#2018 Lexus LS 500 New Design

[fastlanewithjeff]

I’ve been working for Lexus for 7 years now and have seen the release of several new models. A particularly memorable year was 2018 when the all-new LC was released along with a totally redesigned LS. The LS is the flagship sedan, and the LC is a large luxury sport coupe. For the first time, the all-new LS 500 received a turbo 6-cylinder engine rather than the traditional V8 that had been used in the LS since its origination with the brand. The 2018 LS 500 received a boost of 25 horsepower over the outgoing 2017 model. Having driven both models I can be certain that the LS 500 is a superior driving machine and though the power boost on paper is less than ten percent the change in driving dynamic is profound.

                Having spoken with many Lexus owners during ride-alongs and elsewhere I know that reliability is a particularly important selling point. Working as a technician I question if the reliability of the reliability of the three-and-a-half-liter twin turbo V6 is up to par with the outgoing V8. We have seen some issues with the new engine, but I would say that the failure rate is rather low and the 4.6 V8 was not without its issues, especially with over one hundred thousand miles. The original 4.0 and 4.3 V8 engines were the best that Lexus ever made and are arguably the most reliable engines of all time. In 2022 Lexus sold 2,679 LS 500 models in 2022. A rather pathetic figure when compared with RX sales, which topped 96,000 units in the same year.

                The RX is Lexus’s bread and butter, in fact, it is the best-selling luxury car period. Not just the best-selling luxury SUV but the best-selling luxury vehicle across all model designations. For 2023 Lexus unveiled the all-new Lexus RX which for the first time received a turbo four-cylinder engine. I imagine you are seeing a trend at this point toward smaller cylinder counts, and Lexus is not alone in that trend. Government mandates and consumer demand have compelled manufacturers to turn out smaller more efficient engines. The challenge is to beat the power, reliability, and refinement of the larger motors. Lexus cannot simply match the outgoing engine they must surpass it even with the smaller cylinder count. Lexus’s first four-cylinder turbo motor was the two-liter 8AR-FTS. It debuted in the 2015 NX and 2016 IS, RC, and GS. This motor makes a poultry 241 HP in its most powerful form and response feels delayed especially in IS and RC models. The new 2.4 turbo motor in the 2023 RX does not suffer from this problem and manages to outperform the V6 in power, feel, and refinement.

Image Credit:

Lexus News Room. (2023). 2023 RX Gas. [Photograph]. https://lexus-cms-media.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/wp- content/uploads/2022/05/2023_RX_Gas_HERO-1500x1000.jpg

[supercartube]

2018 Lexus LS 500h

2017 New York Auto Show

#NYIAS

[carstrends-blog]

2018 Lexus LS 500 Has Made Changes Feature, Release Date and Price

2018 Lexus LS 500 Has Made Changes Feature, Release Date and Price

The car is transportation that is needed by everyone to travel and maximum ease. here you will find a variety of car reviews that you want as a material consideration in buying a car later. with the modern world already, a lot of cars are created with a high specification and environmentally friendly, make sure you choose a model that is comfortable and high class and durable. Then we will…

[scifigeneration]

Hollywood Dream Machines: Vehicles of Science Fiction and Fantasy NOW OPEN

The Petersen Automotive Museum has opened a new exhibit, featuring over 40 Hollywood vehicles from cult classic films and video games. “Hollywood Dream Machines: Vehicles of Science Fiction and Fantasy,” which opened May 5, 2019 in the Mullin Family Grand Salon, is the largest museum exhibition of sci-fi vehicles in the world. The exhibit was produced in collaboration with Comic-Con Museum, with additional support provided by Audi, Microsoft and Classic Cars.com. 

Along with iconic automobiles, the exhibit showcases a selection of concept artwork, props and costumes to explore and analyze the ways in which the speculative fiction genre pushes the boundaries of human imagination. Series represented in the display span from the niches of speculative fiction with emphasis on dystopian future films such as “Back to the Future”, “Blade Runner,” “Ghost in the Shell,” “Transformers” and “I, Robot”.

Key vehicles on display include the 2018 Lexus LS 500 F Sport from “Black Panther,” Warthog from “Halo,” the 2035 Audi RSQ from “I Robot,” the time machine from “Back to the Future”, the Weyland Industries RT01 Group Transport from “Prometheus,” the 2008 Audi R8 from “Iron Man,” Bumblebee from the “Transformers” series, the GM Ultralight from “Demolition Man,” Batmobiles, and more. "Being in the heart of the entertainment industry in Hollywood and Los Angeles, we’re thrilled to be able to display these cinematic icons, “said Petersen Automotive Museum Executive Director Terry L. Karges. “When you see these pieces of cinematic history in person it truly offers a different perspective than seeing them on the big screen. It is truly like nothing else we have done here at the Petersen.”

The exhibit also features a Microsoft HoloLens experience called “Worlds Reimagined.” The mixed reality experience provides guests with the opportunity to try this immersive technology, and see the Warthog from “Halo” and the “Back to the Future” time machine in a whole new way. To help kick off the exhibit, the Petersen hosted a panel discussion featuring some of the most celebrated film producers, movie car designers and coordinators of the past 30+ decades including Bob Gale, Harald Belker, Josh Hancock, George Hull, Dennis McCarthy, and Michael Scheffe. The panel, which was moderated by film critic Scott Mantz, covered the backstory of some of film’s most iconic vehicles, discussed how Hollywood’s “cars of the future” are created and what they think is next. The Petersen also held an opening reception on the evening of May 4 with live entertainment, gourmet appetizers and cocktails.

“Hollywood Dream Machines” will run through March 15, 2020. To purchase tickets to the exhibit opening reception, please visit http://www.petersen.org/hollywood. For more information about the Petersen Automotive Museum, please visit www.Petersen.org.  

[aliciabuncle]

Marvel and Lexus Team Up On The Film “The Eternals”

Ikaris, the leader of “The Eternals,” drives a Lexus LS. The new movie give Lexus a marketing vehicle focusing solely on its brand.

Lexus and Marvel Studios are once again teaming up in a marketing exercise meant to draw attention to Marvel’s newest film, “The Eternals,” while also lending pop cultural hipness to the Lexus line-up.

The two companies first teamed up on Marvel’s original Black Panther film.

“We’re thrilled to be teaming up with Lexus once again,” said Mindy Hamilton, SVP, Global Partnership Marketing at Marvel Studios. “These Eternals-inspired vehicles show that exciting collaborative storytelling can extend even beyond traditional media.”

Directed by the Russo Brothers and starring Kumail Nanjiani, the film is based on the 1970s comic book series created, written and drawn by the late Jack Kirby. The Russo Brothers are known for their previous Marvel films: Captain America: The Winter Soldier (2014), Captain America: Civil War (2016), Avengers: Infinity War (2018), and Avengers: Endgame (2019).

A comic book panel from Jack Kirby’s “The Eternals.” (Marvel Comics)

Marvel and Lexus already gave fans a taste of the forthcoming movie in a YouTube video called “Parking Spot,” starring Nanjiani and the V-8-powered IS 500 F-Sport. 

A cosmic concept from a comic industry legend

Jack Kirby’s career dates to the birth of the comic book industry, having created scores of super heroes for scores of publishers. He co-created Captain America with Joe Simon in 1940, and the rest of the Marvel comics line with Stan Lee in the 1960s. He alone created “The Eternals” in 1976, which lasted for just 19 issues before being cancelled. 

The series centers on two species who share ancestry with humans until interstellar space gods known as the Celestials visit Earth to spur evolution a couple million years ago. They beget a race known as the Eternals, immortals possessing super powers and their counterparts the Deviants, born with unstable genetics.

Worshipped as gods, the Eternals leave Earth after fighting with Greek, Roman and Norse gods. The Celestials are about to revisit Earth for the fourth time to see how their experiment is going and deliver their final judgement. The Eternals return to prevent the Deviants from destroying the Celestials, and prevent the Celestials from unleashing their fury on Earth.

The series was revived and expanded after Kirby’s death in 1994.

Pairing characters with cars

Agelina Jolie drives this sensuous Lexus LC 500 in the movie.

When pairing vehicles with the movie’s characters, Lexus custom-wrapped each one with designs inspired by each character’s armor, and their stature. So it’s not surprising that The Eternal’s technical leader, Ikaris, played by Richard Madden, gets a Lexus LS.

Similarly, Thena, played by Angelina Jolie, gets a similarly sensuous Lexus LC 500. Her de-facto partner Gilgamesh, played by Don Lee, is the strongest of The Eternals and pilots the strongest Lexus SUV, the LX.

Other pairings include Ajak, played by Salma Hayek, leader of the Polar Eternals, paired with the Lexus GX. The rebellious Druig, played by Barry Keoghan, also gets a GX, while samurai master Kingo, played by Kumail Nanjiani, is paired with the Lexus IS 500, as seen in the YouTube spot. The fastest Eternal, Makkari, played by Lauren Ridloff, drives the quickest Lexus, the RC-F Track Edition.

Makkari, The Eternals’ fastest member, gets Lexus’ fastest car, the RC-F Track Edition. (lexus image)

Technological guru Phastos, played by Brian Tyree Henry, receives a technologically-laden Lexus LX. Sersi, manipulator of molecules and one of the film’s most powerful characters, gets a Lexus RC-F. She is played by Gemma Chan. Finally, Sprite, played by Lia McHugh, whose power of self-transformation is allegedly mirrored in the Lexus NX.

What Lexus reaps from the movie

It’s a stretch to think seeing a character drive a car in a movie is enough to propel sales. But their presence does maintain awareness of the brand in a space that doesn’t compete with other corporate advertising, a problem when sponsoring something like sporting events. 

“We’re excited to bring the ‘Eternals’ partnership to life through these custom-wrapped Lexus vehicles,” said Vinay Shahani, Lexus vice president of marketing. “Just as each Eternals character has a distinct style and set of capabilities, so does each character-themed Lexus.”

So, who gets the Lexus ES or RX? Hmmmmm?

Marvel and Lexus Team Up On The Film “The Eternals” published first on https://decalsgraphicstore.tumblr.com/

[2018kiacars]

Seven Cars Winning the Best Award for Exceptional Interior Design by Ward

Ward auto has bestowed the best interior awards for the eight best cars. The eight best internal awards are more like an opinion and fact in the auto world. The awards are for stretching new designs that would have been reserved for non-production concept cars a years ago, says Ward's managing editor Tom Murphy.

The 2018 models include value, creativity, comfort, fit, finish, ergonomics, design harmony, materials and technology in the 40 new interiors evaluated this year.

2018 Hyundai Kona Interior

At 164 inches long, the Kona is 8 inches shorter than Ford Focus hatchback. It plays a price sensitive role in the market where competitors like the Honda HR-V and Toyota C-HR have minimal interiors. Hyundai has dressed the Kona with a splash of color.

Hyundai applied lime green around the vents and other places in a way that spices up a bare-bones interior.

2018 Chevrolet Equinox Interior

Equinox is undoubtedly Chevy's top sellers. Designers have played with the interiors this time. They had some fun this time with the designs by giving swooping lines on the door trim and oblong air condition vents. The infotainment system is faster and easy to use. The equinox is a competition to vehicles like Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V, which has become America's top-selling segment.

2018 Kia Stinger Interior

Kia played big when it developed the Stinger, a luxury car that will offer an exceptional carrying capacity and a hatchback room. With useful interiors, plenty room, appealing materials and easy to use controls.

This will get consumers back into the big car business.

2018 Infinity QX50 Interior

Infiniti's latest compact luxury SUV grabbed all the attention. You open the door and you will see a cream, brown and blue Ultrasuede open-pore maple wood trim that has a beautiful metallic and subtle look.

Automakers could not tone down its design, so they gave it bold and beautiful look.

2018 Ram 1500 Interior

There was a time when pickups were trucks with vinyl seats with minimal comfort. The all-new Ram is designed with navy leather and cream contrast stitching. The underfloor storage is an innovative idea. The storage is built in such a way that fishers can stash all the catches and take home. The blue wood trim is so beautifully built that it looks like denim.

2018 Lexus LS 500 Interior

Lexus is a significant new flagship in the sedan loaded with fancy interiors. The ornate interiors like hand-folded pleats and cut-glass in the door trim. This time it has made very bold color choices quite the opposite from the sober German hues. The color scheme makes it even more spectacular.

2018 Porsche Panamera s e-hybrid plug-in Interior

There highly priced Panamera to its 680-hp drivetrain got some kudos interiors with the all-new infotainment system. You may end up skipping the spa with the best massaging seat in the world. The new Porsche has eliminated buttons with a clean new design. You will feel so good looking at the interiors, as the hideous buttons are gone.

Porsche has successfully integrated the latest features with a focus on the legendary driving experience.

[perksofwifi]

2020 Genesis G90 First Test: Fast Followup

Since its debut last fall at the Los Angeles Auto Show—remember those?—we’ve extensively chronicled the remarkably comprehensive “mid-cycle refresh” of “Korea’s S-Class”—the 2020 Genesis G90. We’ve even given it a First Drive. Now, we’ve spent a week in the car, we’ve studied the impressive 100-page product briefing document, and we even got an opportunity to slap our test gear on it and take the full measure of its “refreshness.”

We’ve spilled most of our ink covering the somewhat controversial but undoubtedly striking “all new, but for the doors” sheetmetal and the thoroughly revamped, leather-wrapped, wood-lined, and diamond-stitched interior, and now it’s time to assess how well the primarily carryover powertrain hauls all this refreshed luxury.

How fast is the 2020 Genesis G90 3.3T from 0-60 MPH?

Our rear-drive 3.3-liter twin-turbo G90 proved quicker than all four of the G90 3.3Ts we’ve tested to date, hitting 60 mph in 5.1 seconds (0.1-0.3 second quicker) and crossing the quarter-mile in 13.7 sec at 102.8 mph (0.1–0.2 second quicker and 1.7–2.9 mph faster).

Sure, all four 2017 and 2018 G90 3.3Ts we’ve run were equipped with the 150-pound H-TRAC all-wheel-drive system, but at least one of them weighed slightly less than this 2020 rear-driver. Those acceleration numbers are within a tenth or two of our rear-drive 2017 G90 5.0 tester, suggesting that the bigger engine is primarily required to tug around the 140 extra pounds of engine and “Ultimate” rear-seat fanciness. It’s also worth noting that the 3.3T’s EPA highway rating indexes up one for 2020 (from 24 to 25 mpg) on both rear- and all-wheel-drive models.

How well does the G90 stop?

The brakes also got a refresh, though a quick glance at the specs suggests otherwise. The outside diameters of the rotors are identical, but for 2020, the iron friction rings are mounted to aluminum centers (which were formerly steel) to reduce mass, providing two bonus benefits: lowering the unsprung mass improves ride and reducing rotational mass improves acceleration and braking. The 2020 model did manage to stop from 60 mph in 117 feet. That’s 1–5 feet shorter than every previous G90, and note that every G90 we’ve ever tested has ridden on the same staggered 19-inch Continental ContiProContact tires, so traction is perfectly comparable. Other handling performance measurements fell within the range of statistical variation.

How does the G90’s performance compare?

So how does the performance of this refreshed G90 stack up with that of other luxury sedans? It runs well ahead of the Audi A8 3.0-liter twin-turbo V-6 (5.3/13.9 sec) and neck-and-neck with the 3.4-liter twin-turbo V-6 Lexus LS 500 F Sport AWD (5.2/13.6 sec).

It’s slightly behind the last 3.0-liter V-6 twin-turbo Mercedes S-Class we tested (5.0/13.6 sec), and the BMW 745e smokes it (4.8/13.3 sec). But really, who cares? Unless you’re a tin-pot dictator or crime boss who may occasionally need to evade some baddies, cars like this are about effortless, quiet acceleration—not tenths and pink-slips. The new G90 delivers this in spades.

Ride quality was always a G90 strength, and this “refreshed” version marks a baby-step forward here as well, thanks to more precise internal solenoid valves and new internal rebound springs on the ZF Sachs adaptive dampers, and new rear suspension crossmember bushings that better isolate rear-seat occupants from vibration.

All the G90 qualities that helped it win a 2017 comparison test against the BMW 740e, Lexus LS 500, and Lincoln Continental 3.0 are still here, while the things we didn’t particularly love (“we wish it made more of a visual statement,” and its cabin that “takes no risks”) have largely been rectified with diamond-sparkle “G-Matrix” design flourishes throughout, a new leather-wrapped dash with contrast piping and stitching, and many linear feet of open-pore matte wood paneling.

Loads of additional content has also been added, including a passenger knee airbag and new driver assistance features like safe-exit assist (warns if you’re about to open a door into traffic), rear cross-traffic collision assist, parking collision-avoidance assist, lane-change forward-collision avoidance, blind-spot view monitor (projecting a camera view in the instrument cluster), and Highway Driving Assist. The latter adds lane centering and automatic speed-limit following, though it only works on freeways (unlike Mercedes’ similar system) and doesn’t let you program a 5-mph offset above the posted limit like Ford/Lincoln systems do. Highway Auto Curve Zone Slowdown is meant to reduce speed automatically on curves with a 1,500-foot radius or tighter, and Intelligent Coasting is designed to disegage the transmission and allow the vehicle to coast for up to three-quarters of a mile to save fuel.

I’m loathe to grant full credit to those last two features, however, because in roughly 200 miles of freeway driving that included curves too sharp for the lane-centering system to maintain its position at an 80-mph cruise set speed, the car never slowed a bit (and yes, the feature box was checked on the infotainment screen). I also never witnessed the tachometer dropping to idle to suggest intelligent coasting. An area where Mercedes-Benz remains ahead of Genesis is in capacitive sensing of hands on the wheel. Without this, the Genesis frequently hectored me to grab a wheel I’d never let go of, forcing me to jiggle the rim every few miles.

What does the Genesis G90 3.3T cost, and is it worth the money?

Despite these minor niggles, the G90 boasts class-leading front seat space, S-Class-trumping rear passenger space, and solid mid-pack trunk space of 15.7 cubic feet, proving it has what it takes to rival the establishment luxo-barge competitors. Another luxury feature: all-inclusive pricing with no nickel-and-dime optioning.

The G90 starts at $73,195 for the V-6 rear-drive car you see here. Add $2,500 for all-wheel-drive and/or $3,500 for the V-8 and ultimate rear-seat gear (12- and 14-way left and right rear seat adjustment with ventilation, memory, and rear-seat entertainment). The only other (no-cost) options are light- or dark-finish wheels and a choice of eight exterior and five interior color schemes. That’s it. Want to make sure you don’t see yourself coming and going? Order the 5.0 AWD in Adriatic Blue over an indigo interior with dark brown accents and gray ash wood. Genesis only expects to build one percent of G90s with that combo; now that’s a “one percent” that sensible buyers could be proud to claim membership in.

2020 Genesis G90 3.3T DRIVETRAIN LAYOUT Front-engine, RWD ENGINE TYPE Twin-turbo 60-deg V-6, alum block/heads VALVETRAIN DOHC, 4 valves/cyl DISPLACEMENT 204.0 cu in/3,342 cc COMPRESSION RATIO 10.0:1 POWER (SAE NET) 365 hp @ 6,000 rpm TORQUE (SAE NET) 376 lb-ft @ 1,300 rpm REDLINE 6,500 rpm WEIGHT TO POWER 12.9 lb/hp TRANSMISSION 8-speed automatic AXLE/FINAL-DRIVE RATIO 3.54:1/1.97:1 SUSPENSION, FRONT; REAR Multilink, coil springs, adj shocks, anti-roll bar; multilink, coil springs, adj shocks, anti-roll bar STEERING RATIO 12.9:1 TURNS LOCK-TO-LOCK 2.5 BRAKES, F; R 14.2-in vented disc; 13.4-in vented disc, ABS WHEELS, F;R 8.5 x 19-in; 9.5 x 19-in, cast aluminum TIRES, F;R 245/45R19 98W M+S; 275/40R19 101W M+S Continental ContiProContact DIMENSIONS WHEELBASE 124.4 in TRACK, F/R 64.6/64.5 in LENGTH x WIDTH x HEIGHT 204.9 x 75.4 x 58.9 in TURNING CIRCLE 39.2 ft CURB WEIGHT 4,720 lb WEIGHT DIST, F/R 51/49% SEATING CAPACITY 5 HEADROOM, F/R 41.1/38.0 in LEGROOM, F/R 46.3/37.8 in SHOULDER ROOM, F/R 59.1/57.9 in CARGO VOLUME 15.7 cu ft TEST DATA ACCELERATION TO MPH 0-30 2.0 sec 0-40 2.9 0-50 3.9 0-60 5.1 0-70 6.7 0-80 8.4 0-90 10.4 0-100 12.9 PASSING, 45-65 MPH 2.5 QUARTER MILE 13.7 sec @ 102.8 mph BRAKING, 60-0 MPH 117 ft LATERAL ACCELERATION 0.85 g (avg) MT FIGURE EIGHT 26.1 sec @ 0.72 g (avg) TOP-GEAR REVS @ 60 MPH 1,500 rpm CONSUMER INFO BASE PRICE $73,195 PRICE AS TESTED $73,195 STABILITY/TRACTION CONTROL Yes/Yes AIRBAGS Dual front, f/r side, f/r curtain, front knee BASIC WARRANTY 5 yrs/60,000 miles POWERTRAIN WARRANTY 10 yrs/100,000 miles ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE 5 yrs/Unlimited miles FUEL CAPACITY 21.9 gal EPA CITY/HWY/COMB ECON 17/25/20 mpg ENERGY CONS, CITY/HWY 198/135 kW-hrs/100 miles CO2 EMISSIONS, COMB 0.98 lb/mile RECOMMENDED FUEL Unleaded regular

The post 2020 Genesis G90 First Test: Fast Followup appeared first on MotorTrend.

https://www.motortrend.com/cars/genesis/g90/2020/2020-genesis-g90-first-test-review/ visto antes em https://www.motortrend.com

[numberplates4u-blog]

New 2018 Lexus LS Looking to Undercut Competitors on Price

[See image gallery at www.autoguide.com] The all-new Lexus LS 500 was introduced earlier this year, and now we know it will begin arriving at dealerships next February in the U.S. Although exact pricing hasn’t been announced by Lexus, the Japanese luxury automaker promises it will start around $75,000, making it comparable to the current model. The new LS is longer and wider than its predecessor, sporting a coupe-like silhouette and the company’s unique design language. There is, of course, the brand’s divisive spindle grille mesh up front, flanked by narrow, slit-like three-projector headlamps merged with an L-shaped LED lamp that wraps broadly around to the side. The model will also debut two new 19-inch wheel designs and three 20-inch wheel designs, two of which are also new. SEE ALSO: 2018 Lexus LS 500 Review Powering the flagship sedan is an all-new 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 that was designed specifically for the LS. It outputs 416 horsepower and 442 pound-feet of torque and is paired to a 10-speed automatic transmission for improved fuel economy. Lexus says the LS 500 goes zero to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds. There is also the new LS Hybrid, which combines a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engine with a pair of electric motors and a lithium-ion battery. The result is a combined system output of 354 hp and a zero-to-60 mph time of 5.1 seconds. It is estimated to return 25 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway for a 28-mpg combined rating. Look for exact pricing on the entire 2018 Lexus LS lineup to be announced closer to the model’s launch early next year. Discuss this story on our Lexus Forum The post New 2018 Lexus LS Looking to Undercut Competitors on Price appeared first on AutoGuide.com News.

http://www.autoguide.com/auto-news/2017/09/2018-lexus-ls-flagship-arrives-us-february-2018.html

[savetopnow]

2018-04-01 02 CAR now

CAR

Auto Spies

#NYIAS: The All-new BMW X4 M40i Is HERE, But Does It Light YOUR Fire?

#NYIAS: For The 2019 MY Subaru Delivers An All-new, Sportier Take On The Forester — Was ANYONE Asking For This?

#NYIAS: So, What's A $300k Range Rover SV Coupe REALLY Like? BEST Real-life Snaps HERE!

#NYIAS: An Italian Stallion — Maserati Launches An All-new 590 HP Machine, The Levante Trofeo

#NYIAS: Agent 001 DETAILS The All-new Lamborghini Urus In These REAL-LIFE Pics, Is It Blowing YOUR Doors Off?

Autoblog

We test the latest Easter Jeep Safari off roaders in Moab

Tesla says Model X involved in fatal crash was on Autopilot

Terrifying video shows cyclist’s view of head-on collision

VW storing around 300,000 diesels at 37 facilities around U.S.

2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee vs. midsize crossovers and SUVs: How they compare on paper

Car Throttle

Why The Mid-Engined Toyota Previa Is Weird And Awesome

7 Hilariously Mad Racing Hacks That Were All The Work Of One Man

Audi RS3 Vs BMW M2 Vs Mercedes-AMG A45: What's The Best 'Junior' Posh Performance Car?

10 Awesome Cars Added To The Car Throttle Garage In March

Should Car Enthusiasts Still Hate The Chrysler Crossfire?

Electrek

A look at Tesla Chief Designer’s stunning custom Model 3

Tesla confirms Autopilot was activated during fatal crash under investigation after reviewing data logs

Electrek Podcast: Tesla solar roof back into focus, big week for self-driving cars, Model 3 production, and more

Green Deals: WORX WG719 Electric Lawn Mower $152 shipped (Reg. $200), more

Self-driving Chevy Bolt EV test car gets a ticket for not yielding to pedestrian, GM contests

Inside EVs

Renault Struggling To Increase Electric Car Sales So Far In 2018

Check Out InsideEVs Sales Reported In Nifty New Video Format

Tesla Model 3 Could Secure Imminent Market Dominance

BYD Expected To Spin-Off Battery Unit

Norway Eyes Electric Aircraft As Next Form Of Electric Transport

Jalopnik

You Might Soon Be Able To Buy A Car At Your Local Walmart, If You Want

That Nearly Perfect 1994 Toyota Supra Sold For $80,500

When The Way To Make A Lightweight Car Was To Use Wicker

Show Us Your Automotive Tattoos

Saturday's Best Deals: Travel Accessories, World Backup Day Sales, C.S. Lewis Ebooks, and More

Motortrend

2019 Bentley Bentayga V-8 First Drive

Refreshing or Revolting: 2019 Toyota RAV4

Auto Showdown: 2019 Nissan Altima vs. 2018 Honda Accord

McLaren 570S Spider Track Pack Loses 73 Pounds

Jaguar Will Probably Kill off the F-Type R

Reddit Cars

Road trips to get a car?

Tesla Urges Workers to Prove the ‘Haters’ Wrong and Ramp Up Production

I finally bought my first car! A Mazda MX5 from 1991, I couldn't be more proud.

BMW X3 vs Audi Q5 vs Volvo XC60 2018 - which is best? | Head-to-Head

What is your vehicular frustration?

Sunday Times Driving

Lotto winner rewards himself with new car… but it’s not what you might expect

The Clarkson Review: 2018 Kia Stinger GT S

Tesla owners facing extended wait for repairs

Rapist taxi driver John Worboys to remain in prison after release decision overturned

Top tips to deal with your driving nerves this bank holiday weekend

The Car Connection

2018 Lexus ES

2018 Lexus LX

2018 Lexus LC

2018 Lexus LS 500

2018 Lexus GS

The CarGurus Blog

Recap: Here’s What We Saw at the New York Auto Show

CarGurus Now Lets Shoppers Search for Carsby Engine Sound

Top Headlines From March 24 – 30

Automotive Easter Eggs: Cars with Hidden Surprises

5 Things We’re Looking Forward to at NYIAS

The Torque Report

BMW to launch ‘Access by BMW’ subscription service

Honda to idle Accord production for almost two weeks

Jaguar XE SVR isn’t in the cards

Lincoln Aviator will look almost identical to the concept

Cadillac will release a new vehicle every six months by 2022

The Truth About Cars

Oklahoma’s New ‘Left Lane’ Law Yields 60 Citations Since November, Some Complaints

Mid-size Refresh: 2019 Kia Optima

Bark’s Bites: New York’s Greatest Misses

Toyota Discovers Bigger Pistons Aren’t Better, Issues Camry Recall

EPA Readies Rollback of Fuel Efficiency Regulations

[itcars]

Lexus LS 500 Receives 2017 EyesOn Design Award

With its radical new design, coupe-like silhouette and interior inspired by traditional Japanese aesthetics, the all-new 2018 Lexus LS 500 was named 2017 EyesOn Design Award for Design Excellence – Interior Design at the 2017 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit.

The EyesOn Design Awards are the officially sanctioned design awards for NAIAS. They honor the best production and concept vehicles making their worldwide auto show debut at NAIAS. A panel of design leaders representing automotive manufacturers and transportation design chiefs from top design schools around the globe select vehicles to receive EyesOn Design Awards.

Designed by Lexus Design Division in Toyota City, Japan, the fifth-generation LS 500 represents not only the Lexus brand but will become the new-generation luxury car embodying Japanese tradition and culture.  The designers took the approach of starting from new, reimagining what a flagship should be, as if launching the brand all over again.  The goal was to exceed expectations of their luxury customers.

[itsyourbizme]

The 2018 Lexus LS 500 Is Not Another Sedate Sedan

The car’s new platform and power train are complemented by the marque’s more mindful approach to design.

[i-globalone]

As we move into 2020 drivers are looking for replacements for their old gas hogs and many are looking towards the new models boasting some amazing fuel efficiency ratings. Luxury vehicles previously focused more on creature comforts, power, and advanced technology features but recent consumer demands for better gas mileage have caused them to adopt a new outlook on the design of the engine and fuel consumption. As we move into the new year, if you’re in the market for a brand new luxury car but you want to save money at the pump, then we have a list of upcoming models that might be of interest to you. Here are the top 20 most fuel-efficient luxury cars for 2020.20. 2020 Audi TT: 25 mpg combinedThe new Audi TT Coupe is loaded with luxury features in the standard edition with the Audi virtual cockpit, MMI Navigation plus audio settings, Google Earth imagery, a fully digital 12.3-inch information display, infotainment, and a streamlined interior. The body type is a coupe with a 4 passenger seating capacity. The 4-cylinder turbocharged engine cranks 228 horsepower with 258 lb-ft of torque for acceleration from zero to 60 mph in 5.2 seconds and a top speed of 130 mph.19. 2020 Acura MDX: 20 City/27 highwayThe new Acura MDX is a crossover SUV with a passenger capacity of 6 that comes with a range of interior luxury features, all-wheel drive, and third-row seating. It comes standard with a 290 horsepower V6 engine that delivers power with plenty of torque fast acceleration. An active damper system helps to keep power to the ground. It also features a towing capacity of 5,000 lbs for a nice balance of versatility, efficiency, and performance. 18. 2020 Acura RLX: 20 City/29 HighwayThe new RLX is a sedan with a 5 passenger capacity and an all-wheel-drive that gets up to 20 mpg on the highway. It’s equipped with a V6 engine that generates 310 horsepower without sacrificing mpg. The generous fuel tank holds 18.5 gallons of fuel. Just a few of the luxury features for his model year include precision electronic control wit three settings for heat and an extra 3 for ventilation, a quick warm-up feature, a Krell audio system, and a surround-view camera.17. 2020 BMW X1: 26 mpg combinedThe X1 is a 5 passenger crossover SUV with 5 passenger seating capacity and all-wheel-drive. It’s equipped with a 4 cylinder turbocharged engine for 26 mpg combined fuel-efficiency rating, and tons of luxury features. It’s agile and the sharp handling makes this a fun car to drive. An 8.8-inch touchscreen comes standard, and it gets a refresh on the exterior for 2020 with a larger grille, lots of cargo room and rear passenger space and plenty of high-quality luxury features for creature comfort.16. 2020 Infiniti QX50: 23 City/29 highwayThe upcoming Infiniti QX50 is a 5 passenger luxury wagon that comes equipped with a 4 cylinder turbocharged engine and all-wheel drive. It gives up 268 horsepower which is ample to suit most driver’s needs for power. This is the brand’s first production of the variable compression turbo engine with the top performance that cuts down on carbon emissions for an eco-friendly more efficient luxury vehicle. 15. 2020 Audi A3 FWD: 30 mpg combinedThe Audi A3 FWD will come out for 2020 with a clean design that is modern in appearance but it’s one of the oldest entry-level sedans available today. It’s equipped with a 2.0-liter turbo-four engine in your choice of power levels. This is matched with a 7-speed S Tronic dual-clutch automatic transmission and front-wheel drive. It accelerates from zero to 60 mph in 6.6 seconds. The base front-drive model offers the best fuel efficiency and you sacrifice mileage if you decide to upgrade to the sportier package. You get 184 horsepower with the base model with 222 lb-ft of torque and a top speed of 130 mpg.14. 2020 Cadillac CT5: 23 City/32 HighwayThe new CT5 is a new redesigned compact sedan that is coming out with a new Supercruise technology. It will be equipped with a 2.0-liter twin-scroll turbo engine mated with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Luxury features include a 10-inch diagonal screen, intuitive controls along with a rotary controller. Standard adaptive remote start, cabin air purification ionizer, and front-seat lumbar massage are just a few of the luxury features that come standard.13. 2020 Lexus LS: 25 City/33 HighwayThe 2020 Lexus LS is one of the most fuel-efficient luxury cars on the market for 2020. It is powered with a 3.5-liter V6 Twin-turbo engine that dishes out 416 horsepower with 442 lb-ft of torque. It offers plenty of power with fast acceleration when you need a little extra speed. This model has been tested to move from zero to 60 mph in just 4.6 seconds with a top speed of 136 mph. The interior is spacious and luxurious with all the creature comforts that make the LS a pleasure to ride in, and it’s loaded with updated tech such as an infotainment system and available driver assistance and safety features. 12. 2020 Mercedes Benz A 220: 24 City/34 HighwayThe Mercedes Benz A220 for 2020 is coming out in a 5 passenger styling and is equipped with a 2.0-liter OLI-4 engine that is matched with a 7-speed automatic shift with manual and overdrive. The drivetrain is a 4Matic all-wheel. It’s loaded to the hilt with luxury features and advanced tech in the interior, but it still manages to deliver excellent fuel efficiency with 24 mpg in the city and 34 on the highway. This model is only available as a sedan. It’s a compact luxury car that doesn’t skimp when it comes to power, agility and quick acceleration.11. 2020 Acura ILX: 24 City/34 HighwayThe Acura ILX is a compact car that features an excellent power to weight ratio that makes it among the most powerful cars in its class. The engine is a 201 horsepower 82 i-VTEC that has been specially engineered for excellent agility with a gas-saving feature. On the interior, you’ll experience comfort and luxury with Ultrasuede trimmed seats and A-Spec badging. You can order the ILX in 4 trim packages including A-Spec, Technology, Standard, and Premium.10. 2020 Mercedes Benz CLA: 25 City/35 HighwayThe new Mercedes Benz CLA will offer drivers up to 35 mpg on the highway and 25 in the city in one of the season’s most fuel-efficient luxury vehicles. This model is equipped with a gas-sipping automatic transmission. The CLA 250 is going to cost a little more money than the A-class sedan but the all-wheel drive is a feature that some drivers will opt for at the sacrifice of a few more dollars and the more powerful engine only takes a 1 mpg hit on fuel economy. This is destined to be one of the best choices in luxury vehicles for 2020 for those wishing to conserve on fuel-consumption without sacrificing power, style or luxury features. 9. 2020 Lexus LC: 27 City/35 HighwayThe 2020 Lexus LC is coming out in a limited production inspiration series that will be offered with Nori Green paint on the exterior and Saddle tan leather on the interior. There have been a few minor changes to the optional feature availability and the standard features. A convertible has also been confirmed for 2020 with the production release date TBA. This model is a part of the LC 500 generation that made its debut in 2018. It features exceptionally high-quality interior materials with a sporty appeal. The manufacturer was generous with the standard features.8. 2020 BMW 330i: 26 City/36 HighwayThe base model is the most fuel-efficient with a 2.0-liter turbo-sour engine with 295 lb-ft of torque. and 255 horsepower. It offers plenty of power and excellent acceleration. The engine is mated with an 8-speed automatic transmission and it’s also available in an all-wheel-drive version with just a couple mpg loss. The interior boasts upscale luxury with plenty of space and easy to use controls. This model is a part of the seventh generation which made its debut in 2019.7. 2020 BMW 3 Series: 26 City/36 HighwayThe 3 Series model is in its seventh generation and is packed with innovative features. The powerful engine and sport tuning for this sean give it amazing acceleration with up to 382 horsepower. The exterior design gives it a sleek and attractive aesthetic that is functional for enhancing road agility and aerodynamics, along with a tuned suspension that has been improved over the previous model year.6. 2020 BMW 530e: 350 miles hybridThe 530e is a midsize car that is coming out with a few improvements. It receives a larger battery for the 2020 model year which gives it a longer range of up to 21 miles in EV mode with a total of 350 miles when both modes of this hybrid are used. It is equipped with a 2.0-liter turbo-four engine with an electric motor for lots of power at your disposal. You can also order this model in an all-wheel drive.5.  2020 Audi A4: 37 mpg highwayThe new Audi A4 has received a new look thanks to the refresh that it has received. It’s sporty and sleek with a minimalist approach to the interior. It gets a new MMI infotainment system with a larger display and a choice of several engine options but the base model with the 2.0-liter turbo-four grants the best fuel efficiency with 248 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque for quick acceleration and all the power you should need.4. 2020 Volvo S90-T8 490 milesThe Volvo S90 T8 is yet another fuel-efficient luxury model offered by the brand for 2020. thanks to the electric and fuel-powered engines, it offers a total of 400 horsepower and it leaves a smaller carbon footprint in the process. It’s a high-end luxury vehicle through and through in a plug-in hybrid powertrain and luxury features including a crystal electronic shifter, matte wood trim, and a large back seat. It gets 21 miles of EV on a single charge and a total of 490 miles combined range.3. 2020 Volvo S60/V60 T8: 510 miles 1charge/1tankThe Volvo S60 is a hybrid luxury car that features improved efficiency with a further range in EV mode, up to 22 miles and 510 total miles when using both power options. The larger battery enhances the range potential. This Swedish luxury car is equipped with a 415 horsepower engine and pushes 494 lb-ft of torque for zippy acceleration and plenty of power.2. 2020 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid: 39 City/42 HighwayThe new Lincoln MKZ Hybrid is coming to the end of its current generation with the 2020 model but it’s a luxury car that gets one of the best fuel-efficiency ratings of them all. The designing engineers paired a 2.0-liter gas engine with an I-4 electric motor, and the result was 42 mpg on the highway., and 39 in the city. It generates 188 horsepower combined with a price that starts at the same as the gas-only edition.1. 2020 Lexus ES 300H: 43 City/44 highwayThe ES 300H is a model that was first introduced alongside the brand’s flagship, the LS. This luxury sedan will kick off the last generation of the model with a new hybrid system. It combines a new 2.5-liter inline 4 engine with an electric motor for up to 44 mpg on the highway. it cranks out 215 horsepower with plenty of power and a continuation of the luxury cabin with all the bells and whistles you’ve come to expect from Lexus.

http://www.globalone.com.np/2019/11/the-20-most-fuel-efficient-luxury-cars.html

[bharatiyamedia-blog]

With MIB: Worldwide, Lexus Is Forged as a Blockbuster Automotive

http://tinyurl.com/yyh99urc When moviegoers first noticed King T’Challa in motion as Black Panther it was an actual showstopper: The Marvel comedian guide character clings to the highest of a modern new Lexus LC sports activities coupe as he surfs by means of the busy streets of Busan, South Korea, in a high-speed chase that in the end destroys his remote-controlled experience. The scene’s a crowdpleaser, to make sure—and it efficiently sells Lexus’ picture as a maker of high-performance luxurious sports activities vehicles to a youthful viewers. Beginning this weekend, with a outstanding position in Sony’s sci-fi franchise Males in Black: Worldwide, the Japanese automotive firm hopes so as to add one other hit to its credit, giving it supporting roles in summer season blockbusters for 2 years working. However betting on a film’s success is a recreation that the majority veteran studio executives have a tough time taking part in, not to mention luxurious automotive manufacturers. And irrespective of how a lot cash is sunk right into a undertaking, there aren’t any ensures on the field workplace. As an example, Black Panther may have been a giant miss for the Japanese luxurious automaker. The titular foremost character, who guidelines a fictional technologically superior African nation, was comparatively unknown to most audiences previous to the film’s launch. Lexus executives weren’t allowed to learn the script earlier than signing on to help the movie, giving the corporate no assure of how its model would seem on display screen. The manufacturing additionally needed six coupes to make use of for filming, which compelled Lexus to offer custom-built prototypes that may value upwards of $1 million every, for the reason that precise automobile was not being produced. For Lexus, whose company father or mother Toyota isn’t recognized for danger taking, the gamble paid off. Black Panther blew away expectations to develop into 2018’s highest-grossing film within the U.S., incomes greater than $700 million domestically, and practically $1.Four billion worldwide. And the movie didn’t simply enchantment to comedian guide followers, it also over-indexed with African-Americans, on condition that Black Panther was the primary big-budget Marvel Studio’s film to characteristic a black actor because the lead. “Lexus has all the time been dedicated to celebrating the wealthy range of our clients, however Black Panther catapulted it to a brand new degree,” says Lisa Materazzo, Lexus’ vp of promoting. Betting on blockbusters With Males in Black: Worldwide, Lexus is taking much less of a danger. Sony has put appreciable sources into respiratory new life into its $2 billion franchise, which now stars Chris Hemsworth (Marvel’s hammer-wielding Thor) and Tessa Thompson, who proved a profitable duo collectively in Thor: Ragnarok. Within the new MIB movie, Lexus’ aggressive RC F sports activities coupe races by means of London, serving to brokers escape threatening aliens, earlier than remodeling right into a jet. Lexus’ RX Hybrid and LX SUVs are additionally featured in scenes with alien encounters. In each MIB and Panther, Lexus is portrayed as a future-forward designer of high-tech autos, a positioning that promotes the corporate’s latest slogan “Expertise Wonderful.” “The fantastic thing about movie integrations is that not one of the conventional guidelines apply,” Materazzo says. “It’s a possibility to accomplice with filmmakers to think about the entire prospects.” This isn’t essentially new floor for Lexus, which has launched different high-tech merchandise like a hoverboard and sports activities yacht idea over the previous a number of years to broaden the model’s enchantment to prosperous patrons within the sought-after 45- to 55-year-old market. Lexus is wanting to make use of movies as a option to launch new emotionally participating campaigns across the launch of its new sports activities vehicles and luxurious sedans and SUVs. It particularly sees motion pictures as a option to faucet into conversations round cultural occasions. However forcing your model into the story doesn’t come low-cost. Along with offering costly prototypes to filmmakers for Panther, Lexus produced a comic book guide and {custom} movies, in addition to purchased a 30-second Tremendous Bowl spot for the tie-in and LC 500 launch that value the corporate greater than $5 million. However when Marvel’s motion pictures have made a mixed $21 billion worldwide to this point (together with the newest “Avengers”), you are taking the chance. A technique as previous as Bond, James Bond If Lexus looks like it’s siding as much as well-dressed secret brokers, there’s a motive: The model is targeted on pushing the efficiency of its vehicles, technological innovation and magnificence—whereas having some enjoyable. That sort of limits simply who will get to drive its hero vehicles. “We think about how our product aligns with the character who drives it,” Materazzo says, and “how the combination would possibly allow us to light up a core model fact throughout the story.” However the automaker wasn’t particularly trying to get into the superhero enterprise, although Black Panther was anticipated to be groundbreaking in bringing the character to the massive display screen, on condition that star Chadwick Boseman is the primary black actor to headline a big-budget superhero movie which includes a largely African-American solid. So placing Black Panther in a LS 500 sedan and LC 500 coupe within the movie and advertising supplies was akin to pairing James Bond with Aston Martin. However moviegoers haven’t all the time embraced the movies Lexus has supported with product placement. In 2017, the identical yr “Expertise Wonderful” launched, Lexus developed the designs for a futuristic jet for Luc Besson’s expensive sci-fi fantasy Valerian and the Metropolis of a Thousand Planets, which didn’t take off, incomes simply $226 million worldwide. Alternatively, when the movies work, they clearly assist enhance Lexus’ model picture, and increase gross sales. It’s “Lengthy Reside the King” Tremendous Bowl spot helped increase searches for Lexus’ LS sedan by 2,500%, in accordance with auto website Kelley Blue E book shortly after the advert launched. And on-line searches for Lexus rose 15% the week after Panther’s debut, whereas the LC 500 was up 10% by itself, in accordance with Autotrader. Lexus recorded its finest international gross sales yr in 2018, transferring 698,330 autos off dealership tons, a rise of 4.5%—a tricky determine for anybody to succeed in, in what’s changing into a crowded luxurious auto market. “Auto corporations partnering on motion pictures is extra about publicity than gross sales,” says Michelle Krebs, govt analyst at Autotrader. That is true particularly summer season blockbusters that entice thousands and thousands of moviegoers, she provides, noting that Nissan’s affiliation with the Star Wars movies enabled it to have a themed auto present exhibit, “which absolutely drew a number of youngsters with their mother and father in tow to an exhibit they may in any other case have skipped.” Along with the Black Panther franchise—which Lexus isn’t anticipated to surrender although a sequel isn’t anticipated till 2021—the automaker will doubtless seem in future Marvel motion pictures. Marvel Studios’ advertising experts desire long-term relationships with manufacturers. As an example, Audi has been the automobile of selection for Iron Man since 2008. Different Avengers movies additionally featured Acura. Nevertheless it additionally has eyes on different franchises, as evidenced by its high-visibility position in MIB. Lexus says doesn’t have a “strict rule” for what number of movies it needs to rally round per yr, “one excessive profile partnership per yr (feels) about proper,” Materazzo says. “We’re actively contemplating a number of prospects.” Whether or not MIB tanks or soars, Lexus’ diversification is a great technique for Hollywood tentpole model integrations. As a result of even with all of Black Panther‘s success, if the film proved one factor it’s that you could’t keep in Wakanda without end. Source link

[googlenewson]

When moviegoers first saw King T'Challa in action as Black Panther it was a real showstopper: The Marvel comic book character clings to the top of a sleek new Lexus LC sports coupe as he surfs through the busy streets of Busan, South Korea, in a high-speed chase that ultimately destroys his remote-controlled ride.

The scene’s a crowdpleaser, to be sure--and it successfully sells Lexus' image as a maker of high-performance luxury sports cars to a younger audience. Starting this weekend, with a prominent role in Sony's sci-fi franchise Men in Black: International, the Japanese automotive company hopes to add another hit to its credits, giving it supporting roles in summer blockbusters for two years running.

But betting on a movie's success is a game that most veteran studio executives have a hard time playing, let alone luxury automotive brands. And no matter how much money is sunk into a project, there are no guarantees at the box office.

For instance, Black Panther could have been a big miss for the Japanese luxury automaker. The titular main character, who rules a fictional technologically advanced African nation, was relatively unknown to most audiences prior to the movie’s release. Lexus executives weren’t allowed to read the script before signing on to support the film, giving the company no guarantee of how its brand would appear on screen. The production also wanted six coupes to use for filming, which forced Lexus to provide custom-built prototypes that can cost upwards of $1 million each, since the actual car was not being produced.

For Lexus, whose corporate parent Toyota isn't known for risk taking, the gamble paid off. Black Panther blew away expectations to become 2018’s highest-grossing movie in the U.S., earning more than $700 million domestically, and nearly $1.4 billion worldwide. And the film didn't just appeal to comic book fans, it also over-indexed with African-Americans, given that Black Panther was the first big-budget Marvel Studio’s movie to feature a black actor as the lead.

"Lexus has always been committed to celebrating the rich diversity of our customers, but Black Panther catapulted it to a new level," says Lisa Materazzo, Lexus’ vice president of marketing.

Betting on blockbusters

With Men in Black: International, Lexus is taking less of a risk. Sony has put considerable resources into breathing new life into its $2 billion franchise, which now stars Chris Hemsworth (Marvel's hammer-wielding Thor) and Tessa Thompson, who proved a winning duo together in Thor: Ragnarok.

In the new MIB film, Lexus' aggressive RC F sports coupe races through London, helping agents escape threatening aliens, before transforming into a jet. Lexus' RX Hybrid and LX SUVs are also featured in scenes with alien encounters.

In both MIB and Panther, Lexus is portrayed as a future-forward designer of high-tech vehicles, a positioning that promotes the company's newest slogan "Experience Amazing." "The beauty of film integrations is that none of the traditional rules apply," Materazzo says. "It's an opportunity to partner with filmmakers to imagine all of the possibilities."

This isn't necessarily new ground for Lexus, which has introduced other high-tech products like a hoverboard and sports yacht concept over the past several years to expand the brand's appeal to affluent buyers in the sought-after 45- to 55-year-old market.

Lexus is looking to use films as a way to launch new emotionally engaging campaigns around the release of its new sports cars and luxury sedans and SUVs. It especially sees movies as a way to tap into conversations around cultural events.

But forcing your brand into the story doesn’t come cheap. In addition to providing expensive prototypes to filmmakers for Panther, Lexus produced a comic book and custom videos, as well as bought a 30-second Super Bowl spot for the tie-in and LC 500 launch that cost the company more than $5 million.

But when Marvel's movies have made a combined $21 billion worldwide to date (including the most recent "Avengers"), you take the risk.

A strategy as old as Bond, James Bond

If Lexus seems like it's siding up to well-dressed secret agents, there's a reason: The brand is focused on pushing the performance of its cars, technological innovation and style--while having some fun. That kind of limits just who gets to drive its hero cars.

"We consider how our product aligns with the character who drives it," Materazzo says, and "how the integration might enable us to illuminate a core brand truth within the story.”

But the automaker wasn't specifically looking to get into the superhero business, though Black Panther was expected to be groundbreaking in bringing the character to the big screen, given that star Chadwick Boseman is the first black actor to headline a big-budget superhero film which features a largely African-American cast.

So putting Black Panther in a LS 500 sedan and LC 500 coupe in the film and marketing materials was akin to pairing James Bond with Aston Martin.

But moviegoers haven't always embraced the films Lexus has supported with product placement. In 2017, the same year "Experience Amazing" launched, Lexus developed the designs for a futuristic jet for Luc Besson's pricey sci-fi fantasy Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets, which didn't take off, earning just $226 million worldwide.

On the other hand, when the films work, they clearly help improve Lexus' brand image, and boost sales. It’s "Long Live the King" Super Bowl spot helped boost searches for Lexus' LS sedan by 2,500%, according to auto site Kelley Blue Book shortly after the ad launched. And online searches for Lexus rose 15% the week after Panther's debut, while the LC 500 was up 10% on its own, according to Autotrader.

Lexus recorded its best global sales year in 2018, moving 698,330 vehicles off dealership lots, an increase of 4.5%--a tough figure for anyone to reach, in what's becoming a crowded luxury auto market.

"Auto companies partnering on movies is more about exposure than sales," says Michelle Krebs, executive analyst at Autotrader. This is true especially summer blockbusters that attract millions of moviegoers, she adds, noting that Nissan's affiliation with the Star Wars films enabled it to have a themed auto show exhibit, "which surely drew lots of kids with their parents in tow to an exhibit they might otherwise have skipped."

In addition to the Black Panther franchise--which Lexus isn't expected to give up though a sequel isn't expected until 2021--the automaker will likely appear in future Marvel movies. Marvel Studios' marketing mavens prefer long-term relationships with brands. For instance, Audi has been the vehicle of choice for Iron Man since 2008. Other Avengers films also featured Acura.

But it also has eyes on other franchises, as evidenced by its high-visibility role in MIB. Lexus says doesn't have a "strict rule" for how many films it wants to rally around per year, "one high profile partnership per year (feels) about right," Materazzo says. "We are actively considering several possibilities."

Whether MIB tanks or soars, Lexus’ diversification is a smart strategy for Hollywood tentpole brand integrations. Because even with all of Black Panther‘s success, if the movie proved one thing it’s that you can’t stay in Wakanda forever.

from Fortune http://bit.ly/31woXIw

[eddiejpoplar]

The Lexus LS500 Is What a Japanese Luxury Sedan Should Be

The 2019 Automobile All-Stars winners will be revealed on Saturday, March 9 at 11:00 am Eastern, but first we’re introducing—in no particular order—a few of the contenders each day this week. Head here for an All-Stars preview, and be sure to check back all week to see the contenders as they’re announced!

When Lexus launched the original LS in 1989, carrying sedate styling while providing a Japanese interpretation of the Mercedes S-class experience for E-class money, restraint was the theme. Jump ahead 30 years, and lavish SUVs are cannibalizing luxury sedan sales. Clearly, radical change was needed, and the new LS500 delivers transformation in spades.

“I think everyone has realized by now that the S-class is pretty much unbeatable when taken as a whole package,” contributor Jethro Bovingdon said. “Well, the LS is a world away from the S-class, and it couldn’t be anything but a Japanese take on luxury. We should celebrate any car that does the unexpected, and I really admire the wacky styling and unique interior. And the LS drives pretty well, too.”

He’s right. There’s a fresh, coupelike seating position along with quick steering and newfound agility at the expense of isolation compared to previous LS models. Gone is the V-8, replaced by a twin-turbo V-6 with more power and “an almost sporty engine note,” Bovingdon remarked. We applaud Lexus for taking risks with the LS, even if those risks end up being polarizing.

Speaking of, the provocative cabin sparked controversy thanks to its distinctive mix of Kiriko glass and origami-style, hand-pleated door panels. “What an exciting, beautiful, modern interior—very unexpected,” contributor Ronald Ahrens noted. Added executive editor Mac Morrison, “I am absolutely a fan of the cabin treatment. Different and cool.”

Others were less impressed. “Inside, never has such a collection of well-thought-out materials and design components come off as so chintzy,” daily new editor Conner Golden said. Editor-at-large Arthur St. Antoine piled on: “I wouldn’t be able to put up with that bejeweled interior trim without gagging.” Its interior stylings are clearly a matter of taste—and part of a $23,100 interior package if it isn’t yours.

One cabin feature you’re stuck with, though, is the infotainment system, which received a proper flogging from editors. “The interface’s twitchy mouse is a big miss,” contributor Basem Wasef noted. (Morrison said the same thing—until he figured out how to change the touchpad’s reaction speed in the settings menu.)

Although Bovingdon also had his issues with the controls, he found a lot to like about the LS: “Of course the touchpad system is truly, truly hateful, and I could easily see why that might be a deal breaker, but the rest of the car has a charm and character about it I really enjoyed. It’s a cool object, the LS, and a quality item.”

2018 Lexus LS 500 Specifications

PRICE $76,225/$112,520 
(base/as tested) ENGINE 3.5L twin-turbo DOHC 24-valve V-6; 416 hp @ 6,000 rpm, 442 lb-ft @ 1,600–4,800 rpm TRANSMISSION 10-speed automatic LAYOUT 4-door, 5-passenger, 
front-engine, RWD sedan EPA MILEAGE 19/30 mpg (city/hwy) L x W x H 206.1 x 74.8 x 57.1 in WHEELBASE 123.0 in WEIGHT 4,905 lb 0–60 MPH 4.6 sec TOP SPEED 136 mph

The post The Lexus LS500 Is What a Japanese Luxury Sedan Should Be appeared first on Automobile Magazine.

from Performance Junk Blogger 6 https://ift.tt/2Ty1UeZ via IFTTT

[jonathanbelloblog]

The Lexus LS500 Is What a Japanese Luxury Sedan Should Be

The 2019 Automobile All-Stars winners will be revealed on Saturday, March 9 at 11:00 am Eastern, but first we’re introducing—in no particular order—a few of the contenders each day this week. Head here for an All-Stars preview, and be sure to check back all week to see the contenders as they’re announced!

When Lexus launched the original LS in 1989, carrying sedate styling while providing a Japanese interpretation of the Mercedes S-class experience for E-class money, restraint was the theme. Jump ahead 30 years, and lavish SUVs are cannibalizing luxury sedan sales. Clearly, radical change was needed, and the new LS500 delivers transformation in spades.

“I think everyone has realized by now that the S-class is pretty much unbeatable when taken as a whole package,” contributor Jethro Bovingdon said. “Well, the LS is a world away from the S-class, and it couldn’t be anything but a Japanese take on luxury. We should celebrate any car that does the unexpected, and I really admire the wacky styling and unique interior. And the LS drives pretty well, too.”

He’s right. There’s a fresh, coupelike seating position along with quick steering and newfound agility at the expense of isolation compared to previous LS models. Gone is the V-8, replaced by a twin-turbo V-6 with more power and “an almost sporty engine note,” Bovingdon remarked. We applaud Lexus for taking risks with the LS, even if those risks end up being polarizing.

Speaking of, the provocative cabin sparked controversy thanks to its distinctive mix of Kiriko glass and origami-style, hand-pleated door panels. “What an exciting, beautiful, modern interior—very unexpected,” contributor Ronald Ahrens noted. Added executive editor Mac Morrison, “I am absolutely a fan of the cabin treatment. Different and cool.”

Others were less impressed. “Inside, never has such a collection of well-thought-out materials and design components come off as so chintzy,” daily new editor Conner Golden said. Editor-at-large Arthur St. Antoine piled on: “I wouldn’t be able to put up with that bejeweled interior trim without gagging.” Its interior stylings are clearly a matter of taste—and part of a $23,100 interior package if it isn’t yours.

One cabin feature you’re stuck with, though, is the infotainment system, which received a proper flogging from editors. “The interface’s twitchy mouse is a big miss,” contributor Basem Wasef noted. (Morrison said the same thing—until he figured out how to change the touchpad’s reaction speed in the settings menu.)

Although Bovingdon also had his issues with the controls, he found a lot to like about the LS: “Of course the touchpad system is truly, truly hateful, and I could easily see why that might be a deal breaker, but the rest of the car has a charm and character about it I really enjoyed. It’s a cool object, the LS, and a quality item.”

2018 Lexus LS 500 Specifications

PRICE $76,225/$112,520 
(base/as tested) ENGINE 3.5L twin-turbo DOHC 24-valve V-6; 416 hp @ 6,000 rpm, 442 lb-ft @ 1,600–4,800 rpm TRANSMISSION 10-speed automatic LAYOUT 4-door, 5-passenger, 
front-engine, RWD sedan EPA MILEAGE 19/30 mpg (city/hwy) L x W x H 206.1 x 74.8 x 57.1 in WHEELBASE 123.0 in WEIGHT 4,905 lb 0–60 MPH 4.6 sec TOP SPEED 136 mph

The post The Lexus LS500 Is What a Japanese Luxury Sedan Should Be appeared first on Automobile Magazine.

from Performance Junk Blogger Feed 4 https://ift.tt/2Ty1UeZ via IFTTT