Lexus unveils updated 2013 RX crossover

 

The Lexus RX crossover is about to get more aggressive…looking.

Toyota’s luxury division has unveiled the updated 2013 model of its best-selling car, and the iconic jellybean has sprouted fangs.

Technically referred to as a “spindle grille,” the new face of the RX apes that of the truly-sporty 2013 GS sedan and appears to be destined for every car that the company makes. New headlights and LED daytime running lights add to the slightly sinister appearance.

Behind them are the same V6 and hybrid powertrains that have made the RX350 and RX450h perennial favorites at your local mall. The front-wheel-drive RX450h delivering a still-impressive 32 mpg city, 28 mpg highway fuel economy rating.

Added standard features, like a power liftgate plus refreshed interior trim and a new steering wheel round out the major changes to the RX.

A new sport mode on the hybrid models adds a little zing to their performance and turns the instrument cluster red when activated. But for those looking to really step it up a notch, an F-Sport appearance package is available for the first on the RX450h includes 19-inch wheels, halogen headlights and an even angrier grille and bumper combination.

SOURCE: foxnews.com

Your Monday Maintenance Tip: Check Your Tire Pressure Regularly

Tires tend to lose air over time. You can improve your gas mileage by up to 3.3 percent by keeping your tires inflated to the proper pressure.  Buy a digital tire gauge and check your tires once a month and before a long trip. Proper inflation pressures can be found in your owner's manual or on a sticker on the car.  Remember to check tire pressure only after the car has been sitting for several hours in order to ensure that the tires are cold -- the friction of driving heats the tires and increases pressure, which can hide an under-inflated tire.

Courtesy of fueleconomy.gov

ATTENTION: As of today, our Service and Parts Department hours have changed.

ATTENTION: As of today, our Service and Parts Department hours have changed. Please see our updated hours below. Thank you and Happy Monday!

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2013 Lexus GS - "Design"

The 2013 GS is more than just an all-new Lexus. Its driver-inspired interior, unprecedented level of connectivity, and innovative safety systems represent an entirely new expression of Lexus design philosophy and engineering passion.

Lexus RX 350, RX 450h get family grille face lift, LEDs

Gas and hybrid versions of Lexus' popular midsize RX crossover get a face lift for the 2013 model year with what Lexus calls a bolder version of the now-signature "spindle grille," an updated interior, more standard features and two new optional appearance packages.

The 2013s unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show today will be at U.S. dealers next month.

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By Lexus

They still seat five and carry over the 2012 gas and hybrid powertrains available with front- or all-wheel drive. The RX 350 pairs a 270-horsepower, 3.5-liter V-6 engine with a six-speed automatic. The hybrid RX 450h combines a 3.5-liter gas V-6 with an electric motor for a total of 295 hp.

The hybrid now will have a Sport mode that tunes steering, throttle and transmission shift points to make more efficient use of the powertrain, Lexus says.

Other exterior updates: a new front bumper, a new headlamp design with LED daytime running lights, rear-end styling tweaks and four new paint colors.

A new optional Sport Appearance Package adds 19-inch chrome wheels, a unique front bumper and halogen headlamps. Available on the 450h is the F-Sport trim. It adds features such as a honeycomb-style grill insert, body aero package, tinted lights, larger wheels and sport seats, sport steering wheel and alloy pedals.

Inside, a power liftgate and USB port are now standard. A redesigned steering wheel should provide a more comfortable and relaxing grip, according to Lexus. Other interior tweaks include a redesigned steering wheel (more comfortable says Lexus), new metallic trim, ebony birds'-eye maple wood trim, saddle-colored leather with contrast stitching and a redesigned center console.

An updated Remote Touch interface should make the multimedia system more intuitive to use, Lexus says. The system uses a computer-mouse-like device to control climate, navigation and audio functions. It also uses the next generation of Lexus' Enform application system, which manages apps like Pandora, Bing, FaceBook, Yelp and more.

 

Courtesy of USA Today

Your Monday Maintenance Tip: Exterior Car Paint Maintenance

Exterior car paint maintenance is as simple as washing and waxing, but oftentimes, an overlooked part of car care. Maintaining the paint helps to retain value by keeping a car in its best possible condition while also protecting the paint from the environment.

·         Thoroughly washing the car is one of the most important aspects of exterior paint maintenance. Dust, mud, and acid rain can scratch and dull the paint surface. Frequent washing with a high quality car wash formulated for automotive use will remove surface contaminants and help maintain the shine.

·         Experts recommend using only a microfiber cloth designed for automotive applications to dry a car. Microfiber cloths are specifically designed to trap any residual dust and dirt to reduce scratches on the paint surface.

·         Cleaner waxes can be used on older cars to remove swirl marks or oxidation. However, it is usually suggested that this sort of product not be used on newer cars or cars that have recently been repainted.

·         Car paint sealant or polish is a product that generally only needs to be applied a few times a year, prior to waxing. It is great for helping to protect the paint surface. However, it does not provide as much gloss as wax.

·         Traditional paste or liquid car wax is most often carnauba based and while it will provide an outstanding shine, it must be frequently reapplied in order to maintain protection. Cars that are housed outdoors will need more frequent applications than garaged cars. However, all cars should be waxed regularly.

Most automakers offer their own line of exterior paint maintenance products designed for use on their vehicles, which can take some of the guesswork out of what products to use. Regardless of the products used, it is important that they be applied following the manufacturer’s recommendation. Maintaining car paint will not only keep the car looking great, it will also increase value when it is time to trade in or sell.

 

Courtesy of Autos.com

Forbes: Best Cars for Commuters 2012

Forbes names Lexus CT200h as best car for commuters.

The $29,120 Lexus CT 200h combines solid reliability with luxury, thanks to supple leather trim, seat warmers, intuitive dashboard technology and design cues that comprise the basic requirements of any luxury vehicle these days. Better yet, while many people buy the Prius in spite of its looks, that won’t be the case by when the stylish CT 200h hits dealerships this spring.

 

Courtesy of Forbes