Rallye Lexus Service Department Blog

2010-11-17T14:55:00.001-05:00

So you want to build your own CT200h....Here you go, neat little web link to the Darker Side of Green for you to play with. It also will give you all the details and options you might want to know about.
http://http://www.darkersideofgreen.com/showroom/

Let me know what you think

Bily Hsu...Mr. Hot Lap.....

2010-11-15T09:42:00.004-05:00

On Saturday Billy Hsu our resident F-Champion got a chance to put the pedal to the metal at Monticello Racetrack in a Lexus F-Sport event. Billy set the lap record for the fastest lap time in an ISF on Saturday. That won him a seat in the LFA to ride along with Scott Pruit to do some hot laps in the LFA..... Now if we can find him a sponser>>>>>

Way to go Billy, having fun and loving Lexus.....

NOW THIS IS WHAT LEXUS SHOULD BE BUILDING

2010-11-03T08:27:00.003-04:00

Here is a video preview of all the cars Lexus assembled for the big Sema Show in Vegas this week.....Sweet. I especially like the GS with the asymmetrical stripe. I always loved that racing look. I also think the pneumatic built in jacks would be great accessory for the driveway mechanic!!!! Check it out.... Say hi to Lee while your out there.....

NOT YOUR DADDY'S LS

2010-10-20T08:05:00.004-04:00

Now this is what I call slamming! At a quick look you forget is it an LS600h. This car is was built for the upcoming SEMA show in Vegas. it is a tour de force in how to customize your Lexus. I don't usually go for the big wheel bling, but this one works.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/foxmarketing/sets/72157625053877825/with/5088092786/

Something Different to do to Your Lexus-Graffiti It!!

2010-10-14T08:04:00.005-04:00

When you are bored and live in Cali, you doodle on your car with sharpies..... when you are tired of that you hire local "Aerosol Artists"(?) to paint your car on the showroom of a Lexus dealer. Great marketing don't you think? The car is cool...

I like the whole and heaven and hell theme....

http://www.driveculture.com/2010/10/07/sharpie-gets-colored-full-video/

Motor Trend likes the CT200h, Maybe we have a Winner!

2010-10-13T07:56:00.000-04:00

Motor Trend has driven the Lexus CT 200h, and was plenty enthused by the experience:

…this car can handle. Quite well, in fact, in spite of its fuel-economy-friendly tires. The chassis is difficult to upset and when it does lose composure, it defaults to gradual understeer, at which point the nannies step back in…The steering is heavier in Sport Mode, which is good because it’s normally very light, but there isn’t a whole lot of feedback.

The most remarkable thing about the CT 200h is how easy it is to forget that you’re driving a hybrid. Regardless of driving mode, transitions to and from electric power and gasoline power are so seamless that you simply forget they’re happening. Power is plenty adequate in most situations, but can leave you wanting when passing or climbing hills. The brakes, meanwhile, are much more linear and dare we say “normal” than Prius brakes, without that two-stage feel when the regen kicks in.

http://www.motortrend.com/roadtests/hatchbacks/1010_2011_lexus_ct_200h_drive/index.html

The New LS Coupe---The LC600h

2010-10-12T08:07:00.003-04:00

According to Motor Trend, Lexus is planning to replace the dearly-departed SC 430 with a brand new coupe based on the next-generation LS.
Called the LC 600h, this flagship coupe would be AWD and powered by an updated version of the same 5.0L V8 Lexus Hybrid Drive found in the current LS 600hL, and is expected to hit a 0-60 of under five seconds.

Here’s an interesting quote from the MT article:

According to a Lexus insider, the company sees the new LC as the car that most captures the essence of what Lexus is all about — performance, luxury, and the environment — more than any Lexus model to date. It’s an upscale configuration that should elevate the car to a status rivaling the Mercedes SL-Class.
Currently being developed in the shadows of the next LS, our contact tells us not to expect the LC before its four-door LS brother hits showrooms in 2014. “If we don’t get anymore nasty surprises on the economic front, then any time after 2015 might be the right time for the LC.”
After the SC, this would be a dramatic and all-together necessary change-up, but even more, there’s something about this rumor that rings true — a sports coupe at this level is exactly what’s needed in the lineup.

All I can say for sure is that the sketches accompanying the article are mighty fine — here’s another sketch from a different angle:

http://wot.motortrend.com/6719403/future/lexus-working-on-hybrid-powered-sc-430-replacement/index.html#ixzz126r2tdrD

LFA Preps For SEMA.......

2010-10-05T14:35:00.003-04:00

09/28/2010—This weekend, a repainted Lexus LFA made its debut in Glendale, California.

Here’s the back story: With the SEMA aftermarket auto show coming up in November, the time had come to give the North American LFA prototype a new look, inside and out, for the 100,000 expected SEMA attendees. (You’ve probably seen this LFA already: it’s the exact same car that shattered a wine glass in the now-famous TV commercial earlier this year.)

The work itself was carried out by B.A.D. Company (aka the Big American Dream Company) this September. B.A.D. Company is a Los Angeles-based shop that specializes in custom work for Hollywood, and these are the guys who build some of the crazy custom vehicles you see at car shows, as well as prep Lexus vehicles for TV shows like Entourage and The Apprentice.

Lexus basically gave B.A.D. Company 10 days to transform the LFA’s exterior from white (actually Starfire Pearl) to a darker color, and while they were at it, recover the seats in fresh, semi-aniline leather. This may not seem like a lot of work, but when you’re talking about a high-tech supercar, removing the seats for upholstery work and repainting carbon fiber surfaces are a big deal.

Nevertheless, these guys got the job done. As our photographer notes: “When I got here the first day at 7 a.m., this was a white car. By 8:30 a.m., it was stripped down, masked off, and they were prepping for paint. If I’d been late, I’d have missed it.”

Fortunately, he didn’t miss it, and neither will you, even if you don’t get to SEMA. In a few weeks, we’ll show how B.A.D. Company transformed the LFA—trust us, it’s a good story.

https://secure.drivers.lexus.com/lexusdrivers/magazine/content.do#:/pub-share/magazine/html/Lexus-News/news_2010_09_27.html

The New CT200h gets F'd

2010-09-30T08:26:00.003-04:00

Lexus has decided to release the new CT200h with a variety of accessories including F-Sport Tuning parts. Besides the F-Sport sway bar set, lowering springs and what looks like mirror covers, here are some other items you will see available. Check out the European commercial video to get a feel what Lexus is going for. I am not sure what the deal was in the beginning of it with the odd magazine quotes. You make your decision and let me know.

17″ Alloy Wheels (directly inspired by the LF-Ch concept)
All-weather cargo mat
Body-Side Molding (the Lexus chrome stripe)
Car Cover
Cargo net-envelope
Carpet cargo mat
Exhaust tip
First Aid kit
Glass breakage sensor
Illuminated door sills
Lexus Hybrid Drive window sticker
Paint protection film
Premium carpet floor mats
Rear bumper appliqué
Remote engine starter

What Does Lexus Have In Store For You

2010-09-28T08:31:00.002-04:00

Automotive News has taken a shot at predicting the next couple years of Lexus models, let’s summarize:

GS: The next-generation GS will arrive in the spring of next year on a new shared platform and a longer wheelbase, while retaining the V6/V8/Hybrid powertrains. A GS-F has been prototype, but is not expected to make it to production.
As for the styling, Automotive News says the “design of the GS will feature a long dash-to-axle ratio and a reprise of its signature stubby trunk, while the roofline will be a constant-radius swoop.”

IS: 2013 will see the debut of the third generation IS, which will be built on a shortened version of the GS’ shared platform.

LS: A redesign for the 2013 model year is expected, with a focus on reducing the weight generated by all the technology & safety features.

ES: Due to be redesigned as a 2012 model, the next-gen ES will be getting “more angular and active styling”, and may be offered in a hybrid.

HSh: Should the Prius receive a lithium battery pack in 2012, the HSh should follow.

SC: The next-generation SC will not be offered as a convertible.

LFA: A roadster version of the Lexus supercar could appear in 2014.
Most of these predictions summarize current rumors, with a few twists: No GS-F would be a disappointment, but the on-off nature of this V10 super-sedan means there’s no way to know for sure, just as there’s no way to guess if a LFA roadster will ever make it into production.

Also mentioned is the possibility of a brand new model:
VX: A seven-seat, car-based large crossover above the RX 350 is possible. Owners have told Lexus that towing is not as important as driveability and seating capacity. Lexus is studying a competitor to the BMW X6 crossover based on the next generation of the GS/IS platform.

With the RX straddling the line between small & large crossover classes, it’s hard to predict which side of the equation a new model would come up on. A large 7-seater may very well be in the works, but what about a smaller version of the RX instead?

http://www.autoweek.com/article/20100927/CARNEWS/100929892

Motor Trend Drives the New CT200h and like it!

2010-09-27T11:08:00.002-04:00

Here are some comments from the test drive they took around LA:

The best way to think of the CT 200h is as a better-looking Prius Sport, if such a model existed. It shares the Prius’ hybrid drivetrain, with its 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine and electric motor, but it now has a “Sport” mode that ups the power to the electric motor for an extra boost of speed when you drop the pedal. It won’t give the IS F a run for its money, but it feels noticeably quicker than driving in “Normal” mode, which essentially mimics a Prius.

What we could test was the CT 200h’s ride quality, which was quite good. On the rough pavement that is L.A. city streets, the car rode well and soaked up even large bumps nicely. It’s a tad firmer than you’d expect from a Lexus, given its sporty disposition, but nothing that would scare the average Lexus shopper out of the car.
Around town, the CT 200h feels quick enough for L.A. traffic. Although we didn’t want to risk small-arms fire from other motorists, we found we could get pretty close to the claimed 28 mph limit on battery power alone before the engine kicked on. When it is on, the engine emits a low growl that at least sounds sportier than a Prius.

http://www.motortrend.com/roadtests/alternative/1009_2011_lexus_ct_200h_prototype_quick_drive/index.html

Go See a Real Life CT200h this Weekend in NYC

2010-09-09T08:02:00.002-04:00

Lexus CT 200h Event in New York City

Two Lexus CT 200h prototypes are making their way around North America, and this weekend’s stop will be High Line Park in New York City.

This event, which is one of just four tour stops in the US, is open to everyone, and provides an unique opportunity to drive Lexus’ newest hybrid months before its official debut — something that still boggles my mind.

As for the event specifics, the CT 200hs will be touring the city on Thursday, making stops in places like Central Park & Union Square, then will be settling down at High Line Park (at the corner of Gansevoort & Washington) for the rest of the weekend. Here are the times:

Friday: 11am-1pm, 4pm-10pm
Saturday: 11am-10pm

http://www.facebook.com/lexus#!/lexus?v=app_2344061033

Coolest new Lexus "Musical"

2010-09-09T07:58:00.001-04:00

I saw the commercial on tv the other night, but after you see the behind the scenes you realize how amazing it really is.....Cool stuff....

The "L" Will Have To Do...

2010-09-07T08:30:00.003-04:00

The sharp eyes over at Club Lexus have spotted a badge change on 2011 Lexus models sold in the USA.

After spending twenty years on the trunk lid of every Lexus made(except the first year or two for those who remember), the LEXUS name badge has been removed, leaving the Oval-L as the sole brand identifier

Considering that Lexus has been the top-selling luxury car brand in the USA for a full decade, it’s safe to say the Oval-L logo has reached the level of recognition necessary to omit the brand name. It’s a subtle change, to be sure, but it also stands as an notable step in the evolution of the brand in the United States

http://www.clublexus.com/forums/car-chat/522592-lexus-taking-the-badges-off-2011-models-what-do-you-think.html

Lexus to Power the Next Lotus

2010-08-30T07:43:00.001-04:00

Edmunds’ Inside Line is reporting that the next generation Lotus Esprit may be powered by the same V10 engine used in the Lexus LFA:

The next-generation Lotus Esprit supercar, details of which will be announced at the2010 Paris Auto Show next month, could be powered by the 552-horsepower Lexus LFA V10, says a source close to the company.

That would be for the Esprit in its ultimate form — the more mainstream version would be offered with a V8, also likely to be sourced from Lexus. That engine will probably be a version of the 416-hp 5.0-liter engine fitted to the Lexus IS F sedan. When asked to confirm this possibility, a Lotus spokesman said that he “couldn’t comment.”

This isn’t the first time this rumor has been reported, and given that Toyota has been supplying Lotus with engines for over 25 years, this has a very good chance of being true. Should that be the case, it’s good for everyone involved. Lotus gets a supercar powerplant that can compete with the best in the game, and Toyota gets to recoup some of the development cost of limited-edition, high-cost LFA.

Seems like a win all round to me.

http://www.insideline.com/lotus/lotus-esprit-may-use-lexus-lfa-v10-power.html

Great Video Review of LFA from Leno's Garage

2010-08-26T08:20:00.003-04:00

Although Jay doesn't drive the car, an actual racer Justin Bell with Scott Pruitt. Great listening to racers and what they think. Check it out.

http://www.jaylenosgarage.com/at-the-garage/super-cars/lexus-lfa/

NY TIMES: LFA BEST OF THE SUPER CARS

2010-08-25T08:22:00.001-04:00

Lawrence Ulrich of the New York Times travelled down to Millville, NJ to take the Lexus LFA around the track, and he brought some very choice quotes back with him, including this info on LFA buyers:

So far American buyers are exclusively men, and on average are in their mid-50s. Many have owned a Lexus, and they tend to be entrepreneurial types, along with one sports star whose name Lexus would not divulge.

Nor would Lexus connect me to the Midwest man who, Lexus swears, is leaning toward an LFA painted Passionate Pink, one of 30 available colors. (Mr. Mary Kay, perhaps?)

Mr. Rohovsky did allow that one “fresh green” LFA — a petri-dish shade wild enough for any Lamborghini fan — is headed to — where else? — Miami.
“He told me, ‘I want people to see me coming and going,’” Mr. Rohovsky said.

The whole article’s great — and when it comes to what Mr. Ulrich thought of the LFA?
Judged purely as an adrenaline-inducing performance tool, the Lexus tops a number of supercars I’ve driven — not just the similiarly priced Lamborghini Murciélago, but also the $1.3 million Bugatti Veyron.

That’s some heavy praise, to be sure.

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/08/22/automobiles/autoreviews/22LEXUS.html?_r=4&pagewanted=1

LFA Gets Its First Speeding Ticket

2010-08-19T08:05:00.002-04:00

Claus Ettensberger, owner of CEC Wheels and past Bullrun winner, has the “honor” of being the first person to get a speeding ticket in the Lexus LFA, or at least the first person to do so and post about it on Youtube.

For the record, Mr. Ettensberger was going 91mph in a 35mph zone — absolutely ludicrous in my opinion — and yet still managed to get his picture with the officer that pulled him over

Real Live CT200h photos

2010-08-12T08:41:00.002-04:00

Spotted at the Lexus headquarters in Torrence. It disappeared as quick as it showed up.....

A Daily Driver Lexus ISF Kicks............

2010-08-12T08:34:00.003-04:00

Around Everyone at the NASA Event

Billy Hsu, this needs to be you!!!!!

This weekend, Dave Schotz raced his daily driver Lexus IS F in National Auto Sport Association (NASA) Time Trials at the Auto Club Speedway in California and proceed to dominate against dedicated racecars — Jalopnik has the full story:

NASA Time Trials allow for almost any car to compete for the fastest lap time on a legitimate race course. One guy rolled up in his daily driver Lexus and crushed everyone.

He ran the car bone stock (other than a set of Hoosier Tires andCarbotech brake pads for track duty) and hit 150 miles per hour on the banking.Regardless of the number of doors the car has, obviously the Lexus is not shy of performance. The car won the TTB class against dedicated trailered racecars with full rollcages, no interiors and heavily modified suspensions.

As a three time SCCA solo national champion and two time NASA road racing national champion, Schotz is a proven racer, but no matter — cleaning up on the track with a daily driver (even an IS F) is still a story to tell.

(There’s also a thread over at Club Lexus where driver Dave shares some details about the IS F and this weekend’s race, including some minor controversy.)

http://jalopnik.com/5606943/street-legal-lexus-is+f-owns-dedicated-racecars-in-time-trials

Hey, Now You Can Buy Your LFA---Forget That Lease

2010-08-06T10:23:00.002-04:00

Lexus USA Revises LFA Purchase Options

Lexus USA has revised their LFA purchasing options, and will now offer outright purchase of the $375,000 supercar rather than the mandatory two-year lease that was initially required.

This new purchase option does come with one condition, however — the Lexus dealership where the LFA was purchased will retain the first right of refusal to buy back the supercar if the owner wants to sell it within the first two years, and the price will be set at either fair market value or the original price, whichever is lower.

The reasoning behind this restriction is simple: prevent speculators from purchasing the LFA only to turn around and sell it for a profit — a common occurrence when it comes to exotic supercars.

http://lexusenthusiast.com/2010/08/05/lexus-usa-revises-lfa-purchase-options/

Lexus Announces LX470 Recall on Steering Shaft Clip

2010-07-29T07:29:00.000-04:00

Lexus Announces Intent to Voluntarily Recall Certain LX 470 Vehicles to Address Potential for Steering Shaft Disengagement

TORRANCE, Calif., July 29, 2010 -- Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., today announced that Lexus intends to conduct a voluntary safety recall of approximately 39,000 2003-2007 Model Year LX 470 vehicles to address a steering shaft condition. No other Toyota or Lexus vehicles are involved in this safety recall.

This action follows an announcement made by Toyota Motor Corporation in Japan on July 29, 2010.

Lexus has determined that the construction of the steering shaft on involved LX 470s is such that the snap ring on the shaft may disengage when the vehicle experiences an unusually severe impact to the front wheels, such as striking a deep pothole. If the snap ring becomes disengaged and the steering wheel is then repeatedly turned to the full locked position, the steering shaft may disengage over time.

Lexus is not aware of any accidents related to this condition.

“At Lexus, we are committed to setting a new standard for quality customer care and aggressive attention to the safety of our drivers,” said Mark Templin, group vice president and general manager of Lexus. “Our engineers have thoroughly investigated this issue and have identified a robust and durable remedy that will help prevent this condition from affecting drivers in the future.”

The remedy for this condition involves replacing the snap ring with a newly designed one and the installation of an additional component to prevent separation of the steering shaft.

Lexus will begin sending out notification to owners of involved vehicles by first class mail beginning in mid-August 2010, advising them to bring their vehicles to their local Lexus dealer to have this remedy performed at no charge.

Bashing Toyota is easy.....

2010-07-27T16:33:00.001-04:00

Hey, Let's Bash Toyota
By AL LEWIS

BP's Tony Hayward drove Akio Toyoda's runaway cars off the 24-hour news cycle. But now that BP's hole is plugged, it's time to start wailing on Toyota again.

Last week, Toyota revealed that a federal grand jury in New York has subpoenaed documents, potentially widening probes from stuck accelerators to snapping steering rods.

Don't you just love what we do to Toyota? Why can't we do this to everybody?

Drag the CEO all the way from Japan, shove him before Congress, and make him cry.

Slap the company with the highest possible fine. Sue it hundreds of times. Convince it to recall models by the millions. Make it apologize repeatedly. (Bow more fully for the cameras next time, Mr. Toyoda.)

Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood once warned Americans not to drive Toyotas. Can you imagine the Treasury secretary warning Americans not to use Goldman Sachs? And why didn't Congress make Mr. Hayward cry? The closest he came to tears was when he whined, "I want my life back," and then got back on his yacht to sail the less poisoned part of the ocean.

So now it's time to beat on someone else. Remember Big Tobacco? How about Big Toyota?
Toyotas can take off as if possessed by Onibaba, the Japanese demon hag. OK, so as investigations continue, it's looking like many accidents were caused by drivers who don't know the difference between the gas pedal and the brake. But Toyotas may have other problems, too.

Toyota hasn't always been forthright. And it's illegal to mislead regulators about safety defects in cars. Not that other auto makers haven't done it. But there has never been a better time to pile on criminal charges.

Toyota bashing helps Americans forget GM's bumbling former CEO Rick Wagoner and Chrysler's former mis-manager Bob Nardelli. It also gets voters' minds off former Countrywide CEO Angelo Mozilo's special loans to his friends, or Goldman Sachs CEO Lloyd Blankfein's shrewd decision to have the bank settle with the Securities and Exchange Commission for $550 million. And the systemic fraud alleged at America's biggest banks, a mind-blowing national debt and double-digit unemployment after corporations shipped millions of jobs abroad.

Toyota bashing makes it look like our leaders are actually trying to save America.

"All the Toyota vehicles bear my name," Mr. Toyoda has repeatedly lamented, which is true except that I think someone in the marketing department misspelled it a long time ago and never fixed it.

"When the cars are damaged, it is as though I am, as well."

I don't know if Mr. Toyoda is contrite, or if he's just another grief-feigning narcissist whose grandfather gave him a car company. But I was heartened when he went before Congress in February and said this:

"I fear the pace at which we have grown may have been too quick.... Toyota's priority has traditionally been the following: First, safety. Second, quality. And third, volume. These priorities became confused."

Why can't we make every company admit this? Isn't this the problem with every company?

http://online.wsj.com/article/NA_WSJ_PUB:SB128001605680520665.html

News pg 20 Nissan recall 50,000 Cube for causing fires

2010-07-27T10:13:00.002-04:00

In todays NY Post on page 20 they carried a copy of a Reuters article stating:

Nissan recalls 51,000 Cubes

DETROIT-- Nissan is recalling 51,000 Cube compacts in North America after safety regulators said a fuel leak could cause fire after a crash.

The chance that 2009 and 2010 model-years Cubes could leak fuel if struck from the reat at 50 mph led to the recall, documents from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration show.

Now the HS has a much less severe issue and in a almost impossible to duplicate senario and Lexus article gets front pages. We put people in loaners, and jump through all kinds of hoops for them. Word is from Nissan that they are doing nothing special.

We need to spread the word more about how we really take care of customers in comparision to these other companies. General perception is still huge again all the good and right we are doing. You need to be our best advocate everywhere in you life for us.

Keep up the great hard work....Keep showing them why Lexus is great and setting the bar again.

Critiquing the Critics.Toyota comes out on Top

2010-07-22T14:05:00.003-04:00

Commentators Critique Toyota’s Critics

In a sign that public frenzy over alleged unintended acceleration (UA) in Toyota vehicles may actually be abating, two commentators this week have each issued withering critiques of what they see as a rush to judgment.

Writing in Forbes magazine on Wednesday, Michael Fumento questioned why journalists have been so quick to accept the number of deaths attributed to UA based on unverified complaints in the NHTSA’s database. He also noted that when the Los Angeles Times cited one such incident, the reporters failed to disclose the driver had been charged with vehicular manslaughter while driving under the influence.

Meanwhile, Jason Vines, a former head of communications at Ford, Nissan and Chrysler writing in the Detroit News on Monday, compared Toyota’s situation to earlier claims of runaway Audi and Jeep vehicles. He then noted that NHTSA had taken a deeper dive into many of the Toyota complaints and found driver error, not a defect, was to blame.

Check out the full articles:

http://www.forbes.com/forbes/2010/0809/opinions-toyota-cars-acceleration-brakes-93-and-counting.html

http://detnews.com/article/20100719/MIVIEW/7190414/1469

The 2011 Lexus Model Release Schedule

2010-07-22T08:15:00.002-04:00

2011 Lexus Release Schedule

Lexus USA has published a general schedule for their 2011 lineup — here’s what we can expect for the rest of this year:

Summer
The 2011 GS arrives at dealers with no changes from the 2010 model, save for the new brake override system.

Late Summer
The new IS 350 AWD will debut along with a new F-Sport option package, and the entire IS range will be getting a minor refresh, including the IS Convertible and the IS F.
The 2011 LX 570 will be seeing some minor color changes. The Costa Azul Mica exterior will be discontinued, and Black leather trim will be replacing Gray trim. The Golden Bird’s-eye Maple wood trim will replace Medium Brown Walnut wood trim. A heated steering wheel has also been added to the Luxury package.
We can also expect the 2011 edition of the GX 460 to be released, which will sport no changes other than the new brake override system.

Early Fall
The 2011 RX 350 arrives with new colors, as Satin Cashmere Mica replaces Golden Almond Metallic and Stargazer Black is added. Both Truffle Mica and Black Sapphire Pearl are discontinued.
The 2011 RX 450h also gets a reworked exterior palette, with Satin Cashmere Mica replacing Golden Almond Metallic, Black Opal Mica and Stargazer Black being added, and Aurora White Pearl, Truffle Mica and Black Sapphire Pearl being discontinued.
The 2011 ES 350 also debuts with its re-rated engine, which will now support regular unleaded gas.

Fall
The 2011 LS 460 arrives with only one change: AWD models will be getting a standard coil suspension, with an optional air suspension. The 2011 LS 600hL also has but one change, as it will no longer be offered with Active Stabilizer Suspension System. The Truffle Mica exterior has been discontinued for both models.

The HS 250h also arrives in dealerships, and will have some new exterior colors, as Satin Cashmere Metallic replaces Golden Almond Metallic, Deep Sea Mica replaces Black Sapphire Pearl, and Aurora White Pearl is discontinued.

http://lexusenthusiast.com/2010/07/21/2011-lexus-release-schedule/#more-4773

Unintended Acceleration Data From NHTSA Flawed

2010-07-19T16:43:00.001-04:00

Blog Blames Unintended Acceleration in Toyotas on Flawed Complaint Analysis

After reviewing analyses of unintended acceleration complaints to NHTSA about Toyota vehicles, TheTruthAboutCars blog has concluded that the data "puts a lot of the controversy … to rest."

The blog noted that about 3,000 of the 11,500 complaints of unintended acceleration (UA) involved Toyota vehicles. But when the data is examined in the context of incidents per 100,000 units, Volvo, which built its reputation on safety, had nearly an identical rate of UA complaints.
In addition, the number of Toyota UA complaints only "start to get out of hand" once publicity about the company’s recalls took off. "Given that the rest of the data fail to provide a pattern of UA problems in Toyota, media frenzy and lawyer frenzy are the only plausible explanations for the recent spike in complaints," the blog said.

TheTruthAboutCars concluded that the data shows "very few patterns that indicate an underlying problem unique to Toyota vehicles."

http://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/unintended-acceleration-in-toyotas-the-ghost-in-the-data/

How Would You Like to Drive a New CT200h? Now you can....

2010-07-19T09:21:00.002-04:00

Lexus CT 200h U.S. Driving Events

Last week, Lexus announced that Los Angeles residents would get be getting a chance to drive the CT 200h prototype — and now it’s been confirmed that this event will be making its way to three other cities around the country. Here are the dates:

July 29–31: Los AngelesAugust 1: Los Angeles nighttime event
August 6–8: MiamiAugust 9: Miami nighttime event
August 12–14: New York CityAugust 15: New York City nighttime event
August 18–20: ChicagoAugust 21: Chicago nighttime event
Specifics have yet to be announced, but all further details will be posted to the Lexus Facebook page.

http://lexusenthusiast.com/2010/07/19/lexus-ct-200h-u-s-driving-events/

ISF on a IS budget--IS F-Sport now available

2010-07-19T09:16:00.003-04:00

2011 Lexus IS F-Sport Package

Lexus USA will be offering an F-Sport option package on all RWD IS 250/IS 350s that borrows from the IS F — here’s what’s included:

An all-new suspension with tuned steering
New 18″ alloy wheels with a dark super-chrome finish
A front lip spoiler and a rear deck spoiler
Dark super-chrome front grille
F Sport heated front seats with a microfiber insert and leather side bolsters
Aluminum Sport Pedals with Rubber Inserts
IS F styled steering wheel
F Sport badging on the steering wheel, shift knob and doorsill scuff plates

The IS F’s Ultrasonic Blue color will also be available with the F-Sport package

http://lexusenthusiast.com/2010/07/16/2011-lexus-is-f-sport-package/

Could This Be The All Electric Lexus Super Car?

2010-07-16T08:29:00.003-04:00

Lexus Electric Supercar?

According to Motor Trend, Toyota President Akio Toyoda has signed off on the development of a Lexus electric supercar:

The car is expected to produce more than 500 horsepower and would sprint from 0 to 60 mph in around 4 seconds.

The car is expected to produce more than 500 horsepower and would sprint from 0 to 60 mph in around 4 seconds. Like the E-Cell, the Toyota is expected to route power through four electric motors, one at each wheel. It will also incorporate a switch that allows drivers to select between driving programs such as comfort, sport and super sport, thus permitting drivers to regulate battery use.

It’s expected to debut around 2015, and we are first to reveal how one artist in Japan sees the as-yet-unnamed vehicle as it might look attacking the Nurburgring in Germany. The large grille and air intakes beside the headlights are viewed as critical to provide sufficient cooling for the electric motors. The vehicle would reportedly borrow undisclosed know-how from Tesla and utilize aerodynamic expertise gained from the Lexus LFA project.

With the Tesla partnership already moving ahead full steam, this rumor wouldn’t be a total surprise — except for the fact that it suggests this will be a new vehicle instead of an electric version of the LFA. Considering that both Merecedes & Audi have shown electric concepts of their supercars, it suggests Lexus will be trying a different direction.

Now, tt’s always my tendency to look in the SC’s direction any time a new sportscar is mentioned, and it would fit with my belief that the new partnership with Telsa will produce the Sport Coupe’s third generation, but it’s doubtful the SC would be positioned against the Mercedes SLS E-Cell & Audi R8 e-Tron — however, it would be suitable competition to the rumored Audi R4 e-Tron, not to mention the Tesla Roadster.

http://www.motortrend.com/future/future_vehicles/1007_toyota_mulling_all_electric_supercar/index.html

NHTSA UPDATES ACCELERATION ISSUES

2010-07-14T08:26:00.002-04:00

According to the Wall Street Journal, the U.S. Department of Transportation has analyzed a number of Toyota & Lexus black boxes taken from vehicles involved in “sudden acceleration” accidents, and have discovered that drivers were accidentally pushing the acceleration pedal instead of the brake:

The results suggest that some drivers who said their Toyota and Lexus vehicles surged out of control were mistakenly flooring the accelerator when they intended to jam on the brakes. But the findings don’t exonerate Toyota from two known issues blamed for sudden acceleration in its vehicles: sticky accelerator pedals and floor mats that can trap accelerator pedals to the floor.
The data recorders analyzed by NHTSA were selected by the agency, not Toyota, based on complaints the drivers had filed with the government.

[...]NHTSA has been able to verify only one of those fatal crashes was caused by a problem with the vehicle, according to information the agency provided to the National Academy of Sciences. That accident last Aug. 28, which killed a California highway patrolman and three passengers in a Lexus, was traced to a floor mat that trapped the gas pedal in the depressed position.

The NHTSA spokeswman said the agency was continuing to investigate the Toyota accidents and wouldn’t be prepared to comment fully on the probe until a broader study is completed in conjunction with NASA, which is expected to take months.

While it’s hardly conclusive, it’s definitely a step in the right direction — be sure to read the full article for all the details.

http://lexusenthusiast.com/2010/07/13/nhtsa-update-on-lexus-sudden-acceleration-investigation/

TESLA MAKING A ALL ELECTRIC RX FOR LEXUS?

2010-07-13T14:22:00.000-04:00

Toyota & Tesla are now two weeks into their partnership (in which Toyota purchased a $50M stake in Tesla), and it’s rumored that their first joint-project will be converting a Lexus RX to a full electric prototype:

Tesla said July 10 that it will deliver two prototypes vehicles to Toyota this month without identifying the models. While Toyota also aims to test an electric Corolla compact car, the RAV4 and RX light trucks are better suited to the weight of Tesla’s battery pack, said the person, who asked not to be identified because the vehicles haven’t been announced yet.

The target for a model developed with Tesla would be for a car that costs about $40,000 with 150 miles (240 kilometers) of driving range per charge, the person familiar with the plans said.
“Toyota and Tesla engineering teams have made a lot of progress in a short amount of time,” JB Straubel, Tesla’s chief technology officer, said in a July 10 e-mail message.

It may not be a vehicle as exciting as Tesla’s own Roadster, but with the RX already engineered to support a battery pack with its hybrid version, it’s a natural choice to be prototyped using the Tesla electric platform.

Even more than the models chosen, I’m surprised by the speed of this partnership — I wouldn’t have expected an announcement so soon, never mind the possibility that we may see a full-electric Lexus prototype before the year is out.

http://lexusenthusiast.com/2010/07/12/tesla-building-electric-lexus-rx/

Ride Along in the new CT200h

2010-07-02T08:02:00.001-04:00

Autoblog was also in attendance at last week’s small media preview of the Lexus CT 200h, and had this to say about their time in the passenger seat:

Riding along suburban roads near the TME facility, the CT 200h – even in prototype guise – is suitably Lexus-like in its build quality and refinement, yet surprisingly aggressive in its handling. The ride feels well balanced in its damping between comfort and sportiness, and given the instant torque delivery inherent in the electric boost, it never seemed to lack for punch… from the passenger seat, at least.

There’s a limit to what can be experienced from the passenger seat, though it’s all sounding quite positive regardless.

But more than that, Autoblog has a bunch of photos of the Brown Spice Mica CT, including our first clear look at the Lexus Hybrid Drive 1.8L engine:

Check out this great gallery of pictures here:

http://www.autoblog.com/photos/first-ride-2011-lexus-ct-200h

The US Agrees with Toyota:No Electronice Defects in Toyota products

2010-06-30T16:52:00.001-04:00

Let's see if this gets as much press and a congressional hearing:

Federal regulators have yet to find any electronic defects in Toyota vehicles, a National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) official today told a scientific panel appointed to study potential causes of unintended accelerations.

Some members of Congress, consumer advocates and product-liability plaintiff lawyers have said that electronic-throttle control systems may be responsible for reports of unintended acceleration. Toyota has said its rigorous testing has not found any electronic defects that would cause unintended acceleration. Instead, the company has identified unsecured floor mats and sticking accelerator pedals as two causes.

"We have not actually been able to find a defect of electronic-throttle control systems" in Toyota vehicles, NHTSA’s Dan Smith told the National Academy of Sciences panel. He added that NHTSA has identified the same two causes – floor mats and sticking pedals – as Toyota.
The head of NHTSA, David Strickland, told the panel that the problem of unintended acceleration is an industrywide issue. "Complaints of unintended acceleration are not – repeat not – exclusive to Toyota."

Federal regulators have yet to find any electronic defects in Toyota vehicles, a National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) official today told a scientific panel appointed to study potential causes of unintended accelerations.
Some members of Congress, consumer advocates and product-liability plaintiff lawyers have said that electronic-throttle control systems may be responsible for reports of unintended acceleration. Toyota has said its rigorous testing has not found any electronic defects that would cause unintended acceleration. Instead, the company has identified unsecured floor mats and sticking accelerator pedals as two causes.
"We have not actually been able to find a defect of electronic-throttle control systems" in Toyota vehicles, NHTSA’s Dan Smith told the National Academy of Sciences panel. He added that NHTSA has identified the same two causes – floor mats and sticking pedals – as Toyota.
The head of NHTSA, David Strickland, told the panel that the problem of unintended acceleration is an industrywide issue. "Complaints of unintended acceleration are not – repeat not – exclusive to Toyota."

Picture of the Crash involving Hiromu Naruse

2010-06-24T17:14:00.002-04:00

Check here for a video that I cannot up load showing the damages

http://lexusenthusiast.com/2010/06/23/lexus-lfa-crash-in-germany/

A Sad Day for Toyot/Lexus High Performance

2010-06-24T15:44:00.001-04:00

Toyota's Chief Test Driver Dies in Highway Crash

Hiromu Naruse, Toyota’s chief test driver, died Wednesday in a head-on collision on a two-lane highway in Germany. He was driving the Lexus LFA Nurburgring Edition near its namesake, the famous Nurburgring, an undulating racetrack that automakers use to test their vehicles.

Naruse, 67, was killed in the accident with a BMW (also driven by a test
driver) close to Toyota’s workshop near the circuit. The driver and passenger in the BMW were seriously injured. A Toyota spokesperson in Japan said the company is still trying to confirm details of the accident.

"We are shocked and saddened by the sudden death of Hiromu Naruse," the spokesperson said. "Our deepest condolences go out to Mr. Naruse’s family, and we wish to express our sincere sympathy to the other people involved in the accident."

Naruse joined Toyota in 1963 in the Vehicle Evaluation and Engineering Division. He had been involved with Toyota Motorsports since 1970 and was an important figure in the development of Toyota sports cars, from the 2000GT to the Lexus LFA, the new supercar with a retail price of $350,000 scheduled to go into production late this year. He was also the personal driving mentor of Toyota’s global president, Akio Toyoda.

When more news is available we will post it up

So you thought Ford was more American than Toyota

2010-06-23T13:31:00.002-04:00

Well according to this arcticle form Cars.com, the Camry tops the list of the most American made parts content in their US built cars. The former number one, the Ford F-150 doesn't even make the top 10 this year with only 55% of the car from American made parts. Here are some highlights of the article:

For the second year in a row, Toyota Camry ranked No. 1 on a list compiled by Cars.com of the most "American-made" vehicles.

Cars.com’s annual American-Made Index takes into account the percentage of domestically produced parts, the location of the factories where the vehicle was assembled, and its popularity in the United States. "All three factors figure into creating American jobs and prosperity," said USA Today’s Drive On in its report on the list today.

In addition to Camry ranking No. 1 on the list, Tundra was No. 8 and Sienna was No. 10, making Toyota the only manufacturer with three vehicles in the top 10. Honda, Ford and Chrysler each earned two spots. Chevrolet had one spot.

Camry is assembled in Georgetown, Ky., and Lafayette, Ind., while Tundra is assembled in San Antonio, Texas, and Sienna in Princeton, Ind.

Rounding out the list, Honda Accord ranked No. 2; Ford Escape, 3; Ford Focus, 4; Chevrolet Malibu, 5; Honda Odyssey, 6; Dodge Ram 1500, 7; and Jeep Wrangler, 9.

"What’s interesting this year is the lack of a full-sized domestic pickup truck on the list," said Patrick Olsen, Cars.com’s editor-in-chief. "The Ford F-150 went from the top spot a couple of years ago to being totally left off the list. While the F-150 is still assembled in the U.S., its domestic parts content fell to 55 percent. In the past, it’s had a domestic parts content of around 80 percent."

http://content.usatoday.com/communities/driveon/post/2010/06/detroits-pickups-flunk-toyota-soars-on-american-made-list/

The Third Annual Rallye Lexus Tuner Event

2010-06-22T07:50:00.003-04:00

So if you were there and want to reminisce, or if you want to see what you missed, here is a compilation of the whole show. We will see you next year!!!

Best In Show From The Rallye Lexus Tuner Event

2010-06-18T10:10:00.002-04:00

Whoa man, there is alot of work in this car and it was all carried out with subtle style.

Hybrid Videos of the New CT200h Technology

2010-06-16T08:40:00.003-04:00

If you want a great overview that will help you understand or explain Hybrids in general you will love this first video.

.

Now this video is all about the particular Hybrid features on the new CT200h.Check it out...

See the New CT200h as a Coupe and Sedan

2010-06-16T08:32:00.004-04:00

Turning the CT (Compact Touring) into a CC (Compact Coupe) and a CS (Compact Sedan) would let Lexus compete with both the Audi A3 and BMW 1-Series, and more importantly, would provide another model to help expand the brand’s position in the European market. Certainly makes sense to me. What do you think?

Check out the link for more "real" photos of the new CT200h

http://lexusenthusiast.com/2010/06/14/new-lexus-ct-200h-photos/

Our Own Billy Hsu makes his Video Debut!!!

2010-06-11T16:42:00.003-04:00

This is the first of several videos shot on Sunday June 6th at our Third Annual Tuner Event. For those of you who missed it(like me), this will give you some insight to what you missed. I should have a few more vidoes up next week showing more of the real Event. This is early in the am and Billy doing a walk around demo of the Limited Edition ISC-F. The car is number 2 of 100 limted build cars. They include everything in the F-Sport Performance Tuning Catalog.

Thanks being Rallye's Video Star!!!

FORD: NHTSA Investigates their Acceleration Issues

2010-06-04T10:36:00.002-04:00

This seems like familiar territory for Toyota/Lexus people, but now it seems the truth that we have all been saying that floor mats are an industry wide issue are starting to come out. For those of you who subscribe to the Big Brother Conspiracy Theories, Ford didnt take Stimulus money.....Hmmmm Government Motors is never mention in the press as having an issue.....

And if you really believe that stuff I have a bridge in Brooklyn for sale.....Give you a good price on it....

Read on:

NHTSA Investigates Ford and Mercury for Unintended Acceleration
Posted: Jun. 02, 2010 10:06 a.m.

Ford is cooperating with an NHTSA investigation into reported cases of unintended acceleration in the 2010 Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan. As was the case in one of the recent high-profile Toyota recalls, it is believed that floor mats are what’s causing the problem.

Thus far, the NHTSA has only received three complaints about floor mats hindering proper operation of the gas pedal in the Fusion and Milan. However, it is not taking any chances.
Kicking Tires explains: “Typically, three complaints filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration won’t spark an investigation. … The investigation would seem unusual if weren’t for Toyota’s massive recall for a similar problem late last year.”

Interestingly, one of those complaints came from Edmunds’ Director of Vehicle Testing, Dan Edmunds, who experienced a frightening incident of unintended acceleration after the gas pedal in his test-model 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid jammed due to the thickness of its stacked floor mats.

While the investigation is still pending, the NHTSA has “warned owners of 2010 Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan vehicles not to place unsecured floor mats -- made by Ford or anyone else -- on top of the standard, carpeted floor mat in the driver's side foot well,” reports the Detroit News. Stacking unsecure floor mats may interfere with the gas pedal, causing it to stick in a downward position.

“Ford spokesman Said Deep said the automaker warns customers on the mats themselves and in instructions that come with them to remove the regular floor mat before using the thicker, rubber mat,” writes the Detroit Free Press. “The all-weather mat has two prominent holes for retaining hooks.”

Dan Edmunds offers this piece of advice: "Don't assume everything is OK because a) you don't drive a Toyota/Lexus product or b) because everything looked OK in a random curbside test. The real world contains far more variables and conditions than you or I can account for."
According to Autoblog, “A grand total of 249,301 cars are being investigated over this potential problem with Ford's all-weather floor mats” -- which is a drop in the bucket compared to Toyota’s multi-million vehicle recall for similar problems.

To date, no accidents or injuries have been reported due to unintended acceleration in either the 2010 Ford Fusion or Mercury Milan.

http://usnews.rankingsandreviews.com/cars-trucks/daily-news/100602-NHTSA-Investigates-Ford-and-Mercury-for-Unintended-Acceleration/

Meet The Man who will make the Difference

2010-06-01T08:53:00.004-04:00

Akio Toyoda Profile
Some quotes from the article in Automtive news:

[...]Toyoda embarked on a quest to become one of the company’s top certified test drivers and its top car critic. That challenge and journey combined to forge Toyoda’s management priorities, ones that now are reshaping Toyota in a time of crisis.

By getting behind the wheel and scrutinizing product, the 54-year-old Toyoda believes he is living out the company’s guiding principle: “Genchi, Genbutsu” — Japanese for “go and see for yourself.”

“Growth in itself is not bad if you can cultivate the human resources to keep up,” Toyoda said. “But I don’t want to be the largest company in the world. I want to be the best.”

Also in a related article in the same issue on the LFA race team at Nurburgring:

With 15 minutes left in the race, the crews of all teams crowd the outer pit wall to cheer on their drivers. In front of the Gazoo Racing pit, shutterbug Akio is standing on the roof of the team’s signaling booth, snapping photos and waving his support.

A jubilant President Toyoda leads his team to the infield — breaking into sprints at times — and begins passing out Warsteiner beers and posing for team pictures. Then it’s back to the pits, where the entire team proceeds to shower one another with more champagne and beer. In a year of observing and chronicling Toyoda, I’ve never seen the president laugh, let alone smile, so much.

“We started from nothing just four years ago, and here we are today,” Toyoda said before being drenched in beer. “Our people are stronger; our cars are stronger. Our team really did a great job.”

And as the Lexus Enthusiast says:

There’s something so refreshing about President Toyoda’s passion — it’s so clear in everything he does, and it’s that sincerity that makes me so excited about the future of both Toyota & Lexus.

http://lexusenthusiast.com/2010/05/31/akio-toyoda-profile/

Forget Summer Camp, go to Safety Camp this Summer

2010-06-01T08:40:00.003-04:00

I will look for more info on this, but I know alot of people (staff as well as clients) who could really use a day on learning this technology. Check it out....

Blog: ParentsWithStyle.com Lexus Family Safety Camp

Bloggers are invited to Lexus family safety camp for the opportunity to learn about the standard Lexus safety features.

Quotes from the story:

I am so excited to share with all of you that I will be flying out to California, compliments of LEXUS for their FAMILY SAFETY CAMP on June 3rd. I cannot wait to learn more about LEXUS and all of the safety features that will make my family safe.

At the Lexus Family Safety Camp, youll get to:

Spend time with and talk to technical specialists about vehicle safety features in a language that makes sense

Test drive vehicles on special courses set up at the Rose Bowl parking lot and gain hands-on experience with vehicle stability control (VSC), anti-lock brakes (ABS), brake override system, LATCH child seat system, Bluetooth and Lexus telematics (Lexus Enform and Safety Connect)

Visit with other safety experts and advocates including Stephanie Tombrello of SafetyBeltSafe USA, an organization dedicated to child passenger safety, and Janette Fennell, founder of KidsAndCars.org, a national nonprofit dedicated to reducing injury and death to children in and around motor vehicles

For each attendee, Lexus will make a donation so that low-income, inner-city kids can also enjoy the Kidspace Children's Museum

http://www.theparentswithstyle.com/2010/05/lexus-family-safety-camp.html

LS Video Showing What the Issue Really Is

2010-05-28T09:25:00.001-04:00

Here’s a video demonstrating the steering issue that made the current Lexus LS recall necessary:

All in all, this LS steering issue looks to be relatively non-critical — something that should be fixed and deserving of a recall, to be sure, but of minor importance to anyone outside of the affected owners.
Still, good on Lexus to treat this as it would a more serious issue (issuing multiple press releases, freezing current inventory affected by the recall) — it should be a great relief to all Lexus owners to see the company responding in such a strong way

http://lexusenthusiast.com/2010/05/27/lexus-ls-recall-video-demonstration/

Something Different but Still Fast for You

2010-05-28T09:09:00.002-04:00

As the father with 4 Girls in the family this racing new sparked my interest and since the whole family rides( we know little Isabella will too before we know it!).
Check out this article about Elena Myers 16, the youngest girl to win a Pro Race in the AMA. Just like I always say to my girls, you can do anything boys do. Let me know what you think

Elena Myers, 16, becomes first female to win in AMA Pro Racing`
By Curtis Pashelka
Posted: 05/15/2010 09:38:35 PM PDT

SONOMA — Discovery Bay's Elena Myers made American professional motorcycle racing history Saturday afternoon.

It just didn't happen quite the way she had envisioned.

Myers, who at 16 is the youngest rider competing in this weekend's West Coast Moto Jam, became the first female to win an AMA Pro Racing event in the circuit's 77-year history as she captured a shortened Pro SuperSport race at Infineon Raceway.

"It hasn't sunk in yet," said an emotional Myers, who was too young to practice at the Sonoma County road course last year at this time. "I'm in another world right now."

Myers was leading Joey Pascarella during the ninth lap of the 18-lap race when Pascarella lost control of his bike and flipped going into Turn 10.

Myers came around and crossed the finish line first as the race's second red flag was brought out to halt the event. After a five-minute delay, Myers was declared the winner, as AMA officials concluded that cleaning up the track and continuing the race would have put the afternoon's program too far behind schedule.

A jubilant Myers then wheeled her bike into the winner's circle, surrounded by friends and family, and was given a loud ovation when she was brought up to the stage and handed the first-place trophy.

"I don't know what to say. It's an amazing moment," said Matt Myers, Elena's dad. "I'm just happy some luck went our way this time. It feels good."

Elena Myers had been suffering from pain in her left foot earlier this week but received shots of lidocaine and cortisone Saturday morning into the nerve that was bothering her to get ready for the race.

She qualified eighth but moved to fifth on the first lap. She held that position until the seventh lap when Jake Gagne slid off the track and went down on Turn 9 to bring out a red flag.

Myers started fourth when the race resumed and moved up to third after the first two turns. She passed Tyler O'Hara for second on Turn 8 of the eighth lap and held that position as she began the ninth lap. She fought off a challenge from Cameron Beaubier for second and then passed Pascarella entering Turn 7 on the ninth lap.

Myers had envisioned that her first AMA win would entail taking the checkered flag after a wire-to-wire performance. But history had other ideas.

"I just kept (Beaubier) behind me and kept pushing, and I thought I could catch up to Joey," said Myers, who officially won by .338 seconds over Beaubier. "I passed him (Pascarella), and I thought, 'I'm in the lead now.' It was the craziest thing."

This is Myers' first season in the Pro SuperSport class, which is designed for riders between ages16 and 21. Riders need to be at least 16 to practice or compete at Infineon, so Myers had previously taken only a few laps before this month at what she considers her home course.

"I think it's huge for the sport," said Petaluma's O'Hara, who finished third. "I think Elena just broke the barrier as far as a woman on a motorcycle at the top level. I'm proud of her."

MotorTrend hits over 200MPH on Road Test with LFA

2010-05-27T08:15:00.003-04:00

MotorTrend.com 200 MPH in a Lexus LFA

Besides that did I say drag racing a GT-R

Following the popularity of the Lexus LFA vs. Nissan GT-R story and video, MotorTrend.com posted the video footage of the Lexus LFA on the dyno.

Quotes from the story:

Two Mondays ago we dropped our Lexus LFA vs Nissan GT-R story and video, the first Lexus LFA comparison of any kind in the world, and you guys apparently loved it. Your furious clicking, hot-linking, tweeting, Facebooking and YouTubing made the write up one of the most popular stories at motortrend.com this month, while the drag race video is the fastest accelerator in Motor Trend's YouTube channel history -- pun intended.

What else do we think? Well, here are some of my notes from the passenger seat (the ones that I could read), just after that 200-mph pull:

o ... 207mph on the dash right as Dave lifted, but the Superflow backed that down to 200.3. Impressive.
o Interesting too that the Lexus speedo is so accurate -- like a German car, but sounds Italian, only smoother. So smooth near the finish.

o Felt like it could have kept pulling. Shockingly impressive engine.

o Engine note just before Dave lifted was beyond sportbike (V-10 Hayabusa?). People are going to crap when they hear this. Can't put my finger what it sounds like over 200 mph. Oh wait -- Lexus LFA."

http://www.motortrend.com/features/performance/1005_200_mph_in_a_lexus_lfa/index.html

Road and Track LFA Road Test....

2010-05-25T12:48:00.003-04:00

Lexus is also using the LFA as a safety excercise in that it is the worlds first applications of seat belt mounted air bags(?)....What will Lexus think of next?

Check it out, very cool

Lexus Creates a Performance Registry

2010-05-25T12:37:00.001-04:00

Lexus Performance Registry

Major news today! Next month, Lexus USA will be launching a worldwide Performance Registry on their website — but it’s been opened early for Lexus Enthusiast readers!

The registry will be an online resource that will let enthusiasts share information on their Lexus vehicles and connect with other owners — making it easy to tap into the collective knowledge that’s invaluable when you’re looking to customize your Lexus.

Once you sign up, you will be able to upload a photo and list the current mods on your Lexus, which is then “pinned” on a map so all other members can see your ride and get an idea of where you’re located. Registration is open to Lexus owners worldwide, and one other cool thing — although the focus is F-Sport models and accessories, any Lexus model is eligible.

From there, there’s all sorts of filtering available, including the ability to sort by club affiliation — which includes this website as an option! This means that any readers signing here will become part of the TLE club, and will be identified on the registry as a member. Other groups will include Club Lexus & My.IS. Very cool!

http://lexusenthusiast.com/2010/05/24/lexus-performance-registry/

Lexus Draws the Line on Disparaging Remarks

2010-05-24T07:14:00.003-04:00

Lexus Update: Our Response to the Los Angeles Times on Lexus ES 300/330 Drivetrain Issue

Lexus objects to the Los Angeles Times’ portrayal of how the company responded to customer concerns regarding a drivetrain issue in the 2002-2006 Lexus ES300/330 (“Toyota Kept Lexus Issue from Buyers” May 23, 2010).

The Times mischaracterizes a service process that is common throughout the auto industry to address rare performance issues. Transmission hesitation and momentary surge in the Lexus ES 300/330 was not a safety or unintended acceleration issue but a customer satisfaction and drivability issue about which only a limited number of customers raised concerns. We did not keep this issue from ES owners but, instead, proactively addressed the needs of those customers who were dissatisfied with the feel and performance of their vehicle’s drivetrain.

Overall, 98% of all customers were satisfied with their vehicle’s performance, as evidenced by the numerous quality and customer satisfaction awards and recognition the Lexus ES has received, including best-in-class in J.D. Power and Associates’ Initial Quality Study (IQS) in three of the first five years after it was introduced:

May 2003 – Lexus ES 300 is the highest ranked entry luxury car in the 2003 J.D Power and Associates IQS.
May 2005 – The Lexus ES 330 is the highest ranked mid-luxury car in the J.D. Power and Associates IQS.
June 2006 – Lexus ES 330 earns J.D. Power and Associates IQS award in the Mid-size Premium Car segment.
July 2003 – ES 300 ranks first in the entry luxury sedan class in the 2003 J.D. Power and Associates Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS).

On the manufacturing side, J.D. Power and Associates awarded the ES 300 manufacturing facility, the Tsutsumi Plant in Japan, the Bronze Plant Award.

What’s more, our own research shows that owner loyalty for the fourth- and fifth-generation ES sedan was at or near the top for the entry-luxury segment.

The technical service bulletins (TSB) issued to address this drivetrain issue in the Lexus ES300/330 were efforts to achieve greater customer satisfaction with smoother shifting between gears in the automatic transmission.

Once a TSB was available to address this condition, we proactively reached out to the small segment of Lexus customers who had previously contacted us about this issue to ensure they were aware the TSB was available, that their concerns were properly addressed and that they were satisfied with their vehicle’s performance. This TSB is still available to all other customers who may experience the same issue.

Transmission shifting is often a matter of customer preference, and the vast majority of owners were either not affected by or did not have a concern about this drivability issue. More specifically, some like quick, firm shifts, while others prefer slower, gentler shifting. In addressing drivetrain performance, Lexus strived to satisfy the widest range of customer expectations and preferences.

The term “surge” has been used across the industry for many years to describe a condition where there is a very slight slow-down and speed-up perception (typically two miles per hour or less) while holding steady throttle at low to moderate speeds. This issue was in no way related to any kind of sustained acceleration. Drivability concerns related to momentary surges or throttle hesitation are not unique to Lexus or Toyota, and nearly every major auto manufacturer has published technical service bulletins to address this type of issue in their vehicles.

In the last ten years, nearly 80 service bulletins related to this issue with corresponding repairs and/or program updates have been released across the industry. Issuing a TSB is commonplace for addressing issues such as this, and there are numerous similar circumstances where other manufacturers have also done so, versus direct notification to customers.

Toyota and Lexus make all available TSBs accessible to the public through the internet by subscribing to our Technical Information System. Toyota also submits copies of TSBs monthly to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), and most are summarized on the NHTSA website for anyone to review.

Lexus strives to achieve the highest standards of product quality and customer satisfaction, and we made every effort to make the shifting characteristics of the ES truly best in-class before and after production began. Given the concerns raised by some customers about this drivability issue, we did not meet the very high customer satisfaction standards we set for ourselves. However, we fully stand behind the engineering and production quality of the vehicle, as well as our after-sale customer service and technical support.

www.toyotanewsroom.com

The Coolest Non-Recall GX460 Photo

2010-05-18T08:45:00.002-04:00

Now this is why they build this car!!!!!! I hope they never stop letting cars be fun!!

Check out the rest of the article and how well the car performed against Land Rover LR4 and the Mercedes GL450

http://www.motortrend.com/roadtests/suvs/1007_2010_land_rover_lr4_2010_lexus_gx_460_2010_mercedes_benz_gl450/index.html

Take a Hot Lap in the LFA

2010-05-18T08:40:00.003-04:00

This is a video that the Lexus Enthusiast shot two weeks ago at New Jersey Motorsports Park's Lightning track when he was allowed to actually drive and LFA. The passanger was none other that Scott Pruett, the professional race car driver that Lexus has involved in this project. Talk about hitting the lottery. For 375 large this kinda fun can be yours!!!!

LEXUS WINS!!!!!

2010-05-17T13:46:00.003-04:00

Lexus LFA Wins SP8 Class in Nürburgring 24h Race

After a grueling and exhaustive 24 hours, the #50 Lexus LFA finished 18th overall and placed 1st in its SP8 (near production) class in the Nürburgring 24h race.

The other LFA in the race, #51, didn’t do so well after an extended pitstop that lasted over 11 hours, but did manage to make it back out onto the track to finish 160th. No word yet on what issue forced the #51 to be sidelined.

The last Lexus team, an IS-F driven by Gran Turismo creator Kazunori Yamauchi, Auto Express’ Owen Mildenhall and ex-Indy 500 star Hideshi Matsuda, had a faulty fuel pump keep them out of qualifying, but managed to climb from their early setback to finish 60th.

Lexus Europe published a mountain of photos

The Dark RIde Begins

2010-05-14T16:23:00.005-04:00

The interactive Lexus Website for the new CT200h is live. To fully enjoy, make sure you have sound, a web cam, and a Facebook account (they ask for it to start up the program). Very Cool stuff. Check it out.

http://www.lexusdarkride.com/

Consumer Reports lifts "Do Not Buy" on GX460

2010-05-07T10:33:00.004-04:00

Lexus GX 460 passes retest; Consumer Reports lifts "Don't Buy" label
Consumer Reports is lifting the Don't Buy: Safety Risk designation from the 2010 Lexus GX 460 SUV after recall work corrected the problem it displayed in one of our emergency handling tests.

Here are some quotes from the article:

We originally experienced the problem in a test that we use to evaluate what's called lift-off oversteer. In this test, as the vehicle is driven through a turn, the driver quickly lifts his foot off the accelerator pedal to see how the vehicle reacts. When we did this with our GX 460, its rear end slid out

We are not aware, however, of any reports of injury related to this problem.

Lexus recently duplicated the problem on its own test track and developed a software upgrade for the vehicle's ESC system that would prevent the problem from happening. Dealers received the software fix last week and began notifying GX 460 owners to bring their vehicles in for repair.We contacted the Lexus dealership from which we had anonymously bought the vehicle and made an appointment to have the recall work performed. The work took about an hour and a half. Following that, we again put the SUV through our full series of emergency handling tests. This time, the ESC system intervened earlier and its rear did not slide out in the lift-off oversteer test. Instead, the vehicle understeered—or plowed—when it exceeded its limits of traction, which is a more common result and makes the vehicle more predictable and less likely to roll over. Overall, we did not experience any safety concerns with the corrected GX 460 in our handling tests. We urge all affected GX 460 owners to have the recall work performed as soon as possible. Meanwhile, repaired GXs have gone back on sale.

With the fix, the GX 460's handling is ultimately secure

In addition, the vehicle rides comfortably, has a plush, quiet, interior, and provides quick acceleration.

http://blogs.consumerreports.org/cars/2010/05/video-lexus-gx-460-passes-retest-consumer-reports-lifts-dont-buy-label.html

THE LX570 FOR THE MAC DADDY IN YOU

2010-05-07T09:22:00.004-04:00

Dubbed the ASI LX 570 Invader, ASI has tuned the LX to push out 600hp, which equals a 0-60mph in less than 5 seconds (the stock LX 570 need 7.4 seconds).

Of course, there’s more obvious changes — the front end has been totally restyled with a new front grille (INVADER!!) and bumper with massive air intakes. There’s also new side side skirts and glossy black rims, along with a significant height drop.

http://lexusenthusiast.com/2010/05/06/lexus-lx-570-invader-by-asi-tuning/

Sticking Accelerator pedals--DODGE--Where's Congress Now?

2010-05-06T08:33:00.003-04:00

Here is an Article from Bloomberg News.... Boy talk about the double standard, no front pages here.\:

Chrysler Group LLC accelerator pedals made by the same company that supplied Toyota Motor Corp. are under investigation by U.S. automotive-safety regulators for potential cases of sticking in Dodge Caliber models.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said in a Web site posting today it is looking into the pedals made by CTS Corp. for Chrysler’s 2007 model year Dodge Caliber, which includes about 161,000 vehicles. The agency said it received five complaints by consumers saying the pedals stuck while they were driving their vehicles.

“The company’s initial examination of customer complaints finds they are limited to a small group of vehicles built during a five-week window in March and April of 2006,” Chrysler spokesman Nick Cappa said in an e-mailed statement. “It appears to be a supplier manufacturing concern, which is mechanical in nature and not a design or electronic issue.”
About 10,000 vehicles for the 2007 model year were made with the batch of pedals containing the mechanical defect, Cappa said in an interview. The vehicles have brake-override technology, which is intended to stop a car if both the accelerator and brake are applied.

CTS, based in Elkhart, Indiana, also supplies pedals to Honda Motor Co., Nissan Motor Co. and Mitsubishi Motors Corp., according to the company’s chief executive officer. Mitchell Walorski, CTS director of planning and investor relations, didn’t respond to a telephone call seeking comment.

Honda’s ‘Own Design’
“We are not aware of any specific investigations involving Honda pedals,” said Chris Martin, a spokesman for Honda’s U.S. unit in Torrance, California. Pedals supplied by CTS for Honda vehicles are “our own design” and not the same as those used in Toyota models, Martin said.
No crashes or injuries have been attributed to the defect in the Chrysler vehicles, NHTSA said.
Toyota, the world’s largest automaker, has recalled 2.3 million vehicles in the U.S. because of accelerator pedals that may stick.

Customers who own a Caliber made during March or April 2006 may bring it to a Dodge dealer for a free accelerator pedal inspection, Chrysler said.

http://www.businessweek.com/news/2010-05-03/cts-pedals-on-chrysler-cars-investigated-for-sticking-update3-.html

GX460 RETURNS TO LEXUS SHOWROOMS

2010-05-06T07:49:00.002-04:00

Toyota Returns Lexus GX 460 To Showrooms

This has put other manufactures on notice, as Lexus once set the bar with how to treat clients(washing cars, loaners etc), it has now set the bar so high with what to do when there is a problem and how to correct it. This may just be the new era of how Lexus is going to change the market place AGAIN. Given this is not what I think they planned, but it may be that something they have been looking for to set themselves apart once again.

Article recounts Toyotas actions toward handling Lexus GX 460 recall, citing companys quick response. Quotes from the story:

The Toyota Motor Corporation has apparently learned that staying ahead of the news cycle has its benefits.

But what Toyota did in response should serve notice to other car companieswhen faced with bad news, being proactive is of utmost importance.

Immediately following the announcement that the independent consumer research firm had given the Lexus a rare dont buy recommendation (following a safety test where the rear wheels of the GX 460 slipped out from underneath it), Toyota issued a stop sell order to its dealers and began to recall all 2010 models sold.

Promptly, Toyota made changes to the software powering the Lexus, supposedly remedying the problem. Late last week, satisfied that the problem was behind it, Toyota began to allow Lexus dealers to sell the GX 460 once again.

The automaker has taken the uncustomary route of slashing prices and offering other incentives to ensure buyers that Toyota is standing behind every Toyota, Lexus, and Scion model that it builds. So far, the automakers marketing initiative seems to be paying off .

http://thearticlewriter.com/autowriter/toyota-returns-lexus-gx-460-to-showrooms/

Mark the Date: June 6th Rallye Lexus 3rd Annual Tuner Event

2010-05-04T16:49:00.004-04:00

Be There!!! It's the only Event of it's kind you'll find around New York. See link to photos from last year

http://www.clublexus.com/forums/nelo...meet-pics.html

LEXUS LEAPS IN!!!!

2010-05-04T10:58:00.002-04:00

Toyota sticks with its incentives; Lexus leaps in

Kathy Jackson Automotive News -- May 3, 2010 - 6:02 pm ET

LOS ANGELES -- Toyota Division will stick with aggressive consumer incentives this month in an effort to hang on to its sales momentum. Meanwhile, Lexus Division has come out with a program of special leases and low interest rates.In April, Toyota-Scion sales rose 24 percent over April 2009 to 139,080 cars and trucks. Lexus sales climbed 29 percent to 18,359.Toyota Division began offering incentives March 2 after worldwide recalls of more than 8 million vehicles to fix defects linked to unintended acceleration and to adjust brakes.The division will continue with cut-rate lease deals and 0 percent financing on its most popular models.

Meantime, Lexus is touting special leases and low annual percentage rate loyalty programs in a one-month promotion called "Unprecedented Access." Toyota Division chief Bob Carter said leasing represented about 35 percent of sales last month, up from about 24 percent earlier this year. He said leasing will continue to play a key role in the division's strategy in the coming months."It's a key benefit for us," Carter said during a sales call today. "Customers like to change vehicles. We believe this is a strategy that can benefit the entire industry."Retail sales for Toyota-Scion were up 30 percent over April 2009. Carter said conquest sales accounted for about 40 percent of the division's volume for the second straight month -- similar to conquest rates before the recalls."That shows consumers don't care about the deal if they don't trust a brand," he said.Carter said Toyota will stick with rebates and sales for the short term but this summer will return to marketing brand attributes.

Lexus Division General Manager Mark Templin said the luxury brand's strong sales are a sign of economic recovery."There's a lot of momentum in the marketplace," he said. Templin said Lexus usually has a 20-day supply of vehicles, but production will be ramped up to achieve a 35-day supply.Meanwhile, Templin said more than 75 percent of Lexus' GX 460 inventory has been updated with new software to address a problem that could cause the vehicle to roll over.

Read more: http://www.autonews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20100503/RETAIL01/100509957/1290#ixzz0myNfqogD

IS-F Club Racer Concept- Carbon Fiber Overload

2010-05-04T08:24:00.002-04:00

Here is a clip from Japan showing what a IS-F club racer might be like from the factory with some Carbon Fiber lightening...... Check out that spoiler....the Tuners in the crowd are drooling right now... By the way 7,800,000 yen is around $82k in US.....Ouch!!

Toyota Team Members Write a Book--Put it on your must read lis!

2010-05-03T15:26:00.000-04:00

Tim Turner, a Toyota team member at the Georgetown, Ky., assembly plant, wanted to tell Americans about the great people who work with him at Toyota. So he decided to write a book, and he enlisted his colleagues to help him.

He began approaching fellow team members and asking them to write short stories about their experiences at Toyota. The response surprised even Turner. During one three-month period, he told the Lexington Herald-Leader, he was receiving a new story a day. Some of the stories make you cry, the paper quoted one team member as saying, and some make you laugh.

The 430-page book, "One Team on All Levels: The Story of the Toyota Team Members," sells for $15.95 on Amazon.com. Proceeds from the book’s sales go to support the plant’s team member assistance fund.

http://www.kentucky.com/2010/05/03/1249182/it-takes-teamwork-to-write-book.html

Lexus Goes Racing.....Despite the Volcano

2010-04-29T12:54:00.002-04:00

As a final test leading up to the Nürburgring 24h race, Lexus participated in this weekend’s Nürburgring 52. ADAC ACAS H&R-Cup race.

Only one LFA participated in the race, as Iceland’s volcanic ash prevented support personnel from getting to the track in time to run the second LFA—the IS F team also participated.

In a tragic turn, the race was ended immediately following a fatal accident involving Aston Martin driver Leo Löwenstein. Our condolences to Löwenstein’s family and the entire Aston Martin team.

http://lexusenthusiast.com/2010/04/26/lexus-lfa-participates-in-nurburgring-52nd-adac-acas-race/

Hey I Think I Said That

2010-04-23T10:14:00.001-04:00

Blog.CarandDriver.com
2010 Lexus GX460 Recalled for Stability Control Issue

Jake Holmes covers the recall but questions whether the Consumer Reports warning warranted a recall.

Quotes from the story:

Lexus stopped sales of the GX460 after Consumer Reports issued a Dont Buy: Safety Risk warning. During CRs elicit reaction performance test, the magazine found that the rear of the GX460 could slide nearly 90 degrees before the stability control system intervened, which could potentially cause a rollover.

We're still a little skeptical the problem requires such a panicked response.

CR notes that there have been no recorded GX460 rollovers, and the SUV slid only after drastic driving inputs. Still, Lexus says its engineers reproduced the problem and believe the software fix will prevent such handling traits.

http://blog.caranddriver.com/2010-lexus-gx460-recalled-for-stability-control-issue/

Check out the GX460 Video---Must See Comparision

2010-04-21T09:29:00.003-04:00

Here is a tip off from The Lexus Enthusiast. He has a before and after test of the GX460 with the issue that prompted the Consumer Reports "Do Not Buy" recomendation last week. Like stated in another article in the blog, Lexus is setting new standards on how to deal with product issues. It will take othe manufactures years to achieve the level of commitment that Toyota and Lexus have shown. It belittles other manufactures and how they treat customers. Lexus now has a new set the new Benchmark... Think about it, from discovering a issue that would normally have been just a service bulletin in the past (before the glaring spotlight of public scrutiny) to a full blown and implemente fix in a week. UNHEARD OF IN THE AUTOMOTIVE INSUSTRY!!!Here is the side by side video of the before and after:

TMC Announces Remedy for Vehicle Stability Control in Lexus GX 460 and Toyota Land Cruiser Prado
Toyota City, Japan—Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) announces its remedy for the problem concerning the Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) program in its Lexus GX 460 and certain Land Cruiser Prado vehicles.

In circumstances in which advanced driving skills are required, such as when a driver of the involved vehicle sharply turns the steering wheel in high-speed conditions, or when the driver negotiates a curve at excessive speeds, the vehicle could slide sideways, due to the insufficient activation of the VSC.

The following conditions combine to cause the problem:

- In the GX 460 and Land Cruiser Prado, heavy components, such as the fuel tank, are located on the left side, and in left-hand drive versions, the left side is made even heavier because of the presence of the driver.- For vehicles with certain tires (on 18-inch wheels) and equipped with the Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS*) and VSC, the activation of the VSC may not be sufficient in certain circumstances due to the setting of the VSC program.- Circumstances may require advanced driving skills, such as sharp turns of the steering wheel in high-speed conditions or negotiating a curve to the right at excessive speeds.

As a remedy, Toyota will update the VSC program to enhance the effectiveness of the VSC so that the risk of the vehicle sliding, even to the point that it is almost sideways, will be reduced.
Vehicles involved are as follows:

- GX 460: Approx. 13,000 units in total Approx. 9,400 units in the United States, approx. 1,000 units in Russia, approx 1,000 units in Oman- Land Cruiser Prado: Approx. 21,000 units in total (only left-hand drive vehicles with KDSS and VSC) Approx. 4,400 units in Oman, approx. 4,000 units in Russia, approx. 1,500 units in the United Arab Emirates. No right-hand drive units have this problem.

In total, approximately 34,000 units worldwide are involved. In North America, Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. (TMS) and Toyota Canada Inc. (TCI) each announced a voluntary recall on April 19 (local time). As for other regions and countries involved, such as in Europe and the Middle East, TMC will work to implement similar measures as soon as possible.

http://lexusenthusiast.com/2010/04/20/lexus-gx-460-recall-remedy-demonstration/#more

Lexus L-FA See's RED!!!!

2010-04-20T13:54:00.003-04:00

Here is an article from Carview in Japan. It is all in Japanese and you pc probably won't even print out most of the characters but these are some never before seen pictures of the LFA, including those under the skin. So you think Lexus is feeling so strong in the LFA that they dressed it in Ferrari red?

I like, I like alot!! Check it out

http://www.carview.co.jp/road_impression/article/lexus_lfa/575/photo/1/

Toyota's Detractors...most disliked

2010-04-16T16:24:00.002-04:00

Forbes.com

Toyotas Kipling Moment: The only good news for the automaker is that its detractors are among the most disliked institutions in the nation.

Forbes.coms Jerry Flint reports that Toyota electrical glitches are unlikely and that drivers error is more likely. Additionally, he reports, that in Toyotas favor is the fact that the opposition is extremely untrustworthy in the eyes of the American public.

Quotes from the story:

If it finds an actual problem, Toyota can fix it once and for all. But if they can't find a problem, if no one can find a problem, if it seems to be driver error--stepping on the accelerator instead of the brake--then the questions go on and on. People in accidents will continue to believe they did nothing wrong, lawyers will continue to file suits, the press will continue to regurgitate the same stories day after day and Toyota will stay in the hole.

The other day I had a chat with a car tester, one of the best known car testers in the world. I guarantee he's not in Toyota's pocket, or anyone else's. I asked him about the unintended acceleration complaints against Toyota. He said he believed that for the most part they were drivers' errors. Why? He had never run into them in all his testing. But more important, he said that if there were an electronic glitch, it would have shown up in many other ways: headlights flickering on and off and radios going on and off. That's because the electronics are interconnected. If this isn't happening, and we don't hear such reports, then the premise that unintended acceleration is being caused by an electronic glitch is questionable, he said.

But Toyota has this going for it: the question of who people will trust more, the automaker or its detractors. The detractors are Congress, trial lawyers and the press, three of the most distrusted groups in the nation, while the car company has millions of satisfied owners out there. We know because they keep turning in their old Toyotas and buying new ones.

http://www.forbes.com/2010/04/14/toyota-lexus-prius-business-autos-toyota.html?boxes=businesschannelsections

Lexus Sets Precedent for the Industry

2010-04-15T14:44:00.001-04:00

Based on an interview with Jeremy Anwyl, CEO of Edmunds.com, the Los Angeles Times reported Wednesday that Toyota’s quick action to stop sales of the 2010 Lexus GX 460 temporarily while investigating an issue identified by Consumer Reports "is expected to set a precedent for other auto manufacturers who find themselves in similar situations." The article quoted Anwyl as saying that "to do otherwise would prompt consumers and regulators to remember Toyota's response and ask ‘why they aren't doing it too.’"

Toyota announced its decision about the GX 460 within hours of Consumer Reports releasing its findings and has begun a detailed technical investigation of the issue.

In addition, Toyota announced today it has suspended sales of the GX 460 in all markets, has stopped production of the vehicle for several days and, to reassure consumers, has begun new safety tests on all of its sport-utility vehicles worldwide.

According to Reuters, NHTSA Administrator David Strickland, speaking to reporters at an industry forum in Detroit today, said that Toyota has been "incredibly forthcoming" in its handling of the GX 460 issues. Reuters noted that Strickland said there has been a "change in level of response from Toyota" after recent issues.

http://www.blogger.com/www.toyotanewsroom.com.

GX 460 Is the Hysteria Really Warranted?

2010-04-15T11:52:00.003-04:00

For those of you who live in a bubble and have not heard, Lexus issued a stop sale on the 2010 GX460 because of a report from Consumer Reports. Amazing the press jumped on the report and then splashed all over the news " LEXUS GX460 ROLLS OVER" all over the place. This is not the case. The GX exibited a rear end slide during an excessive speed turn where the throttle is lifted. The truck responded in a almost sports car like rear end slide before the Vehicle Stability Control kicked in and stopped the car. Consumers felt that the slide in a certain situation could cause the truck to strick a curb. Well if you think about it, any car that slides out and hits a curb would have an issue.

So Lexus is on the test tracks and I am sure tuning the electronics so that if the truck even smells hard turn the VSC controls will kick in(enjoy the beeping warning chime). Here is a article where Lexus went to bring another car to the test track but was denied access. Here they are trying to see if they have a real problem and test it the same way. It almost looks like someone is trying to hide something. Sorry to be the devils advocate but I still remember what Consumers did to the Suzuki years ago that almost caused them to go out of business for an unfounded reason. You can read up on that in my blog from last month.

http://lexusenthusiast.com/2010/04/14/more-on-lexus-visit-to-the-consumer-reports-test-track/

For you other doubting Thomas, here is a link to an article from Accuracy in Media:

http://www.aim.org/aim-report/aim-report-a-black-eye-for-consumer-reports/

Do You Need to Pimp Your LS460?

2010-04-12T14:59:00.004-04:00

Bling, Bling, Bam......

Here is a view of the TOM's body kit for the LS460. If this is your cup of tea, I think your cup will run over.

http://lexusenthusiast.com/2010/04/08/ad-toms-lexus-ls-460gt-body-kit/

LF-A---RACE CLASS WINNER

2010-04-12T14:52:00.002-04:00

Two Lexus LFAs and an IS F competed in this weekend’s 35th DMV 4 hours race at Nürburgring

They entered 2 LF-A's and and IS-F. The number 128 LF-A finished first in class(SP8), the other was 5th. The IS-F picked up a #5 spot.

http://lexusenthusiast.com/2010/04/11/lexus-lfa-wins-sp8-class-in-35th-dmv-nrburgring-race/

Rallye Lexus Service Department Goes Viral

2010-04-07T16:45:00.002-04:00

Often times when we have new customers visit us for the first time they are alittle lost when they pull in. So we put together a quick YouTube video to let them know our process and thus be alittle more comfortable when they pull in. Let us know what you think! Are there other areas or subjects you would like to see? Email me at ajones@rallyelexus.com with your comments(please be kind to our cheesy acting).

Thanks as always

Lexus to Hold F-Sport Driving Event Apr 29th

2010-04-07T09:53:00.003-04:00

I saw this in a couple of places yesterday, this is a free event that you must sign up for to get in. Use this link to sign up. Sounds wicked!

http://lexusf-event.com/

Lexus F-Sport event taking place April 29th at the New Jersey Motorsports Park in Millville, NJ and provides hot laps in the Lexus LFA(if you one of the lucky chosen ones)

Do you have some interest in beating on someone else's high-performance car? Then you could sign up for Lexus' F-Sport event taking place on April 29th at the New Jersey Motorsports Park in Millville NJ.

Anyone who is 18 or older with a valid driver's license is welcome to register for the one-day event, but spots for the roughly 10 half-hour sessions are on a first-come, first-served basis. Lexus promises that they'll have the IS F sedan and well as the F-Sport versions of the IS and GS models available for autocross driving.

You cannot drive the LFA. However, the company will have an LFA on hand, along with pro driver Scott Pruett to give one attendee per session a hot lap in the supercar. If you want some idea of what that will look and sound like, make the jump for our own hot lap with Pruett at Homestead.

http://blogs.insideline.com/straightline/2010/04/lexus-to-hold-f-sport-event-youre-invited.html

Toyota's Great Victory

2010-04-07T09:37:00.001-04:00

Chattanoogan.com Roy Exum:

Editor Roy Exum, who has been following the Toyota recall controversy and is very much pro-Toyota, writes about the favorable sales numbers Toyota posted in March and how Toyota played a role in jump-starting sales for the automotive industry overall.

Quotes from the story:

Toyota Motor Company had an 87 percent sales increase in March over the month before and a 41 percent increase over March a year ago. Thats right, the same company so brutally and unfairly bashed in Congress this winter just sold more vehicles (186,000) last month than any other brand in the United States.

The incentives package offered by what I am now assured is the worlds safest and most reliable automobile have actually kick-started the economically-stalled automotive industry. Plainly put, all that a union-driven witch hunt could do to humiliate and defraud a great and noble global company just blew up in its face.

[I am] one of 200,000 Americans who today proudly wears a Toyota patch. I offer that not just as a disclaimer, but instead to say I have now seen an inside to a company that I candidly believe is one of the finest and most exciting in the world.

In short, Toyota did not only do the right thing, they went over and beyond it.

I have viable proof of the millions of dollars Toyota has given to this country in the form of youth ball fields, United Way, the Red Cross, you name it. At a time when we are praying daily for the unemployed and the uninsured, I can show you 200,000 fiercely-loyal Americans who are being treated in such a way they will literally do anything as long as its legal to prove Toyota is, quite simply, the best.

http://www.chattanoogan.com/articles/article_172625.asp

Lexus Surges past Mercedes in Sales

2010-04-06T08:57:00.001-04:00

BusinessWeek.com Lexus Tops Mercedes in U.S. Luxury-Auto Sales in March and the First Quarter

David Welch and Katie Merx report on the sales numbers for the automotive industry in March.Quotes from the story:

Toyota Motor Corp.s Lexus increased its U.S. sales 42 percent in March to finish the first quarter with the luxury-vehicle lead over Daimler AGs Mercedes-Benz.
Lexus sold 20,219 cars and sport-utility vehicles last month and 49,523 for the quarter, according to a statement today.

Toyotas division has been the top seller of luxury vehicles in the U.S. on an annual basis for 10 years in a row.

Lexus benefited from a tripling of sales of its redesigned GX mid-size SUV, as well as increases of 30 percent for the RX sport-utility vehicle and 29 percent for the IS car, according to the statement from Toyota City, Japan-based Toyota.

http://www.businessweek.com/news/2010-04-01/lexus-tops-mercedes-in-u-s-luxury-auto-sales-in-march-quarter.html

Lexus RX350 Crushes the other Crossovers

2010-04-06T08:51:00.001-04:00

Luxury Crossover Choice: RX350

In this side-by-side comparison of the Acura ZDX, Audi Q5, and Lexus RX 350, editors from Cars.com select the Lexus RX as the editors choice.

Quotes from the story:

All three of these crossovers have strong engines, but what elevated the RX 350 to the top is its responsive automatic transmission.

Known more for comfort than sport, Lexus surprised us with the best steering of the three: predictable and nicely weighted at all speeds.

Relatively wide and cushy front seats seemed to fit us just right. They're not as restrictive as the ZDX's bolstered buckets, and they offer good thigh support, aided by our test car's optional front-seat cushion extender.

The spaciousness in the front carries over to the RX's rear seats, which are generously sized and both slide and recline over wide ranges.

If you're easy on the options, the Lexus seems to offer the most for your money, and its projected five-year ownership costs are the lowest of these three.

With its spacious cabin, effortless driving experience and luxury trappings, the RX 350 is designed to have broad appeal among luxury shoppers. It doesn't have many negatives, either, which makes it even better.

The LFA Nurburgring Shames Every Other Car in Existence

2010-04-06T08:43:00.002-04:00

Extremely Rare Supercars

The Lexus LFA Nurburgring Shames Every Other Car in Existence

TrendHunter.com proclaims that they LFA Nurburgring special edition shames every other car in existence.

Quotes from the story:

I am sorry Audi R8, but my new favorite supercar is the Lexus LFA Nrburgring. The LFA is a limited edition run itself with only 500 being made, but there will be only 50 of the Nrburgring edition made. Rarity is sexy.

The Lexus LFA Nrburgring boasts a V10 4.8L engine that produces 562 hp. Everything on the Nrburgring edition has been fine-tuned, from the shift time to the 0-62 mph acceleration. If you want to get technical, check out this articles source links. If you want to drool, check out the gallery. Either way, youre a winner.

The announcement was made to highlight LFAs entry in the Nrburgring 24 Hours race in May.

http://www.trendhunter.com/trends/lexus-lfa-nuerburgring

Straight from the Engineer: Why You Will Love the CT200h

2010-04-06T08:28:00.003-04:00

Chief Engineer Osamu Sadakata is the man responsible for the original RX300 and RX400h. He then went on to set the benchmark for Hybrid vehicles in the LS600h. He takes some time at the car show in Geneva to talk about the nuts and bolts of the new CT200h. I think it is going to be his next great achievement. Check it out.....

http://lexusenthusiast.com/2010/04/06/exclusive-interview-with-lexus-ct-200h-chief-engineer/

Being Green Can Be Funny Too....If your Sarah Silverman

2010-04-02T15:57:00.002-04:00

TheDailyGreen.com

Sarah Silverman Kills It at Global Warming Debate:

The comedian moderated a raucous discussion between author Amanda Little and skeptic Phelim McAlee

Brian Clark Howard shares his experience at the Lexus Global Warming Debate.

Quotes from the story:

The new Lexus CT 200h hybrid car [is] an undeniably hot car, though I admit I'm already a big fan of sport hatches.

Celebs showed up in force to promote the car, and watch an entertaining debate on climate change hosted by quirky comedian Sarah Silverman.

The Daily Green crew got a good look at the Revered Run from Run-DMC, Zach Braff, model Tyson Beckford, some minor stars from the Twilight movies and a couple of dudes from The Daily Show. We heard that Kevin Bacon and wife Kyra Sedgwick were there, but none of us saw them. Good old-fashioned vinyl was spun by Paul Sevigny, who is Chloe Sevigny's older brother.

http://www.thedailygreen.com/living-green/blogs/recycling-design-technology/sarah-silverman-global-warming-4603010

The Darker Side of Lexus- Join the Dark Side

2010-04-02T15:17:00.003-04:00

WELCOME TO THE DARKER SIDE OF GREEN.

Holy Cow Batman, Lexus gets DARK..... I like it, I like it alot!!!!

Check out the website: https://www.darkersideofgreen.com/ride.html#dark-ride

After May 13 the Lexus Enthustiast says you will even be able to drop yourself in the drivers seat and be your own action hero. Read about it at:

http://lexusenthusiast.com/2010/03/30/lexus-ct-200h-dark-ride-trailer-site-and-contest/

Could this be the 2012 LS?

2010-04-01T15:49:00.004-04:00

Here was a note from the Lexus Enthusiast. He saw it on the Japanese blog. Can anyone Translate for us?

http://lexusenthusiast.com/2010/03/31/next-generation-lexus-ls-rendering/

Thanks Unice!

Who Makes the Toughest Cars on the Planet

2010-04-01T08:44:00.002-04:00

Forbes.com Toughest Cars On The Road

Hannah Elliot combines the results of J.D. Power and Consumer Reports to determine the toughest cars on the road results show two Lexus models among the top contenders.

Quotes from the story:

Anxious drivers may take comfort that the Toyota Prius--at the center of dozens of lawsuits blaming the company for traffic fatalities due to alleged unintended acceleration--is among the countrys sturdiest cars.

Two more Toyota owned models, the $37,625 Lexus RX SUV and $65,380 Lexus LS 460 sedan, are also among the toughest cars on the road.

To compile our list, we started with the results of J.D. Power's 2010 Dependability Study, released this month. We took the top three vehicles listed in each segment and whittled down contenders by selecting only those that Consumer Reports labeled "Most Reliable" in a survey issued in its April 2010 issue. We then eliminated any vehicles with an overall CR score lower than 75.

http://www.forbes.com/2010/03/29/toyota-prius-power-lifestyle-vehicles-toughest-cars.html

60 to 0.... The Count Down Begins

2010-03-31T17:24:00.003-04:00

Murphy's law of sales says the one you want is never the one on sale.

Well, for 60 Days, all that is about to change. Through June 1, all lexus moelds are being offered with special APR financing and lease rates during the 60 to 0 Cerfified Pre-Owned Sales Event.

Now is the time to check out that Lexus you been looking for.

Find out more see Tony Costanzo or email him at acostanzo@rallyelexus.com

This really is the time for a deal, so I had to post it up, otherwise come June you'll pay more. I know I need to save every dollar I can every month.

A New Generation Maintenance You Never Thought Of

2010-03-31T11:20:00.005-04:00

Something most people never think about in our "keyless" world.

All of out new Lexus models come with a remote key, or a fob key to operate our "keyless" car. It is a little rectangular smooth object about the size of a matchbox( did I date myself since no one smokes anymore). This mechanical wonder opens your doors without a push of the button(for those of you who are nostalgic, you can push the button on the fob) just by touching the door handle with your fob in your pocket. The car "sees" the fob key and allows it through a wireless signal to let the car start when you push the start button.

Well what do you think enables this little fob to work like that? Electricity!!

Inside this marvel is a small round "watch" type battery. This tiny battery powers this remote fob key and transmits the necessary signals to your Lexus to allow it to do all those things.

So as with all things electrical that use batteries, this battery needs to be replaced from time to time to ensure proper operation. Lexus recommends that you replace the batteries in your remote fob keys approximately once a year. Now there are certain circumstances where you may need to replace them more often, and here are a few ides on how to handle the keys to avoid them going prematurely "dead".

If you park in your garage, don't leave the key in the car. The remote key is now constantly sending a signal to car letting it know it is within range. This is just like having an emergency flash light in your pantry closet but you left the light on. It drains the battery and now your remote key may not work. It might not happen over night but if you do this with regularity the battery may only last a couple of months instead of a year or so.

If you keep the spare in the house, keep it away from your microwave and other house hold items that transmit wireless waves (like a wireless modem, or other bluetooth type equipment). The fob can mistake these signals and think it is in the car and transmit a start signal.

Rallye Lexus will be incorporating fob battery replacement into it's one year/15,000 mile service as to make it more convenient and avoid any issues. Look for your new maintenance schedules soon.

Even the Key is Carbon Fiber

2010-03-30T16:33:00.001-04:00

CarAndDriver.com
2012 Lexus LFA Tested Short Take Road Test: Ferrari-like Lexus hits 60 in 3.7 seconds. In other words, the LFA is PDQ

Aaron Robinson of Car and Driver magazine is the first in the world to test the 2012 Lexus LFA he takes it to the track and shares his experience.

Quotes from the story:

The LFA has a seductive shapewide, low, wind-swept, and perforated with important-looking vents and ducts. Flush panels hidden in the duct cutouts that form the top of the doors grant access to the cabin. The cockpit swallows you up like a hot dog in a leather and carbon-fiber bun.

The 553-hp, 4.8-liter V-10 lights with a burst of authority, a throat-clearing mini-explosion up to 2000 or so rpm the LFA has a deeper, huskier, coarser voice than a Ferrari.

Any car that runs to 60 in the three-second range is pretty thrilling.

Some magazines have already criticized the LFA for having artificial-feeling controls, but the example delivered to us showed the chassis sophistication of the European masters.

Even given its long gestation, the LFA does not drive like a car from a company new to the genre and eager to impress. It drives like a car from a company that has done this type of car many times and isnt worried that customers wont be pleased. If Toyota can do this on its first go with the LFA, just think what it could do to the Corolla or Camry if the urge ever strikes.

http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/car/10q1/world_exclusive!_2012_lexus_lfa_tested-short_take_road_test

What's Really Driving the Toyota Controversy?

2010-03-30T16:20:00.002-04:00

WashingtonExaminer.com

In this opinion article by Don Watkins and Yaron Brook, the authors reveal some behind-the-scenes players that may be fueling the fire of the Toyota recalls.

Quotes from the story:

In February, Toyota executives were hauled in front of Congress, purportedly so that renowned auto experts like House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Henry Waxman of California could determine the cause of reported cases of unintended acceleration and evaluate Toyotas alleged failure to respond. The hearings had the fingerprints of politics all over them.

The Detroit lobby is hard to distinguish from the government itself now that the government holds a 60 percent stake in General Motors. Even if concerns about an electronic problem in Toyotas vehicles turn out to be baseless, domestic manufacturers stand to benefit by prolonging the parade of bad publicity.

Anyone who thinks Toyotas executives were summoned to Congress to discuss the evidence concerning Toyotas vehicles has missed the point. Regardless of what we ultimately discover about Toyota, this was about a horde of pressure groups seeking to impose their economic agendas via political power.

The cause is the governments power to intervene in the market to pick winners and losers. In the auto industry alone, the government controls everything from whom car companies can hire (unionized employees) to what kind of vehicles they must build (hybrids). The truth is Toyotas troubles should not be a political issue.

http://www.washingtonexaminer.com/opinion/columns/OpEd-Contributor/Don-Watkins-and-Yaron-Brook-Whats-really-driving-the-Toyota-controversy-89271207.html

Going Off Road: You Need a GX460

2010-03-29T07:39:00.006-04:00

FourWheeler.com 2010 Lexus GX460 First Drive: Still The Most Trailable Midside Luxo-Rig?

Douglas McColloch spends a week behind the wheel of the 2010 Lexus GX460 putting it to the off-road test and writes about his experience with the vehicle.

Quotes from the story:

It would be an understatement to say we were impressed when Lexus introduced the midsize GX 470 SUV for the 2003 model year. We were so awed, in fact, by its overall trail prowess (as well as its splendid highway manners) that we bestowed our annual Four Wheeler of the Year award upon it. A year later, the GX won the award a second time, thanks to its new-for-2004 Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System. To date, it's still the only vehicle to have won our award in consecutive years.

We spent a day test driving the new GX recently, and we can happily report that the latest Lexus is just as trailworthy as ever-perhaps even more so.

We know that plenty of old-timers will gripe about "taking the driver out of the equation," and while that's true to some extent, the things we like about the Crawl Control are (a) it's only there when you want it, and (b) we're delighted to see companies such as Lexus and Toyota still devoting resources and engineering dollars on technology that's specifically geared to the unique demands of off-pavement driving.

http://www.fourwheeler.com/roadtests/129_1005_2010_lexus_gx460_first_drive/index.html

“Complaints beget complaints.”

2010-03-26T15:24:00.002-04:00

Wall Street Journal Columnist Questions Toyota’s “Mysteriously High Level” of Acceleration Complaints :

In today’s Wall Street Journal, columnist Holman Jenkins addresses Toyota’s “mysteriously high level” of unintended acceleration complaints compared to most car makers. “One pattern…is unmistakable,” Jenkins notes, commenting on the widespread press coverage of Toyota’s recalls and reflecting back on the situation with Audi more than 20 years ago. “Complaints beget complaints.”

Jenkins notes.
“Perceptions that Toyotas are unusually unsafe may be entirely a product of a ‘complaint’ bandwagon…partly encouraged by trial lawyers and activists.”

Despite this, he writes, “careful studies by several governments, including the U.S. government, concluded there was no defect behind” the earlier Audi acceleration complaints.

Jenkins also notes that since 2001, trial lawyers have been “urging a revival of sudden unintended acceleration litigation, insisting that such cases could prevail in absence of evidence of a defect, and even amid evidence of driver error, simply by harping in front of a jury on a record of ‘Other Similar Incidents.’…“That’s the roadmap being followed now.” Toyota is not the first target of this kind of campaign, the Journal points out. In fact, “a 10-year battle against Ford over a 1999 Aerostar minivan crash ended four weeks ago when a jury rendered a verdict in favor of Ford after just two hours of deliberation.”

The Darker Side Of Green

2010-03-26T09:55:00.003-04:00

You have to check out the new CT200h...Check it out. I think this could be the Scion of Lexus.

Now you don't have to search everywhere for the info, check out this link to Lexus.com

http://www.lexus.com/fcv/ct200h.html

LS460L: The Ultimate Lexus

2010-03-25T15:48:00.002-04:00

AutomobileMag.com

Reviews: 2010 Lexus LS460L

Four editors from AutomobileMag.com test drive the 2010 Lexus LS460L and each provide a brief review of their thoughts on the vehicle.

Quotes from the story:

Given the LS has always been the ultimate Lexus, I've come to expect nothing less than the utmost in luxury, refinement, and technology at a reasonable price tag.

Coupled with snow tires, this all-wheel-drive system lets the long-wheelbase LS plow its way through some surprisingly deep snow.

In a day when we have 5000-pound crossovers that claim to be sport coupes and Cadillac sedans lapping the Nrburgring, the LS demonstrates a refreshing purity of purpose and a near obsessive commitment to proper execution.

Every aspect of this vehicle, from the one-finger effort steering to the smooth-as-glass eight-speed transmission is finessed to be as unobtrusive as possible.

When I fired up the LS460L, a message flashed onto the navigation screen telling me there was a new Lexus Insider article waiting I pushed the button to listen, and heard a three- or four-minute podcast about a historic inn near the Delaware Water Gap The podcast is part of the Lexus Insider series of recorded messages sent to the car's audio system.

The array of controls available to rear-seat passengers in the flip-down center armrest rivals the instrument panel in the original Lexus LS from twenty years ago. And it's certainly a wonderful place to ride, the equal or better of the rear seats from the obvious competitors: Mercedes-Benz S-class, BMW 7-series, Audi A8, and the new Jaguar XJ.

The LS remains the purest expression of the Lexus philosophy and is just as appealing today as it was back in 1990.

http://www.automobilemag.com/reviews/editors_notebook/1003_2010_lexus_ls460l_sedan/index.html

Actions Speak Louder than Words

2010-03-25T15:04:00.001-04:00

"Actions Speak Louder than Words”

“Many consumers tell us over and again that they believe Toyota has been over-scrutinized and that they remain very confident in the safety of our products – as are we,” wrote TMS Vice President Michael Rouse in a new public posting on the Toyota USA Newsroom web site.

Describing the steps that Toyota has taken to make things right, Rouse wrote that, “Actions speak louder than words,” noting that the company and its dealers:

· Made more than 1.5 million combined recall repairs; (I'd like to see any other manufacture do so well and so quick)

· Launched an independent external review of vehicle
electronics; (when was the last time Detroit did that? or will? Never)and

· Continue to make fundamental changes to the ways the company
operates to be even more responsive to customers.

In addition, Rouse noted, “There has been a great deal of confusion, speculation and misinformation about our recent recalls – much of it in the media or as a result of unsupported claims about ‘unintended acceleration’ caused by our electronics,” Rouse explained. This is a complex issue, he wrote. Echoing a theme in a number of recent press reports and opinion columns recently, “Rushing to judgment on the basis of unfounded theories is a disservice.”

To read Michael Rouse’s complete posting, please click on

http://pressroom.toyota.com/pr/tms/our-point-of-view-post.aspx?id=2837

Toyota, Flying Saucers and Bigfoot

2010-03-24T15:21:00.002-04:00

Columnist Jerry Flint Criticizes the Media for Uncritical Look at Complaints About Toyotas
Under the headline "Toyota, Flying Saucers and Bigfoot" Tuesday, Forbes columnist Jerry Flint took members of the media to task Tuesday for accepting as real the claims of runaway Toyotas "without serious questioning."

"Toyota has had a bit of good news in recent days. One of the claims of unintended acceleration has begun to look like a phony."

"Then The New York Times ran an op-ed piece by a UCLA psychology professor (emeritus) questioning all such claims. The writer, who had worked on the issue years ago, wrote that they were usually driver error--stepping on the accelerator pedal instead of the brakes--and noting that older drivers tend to make these mistakes more often."

Flint also shared a few of his thoughts about why so many new complaints are being filed and what the long-term impact may be on Toyota. In addition to drivers putting their foot on the wrong pedal and "dreams of the big payoff" from a lawsuit, Flint suggested that people’s feet may simply be getting bigger. "Maybe these bigger feet overlap" the brake and gas pedals, he said. As for how all this will impact Toyota, Flint said the company "might spend more money on lawyers over the next few years than on developing fuel-stingy engines."

To read the entire column, click on

http://www.forbes.com/2010/03/23/toyota-autos-brakes-business-backseat-safety.html

RUSHERS: Lexus and Ryan Leslie

2010-03-24T08:03:00.004-04:00

Lexus once again is trying something different. They have hooked up with Ryan Leslie, one of the hottest new young producers/performers around today. This is like a mini suspense movie. Is the star Ryan or the new GX460? You decide, but you'll agree that it definitely is something different and fun.

JD Powers: Toyota has more first place awards than anyone this year

2010-03-23T08:21:00.002-04:00

Toyota Happy With JD Power Survey Results
Based on comments made by Toyota, this article reports that the company is happy with the results of the JD Power and Associates survey results.

Quotes from the story:

We are pleased that TMS has once again led the way with the most segment awards in the J.D. Power Vehicle Dependability Study. Were especially proud of our consistency in the annual study. Since 1994 Lexus has continued to place among the top three nameplates in every year of eligibility, while Toyota has been in the top five among non-luxury manufacturers since 1990.

Toyota has once again topped this years study as the top-ranking full-line manufacturer, said Jim Lentz, president of Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc.
Other examples of Toyotas commitment to excellence, quality products and customer satisfaction include:

Toyota received four 1st place awards more than any other brand.

18 Toyota, Lexus and Scion vehicles made the list of Most Reliable New Car in 10 different vehicle categories by a leading national consumer publication.

Toyota owner loyalty remains the highest in the industry, according to internal studies.
The Tundra full-size pickup and the GX 470 midsize premium SUV each topped its respective segments for the fifth year in a row.

The Highlander midsize SUV and Sequoia full-size SUV each topped their respective segments for the third consecutive year.

http://www.autoevolution.com/news/toyota-happy-with-jd-power-survey-results-18234.html

People, Not Cars, Were to Blame--Research from NPR

2010-03-23T08:09:00.004-04:00

Runaway Cars: Driver Error Or Car Malfunction?

Alix Spiegel of NPR reviews research performed by experts in the 80s that shows driver error contributes to sudden unintended acceleration.

Quotes from the story:

When this report on sudden acceleration finally came out in 1989, its conclusions were unwavering: The problem was driver error. People, not cars, were to blame.

According to the research, they say, human beings have a long history of pushing the wrong pedal.

Richard Schmidt, a human performance psychologist at UCLA, combed through all the accident reports in the state of North Carolina for a seven-year period. He found regular reports of pedal error.

The perseveration response you just keep repeating the same error over and over and over again is particularly likely to happen when people have misdiagnosed the problem. For instance, they might believe that they are hitting the brake when they are in fact hitting the gas. Because their basic analysis is wrong, under stress which tends to make creative thinking difficult and narrows your field of attention they are liable to repeat and repeat that wrong action in an attempt to fix it.

http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=124815144&ps=rs

Toyota Hysteria: Who's Fault is it Really?

2010-03-23T08:00:00.002-04:00

Toyota hysteria: Horror stories really about us

As a follow up to the article he wrote for Forbes.com, Michael Fumento explains that the Toyota crisis is the result of media blowing things out of proportion.

Quotes from the story:

The mass reports of sudden-acceleration incidents just don't add up. Measured by reports to the National Highway Safety Administration, these same Toyotas were actually safe just a few months ago. And overseas they still are.

Clearly, the biggest cause of Toyota sudden-acceleration complaints is media coverage.
The NHTSA gets a constant stream of "speed control" complaints regarding every model of car. A recent New York Times analysis found almost 13,000 over the last decade (of which 10,000 didn't involve Toyotas).

People who cause accidents -- especially serious ones -- understandably want to blame something other than themselves. Sudden unintended acceleration does the trick.

http://www.nypost.com/p/news/opinion/opedcolumnists/toyota_hysteria_fkQ7bahdNpTHOyesUuyGRJ

NY Prius Incident- NY State PD States "Driver Error" Cause

2010-03-23T07:48:00.002-04:00

Investigators: New York Prius crash likely driver error
From Evan Buxbaum, CNN

March 22, 2010 7:50 p.m. EDT

Authorities say the data recorder of this Prius shows the accelerator, not the brake, was engaged.

STORY HIGHLIGHTS

The wrecked 2005 Prius' data recorder showed no indication of brake compression.
Police say there was no indication the driver engaged the brake.
Police say the data was collected in a cooperative effort with NHTSA and Toyota.

"A Toyota Prius was not the cause of a March 9 crash in Harrison, New York, said authorities citing "black and white" results in their investigation."

"Harrison, New York, Police Capt. Anthony Marraccini revealed at a news conference Monday that evidence extracted from the wrecked 2005 Prius' data recorder showed no indication of brake compression as the car headed toward a stone wall. Rather, the accelerator was pressed 100 percent, authorities said."

"Toyota has been very cooperative," said Marraccini. "There's no possibility of any distortion of this data," he continued. "These are the facts that surround this."

" the driver may have been stepping on the accelerator, instead of the brake as she told police."

""We do see these accidents on occasion," Marraccini said Monday."

"I think with all this hype about Toyota, people are just looking to point fingers," he said."

http://www.cnn.com/2010/US/03/22/ny.prius.crash.probe/

Order Yours Now, You Only Have Until The End of June

2010-03-23T07:41:00.002-04:00

You can have one if you can pass the credit selection process and can drop $297,562.56. for the 24 month lease. Then you get to keep it for an additional $93,750 . Only deep pockets may apply.

Complete Financing Details of the 2011 Lexus LFA Unveiled

Nitrobahn.com provides the details regarding the lease option for the limited edition 2011 Lexus LFA. Quotes from the story:

The Lexus LFA is scheduled to go into production in December this year.
Notifications for ordering the car shall start now and continue till the end of June.

Toyota is producing only 500 cars for the global market, among which 150 are reserved for U.S. customers, all of which will have many customization options at the time of placing the order for the supercar.

http://www.nitrobahn.com/news/complete-financing-details-2011-lexus-lfa/