Atualmente, a Lexus comercializa três diferentes modelos com sistema híbrido: os sedans LS 600h e GS 450h, além do crossover RX 400h. No ano que vem, a nova geração do utilitário-esportivo RX também contará com um propulsor que combine motores a combustão e a eletricidade, além do já citado modelo baseado no Prius. Este fará sua estréia também em 2009, com apresentação programada para o Salão do Automóvel de Detroit. A empresa ainda tem uma série de modelos em seu portfólio que não trazem uma versão híbrida, como o IS, o GX, o LX e o ES. Todos eles só passarão a oferecer tal opção quando ganharem nova geração. Já o conversível SC, próximo de sair de linha, deve ganhar um sucessor híbrido mais luxuoso, embora o nome ainda não tenha sido definido. Outra opção seria um hatchback de medidas mais compactas para competir com Audi A3 e BMW Série 1, que teria a tecnologia plug-in para recarreger em tomadas domésticas. O sistema seria o mesmo do novo Prius, que estreará no mercado norte-americano somente em 2010.

O grande destaque da Lexus é mesmo o GS 450h, tido como um híbrido de alta performance, algo impensado há alguns anos. Ele seria o motivador para a fabricante japonesa de luxo investir nos modelos com tal tecnologia, tanto que a marca estuda até criar uma nova família de veículos, a linha "F". Uma das vantagens dos propulsores elétricos, e que ajudaria a acabar com a fama de carros "pacíficos demais", seria o torque disonível: 100% dele é entregue instantâneamente pelos motores movidos a eletricidade. Um dos primeiros modelos híbridos da família F seria o esportivo LF-A, cujo sistema de propulsão de verá contar com uma fonte de energia a gasolina e outra elétrica.

The all-wheel drive LF-Xh features a V6 petrol engine mated to an electric hybrid drive system.

Its modern appearance is inspired by the unique L-Finesse design philosophy, featuring LED headlamps, handeless doors ad distinct blue hybrid badging.

“With the LF-Xh hybrid concept, it also demonstrates our ongoing commitment to hybrid technology as a core Lexus power-train.”

Based on the IS 250 platform, the new IS 250C features a lightweight three-piece folding roof and segment-leading boot and rear occupant space.

Extensive revisions to body structure and suspension components have resulted in exceptional torsional stiffness on par with the IS sedan.

The new convertible model also gains Lexus’ pre-crash, vehicle dynamics integrated management system and features a newly designed enlarged side airbag which provides head protection in the event of side impact.

The IS 250C will be powered by Lexus’ proven 153kW 2.5-litre V6 power plant mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.

Toyota has arleady declared its intention to produce hybrid versions of all its vehicles—eventually—but dropping all conventional powertrains from the Lexus nameplate would be an intriguing move.

"We live within our means," she said of herself and her husband -- two people with advanced degrees and no kids, the kind of people who get headhunted in their industry. Her Lexus was parked not far away. I am sure she was telling me the truth. They were very likely able to buy it cash. Why go into debt for a Mercedes G-Class if you don't have to? Stay within your means; get the Lexus.

I don't mean this woman is hard hearted. A nice enough lady, actually, and she has a point; there are a lot of people who are feckless with their money and a lot of others who've been happy to help them feck their budgets up. But I wonder if she knows anyone -- I do -- for whom the phrase "live within your means" means saving up to get a dental filling, or foot-pumping air into a leaky tire daily for another week so you can pay to get the toilet fixed.

By all means. People should just live within their means.

I think of Anatole France, who said "The law in its infinite majesty forbids the rich as well as the poor to sleep under bridges."

rs to finish off what we needed for the catalog. The weather didn't help much this week but we were able to get the job done. Check out these final two cars that will make the cut for the new catalog!

1. Lamborghini Estoque

The first ever Lamborghini to feature 4 doors since the Lambo SUV decades ago, the Estoque, if produced will play rivals to Porsche's upcoming Panamera, Maserati Quattroporte. Do remember that BMW might also be planning to enter the luxury 4-dr GT segment with its Concept CS shown last year.

2. BMW X1 Concept

So, after the X5, X3, BMW adds another mini-SUV into the fray with the X1. This is also after the company adds the 1 Series to its range of passenger cars. One noteworthy design feature is its grille which is similar to the recently launched 7 Series. Expect this new interpretation of BMW's kidney grille on future models too!

3. Lexus IS250C

This is the new hardtop coupe-convertible version of Lexus IS series which competes heads on with the 3 Series, C Class and A4. The rear convertible styling seems to draw its cues from the larger but 2 seater Lexus SC. Again, a first for Lexus as this is the only 4 seater convertible it has made thus far for production. Took some time for it as well...

4. Renault Megane

Renault is on the offensive with its new design scheme, as it updates the styling of its Clio, Koleos SUV and now a very fresh design for the bread and butter car - the new Renault Megane. From the pictures, the 3 door hatchback has an athletic stance and with the show stand's bright orange colour shows its target of the younger consumers.

Results: (1. Lexus 120 PP100) (2. Mercury 151 PP100) (3. Cadillac 155 PP100)

(4. Toyota 159 PP100) (5. Acura 160 PP100) (6. Buick 163 PP100)

(7. BMW 164 PP100) (8. Lincoln 165 PP100) (9. Honda 177 PP100) (10. Jaguar 178 PP100)

Toyota Motor Company has announced 0% financing on 11 models except the Yaris, and their popular hybrids. Forget Scion and Lexus too!  This is an exceptional deal for credit-worthy Toyota lovers, but be prepared that the offer is limited to in-stock models and the 0% is only for 36 months, rising to 2.9% for 60 months. Still it’s a good deal IF you qualify. At the same time, don’t expect the dealers to be flooded with new 2009 product, as Toyota has strategically respond with reduced production, resulting in less negotiation room on both the 0% and new 2009 models.  Local Las Vegas dealers have been quick to react to the announcement, “We don’t have a lot full of 2008 stock with the exception of gas-loving trucks and SUV’s.”  Consumers report some dealers are holding pat on MSRP or limited discounting when 0% financing is requested.

HOWEVER, don’t give up yet! You can still find 0% financing offers from many other car makers as recently as this week! Here are a few of the 0% financing offers on the table, some for longer than 36 months and with REBATES…

0% for 60 months is where the consumer really makes out! And 1.9% for 72months as Hyundai offers on the popular Santa Fe, Veracruz and Entourage models.  The 2009 Azera is available for 3.9% for 60 mos., still a great deal on a luxury car.

Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep are offering 0% for up to 36 mos. on the popular 300C, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Commander, Journey and Charger among other models, or you can combine a 2.9%-3.9% with some cash rebate to help the down payment demand.  If you are “upside down” or “buried”, as dealer’s like to say, (meaning you owe more than your car is worth), then consider taking a partial rebate to lower the overall amount you are financing.  Local credit offers have been hovering around 7.95% for good credit scores over 695. Don’t be surprised if the interest rate goes up when you have no down payment, as more and more banks are requiring car buyers to have a minimum 10% down, even with a 700 score.

GMC and Chevrolet are tinkering with a limited few low financing offers for 36 mos., but nothing as across the board on popular models as their competition.

Don’t expect Nissan or Honda to follow the Toyota lead, as neither company is loaded with inventory.

Sarah Lee is a 20 yr. auto industry veteran writing on consumer populist automotive issues. You can email her with your comments or questions at www.mycarlady.com

A lady bought a new Lexus. Cost a bundle. Two days later, she brought it back complaining that the radio wasn't working. "Madam", said the sales maneger, "the audio system in this car is completly automated. All you need to do is tell it what you want to listen to and you will hear exactly that!" She drives out , somewhat amazed and a little confused. She looked at the radio and said, "Nelson". The radio responded, "Ricky or Willie?" Soon she was speeding down the highway to the sounds of "On the road again". The lady was astounded. If she wanted Beethoven, that's what she got. If she wanted Nat King Cole, she got it. Stopped at an intersection, her light turned green and she pulled out. Off to her right, out of the corner of her eye, she saw a small sports utility vehicle speeding toward her. She swerved and narrowly missed a collision. "Asshole.....", she muttered. And from the radio..... "Ladies and gentlemen, the President of the United States....

A Lynchburg Lexus RX 300 in lynchburg Virginia 24502 - Roanoke Virginia.

Options include: LEATHER, SUNROOF, HEATED SEATS, AM/FM/CD CHANGER, AUTOMATIC TEMPERATURE CONTROL, TIRES LOOK GREAT. This Lexus RX 300 is also very clean inside and out. Previous owners took good care of this RX 300.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE PICS

Remember we have no hidden fees and NO PROCESSING FEE!

Come see us.

Chris Pfeiffer
Toll free 877-683-6147

2008 Mondial de l'Automobile

[Source: Supercars.net]

Check out the girls @ Paris Auto Show

HOT wheels

What's a city without it's cabs? Check out this special gallery

Opel, Chevrolet

Toyota, Lexus

Honda

Mitsubishi, Subaru

Lotus, Aston Martin

Kia

Hyundai

Suzuki

Mini, Rolls Royce

Porsche

Infiniti

Nissan

[Source: Automarket.ro]

Now this is one fancy ride. I can only imagine that driving in one will make you look like: a) you’ve been living off the humongous trust fund given to you by your parents; b) a celebrity that has no idea what to do with his or her money; or c) someone lucky enough to have married somebody rich. Either way, you still end up getting to drive in style.

Brought to you by the folks from Lexus, this new vehicle is the 2010 Lexus IS 250C Convertible. It debuted at the recent Paris Auto Show and is set to compete against the likes of the Infiniti G37, Volvo C70 and BMW 3 series. Based on the images brought to you by Kicking Tires, this convertible looks like it has the potential of giving its three competitors a run for their money.

To give it some “street cred”, Lexus made sure that the new IS 250C Convertible will be running smoothly with the help of a 2.5-liter V-6 engine. Combined with a six-speed automatic transmission, this V-6 engine is able to make the convertible produce up to 208 horsepower. It may not be as fast as a sports car, but it doesn’t mean that it’s as slow as the old sedan that happens to be parked beside you.

As for its exterior, one thing that Lexus focused on is the roof of the 2010 IS 250C. Being a convertible, this baby’s roof has to be able to fold down neatly when asked to by its owner. And Lexus delivers by making sure that it’s able to do just that. Once triggered, the three-piece aluminum roof is able to move back and fit snugly into the space allotted for it in the trunk. Despite having the roof packed at the back, what’s good about this is that you still have ample space to still store your belongings.

So when can you expect to get your hands at the new 2010 Lexus IS 250C Convertible? Per Lexus, the new convertible will be up in the showrooms by late 2009. At least this will give them enough time to do some changes to, in case there will be any.

Source: Kicking Tires

However, Lexus is hoping to change their minds and welcome it with open arms. Lexus have used the same four-wheel-drive system that they use in their LS600h, along with the eight-speed automatic transmission as well. The engine used will be the 4.6-liter V8, which is used in the standard model. This will produce 381 hp.

Mercedes-Benz SLR 722 Edition

Tudo o que se sabe é que o novo Prius será lançado em janeiro, durante o Salão do Automóvel de Detroit, e chegará ao mercado norte-americano no segundo semestre de 2009. O modelo da Lexus, então, só deverá chegar à Europa em 2010, fazendo alguma aparição em um grande evento no Velho Coninente. A intenção da Toyota é que os modelos não cheguem a um mesmo segmento, para que não tenham vendas canibalizadas. Por isso, o veículo da Lexus terá melhor desempenho e comportamento mais parecido com os esportivos. Como esta é a divisão de luxo do conglomerado japonês, espera-se também que seu preço seja superior.

The 2009 Lexus IS250C skin a three-part aluminum roof that retracts in a "world's longest" 20 seconds, and features revised overhangs 15mm (front) and 55mm (rear) longer than the sedan, a new fog lamp plan and a rising beltline that integrates into the revised haunches. The IS250C's rear end foliage a lot to be desired, with an odd assortment of angles ending into a set of awkwardly located LED taillights.

Read more (+photo)!!

With the top up, nothing seems seamlessly to mingle, looking like an ill-advised amalgamation of the outgoing SC430 and BMW 335i. Inside, thing get mildly better – in standard grave Lexus tradition – with a set of rollover hoops for the rear seat passengers, a 12-amplifier Mark Levinson sound routine and a hustle receptive climate sway method that will boost the cook during open air jaunts. And obviously, you can fit a golf bag in the body with the top down.

[via Variety]

• Lexus is launching an Internet-only branded channel stocked with a full slate of original programming headlined by Lisa Kudrow in a shortform comedy series in which she plays a nutty shrink. In "Web Therapy" Kudrow plays Fiona Wallice, a psychotherapist who conducts absurdly abridged three-minute sessions via the Internet that do little to help her clients. She juggles five different clients in 15 episodes, including those played by Bob Balaban, Jane Lynch, Rashida Jones, Tim Bagley and Dan Bucatinsky. Kudrow wrote and produced "Therapy" with Bucatinsky, her partner at Is or Isn't Prods. Don Roos, who directed Kudrow in films including "The Opposite of Sex," directed all episodes of "Therapy." Its only precedent is Bud.TV, a similar venture Budweiser kicked off after the Super Bowl in 2006 only to watch it fail after a reported $30 million investment. As Bud.TV did with Budweiser, most of L Studio's programs barely show or mention the brand or specific vehicles; "only when relevant and appropriate," Blanchard said. Lexus is not mentioned in "Therapy.
• To lower the barriers of entry to the site, content can be viewed without registering for L Studio, but in order to add comments or receive e-mail notifications of new episodes, a brief registration form is in place. While L Studio is launching with minimal interactivity, it is considering adding more features in the coming months including more user-generated initiatives. One series in development, "1000 Frames Per Second," would challenge users to set select slow-motion photography to words or music. L Studio was developed by Intelligent Life Prods. and Lexus' agency, Team One Advertising. "We kind of look at ourselves as a broadband HBO."

[via Hollywood Reporter]

Gotta love the AIMGain LS460! Pix jacked from the Kultivate blog

Collection of VIP Style Lexus LS400 UCF20 and Toyota Celsior UCF21 pictures. I found these VIP Style cars while browsing around, looking for ideas and parts for my own LS400. Enjoy!

Like these pics? Then be sure to check out my VIP Style LS400 Pictures #1 and also my VIP Style LS400 Pictures #2

I

นี่เป็นครั้งที่สองแล้วในช่วงไม่ถึง 18 เดือนที่ Lexus ต้องเดือดร้อนกับข้อกล่าวเรื่องการโฆษณาเกินจริงของ Lexus RX400h

RX400h ถูกโฆษณาโดย Lexus ว่า "สมบูรณแบบสำหรับสภาพอากาศในวันนี้และวันข้างหน้า" และ "ขับรถ SUV hybrid ระดับหรูคันแรกที่ใส่ใจเรื่องสิ่งแวดล้อมและระบบนิเวศ"

นี่สร้างข้อสงสัยบางประการให้กับ Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) ในประเทศอังกฤษ  ASA ตั้งข้อกล่าวหาว่า Lexus กำลังทำให้ผู้บริโภคเข้าใจผิด ว่ารถคันนี้ "มีผลน้อยหรือไม่มีผลต่อสิ่งแวดล้อมเลย" ซึ่งมันไม่จริง

รายงานข่าวกล่าวว่า Lexus ถูกบังคับให้ตัดคำโฆษณาออกเหลือแค่ตอนที่ว่า "สมบูรณแบบสำหรับสภาพอากาศในวันนี้และวันข้างหน้า" โดยตัดเรื่องเกินจริงเกี่ยวกับสิ่งแวดล้อมอื่นๆออก เมื่อปีก่อนหน้านี้ผู้ผลิตรถรายนี้ก็ถูกเตือนจาก ASA เกี่ยวกับโฆษณาของ RX400h, ที่กล่าวว่า "สมรรถนะสูง, ไอเสียต่ำ, ไม่ต้องรู้สึกผิด"

ในขณะที่'green car' game กำลังแข่งขันกันอย่างดุเดือด ผู้ผลิตต่างก็ประสบความยากลำบากที่จะทำให้รถของพวกเขาดูเป็นมิตรกับสิ่งแวดล้อม ฝ่ายการตลาดของ Lexus โดนไปสองครั้งแล้ว ฝ่ายการตลาดของ Saab, GM ก็ต้องขึ้นศาลเกี่ยวกับเรื่องโฆษณาเกินจริงนี้เช่นกัน (รู้สึกจะโดนสั่งให้ปลูกป่าชดเชย) เนื่องจากไปโฆษณาว่า Saab ของพวกเขานั้นเป็น carbon free เพราะ Saab จะทำการปลูกต้นไม้ 17 ต้นในทุกๆคันที่ผลิตออกมา ซึ่งในความเป็นจริงนั้นพบว่า ต้องปลูกต้นไม้ 17 ในทุกๆปีที่รถถูกใช้งานถึงจะเพียงพอต่อปริมาณไอเสียที่รถปล่อย

ใครขับ RX400h บ้างครับ?