’s dynamic presence.
The rear bumper features a distinctive exhaust diffuser and centered aero fins to help control underbody airflow. Combined with the L-shaped LED tail lamps, a Lexus design cue, these rear bumper features lend a high-performance appearance. Overall, the new GS sheet metal represents a significant extension of the Lexus L-finesse philosophy that is the core of all Lexus product design.
The GS 350 with F SPORT package will feature two new colors: Riviera Red and Liquid Platinum, and also be available in Starfire Pearl, Nebula Gray Pearl and Obsidian. Vehicles in Riviera Red will benefit from glass flakes incorporated into the coating that adds a high level of brilliance to the paint. Lexus engineers developed a new advanced coating process for Liquid Platinum exteriors. The GS 350 will be the first Lexus to adopt this new coating technology. Vehicles with the Liquid Platinum exterior will appear more radiant as an additional metallic texture gives both strong shading and defined, sharp highlights. This metallic effect makes subtle and defined bodylines more noticeable and the surface appears finely polished.
Interior Design
To complement the aggressive-looking exterior of the F SPORT package, the interior will feature an exclusive design treatment with smooth striated aluminum trim, unique perforated leather trim, black headliner and aluminum pedals. Distinctive F SPORT badging will be showcased on the steering wheel. Focusing on the driver, the F SPORT package will feature a new 16-way power sport seat for increased lateral support. The driver’s seat will include a Lexus-first with power side bolsters, thigh support, adjustable seatback and four-way lumbar. To complete the uniqueness of the F SPORT package, a striking Cabernet Red leather interior will also be available.
Painstaking attention to detail was applied to the GS cabin as well, to create a balance of luxurious and technological amenities and emotional design. The new layout of the long, sculpted dash gives the driver and front passenger a sense of roominess through its clean center stack and new, large high-resolution center control display placed deep near the front windshield. Most of the comfort and convenience controls, such as audio and climate, were relocated to provide a cleaner and more sophisticated dash layout.
The interior includes a number of embedded premium upgrades as standard equipment. A new energy-saving auto climate control system called S-Flow uses the occupant-detection system to focus airflow only to the front area where passengers are actually seated, a first-in-class technology. A next-generation Remote Touch with one-push confirmation is standard on all models and enables smooth, intuitive operations control.
The Remote Touch allows the user to operate the climate, audio, phone controls, optional navigation system and more. The screen menus are selected with the controller, eliminating the need to reach out. Remote Touch also reduces eye movement and helps users operate functions with reduced effort and distraction. A standard rear back-up camera helps add convenience.
The finely crafted cabin detail is complemented further by ambient lighting that unobtrusively welcomes and guides the user into the vehicle, providing a carefully designed experience. New white LED lights are sequentially lit to illuminate the areas around the doors, center console and footwells. A new analog clock with LED indicators, carved from an ingot, adds a unique touch, at once both modern and traditional.
“The GS 350 with F SPORT Package will be a distinctive offering of luxury and excitement,” said Templin. “With its dynamic handling, stopping power and true sporty feel this F SPORT package will be sure to please our enthusiasts.”
PRELIMINARY SPECIFICATIONS FOR GS 350 WITH F SPORT PACKAGE
Horsepower: 306 hp @ 6,400rpm
Torque: 277 lb-ft @ 4,800rpm
Transmission
Six-speed sequential-shift with paddle shifters, Electronic Controlled Automatic Transmission with intelligence (ECT-i)
Seating Capacity: 5
Overall Length (in.): 190.9
Width (in.): 72.4
Height (in.): 57.3
Wheelbase (in.): 112.2
Driven Wheels: Rear or All-Wheel Drive
Curb weight (lbs.): 3,715 (RWD) 3,890 (AWD)
Brake type
Ventilated front and rear disc with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA) and Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management system (VDIM)
Wheel size: RWD 19” x 8” (Front), 19” x 9” (Rear), AWD 19” x 8”
Tire size: RWD 235/40/19 (Front) 265/35/19 (Rear), AWD 235/40/19 (Front and Rear)
0 – 60 mph: Estimated 5.7 seconds
Top Track Speed: Estimated 142 mph (electronically limited)
MPG (City/Hwy/Comb.): 20/27/23 (RWD), 18/25/20 (AWD)
Courtesy of lexusenthusiast.com
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