Lexus LFA Nurburgring

A Lexus criou um modelo ainda mais exclusivo o Lexus LFA Nurburgring. Que é uma versão especial alusiva à participação do super-esportivo nas últimas edições das 24 Horas de Nurburgring.

Ele é limitado em 50 exemplares com o pacote esportivo e é diferenciado por novos elementos aerodinâmicos que visam garantir que o LFA ficará colodo no chão, o pacote traz um defletor traseiro fixo e defletores laterais frontais. A suspensão foi ajustada para ficar mais rígida e tem pneus são de competição.

A transmissão foi ajustada para reduzir o tempo na troca de velocidade deduzindo de 0,20 segundos para 0,15 segundos. O Lexus LFA Nurburgring faz dos 0 aos 100 km/h em 3,7 segundos chegando a velocidade máxima chega aos 325 km/h.

Arrancada entre Lexus LFA e Nissan GT-R

LFA o novo superesportivo da Lexus

A Lexus vem desenvolvendo o LFA a quatro anos, e agora apresentou sua versão definitiva.

A versão definitiva do Lexus LFA foi apresentada hoje (21/10/09) no Salão de Tóquio e mantém o designar do protótipo de origem.

O LFA terá como concorrentes Ferraris e Lamborghinis, mas não deve fazer feio. Com um motor V10 de 4.8 litros com 560 cv ele vai de 0 a 100 km/h em apenas 3,7 segundos, atingindo a velocidade máxima de 325 km/h. O câmbio é sequencial de seis marchas, que tem quatro modos de condução.

Ele pesa apenas 1480 kg sua estrutura foi feita com materiais leves como a fibra de carbono medindo 4,50 metros de comprimento 1,89 metros de largura e 1,22 metros de altura.

Serão fabricadas somente 500 unidades com preço de 380 mil euros mais ou menos R$ 990 mil.

Clique nas fotos para ampliar

Mais detalhes do conceito Lexus LF-Ch

Como já foi mostrado aqui o conceito Lexus LF-Ch será mostrado por intero no Salão de Frankfurt.

Porém a Lexus liberou mais imagens do conceito Lexus LF-Ch, que apesar de ser apenas um carro conceito segundo a montadora o seu próximo compacto, previsto para 2010, herdará muito dele.

Clique nas imagens para ampliar

Primeira imagem do híbrido da Lexus o LF-Ch

A foto ao lado é a primeira imagem do compacto da Lexus que deve ser lançado no próximo ano.

O LF-Ch deve fazer sua primeira aparição ou publico já este ano do Salão de Frankfurt que acontece do dia 17 a 27 de setembro.

IS C "F-Sport"

A Lexus resolveu alargar a sua linha desportiva "F-Sport" ao IS C, a variante coupé-cabrio da actual geração IS que chega a Portugal dentro de meses.

A linha "F-Sport" é composto por jantes de liga leve especificas, diversos elementos aerodinâmicos, o principal destaque vai para saias laterais, spoiler’s dianteiros e traseiros, novo sistema de travagem e novos sistemas de escape.

A linha "F-Sport" da Lexus não está disponível em Portugal. Nos países em que é disponibilizada, comercializa os componentes nos concessionários oficiail.

A variante coupé-cabrio da gama IS chega ao mercado Português no decorrer do Verão, exclusivamente associado à motorização a gasolina de 2,5 litros com 208 cavalos de potência.
Fonte Carros.pt

Lexus LF-Xh Concept

The Lexus LF-Xh Hybrid Concept on display at the 40th Tokyo Motor Show 2007 previews what the next generation Lexus RX- luxury SUV will probably look like.


Based on the Lexus' design philosophy of L-finesse and equipped with an advanced hybrid system dubbed "Lexus Hybrid Drive", the all-new RX of the future seeks to achieve outstanding driving performance, quiet operation, high fuel efficiency and low emissions. The powertrain is a combo of a large displacement V6 petrol engine coupled with a more efficient electric motor, driving all four wheels (4WD).

Riding on a wheelbase of 2850mm with a body measuring 4.8m in length, it is rumoured that the next generation RX will spawn a 7-seater version, much like the Mazda CX-9.

Lexus IS250: Brief Driving Impression

By Dr Long

There are many reasons why the IS 250 is a much anticipated junior executive from Lexus. Firstly, it is not a secret that Toyota Motor Corp. built this compact sedan to challenge the BMW 325i primarily and even for that matter, the Mercedes-Benz C230 V6. Secondly, it is one of the rare Japanese sedan of this class to have a front-engine/rear wheel drive layout. Last but not the least its premium pricing versus once again, the other Teutonic junior execs.

Hallmark of any Lexus is the 'dead' silence experience of refinement. I must say the IS 250 cabin must be one of the quietest around, possibly even better than the GS300. The 2.5 V6 is just as sonically muted, picking up revs with sheer smoothness and finesse. Pleasantly torquey too for a normally aspirated motor. I can safely vouch for the lower decibels of rolling noise from the Bridgestones here, as opposed to the Yokohamas shod on its elder brethren, the GS300.

Deserving a compulsory mention is the superbly pliant and comfortable suspension of the IS despite its shorter wheelbase relative to the GS. In the IS250 everything just felt so well-oiled, silent and refined in execution. Lexus engineers’ attention to details is amazing, an example being the extendable padded door pockets with a water bottle holder.

It was a short drive and it will be unfair to pass a verdict on the IS’ handling. While the steering is accurate with just-adequate feel, the initial impression was that the rack weighting was more on the lighter side, as sampled on a few occasions at three digit velocities. Tracking stability is acceptable but the overall feedback from the chassis and suspension is perhaps a little soft and light. All for the goodness of ride comfort and super compliant damping I guess.

There you have it, a very brief driving impression of the new IS250 from Lexus Malaysia.

Have a good weekend, wherever you may be!

Related post:
http://for-wheels.blogspot.com/2007/09/lexus-malaysia-introduces-new-is250.html

You may want to read this:
http://for-wheels.blogspot.com/2007/05/full-test-drive-lexus-gs-300.html

Lexus Malaysia introduces new IS250

Click on images to enlargeLexus Malaysia has launched the IS 250 just recently. The second generation IS 250 carries the luxury Japanese automaker’s L-Finesse philosophy creating dynamism based on the visual contrast between simplicity and elegance.

By this, the designers have combined convex surfaces with concave ones, giving a much sculpted appearance to the entire design, while achieving a low aerodynamic efficiency of 0.27 Cd. The low drag resistance is aided by close attention to under-body airflow management, which also minimizes lift forces at cruising speed.

Powering the IS 250 is a new DOHC 24-valve 2.5-litre V6 petrol engine featuring Toyota’s D4 direct-injection technology which affords this unit the highest injection pressure - amongst petrol engines - at 130 bar. The new engine punches out 205bhp at 6400rpm and a class-leading 252Nm of torque at 4800rpm. The adoption of D-4 technology reduces the intake mixture temperature, which allows for a higher compression ratio, resulting in both enhanced power output and fuel efficiency. Interestingly, fuel requirement for this high output engine is RON95 even though it has an exceptionally high compression ratio of 12:1.

Amazingly, the new V6 weighs in at 180kg, which is no heavier than the in-line 6, 2.0L motor used in the earlier IS model. The new petrol motor employs an aluminium cylinder block and intake manifold, and a resin-based intake chamber. Further weight saving and engine compactness are achieved through the installation of the water and oil pumps within the chain cover.

The application of Dual VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing-intelligent) on both intake and exhaust camshafts also significantly enhance both low-end and top-end torque as well as contribute to a reduction in exhaust emissions and better starting performance.

A new 6-AT Sequential Transmission with Super ECT transfer power and torque to the IS250’ rear axle. For manual gear selection (override) paddle-shift controls are mounted directly on the steering wheel, eliminating the need to modify steering wheel grip, even when busy cornering. Alternatively, +/- gear selection can also be performed through the conventional gearlever if the driver so desire. AI-SHIFT Sport Driving Control (an Artificial Intelligence control program) automatically changes the gear shifting schedule according to road conditions and driving style. Meanwhile, Super ECT incorporates uphill/downhill shift control and a flex lock-up system for smoother performance. While an enhanced lock-up timing control can improve fuel efficiency in 5th and 6th gears, an automatic transmission fluid warmer further improves fuel economy during cold starts.

Lexus is noted not just for luxury and premium quality but also superlative comfort and convenience. Every little detail to provide pleasurable motoring in the IS 250 has been considered and refined, from the ventilated seats to the Optitron instruments panel to the climate control system. Even the audio system - with 14 speakers - is by Mark Levinson, one of the top-end brands for audio systems.

The IS 250’s new front and rear suspension system is claimed to offer a higher threshold for more spirited driving. The suspension designs optimize dynamic wheel alignment to help provide precise, confident handling and maximum tyre grip. At the front, the double-wishbone arrangement with a high-mount upper control arm uses high-strength steel and aluminium suspension components to keep unsprung weight low. The lower arm uses a large, liquid-filled bushing at the rear to minimize vibration and harshness.

A newly developed multi-link rear set up enables precise control of suspension geometry in all dynamic conditions. The results are reduced body roll and improved anti-lift or anti-squat. Large 10-spoke 17-inch alloy rims have a distinctive design which presents a solid and powerful image to the IS 250. To ensure optimum transmission of power to the tarmac and higher grip, the IS 250 is fitted with wider tyres at the rear i.e. 245/45R17, while the front rubbers are 225/45R17. Braking ability is just as reassuring with large diameter discs all around, hooked up to ABS and VSC (Vehicle Stability Control) systems.

The headlamps also have an Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS) which lets the driver see around corners. It estimates where the car will be in three seconds' time, using sensors that monitor the speed and the angle of the front wheels, altering the angle of the headlights in that direction. The rear lights are illuminated by LEDs which are longer-lasting and brighter, lighting up faster than conventional bulbs to quicker alert drivers in following vehicles. At the rear bumper, dual tailpipes provide a dynamic and sporty intent for this compact executive Lexus sedan.

Airbags are provided for both the driver and front occupant. The driver’s airbag is designed to inflate at one of three different speeds depending on the conditions (severity, seat position, etc) at the time of the collision. Airbags are also provided at knee level to give additional protection. Additional curtain airbag systems are also provided over the windows which will deploy when there is an impact from the sides, giving extra protection to front and rear passengers.

The new IS250 retails for RM305,000 (excluding roadtax and insurance). For Wheels has had a brief driving impression of this new junior executive aimed at challenging the BMW 325i and C230 (2.5) V6. Look out for it tomorrow.

To watch the new IS250 video:

http://for-wheels.blogspot.com/2007/09/lexus-is250-video.html

Full Test Drive: Lexus GS 300

By Dr Long

With the debut of LS 400 in 1989, Lexus is one luxury brand that has come a long way, despite being a relatively young marque. After all, its parent company, Toyota Motor Corporation is the most successful company in automotive history, toppling even General Motors (GM) for the top spot in sales for 1Q 2007. More significantly, Lexus is North America’s best-selling line of luxury vehicles and has topped J.D. Power and Associates Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) for 11 years running.

So, how does the new GS 300 measure up? Into its third generation - the first GS was introduced in 1993 - this luxury saloon looks every bit able to live up to the badge it wears.

Click on images to enlarge

Interior/Exterior:

Taking a leaf from Lexus’ current L-finesse design philosophy, the GS 300 has a swooping roofline running seamlessly into a very sloping rear screen. Even the A-pillar is bent with an arc, blending into the roof. The broad-shouldered flanks are muscular, plus a sweeping belt line conveys fluid dynamism. It is the frontal visage that is most imposing, what more with the chromed highlights of its grille and headlight frames. These elements contrasted very elegantly with our metallic black test car.

Interiorly, there’s little to fault. The GS 300 is loaded with technology gadgets, like the touch-screen EMV System, Smart (keyless) Entry System and upscale amenities e.g. the mind-blowing Mark Levinson 14-speaker AV system. However, this ICE-system LCD screen will not display video while car is on the move i.e. the parking brake is released. While this is thoughtful and in the interest of safety, we reckon this is well executed if this GS has one or two additional LCD screens for the rear passengers. There are none mounted behind both front headrests. It is redundant to have to watch DVDs only when car is parked.

Cabin materials were typically of high quality, and everything was put together with exacting fit and precision. It offers acres of space just about everywhere including a deep boot that can swallow up two to three golf bags. Legrooms are generous at both front and back, which is better than even say, a Mercedes-Benz E-Class, afforded from an almost class-standard 2850mm wheelbase.

Switches and stalks operate with a solid-tactile feedback that feels just right. The Optitron meters housed in triple pods were clear and very bright. However, the speedometer could do with fewer scales or fonts to lessen clutter as it is not a very generously-sized dial.
Apparently there is a light sensor at the third brake light that determines these LED electro-luminence dials brightness and even clarity of its lens cover (Electronic Chromatic Device). Strangely, it is this sensor integrated into the third brake light that make it looked unnaturally high-mounted on stilts, just above the rear speakers parcel shelf. The tail lights are surprisingly non-LED items, baffling for a model from the luxury division of the Toyota group of companies.

The leather seats are comfy, soft yet supportive and fully electric with memory, offering 10-ways adjustment for the driver and eight for the front passenger. Both are ventilated too with twin in-built blowing fans each. Cool. The front seat central sliding console which slides open two-layers in succession is very clever and well executed, even better than the E-Class.
The dual-zone climate control proved very effective in our hot climate. Even at full blast, the AC blowers were pleasantly quiet, unlike its German competitors. Hats off to the Japanese in-car cooling system!

Engine/Transmission

This luxury sports sedan draws power from a 3.0L V6 engine (3GR-FE) with Dual VVT-i (variable valve timing on both intake and exhaust side). The all-aluminium powerplant is capable of 228bhp at 6,200rpm and 300Nm at 4,400rpm. Torque is transmitted to the rear wheels via a 6-speed Super ECT auto ‘box. Idling of the quad-cam V6 is so silent and vibration-free that it begs you to check the rev counter just to see that it is fired-up!

First Drive Impression

The Lexus engineers must have slapped on abundant of sound-absorbent and insulating materials while constructing the GS 300. It is ‘eerily’ silent in the cabin, with only the occasional high-pitched exhaust note of a passing ‘kap-chai’ and some road noise from the standard tyres. Then again, maybe it was so silent that we are ‘targeting’ the incessant droning noise from the rolling wheels, especially at cruising speed. With a co-efficient of drag at a low 0.27, the GS 300 slices through the atmosphere with hardly any wind noise.

Driving a bigger capacity car is always a more laid-back and relaxing experience. The GS 300 is no exception. With 300 Nm of torque available and 90% of it on tap from just 2,200rpm onwards, low speed tractability e.g. in city traffic is excellent. Should your right foot become heavier, this 1.6tonne vehicle will still sprint away at a moment’s notice. As expected, we have managed to clock 7.8seconds for the century sprint. Power delivery is just so refined, smooth and quiet throughout the rev range. Flick the gear lever to the right and you are into ‘S’ mode. This enables more spirited driving with only 4 gears, while still in automatic. Hereafter, nudging the lever backwards brings about smooth downshift of cogs, while manual up-shift is by forward motion with quick engagement into higher gears. Splendid.

Ride is mostly supple even over poor road conditions, with the suspension only caught a little too soft at higher speed over undulating surfaces. A tad more tautness and quicker incisiveness in suspension rebound-control would be better appreciated. Due to the slightly ‘softer and busier’ rebound damping tendencies, the car was a wee bit unsettled (vertically) at highway speed. Elsewhere, body roll and forward/rearward pitching movements were well tamed by the dampers.

On winding roads, grip and tracking stability were confidence inspiring. Be courteous with the throttle and smooth with the rack input, the GS tackles most bends faithfully. Should you be a little too ambitious and lose it into an apex, Lexus’ VSC (Vehicle Stability Control) will rein you back to safety. Having said that, the Electric Power Steering (EPS) still felt a little numb and light for keen drivers, even though it does weigh up considerably at highway cruise. Maybe a set of wider or uprated tyres would liven things up a notch or two.

Having noticed that all brake rotors are ventilated and of decent sizes (17” front and 16” rear), this is where this Japanese luxury marque upped the Teutonic stalwarts at their game. These ABS+EBD+BA items are very biting, fade-free and great to modulate even at high speed.

Conclusion

In the company of the Mercedes-Benz E280, BMW 530i and Audi A6 3.0 FSI, the GS 300 is never caught wanting in specifications, features and performance. The exterior styling while sporty gets a thumb-up for classy presence too. It is spacious, comfortable and drives well. Add in an outstanding reliability record plus impeccable sales and after-sales service standards and it's no surprise all three generations of the GS 300 proved popular with motoring community the world over. For those looking for something different and perhaps just a little less flashy, the Lexus GS 300 is a real probable choice.

Specifications:

Lexus GS 300

Engine: 2,995cc V6, 24-valve, Dual VVT-i
Max power: 228bhp @ 6,200rpm
Max torque: 300Nm @ 4,400rpm
Transmission: 6-Speed Super ECT with AI-Shift
Acceleration: 0 - 100km/h: 7.8secs (as tested)
Top speed: 235 km/h (claimed)
Features: ABS, EBD, BA, VSC, TRC, EPS, HID Headlamps with Adaptive Front Lighting (active cornering light), 10 SRS Airbags, LED cabin/wing mirror illumination, Dual Front Ventilated Seats, Smart Key Access.
Price: RM403,000 OTR w/o insurance

What we like: Built quality, fit and finish. NVH refinements. AV system. Smooth, silent and powerful V6.
What we wish for: More tautness and control in suspension rebound damping. LED brake lights. Lesser road noise.
Verdict: Watch out Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz.

*The report was published in New Sunday Times - Car.Bikes.Trucks (CBT) on 6th April 2007.