Lexus LS Reviews

It's hard to see what's happening under the camouflage, but Lexus is aiming for Audi-style quality and BMW-style driving dynamics with a car that's definitely going to be much more adventurous in design.  

The nameplates applied for are NX 200t and NX 300h. Following Lexus traditions, the X designates an SUV, the 200t suggests a turbo engine – most likely the new 2.0-litre -- and the 300h would be a hyb

Supercars stretch alluringly alongside family sedans. Auto exotica co-exist with humble hatchbacks. A good motor show is like that. Having been privy to every exhibit on view at the Australian International Motor Show, Carsguide was struck afresh that AIMS serves two purposes. The first is to provide car porn, to enable you to stare wantonly without risking arrest or society's censure. The second reason -- and this, ultimately, is why car makers gather their wares in vast pavilions - is to show you the cars you're going to buy. Given this glaring polarity, there's no single list -- definitive, subjective or otherwise -- of the “best in show”. There must be two lists. This year's AIMS marks the world debut of a unique, purpose-built and probably priceless German supercar and a little French five-door that's one of the best things you can get under $20,000. Batman's very own Lamborghini V12 is just across the room from Ford's 1.0-litre mini-SUV. The world debut of a Lexus sports coupe is separated by one stand from a returning name in affordable fun, the Pulsar SSS. Take it all in. If you can't be there to see it in person, see our iPad app. If you are at Darling Harbour in Sydney over the next week, family in tow, Carsguide asks only that you remember the cars are not creches. Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Roadster  Price: $600,000 (est) Engine: 6.2-litre V8, 420kW/650Nm Thirst: 13.3L/100km Ably supported by two other special-edition AMGs, this topless, lustrous two-seater was created especially for AIMS. As with the Jaffa C63 and SLS Coupe of 2010, it comes with unique paint itself worth $20,000. See it while you can. 'see more Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Roadster images and video' Lexus LF-FC II  Price: concept Engine: petrol-electric hybrid Thirst: N/A A mid-size coupe that retains even half the styling cues of this best-in-show contender is what's needed to shed Lexus's worthy but unexciting image. The Lexus Future-Luxury Coupe II packs a hybrid drivetrain, good for more than 370kW combined that is put to the ground via all four wheels. 'see more Lexus LF-FC II images and video' Lamborghini Aventador   Price: $754,000 Engine: 6.5-litre V12, 515kW/690Nm Thirst: 17.2L/100km This very bull-mobile appeared as Bruce Wayne's daily driver in that ultimate comic character realisation, 'The Dark Knight Rises', fitting in seamlessly with the usual array of stylised fantasy devices. It's in an all-star cast with two special Gallardos - a 550-2 Tricolore and a 570-4 Spyder Performante. 'see more Lamborghini Aventador images and video' Jaguar F-Type  Price: $250,000 (est) Engine: includes supercharged V6 Thirst: N/A Nostalgia isn't what it used to be, a lesson brought home by Ian Callum's roadster. Sure, it's a spiritual descendant of the endlessly feted E-Type but, as the alphabetical designation conveys, it's moved on in the manner of all recent Jaguars. The F-Type reminds us that Indian ownership is the best thing ever to happen to this quintessentially British brand. 'see more Jaguar F-Type images and video' Range Rover Vogue   Price: about $200,000 Engine: 4.4-litre V8 turbo diesel Thirst: 8.7L/100km From Paris in autumn to Sydney in spring, the new Rangie makes its first appearance outside Europe. A stride forward in most respects but the newcomer's most significant advance could be in what it lacks over the previous model - some 400kg. The leaner, meaner but greener turbo diesel V8 is the variant on show, complete with power tailgate and sunroof. 'see more Range Rover Vogue images and video'  

A world-first Lexus is fighting for best-in show status at the Sydney show. But, even more than that, the LF-FC II is also fighting for approval and a production future as a new mid-sized Lexus super-coupe.   A hybrid LF-LC coupe was first shown in Detroit at the start of the year, but now the idea has been tweaked for a world first unveiling at the start of AIMS. The LCII is going big in blue for Sydney, after a racy red run in Motown, and the coupe emerges as the best looking Lexus since the LF-A supercar. It also has the performance credentials to take over from the LF-A, which was developed at a time when Toyota was heavily committed to Formula 1 racing. So the LF-A got a high-revving V10 engine while the LF-FC could become a green supercar to go head-to-head with upcoming hybrid models from Porsche and Ferrari. In Australia, the LC is a high priority for Lexus as the company builds its lineup. And a new compact is coming in 2013. “We’ve pulled out all stops this year to secure a world first. The Lexus concept is an absolutely stunning vehicle and is set to be one of the drawcards of the show,” says Tony Cramb, chief executive of Lexus in Australia. He says the car – officially the Lexus Future – Luxury Coupe II has been through some fundamental changes since Detroit, although it still has a hybrid drivetrain with more than 370 kW of combined petrol-electric power, and an all-wheel- drive chassis package. “What it shows is the future Lexus design direction, the future application of Lexus Hybrid Drive, future interior design concepts, application of advanced interior technologies and Lexus interpretation for a supercar of the future,” he says. The LCII comes hard up against the preview of another Lexus concept, the LF-CC, at the Paris show last month. That one is likely to morph into an open-topped version of the upcoming replacement for the IS. For Sydney, the LCII promises another development of the latest Lexus design direction– including the “spindle grille” nose already starring on the front of the latest GS sedan range. The concept is driven by design, right down to tail lamps inspired by a jet afterburner and a cabin with two giant LCD screens ready to tap the upcoming connected- car technology from Lexus. There are also lightweight, race-inspired seats positioned ahead of a dashboard with multi-level meters that combine analogue and LCD readouts to cover everything from the aircon through to the speedometer and tachometer.  

We turn the spotlight on the car world's newest and brightest stars as we ask the questions to which you want the answers. But there's only one question that really needs answering -- would you buy one? What is it? This is the all singing, all dancing new generation medium large Lexus sedan that ushers in a raft of new technology as well as the new Lexus family look. We drove the GS350 F-Sport - about three from the top but unequivocally the best in the range. How much? Pricey at $99,400 but better value than before when comparing standard equipment levels and everything else. What are competitors? Numerous; BMW 5-Series, E-Class Benz, Audi A6, Jag XF, Infiniti M, HSV, FPV. What's under the bonnet? This one gets a naturally aspirated 3.5-litre petrol V6 with variable valve timing good for 233kW/378Nm output. It drives the rear wheels through a six-speed sports automatic transmission. How does it go? Really well, performance is not an issue at all because there's heaps of kick across a wide operating range. Puts away a 0-100kmh sprint in 6.0 flat. Excellent paddle shift, flat torque curve gives instant response. Is it economical? Not really at 9.7-litres/100km - premium preferred. Is it green? OK on the carbon dioxide, clever air-conditioning system. Should crack around three green stars. Is it safe? Full five star car with 10 air bags, dynamic safety systems and even driver assessment systems to make sure you are on the job and not goofing off. Is it comfortable? Super comfy even with the sporty flavour and adaptive suspension. Full array of goodies inside like premium audio, heated and cooled seats, premium satnav. But not as quiet and smooth as we can remember earlier mid-size Lexus models. What's it like to drive? Really liked driving this car for a whole range of reasons, not the least being the rear wheel steering system that transforms it into a super responsive sports sedan with possibly the smallest turning circle in the class. F-Sport not only brings the look, it also brings the feel which is filtered through to the driver through the steering, (bigger) brakes, ride quality, transmission function. Is it value for money? One hundred grand - ouch. Good if it's a company car or in a "package"...as they all are. Would we buy one? See above. It is different, handsome, well equipped, crammed with goodies and technology, wonderful interior, super big touch/info screen. Sumptuous interior. Hmmmmm. Lexus GS350 F-Sport Price: from $99,400 Warranty: 4 years roadside assist, 100,00km Weight: 1740kg Engine: 3.5-litre 6-cyl, 233kW/378Nm Transmission: 6-speed sports auto, RWD Thirst: 9.7L/100Km, CO2 225g/km

The new concept coupe is clearly a pointer to next year's replacement for the compact IS four-door sedan but, even more, the pumped-up look and a high-performance hybrid power pack point to a bigger target. “This is the concept for the coupe that we want to launch as soon as possible in the near future. One or two years,” the president of Lexus International, Kiyotaka Ise, confirms to Carsguide at the Paris motor show. He laughs when the talk turns to a Lexus rival to the M3, but there is no denial. “Steadily I think the driving performance is going up. In terms of driving performance, people are looking for and wanting a more aggressive driving performance.” And what about the size and design future of the IS, as reflected in the LF-CC? “This is a similar size type to an IS,” Ise admits. “We're not really in a position to say anything, but we're not denying it. It's not an IS coupe but I think it will meet your expectation.” Earlier this year Carsguide was told of a plan for TMG, which produced Toyota's latest hybrid Le Man racer, to expand its German base into a facility to rival Mercedes AMG and BMW M. The announcement was made by the head of TMG, Yoshiaki Kinoshita. But Ise denies any plan and is defiant on Kinoshita's announcement. “I don't care what he says. We don't have any plans to have TMG be like AMG.” Even so, he says the technology in the Lexus V10-powered supercar, the LF-A, is tricking down through the range and the company is looking to boost its following with luxury buyers. “For our competitors, Mercedes-Beznz, BMW and Audi, driving performance is very important. We want to have an emotional driving connection,” he says. “I think when the car reaches a certain level, it's not whether you win or lose. It's the preference. “I think it's more a matter of taste for the driver. But I think we've reached the top.” In the case of the upcoming IS, the focus is switching to hybrid power. The LF-CC concept is fitted with a car that combines a 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol with electric power, aiming for CO2 emissions of less than 100 grams/kilometre. But it's still a performance pack, and the engine combines an Atkinson combustion cycle with direct fuel injection. The concept is also rear-wheel drive. “I think it's actually an advantage for us,” says Ise, who also believes Toyota still leads on hybrids. “In technology, volume and quality we are superior.”  

The car giant says it will change production at plants in China and a Lexus factory in Japan. The move signals the possible onset of a more prolonged chill in economic relations between the world's second and third-largest economies. Chinese anger over Japan's decision earlier this month to purchase a set of disputed East China Sea islands it administers has spilled over into the economic realm, first in the form of sometimes violent protests targeting Japan's factories and showrooms in China and, more recently, through aversion to Japanese brands. Economists warned that the souring of trade ties could dim growth and threaten global supply chains. "There is a real risk this feud between China and Japan could push down exports, which would dim their (respective) economic outlooks,'' said Long Hanhua Wang, a Tokyo-based economist for RBS Securities Japan. Both governments have been careful not to invoke the spectre of economic sanctions, but Japanese companies have reported unusually strict inspections by Chinese Customs officials and delays in processing at some ports in China. The Japan External Trade Organisation has cited reports of problems with Customs affecting Japanese goods at Shanghai and Shenzhen. China-based operations of Japanese carmakers, many of which already faced slowing Chinese sales last month as tensions mounted, have been hit by much of the anger directed at Japan. Dealerships run by Toyota, Nissan and Honda suffered damage in several cities. As a result of that and a drop in orders, all three temporarily suspended operations last week before resuming output.  

   

NEW - The rise of the SUV has been remarkable. It's not that long ago that families were given little choice in what they drove, it basically came down to a large sedan or an even larger station wagon. Today there is an amazing choice with every carmaker jumping on the SUV bandwagon. The SUV craze started with an idea that you could have a station wagon that would be handy around town, but come into its own when the black top ran out. That idea soon faded, but the appeal of the SUV has boomed. Instead of beating around the bush, the vast majority of SUVs stay within the city limits, and that's just fine with their owners. They never really wanted to see the Outback anyway. What they did want was a wagon that afforded them a view of the road they got with an off-roader, and the safety they perceived they had with a large wagon. Enter the SUV. Today's SUV, such as the Lexus RX350, come with all the bells and whistles. There's nothing you can't have with them. The RX350 was a heavily revamped version of the RX launched back in 2003, and was conceived to rival the likes of the BMW X5, Mercedes-  Benz ML350, and the Audi Q7. It begins with a reasonably attractive wagon with slick lines and smooth shapes, with the choice of three levels of equipment starting with the Prestige and climbing through the Sports to the ultimate Sports Luxury. The 3.5-litre V6 engine was improved and now put out 204 kW and 346 Nm, and was linked to a new six-speed auto with sequential shifting. Overall the RX350 used a little less fuel, a good thing because it used the more expensive Premium Unleaded. Final drive was an on-demand all-wheel drive system, which means it was a front-driver most of the time, until it felt the front wheels slipping when drive was dispatched rearward to correct the situation. While all that's comforting SUVs are more about comfort and convenience, and the level of clever gear they pack is as important to buyers as anything else. Comfort is well taken care of with power seats, a folding rear seat, and a power tailgate takes care of the convenience. As for equipment there isn't much that the RX350 doesn't have, if there's anything at all. On the road the RX350 drives much like a car, it handles well, rides comfortably and boasts plenty of zip when the right pedal is depressed. NOW With the RX350 being launched just three years ago the earliest will be showing around 50,000 km on the odometer, which makes it an ideal choice for those buyers who are happy to buy second hand and avoid the depreciation that comes with a new car. Those early RX350s will be coming off lease around now, which adds to the attraction of buying now. We have had virtually no reports from owners with any complaints about the car, which suggests they are a contented lot. That's good news for those about to step into RX ownership. Look for a service record, which shouldn't be an issue on such a new car. Also make the usual visual checks of the bodywork looking for any signs of a crunch that might detract from a car's appeal. Be aware that the RX350 requires Premium unleaded petrol, which will bump up running costs. SMITHY SAYS Well built, solid SUV with all the bells and whistles. Should be on your shopping list. Lexus RX350 2009-2010 Price new: from $82,990 Engine: 3.5-litre 6-cylinder, 204kW/346Nm Transmission: 6-speed auto AWD Economy: 10.8 L/100 km, CO2 254 g/km Body: 5-door  Variants: Prestige, Sport, Sport Luxury Safety: 4-star ANCAP

Cairns auto chief Greg Eastment has joined forces with Townsville car dealer John Doolan to buy the Parry Nissan, Suzuki and Renault dealership in Townsville. The two men's family trust companies, as major shareholders in a new venture, have formed NQ Auto Group to acquire Parry Nissan in a multimillion-dollar deal. The purchase of the business's Sturt St property formed part of the deal. Mr Eastment is a shareholder and the managing director and dealer principal of Pacific Toyota Cairns and Lexus of Cairns. Mr Doolan is a long-time employee of Parry Nissan, including as general manager of the business for the past four years. Mr Eastment has become managing director of Parry Nissan, with Mr Doolan taking the position of dealer principal. The sale settled on August 31. The Parry family, led by Alan and brother John, founded the business in 1979. Mr Eastment said he was very pleased to have secured such a well-respected business in a vibrant city such as Townsville. “I believe that Townsville is probably the strongest and most stable provincial centre north of Brisbane,” he said. “With significant investment happening in and around the centre, this trend is set to continue. “Under the control of a very experienced dealer principal in John Doolan and with the support of Parry Nissan's long-serving staff, we feel optimistic that the business will continue to thrive as it has under the Parry family.” Mr Doolan, born in the Burdekin district and having lived much of his life in Townsville, said he started his sales career with Parry Nissan about 17 years ago. “Alan and John Parry were ready to go and I have been actively trying to get involved in the ownership of the business,” he said. “I think Townsville is a great place. This is where I want to be.” Both men did not reveal a sale price but it was obviously considerable involving the Sturt St site, which comprises an entire block of prime commercial land leading into the CBD. Mr Eastment said the deal was private, involving the family trust companies of both men and did not include the Pacific Toyota group. He said Mr Doolan would be in charge of the day-to-day running of Parry Nissan, while he would provide a strategic role. Mr Eastment said the dealership was one of the biggest Nissan franchises in the state, with Navara dual cab utes the largest seller.