Lexus ES350 (2013)

  

CARBARN | Lexus ES350 (2013) | For the first time, Lexus ES is available with a hybrid drive Lexus. With the 2.5-liter four-cylinder Atkinson cycle, the votes should win ES300h EPA fuel economy of about 40 miles per gallon city, 39 miles per gallon highway and 39 miles per gallon combined. ES300h produces 200 horsepower total system. The new low-friction engine uses a flexible power management and high compression ratio (12.5:1) to improve overall efficiency. Without the belt design helps improve fuel efficiency and overall reliability. Sequential six-speed automatic transmission with electronically controlled asset intelligence (ECT-i) provides improved driving performance, efficiency and speed changes. 

 

Materials with a low coefficient of friction to further improve efficiency and help ES350 estimated EPA fuel economy 21 miles per gallon city, 31 miles per gallon highway and 24 miles per gallon combined. And the Lexus ES350 and the mode selector is ES300h training. Sport mode increases the transmission and steering response, as well as ES300h, IP monitor changes hybrid for the tachometer. Changes to the suspension, stiffer chassis and quick ratio steering rovides excellent maneuverability, accuracy of the new 2013 Lexus ES. The revised rear suspension geometry and improved damping characteristics of shock absorbers for improved comfort.

 
Air flow is smoothed out under the car, improving stability and fuel economy and reduce drag. ES will come standard with 215/55R17 tires with low rolling resistance on the wheels 17 inches. Lexus ES350 offers an optional high-gloss 17-inch wheels, and the first time, 18-inch glossy alloy. An array of standard safety, affordable and help the driver. Blind Spot Monitor option from the rear cross traffic alert (ATCM) for the detection of vehicles in side blind spots. Available Lane Departure Warning (LDA) technology is integrated with automatic dimming light. The available Pre-Collision System (PCS) uses radar waves to sub-mm, designed to detect certain obstacles to travel further and prepare the car for a potential collision. ES class has 10 airbags as standard equipment, including the driver and front passenger knee, front and seat-mounted airbags, side airbags and rear seat-mounted front and rear side airbags. 

The new ES has a low profile and clean lines style front to rear. Wheelbase was lengthened by a new ES 1.8 inches and overall length increased by an inch, resulting in short overhangs and a spacious interior. Lexus ES350 pipe sport exhaust double and ES300h has an exclusive design with a rear exhaust and hidden integrated rear spoiler. Wheelbase is increased by 0.8 inches, knee room and 2.8 inches, and legroom has increased by 4.1 inches. Extra leg room under the front seats and increase comfort rear passengers. Recently, a sculptor power control space 10 is standard on all models of ES. RTI also reduces eye and hand movement, helping to reduce stress and distraction. Huge efforts have been directed at the new Lexus ES350 and ES300h provide our customers with one million happy ES would be happier.

Lexus RX 450h (2013)

 

  

CARBARN | Lexus RX 450h (2013) | The new Lexus RX range is characterized by a bold treatment, in front of elegant and highly individual and will be adopted throughout the brand to strengthen the identity of the family ranges from Lexus models. Located on an upper floor from the grid, a Lexus just have a new clear lens assembly design incorporates a choice of halogen projector high intensity discharge (HID) and Light Emitting Diode (LED) headlamps. The current choice of 18 "or 19" aluminum wheels is expanded with the addition of a new design of the wheels 19 "alloy wheels, and four new colors are available off-Satin Gold, Burgundy Red, Midnight Blue and Sienna Brown, bringing the choice of 10 colors available in total.

 

Further expand the appeal of 'crossover' the spacious cockpit, luxurious and technologically advanced dual-zone, the new RX interior features a choice of color combinations, new finishes in good condition, a wheel, a new instrument panel and a second revised Generation Remote Touch interface (RTI). Add to the choice of interior color combinations available, Saddle Tan, and F-SPORT exclusive designs and White Black Grey Ivory join the existing black and gray line-up. The choice of finishing pads also increased, luxury and classic dark gray walnut board completed with the addition of modern eye, bird, dark gray and silver finish F-SPORT exclusive.

 

Your profile variable allows a relaxed grip and turns soft. Wood Finishing Wheels are now available with heated board. The driver's instrument binnacle versions RX 450h is equipped with a new indicator of the hybrid system design features clearly delineated, Eco-Office, and feeding grounds. New ambient lighting changes based on these driving conditions and driving mode selected. Will terminate if the needle enters the feed zone. In Sport mode, the ambient light remains red all the time. The range of new model RX is equipped with a second ring of generation of remote interface (RTI).  F Sport versions of the new RX is immediately recognizable by the aggressive front design very unique style. The front bumper that incorporates larger than a vertical section lower than the 'axis' of the grid structure of the family Lexus.

 

Incorporating a full-width spoiler, aerodynamic stability for high speed high, home of the ends of the lower bumper, fog burned deeply recessed. Upper and lower grilles feature a sporty mesh design SPORT F-specific. In profile, the F Sport models can be identified by a unique alloy wheels 19 "and the front wing colored badging SPORT F. F Sport models further benefit side of the damper system performance, which is designed to absorb and minimize unwanted vibrations of the body, providing a linear feel more and contribute to driving comfort. Instead of the conventional fixed support, the system has a supply shock connects the front suspension towers left and right front and a rear bumper that connects the left and right sides of the rear lower back panel. With a construction similar to a typical monotube suspension damper, the damper front and rear series of different performance depending on the variations in the rigidity of the body noise, vibration and its surroundings, improving its ability to absorb torsion of the body, and bending vibrations thin.

 

Lexus RX 350 (2012)

 

  

CARBARN | Lexus RX 350 (2012) | Catering to the majority is good business practice. The 2012 Lexus RX 350 offers all of that in a well-built package.  Fitted with fine leather, richly finished wood trim and top-notch materials, the RX 350's handsome cabin upholds the Lexus tradition, as does the hushed and plush ride. Although it does not offer a third-row seat option, the RX 350 provides plenty of space for five passengers.

The navigation system, for example, features Lexus' Remote Touch interface utilizes a mouselike That controller with tactile feedback - a more intuitive setup than what you'll find in competing vehicles. Also tempting buyers are rear-seat video screens and the superb Mark Levinson sound system. As impressive as the 2012 Lexus RX 350 is, it faces worthy rivals. The five-seat 2012 Lexus RX 350 is a midsize luxury crossover SUV that's Offered in one well-appointed trim level.

Standard features include 18-inch alloy wheels, foglights, heated outside mirrors, keyless ignition / entry, eight-way power front seats, a power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, second-row seats slide and recline That, cloth upholstery, wood interior trim, dual-zone automatic climate control, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity and a nine-speaker sound system with a six-CD changer, an auxiliary audio jack, an iPod / USB interface and satellite radio. The Appearance package includes 19-inch wheels and blacked-out headlight trim. The Sports package also includes 19-inch wheels as well as a sport-tuned suspension and Lexus' Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system. The Premium package adds a sunroof, auto-dimming exterior mirrors, leather upholstery, a power rear liftgate, driver-seat memory settings and a rear-seat armrest.

The Premium package is required for the Addition of the Comfort, Luxury and Navigation packages. The Comfort package adds heated and ventilated front seats, bi-xenon adaptive headlights with automatic high beams, rain-sensing wipers and an upgraded 12-speaker sound system. The Luxury package includes 19-inch wheels, power-retractable outside mirrors, upgraded leather seating, a right-hand sideview camera, a wood and leather steering wheel and extendable front seat cushions. The Navigation package features a hard-drive-based navigation system (with real-time traffic and voice control), Lexus' Remote Touch interface, a back-up camera, Bluetooth Increased functionality and the Enform Telematics enhanced features.

Individual options include front and rear parking sensors, a premium Mark Levinson surround-sound audio system, a dual-screen DVD rear-entertainment system, a head-up display and adaptive cruise control paired with the Pre-Collision System (which primes the brakes and tightens the seatbelts if a collision is imminent).  The EPA estimates fuel economy at 18 mpg city/25 mpg highway and 21 mpg combined for the FWD model, making models with AWD 18/24/20 mpg. Equipped with the optional towing package, the RX 350 can pull up to 3.500 pounds.

Lexus 200h CT (2012)

 

  

CARBARN | Lexus 200h CT (2012) | The Leather Package adds rain-sensing wipers, leather upholstery, auto-dimming side mirrors and driver-seat memory settings. The Navigation package adds a hard-drive-based navigation system (with real-time traffic and voice control), the Lexus Remote Touch interface, a back-up camera, Bluetooth Increased functionality and Lexus Enform Telematics Also available for the Premium trim is the F Sport Special Edition That package includes unique wheels, a sport-tuned suspension, a larger rear spoiler, a mesh grille and unique upholstery. Stand-alone options include LED headlamps and adaptive cruise control with a pre-collision system.

The 2012 Lexus CT 200h is a premium compact four-door hatchback comes in base That and Premium trim levels. Standard equipment on base models includes 17-inch wheels, heated side mirrors, keyless ignition / entry, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, a 10-way power-adjustable driver seat, dual-zone climate control, premium vinyl upholstery, Bluetooth (with audio streaming) and a six-speaker sound system with a CD player, satellite radio and auxiliary audio / USB jacks. The Premium model adds heated front seats and a sunroof. A number of option packages are available for the Premium trim.

The upside, though, is stellar fuel economy, since the EPA estimates fuel economy at 43 mpg city/40 mpg highway and 42 mpg in combined driving. Standard safety equipment on the 2012 Lexus 200h CT includes antilock disc brakes, stability and traction control, front and rear side airbags, side curtain airbags and dual front knee airbags. In Edmunds brake testing, the CT's performance was acceptable, with the car stopping from 60 mph in 120 feet. Driver-focused touches abound within the cockpit. The shifter sits high on the angled center stack, within easy reach of the driver, and Lexus Remote Touch controller's stellar governs the navigation system.

  

Lexus GS 450h

  

CARBARN | Lexus GS 450h | The Lexus brand injects passion and drama into its styling language. The GS sedan's evolving new look has settled into a low, stretched shape with a long hood, a set-back greenhouse, and short rear deck. With That lines are clean and fluid, this car expresses simplicity and class simultaneously. The GS's sleek shape combines with engineering focused on reducing aerodynamic turbulence Beneath the car, to Reduced-drag. This results in a quieter interior and Greater fuel efficiency.

The GS features advanced high-intensity-discharge headlights with an available system automatically compensates That headlight aim for different passenger loads. The power-adjustable mirrors have de-fogging heat elements, and fast-acting LEDs are used in the rear brake lights. The GS also offers rain-sensing wipers and 18-inch wheels available. For 2008, the GS 450h the which receives minor updates include a new front fascia, revised grille, and integrated turn signals in the side mirrors.

Designed around the cockpit, the GS Gives the driver every possible creature comfort. That starts with a highly-bolstered 10-way power adjustable driver's seat with heat, complimented by a wood-trimmed, thick-rimmed, electric tilt / telescoping steering wheel. The dash, laden in handsome wood trim, houses a sophisticated instrument panel. Buttons and controls are very ergonomic and offer soft-touch electronic actuation. The face of the center console is a seven-inch electronic screen with touch-screen controls, the which Operates the audio system, climate control, and optional navigation system with backup camera. Unlike the frustrating features of i-Drive from BMW, this system makes navigating through the Submenus simplistic and straight-forward. Furthermore, voice recognition makes the system a hands-free experience.

Passenger safety for the GS is unparalleled. There are a total of 10 airbags, including dual-front airbags, front and rear seat-mounted side airbags, driver and front passenger knee airbags, and full-length head curtain airbags. Lexus's optional Pre-Collision System activates the seatbelt pretensioners, as well as taking other safety measures an imminent collision is detected. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has Issued a top "Good" rating for Both frontal-offset and side-impact safety. The only obvious shortcoming for the GS 'interior design is trunk space. The hybrid battery pack reduced the space to 7.5 cubic feet, the which is much Smaller than other sedans of similar size.

Gearheads, take note: Formula 1 racing is now permitting the gas-electric hybrid technology in F1 Competitions. Automobile shoppers can get a taste of the F1 gas-hybrid future today-by driving the new Lexus GS 450h sedan. While it'll never compare with Formula 1 cars for speed, this gas-electric hybrid provides race-car-like acceleration and luxurious appointments in the same package. The center console's screen will from toggle to hybrid mode and display your energy consumption. See, the GS 450h is Perhaps the purest expression of power harnessed for the "no compromises" hybrid side of the ledger. Toyota mated a high-output, electric motor-generator rated at 197 horsepower with a 297-horsepower, 24-valve, 3.5-liter gasoline engine to yield the Hermes of hybrids, a 339-horsepower brute (do not ask; Toyota wizardry at work here) That motivates this 4.100-pound luxury sedan.

It's the first purely rear-wheel-drive hybrid sedan. And yet it has superlatives That transcends hybrids. Few, if any, high-horsepower luxury sedans in the world can Boast the combination of speed and quasi-economy as the GS 450h. Fewer still Boast, as this Lexus does, of being rated a Super Ultra-Low Emissions Vehicle (SULEV) in California, the which certifies a car's emissions are 90 percent cleaner than the average new car in California. The GS's sleek shape combines with engineering focused on reducing aerodynamic turbulence Beneath the car, to Reduced-drag. The GS features advanced high-intensity-discharge headlights with an available system automatically compensates That headlight aim for different passenger loads. The GS also offers rain-sensing wipers and 18-inch wheels available.



The interior of the Lexus GS 450h is opulent and plush-from the stainless-steel scuff plates, to the Buttery soft leather, to a Barrage of techno-savvy amenities. This is a world-class luxury car. Designed around the cockpit, the GS Gives the driver every possible creature comfort. Buttons and controls are very ergonomic and offer soft-touch electronic actuation. Passenger safety for the GS is unparalleled. There are a total of 10 airbags, including dual-front airbags, front and rear seat-mounted side airbags, driver and front passenger knee airbags, and full-length head curtain airbags. Lexus's optional Pre-Collision System activates the seatbelt pretensioners, as well as taking other safety measures an imminent collision is detected.  The only obvious shortcoming for the GS 'interior design is trunk space. Government fuel economy ratings for this hybrid is 22 city/25 highway. That's not bad, but Those figures compare to the gas-powered GS '19 city/27 highway.

Lexus GS 250

  

CARBARN | Lexus GS 250 | The 2013 Lexus GS 250 was Revealed today, ahead of global oh its premiere, the which Will take place at the 2011 Guangzhou motor show. The engine of the Lexus GS250 comes equipped with Dual VVT-i technology with D-4S direct injection port, and it's mated to a 6-speed sequential-shift, intelligent electronically controlled (ECT-i) automatic gearbox.

The new transmission of the GS250 offers Several driving modes, through the Drive Mode Select System.  The equipment list of Lexus's new GS 250 includes a 12.3-inch multimedia screen, an S-flow air conditioning system with water purifying technology, and Mark Levinson audio system with up to 17 speakers.

In terms of safety, equips the Lexus Gs 250 with its Pre-Crash Safety system, the Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management, the Lane Keep Assist, Blind Spot Monitor the system and Their Night Vision system. We'll have more details regarding the Lexus GS250, including pricing information, as soon as they're available.
 

 

Lexus LX 570 (2013)

  

CARBARN | Lexus LX 570 (2013) | Shape grille angled to the middle, headlamp design and the addition of LED daytime running light, the home front fog lights and rear bumper. Special rear bumper gets a protective stainless steel accents. Then the body colors previously available Twilight Gray Metallic and Golden Almond Metallic Nebula is now replaced with Medium Gray Metallic Pearl and Satin Cashmere.

Then, on Instrumens panels, air conditioning and some trim holes patterned chrome center console, but tend to be dark. The ability of four-wheel motion system (4WD) participated improved, including anti-slip devices that use a Torsen differential lock. So, when crossing the road slippery or uneven road, both wheels spinning simultaneously. For front and rear traction is divided 40-60.

Plus Active Traction Control (A-TRAC), which function to prevent all four wheels lose traction due to spin because of the excessive power of the engine or during braking.

For safety, in addition equipped with Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (vehicle speed is reduced so there is cash in front of a speeding car slow), LX570 is equipped with 10 air bags are scattered in all rows of passengers.

Lexus LF-LC Concept

  

CARBARN | Lexus LF-LC Concept | "The third phase, all the focus on the emotional and inspirational products," said Templin. Exposed too, has never existed before cars with glass to glass pillar design inspired by modern architecture.  LF-LC Interior assessed contrast to advanced technologies.

While the cockpit design rated to express openness and intuitive assessed cabin. Because, with touch screen controls, allowing drivers to operate the control buttons without changing position or turning his eyesight.

Lexus LF-LC system fitted with audio controls, temperature controls and navigation, and connection with keyboards (keyboards) touch-screen pop-ups. The middle layer of the tachometer, while the top tachometer, speedomter and EcometerOne of the concept car a very attractive premium and introduced on the first day "Press Day" yesterday was the NAIAS 2012 Lexus LF-LC Concept. LF-LC is a hybrid Sport Coupe 2 +2. According to the United States release of the Lexus, LF-LC Concept is designed at Calty, California, United States, created specifically to exploit the design of the Lexus in the future The concept that we present today at the Detroit show Lexus design revolution that began with CT and GS, "said Mark Templin, Lexus vice president and GM Group. Further, this Lexus rear lights design by the tail of a jet turbine (afterburner).
 

2012 Lexus LF-LC Hybrid Sport Coupe Concept

Lexus Unveils Sleek Hybrid 2+2 Sport Coupe Design Concept at North American International Auto Show

• Design study created at Calty to explore future of Lexus design
• Exterior highlighted by dynamic shapes, intriguing details and expansive use of glass
• Interior features high technology set off by organic shapes and materials

DETROIT, Mich., Jan. 9, 2012 – Lexus today unveiled a new design concept for a hybrid 2+2 sport coupe at the North American International Auto Show. Showcasing the future design direction for Lexus with an emphasis on a driver-focused vehicle, the LF-LC concept will be at the Lexus display through January 22.

“The concept we’re showing here in Detroit continues the Lexus design revolution started with the CT and GS,” said Mark Templin, Lexus group vice president and general manager. “The concept hybrid 2+2 liberates the idea of a sport coupe and pushes the boundaries of performance, style and technology.”
Challenged by the Lexus Center in Japan to come up with a design for a future hybrid sport coupe concept, the company’s Calty design studio in Newport Beach, Calif., sought to advance the redefinition of Lexus with emotive, avant-garde beauty and advanced technology, yet remain within reach for premium buyers.

“Our entire studio worked to develop this beautiful interpretation of Lexus originality,” said Kevin Hunter, president of Calty. “The LF-LC concept embodies our vision of what a premium sport coupe could be.”

The LF-LC displays the new Lexus design language in its bold interpretation of the signature Lexus spindle grille and rear architecture. Sumptuous curves blend smoothly into dynamic angles, creating an inviting display of lines, shadows and corners.
Framed by a deep aluminum surround, the mesh pattern of the spindle grille takes 3D sculpture form, and functional air intakes in the bottom corners of the grille show the fusion of distinctive style and engineering functionality.

Daytime running lights are shaped like an “L” while the vertical fog lamps utilize a fading dot matrix pattern to suggest a sense of movement.

The profile of the LF-LC creates a powerful, dynamic silhouette that is unmistakably that of a serious driver’s car. The lines of the vehicle emphasize direction and motion.

The concept car’s glass roof features a lightweight, cantilevered pillar with a glass-to-glass juncture inspired by modern architecture. A rising, kick-up window graphic and polished aluminum trim are unexpected elements. Overall, the greenhouse design enhances driver visibility while adding to the sleek lines of the car.

The dynamic cabin lines are carried through to the rear deck, sculpturally integrating the spindle grille theme to echo the front of the vehicle while creating a unique sense of width. The tail lamps, inspired by the look of a jet afterburner at take-off, use inner lighting to create a remarkable sense of depth. The rear is also fitted with fog lamps, repeating the fading dot matrix pattern of the front fog lamps. Visually, the integrated tail and fog lamps repeat the “L” shape and lead the viewer’s eye down to the powerful Lexus quad exhaust.
The interior of the LF-LC concept vehicle contrasts the cool ambience of advanced technology with soft textures and organic shapes to create a driver-focused synergy of form and function. The cockpit expresses a feeling of both openness and security. The driver is enveloped by deeply scooped side panels and a high, curved console. The effect is to focus the driver zone on the controls and on the road.

Based on Lexus’ commitment to creating an intuitive driving experience, the LF-LC incorporates a remote touch-screen device that allows the driver to comfortably operate controls without shifting position or altering line-of-sight.

Twin 12.3-inch LCD screens provide information and navigation display. Inputs come from a touch-screen control board piercing the swept center console. Used to control the audio system, climate controls and navigation, the interface features a pop-up touch-screen keyboard for more complex entries. Similar touch-screen surfaces on each door operate the windows, mirrors, seat adjustments and personal entertainment settings.

Set directly in front of the driver, multi-level meters layer analog and LCD technologies. The bottom layer displays temperature, fuel and the background for the Eco meter. The middle layer is the tachometer mechanical center ring. The topmost layer provides indicators for the tachometer, speedometer and Eco meter.
Surfaces throughout the cabin are presented in a combination of smooth leather and suede, with brushed metal trim and wood accents. The lightweight, race-inspired front seats are formed of multiple layers and repeat the interlacing curves that define the cabin interior. The racing style steering wheel is also a lightweight design and contains integrated controls and start button. Beautiful stitch details emphasize organic movement throughout the interior.

The front-engine, rear-wheel drive LF-LC features Advanced Lexus Hybrid Drive, delivering both driving performance and fuel efficiency.

“This thought-provoking design exercise is a stunning expression of creativity,” said Templin. “Combined with a next-generation hybrid powertrain, this concept promises a rewarding driving experience that is also kinder to the environment.”

The 2011 Lexus RX 350 Review notes

Base Price: $40,250

As-Tested Price: $52,775
Drivetrain: 3.5-liter V6; AWD, six-speed automatic
Output: 275 hp @ 6,200 rpm, 257 lb-ft @ 4,700 rpm
Curb Weight: 4,343 lb
Fuel Economy (EPA/AW): 20/18.4 mpg

The 2011 Lexus RX 350 is the near-luxury crossover to beat, targeted by the likes of the Cadillac SRX and the Lincoln MKX from the United States, the Acura MDX and the Infiniti FX from Japan, and the BMW X5 and the Mercedes-Benz M-class from Europe. C’mon, Mercedes, where’s the X? It can’t be a crossover without an X, right?

Anyway, suffice it to say that the Lexus has a big bull’s-eye on its tailgate right now. Having spent seat time in nearly all of the above-mentioned utes, I can tell you that the RX remains competitive, but just barely. Fortunately for Lexus, a few simple changes will help tremendously.

From a ride-and-handling perspective, the RX 350 handles itself just fine. There are no surprises, nor is there engagement. That’s just how the vast majority of Lexus customers like their cars. Ditto the powertrain: perfectly adequate, nothing to see here, please enjoy the stereo.
Options: Dual-screen rear-seat entertainment with navigation including rear-seat DVD system with wireless headphones, a/v inputs, 120V power outlet and navigation with voice command, XM weather and traffic, backup camera, remote starter ($5,005); luxury package including semianiline leather trim, one-touch open/close moonroof, retractable electrochromic heated outside mirrors, wood and leather steering wheel/shift knob, wide-angle camera, 19-inch alloy wheels with all-season tires, power rear door, illuminated scuff plates, headlamp cleaners ($4,900); comfort package including rain-sensing wipers with mist control, high-intensity headlamps, adaptive front lighting system and driver/passenger heated and ventilated seats ($1,950); 12-speaker audio system with in-dash six-DVD changer ($610); cargo net ($59).

Lexus GS 350 (2013 )

 

  

CARBARN  | Lexus GS 350 (2013 ) | The 2013 Lexus GS 350 is a much-needed step in a new direction for Lexus.  Lexus claims a 0-60 mph time of around 5.7 seconds, the which is just as fast as the current-generation GS. The electronically limited top speed gets a slight bump up to 142 mph, from 140 mph. Two other GS models Will be unveiled by the time the 350 hits dealer showrooms in early 2012 - a Hybrid, and an F-Sport.  The F-Sport Will feature the same engine as the regular GS 350 but with 19-inch wheels, sticky tires, bigger brakes, variable-rate steering, and an adaptive suspension.

Lexus officials indicated the V-8 models Will be dropped from the lineup, with the hybrid serving as its de facto replacement. Yoshihiko Kanamori's chief engineer says the 2013 GS 450h hybrid outperform the current will of the gene V-8-powered GS 460. Since Lexus did not Spend its whole development budget on engines for the GS, it Had plenty of money to invest in making the new car more fun to drive. Key to the fun quotient are the GS 'four selectable driving modes, two of the which have sportiness in mind. In Addition to Standard mode, the GS has an ECO mode that, Lexus says, "revises the throttle mapping, seat heating, and climate control systems for better fuel economy." As an added bonus, in ECO mode the GS 'gauge lighting changes to a cool blue.

SPORT S SPORT S + builds upon by firming up the suspension, tightening up the steering, and remapping the stability control system to allow more aggressive driving. Both SPORT SPORTS S + and S-meter feature lighting in a Fierce-looking red. The 2013 GS looks much more aggressive than the previous model. The rear bumper and underbody were the resource persons designed to help the GS slice through the water while remaining firmly Planted to the road. Perhaps the GS 350's most prominent exterior features are the twin blade-like chrome strips That flank the trapezoidal grille. Like in the rest of the car, Lexus says aerodynamics play a key role here, as the grille is designed to Improve the flow of water around the car.

Inside, Lexus mixes up the GS 350's interior a bit. Lexus said it changed the driver's seating position so That the driver has "Increased comfort, better forward visibility, and overall command of the road." And while the exterior dimensions of the GS are virtually the same, Lexus Increased Both cabin and trunk space. The new GS features added head, leg-and knee room, as well as more foot space, compared with the old GS. Trunk space is Increased by 25 percent, with a Wider and deeper trunk opening. There's also a high-resolution 8-inch display centrally located in the instrument panel. The GS incorporates tech favorites like Pandora, iHeartRadio, Facebook, Yelp, and Open Table, Among others.

Lexus also loaded up the GS with safety technology, including a system That uses the car's radar cruise control to warn the driver about objects on the road, and an infrared camera to detect if the driver has noticed an object or not. If no further action is taken, the GS will from the start braking 2 seconds before impact, Lexus says, to help to lessen the severity of the collision. Lexus Will also offer night vision, a head-up display, blind spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and Lane Keep Assist. Toyota CEO Akio Toyoda Will be taking over the helm at the Lexus, and played a big part in the GS project, proudly telling us, "This car is amazing to drive." We hope so, as the GS represents an Important Crossroads for the brand.