#What does GS Lexus stand for?

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2023 Lexus GS Review, Redesign, Price

2023 Lexus GS Review, Redesign, Price

2023 Lexus GS Review, Redesign, Price – Amongst the more affordable midsize deluxe sedans while in the marketplace, the GS array continues to get created with performance in addition to luxury in your mind. What precisely the New 2023 Lexus GS can provide, which numerous competitor autos falter in, is a motor vehicle that correctly assaults an equilibrium between solid performance abilities and…

[crazy4tank]

10 Times Lexus Built Awesome Sports Cars | HotCars

New Post has been published on https://coolcarsnews.com/10-times-lexus-built-awesome-sports-cars-hotcars/

10 Times Lexus Built Awesome Sports Cars | HotCars

Lexus started out as an unique Toyota project in 1983 to build up a new luxury sedan. That resulted in the launch of the Lexus LS model in 1989, the same 12 months the Lexus brand was officially set up as Toyota’s luxury automobile division. Lexus traditionally plays in the luxury vehicle segment but the company does have a good number of performance-oriented machines in their inventory. These types of cars fuse the luxury DNA along with bold sports car styling, engine strength, and of course, performance and speed. The particular sports car market is a highly competing space, but Lexus has been capable of keep its head above drinking water with some really high-quality products that can even go up against more knowledgeable rivals like Mercedes Benz, BMW, and Nissan.

10 2006 Lexus SC430

via mecum

The SC430 has got the distinction of being one of the first sports vehicles that was offered with an electronically foldable hard-top. Now, we know this vehicle got a lot of hate back in the time, but it's also extremely charming plus unique. It might be one of the most underrated Western sports cars from the 2000s.

Still, its electric-folding roofing gave it an air associated with luxury that was a strong selling point plus helped partly cover up the fact that it had not been a particularly great-looking car. We've observed worse but those oversized headlamps and excessive front overhang actually pushes the car to borderline ugly .

via topspeed

However , the particular SC430 packed a 4. 3-liter V8 power plant that created 288hp and 317 pound-feet torque capacity. That’s enough power for some good sports car performance and the car will not disappoint with a sub-6 second set you back 60mph and 143mph top speed.

nine 1992 Lexus SC400

via mecum

Interestingly, the first-generation SOUTH CAROLINA sports coupe was deemed to become better-looking than its successor. The overall opinion was that it handled much better too. Car and Drivers reviewed the car plus concluded that it was, ‘beautifully styled, eminently refined and great to drive. ’

via bringatrailer

The SC400 even outperformed rivals like the Acura Legend and the Mercedes Benz 300CE. The car was pre-loaded with an electronically controlled automatic tranny that allowed you to switch among power and normal modes, every with its own shift points. This particular, coupled with a 250hp V8 motor, made the driving experience very an interesting one.

8 Lexus RC200t

via motor1

The Lexus RC200t is a bargain deal with beginning prices that hover around $40, 000 when new. What you obtain is a well-packaged sports car that is not much behind powerhouses like Mercedes Benz, Audi, and BMW.

via youtube . com

It is driven by a 2 . 0-litre turbocharged inline-four engine that generates 241hp with 5, 400rpm and an impressive 258 pound-feet of torque from just one, 650rpm. 8-speed paddle shifters can be found and it helps feed all that capacity to the rear wheels.

Related: These Are The ten Best Japanese Sports Sedans Associated with 2020

7 Lexus IS F

via motorbiscuit

The Lexus IS F was scrapped from the model lineup within 2014 and it slipped into the report books as the brand’s first despoliation into the high-performance segment.

through autoevolution

So far as performances were concerned, the car carried out creditably, with a 4. 6-second zero - 60mph time and thirteen seconds for the quarter mile. Sadly, performance is not alone to guarantee the car’s survival and disappointing product sales led to the cancellation in 2014. However , the story does have a delighted ending because the IS DEFINITELY F is now set for a return .

6 Lexus RC F

via timesfreepress

The first REMOTE CONTROL F debuted in 2013 in the Tokyo Motor Show as the high-performance variant of the RC-series models. Instead of using a brand-new platform, the engineers decided to blend the best bits from 3 additional models; the GS sedan, CAN BE sedan and IS convertible.

through cnet

The normal RC F packs a five. 0-litre V8 engine and lots of other goodies that make driving a true delight. The only letdown is the weight which, at over four, 000 pounds, makes it rather awkward for a sports car. It will still gallop to 60mph in about four. 3 seconds though.

5 Lexus LC500

through cars

This particular sports car is one of the best modern vehicles by Lexus yet, with its striking curves, headlight design and modern outline. It debuted in 2017 and the recent unveiling of the transformable version implies the car is set another phase of market penetration.

via car buzz

The are a few motor options available too to appeal to the wider audience. There’s the cross powertrain that combines a 3 or more. 5-litre V6 with 132kW electrical motor for a 354hp total output. Then you definitely have the raw naturally aspirated OF V8 that pumps out a husky 471hp at over 7, 000rpm. This V8 option can do zero - 60mph in 4. four seconds and power on to a good electronically limited top speed of 168mph.

Associated: Lexus LC500 Adds Lightness, Gets Exterior Mods

four Lexus RC Farrenheit Track Edition

via motor1

The ‘RC’ designation here stands for ‘Radical Coupe’ and that’s as extreme because it gets with the RC F Monitor Edition. This sports coupe trades several metal bits with co2 fibre and straps on a group of light 19-inch BBS wheels. This particular, and a couple of other tweaks, associated with car 176 pounds lighter compared to standard RC F.

through carscoops

The particular 5. 0-litre V8 has been retuned too and adds 5hp to create a total of 472hp and 395 pound-feet of torque. Launch control has become a standard option and if you get this right, you can expect a 60mph run in less than 4 seconds.

3 Lexus RC F GT3

via lexusuk

As the name and pictures depict, this purpose-built sports car struts its stuff at several aggressive GT3 racing series. It’s not difficult to spot the differences which established this track weapon apart from the share RC F .

through youtube

The particular massive rear wing and notable diffusers help keep the car planted at the tracks as it whips around high speed corners. The V8 engine today produces over 500hp, up through 472hp in the road-legal RC Farreneheit Track Edition. That extra energy allows for a top speed of 176mph.

Related: 10 Greatest Track-Ready Japanese Sports Cars Below $15, 000

2 Lexus LFA

through motortrend

There was clearly no holding back with this 1. Lexus intended to make a big declaration with the LFA, right from when it had been unveiled as a concept in 2006 at the North American International Auto Display. Production ceased in 2012 and the car’s value on today’s market is usually estimated to be around $500, 500.

via motor1

That’s a lot of money for a Lexus and you can conclude then that they do succeed in their quest then. It isn’t really all about the value though. The LFA handles like a dream and has one of the best appearing V10 engines ever fitted to the production car.

1 Lexus LFA Nurburgring Edition

via hagerty

Don’t feel bad if you have by no means seen one of these. There are only fifty units in existence and most of them are usually undoubtedly squirrelled away in personal garages. This is a real shame since the LFA Nurburgring was designed for a lot more than just being a garage queen.

via motorauthority

There’s that melodious V10 motor that revs all the way to nine, 000rpm. It has 10hp more than the LFA. This one also boasts a firmer suspension setup, fixed rear side and various carbon fibre pieces that make for a pretty exhilarating generating experience.

Next: 10 Times Toyota Constructed Awesome Sports Cars

[componentplanet]

2020 Nissan Maxima Review: The Sporty Reason People Still Buy Sedans

The Nissan Maxima sedan has been around forever, since 1981, and you forget what a nice car it is, especially with its recent refresh that now includes the Nissan Safety Shield driver assists. For around $40K, you get a very quick, good-handling sedan capable of hitting 60 mph in six seconds. The car is stunning in profile and the cockpit is nicely trimmed.

Against that, Nissan ProPilot Assist self-driving is not available on a car meant for long highway drives. Also, the same low roofline that makes the Maxima sleek makes it snug in back for adults. The ride qualities the driver calls “sporty” the passengers may call “firm.” Still, the current Maxima compares well against premium luxury sedans. You pay less for a loaded Maxima than a stripped BMW 5 Series or Lexus GS.

Maxima on the Road

The Maxima is a blast to drive, the 300-hp V6 is amazingly powerful, and long treks are pleasant thanks to good seats and excellent audio.

My cockpit on the Maxima Platinum had an orange-and-black interior that sounds like Halloween, maybe Thanksgiving. But it’s actually quite fetching, especially if you like sporty looks. The D-steering wheel with the squared-off bottom is what many racecars have and it’s also a godsend for drivers with ample waistlines. The center stack display, starting to feel a bit small at 8 inches diagonal, does have real buttons on either side, a big plus.

While it’s a front- not rear- or all-wheel-drive car, the Maxima felt competent on twisty back roads. Unless you’re doing a car club lapping day at a race track, front-drive is good enough for virtually all occasions.

Nissan Maxima Platinum with the orangish (but in a nice way) Rakuda Tan quality leather trim.

Maxima Stands Out of Safety

Unlike many competing cars, the Maxima has a solid set of safety features on all trim lines, not just the ones that cost more.

For 2020, Nissan makes Nissan Safety Shield 360 standard on all six trim lines: lane departure warning, blind-spot detection/rear cross-traffic alert, automatic emergency braking/pedestrian braking, automatic high beam control, and rear automatic braking.

Adaptive cruise control is not part of Safety Shield 360 but it’s on all but the entry trim, which typically accounts for less than 10 percent of model sales. The surround-view camera system is on three of the six trim lines.

Also standard across the line in 2020 is the Integrated Dynamics (control) Module (IDM): intelligent trace control (maintains the cornering line as steered), active ride control (modulates engine power and brakes under acceleration and braking to minimize pitching motions), and intelligent engine brake (small amounts of engine braking when using the brakes to smooth deceleration).

Long trips would better still with ProPilot Assist, but when Nissan did the midlife refresh of the eighth generation Maxima for 2019, it didn’t upgrade from mechanical to electric power steering, a requirement for cars that self-drive or lane-center. Too bad: ProPilot Assist is a must-have feature on the majority of the Nissan line. Press a couple of buttons, the car settles into the center of the lane, maintains its distance from cars in front, and drives itself so long as it senses your hands lightly on the wheel.

The sloping roofline on the Maxima helps looks at the expense of rear-seat headroom.

2020 Maxima Models

There are six model variants, or trim lines, for the 2020 Maxima. All have the 300-hp V6 engine and continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). The 2019 Maxima, still available, is essentially the same vehicle.

Maxima S, $35,175 (including $925 freight). It has LED headlamps, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, satellite radio, Bluetooth, and two USB jacks. The only thing missing off the teaser-price trim is adaptive cruise control. Wheels are 18 x 8 inches with 245/45R18 tires.

Maxima SV, $36,450. The extra $2,200 gets you adaptive cruise control, traffic sign recognition, navigation, leather-trimmed seats, and heated front seats.

Maxima SL, $39,565. Sonar is front as well as rear. Audio is Bose, 11 speakers. There’s a panoramic moonroof and a heated steering wheel.

Maxima SR, $42,375. This is the sporty version with paddle shifters, a sport-tuned suspension (read: stiffer than the already firm shocks/springs on the others), 19 x 8.5-inch low profile tires, and vented front seats. The 2019 SR Premium Package of the panoramic moonroof and the surround camera system (Intelligent Around View Monitor) is now part of the base price.

Maxima Platinum, $42,565. It’s the next step up from SL, not the SR. It gets Nissan Connect telematics, 18 x 8-inch alloys, quilted-leather seats, and birdseye maple trim.

Maxima Platinum Reserve, $43,705. A new trim line for 2020, it adds heated rear seats, different seat leathers and trim, and a charcoal headliner.

Should You Buy?

Nissan has two midsize sedans, the Maxima and the Nissan Altima (out since 1993). The Altima is a mainstream, front-drive sedan meant to compete with the Accord, Camry, and Sonata. Some competitive analyses compare the Maxima with a full-size sedan along with the Toyota Avalon and Chevrolet Impala.

Look at the specs for the rear seat for Maxima, Altima, and Camry, the best-selling midsize sedan:

Maxima: 34.2 / 35.8 inches (headroom / legroom)

Altima: 35.1 / 36.9 inches

Camry: 38.0 / 38.0

That makes the Maxima okay, not great, for carrying two additional adults. And if four of you are going away for the weekend, pack light. It has 98.5 cubic feet for passengers plus 14.3 for cargo, for a total of 112.8. The sibling Altima is three inches shorter and has 117.3 plus 15.4 cubic feet of capacity. So Maxima is midsize and more of a competitor to Toyota Camry, Subaru Legacy, Kia Optima, Mazda6, Honda Accord, Hyundai Sonata, and VW Passat. None have the acceleration of the Maxima, although the Mazda6 (especially), Accord, and Passat compare favorably on handling and fun-to-drive.

For fun-to-drive, you want the Maxima SR sporty model. And if you want to stand out, consider the $395 Sunset Drift Chromaflair orange exterior paint. That gives you 240/40R19 tires and wheels that don’t get along well with potholes. I test-drove a Maxima Platinum and the ride was firm; the SR will be firmer.

If you like the sporty looks without the stiffer ride, the Maxima SV has virtually all the safety you want. Moving up the trim lines gets you better audio with SL and then surround view with SR and the Platinums.

Nissan sells a bit less than 50,000 Maximas a year, so there’s a certain exclusivity that way. It is worth a test drive if you want sporty looks and handling and if your back seat passengers don’t mind a snug, but not cramped, space. The Maxima’s biggest drawback for long-distance cruisers is the unavailability of ProPilot Assist.

Nissan deserves credit for sticking with sedans at a time when many mid- and full-size competitors, most with decent offerings, are going away: the Ford Taurus, Chevrolet Impala, Buick LaCrosse, and Cadillac XTS, among others. Among the mid-price, midsize sedans that want to be seen as class-above, the Maxima may well be the best choice if you want sporty and reliable. Buyers who want a roomy back seat and trunk may want to look elsewhere, including Nissan’s own Altima in one of the higher trims, where it can be had with all-wheel-drive and Nissan’s intriguing variable compression engine.

Now read:

2019 Nissan Altima Review: All-Wheel-Drive, ProPilot Assist Revive a Sedan

Top New Cars for 2020: SUVs, EVs, PHEVs, Not So Many New Sedans

2020 Nissan Versa Review: Safer, Smoother, Still-Affordable Small Sedan

from ExtremeTechExtremeTech https://www.extremetech.com/extreme/301651-2020-nissan-maxima-review-the-sporty-reason-people-still-buy-sedans from Blogger http://componentplanet.blogspot.com/2019/11/2020-nissan-maxima-review-sporty-reason.html

[smoothshift]

My Impressions from the Boston Auto Show (long) via /r/cars

My Impressions from the Boston Auto Show (long)

Hi all,

Just came back from the New England Auto Show in Boston and, given it's a small and limited show with lots of models close to each other, it's easy to do cross comparisons of brands and individual cars. I've long enjoyed coming home from such shows and posting some of my impressions. Here are my random, opinionated views from the frigid Seaport District of Boston:

Acura:

Everything save for the RDX and NSX feels a full two generations behind the auto mainstream. Acura continues to have mind-boggling mindshare to me, and their stand was pretty crowded.

They had a few ILX's out there front and center, which I thought was unfortunate as it's a deeply unimpressive vehicle from every standpoint. Again, feels like a terrific 2006 model...

Alfa:

I heard many people sitting in these models, loving them, but being concerned about their quality... Ouch...

Sitting down later in an A4, it feels pretty obvious to me that its dash and ergonomics were the target for the Alfa Romero Giulia. I went back and forth and so many of the spacial relationships and detail are very similar.

The Stelvio's dash, while very much that the Giulia, is larger by nature of the vehicle, and has a lot more super-plain swaths of uninspiring plastic. One person sitting in it called the dash "minimalist." I think that's being generous for the price...

Aston Martin:

The local dealer brought a shocking number, and they're amazing as always. If I had the money for any car in the world right now, it would be the new Vantage, which happily looks even better in the metal than photos.

Audi:

I talked to many people at the show randomly who said they were there to see Audis more than everything else. They're really the aspirational vehicle right now in the Boston area, I'd say...

The dash of the A7 absolutely feels like sitting down in a shuttlepod arrived from the future. Wow, what an interior. I'm sure in 10-15 years it'll feel as dated as a Buick Reatta's does now, but in 2019, it's outstanding. The anti-Tesla dash, as all of it's multitude of screens are beautifully integrated None of the other Audi interiors are nearly as impressive as the A7/8.

Why don't people talk more about the R8? It's really outstanding...

Chevy:

Can someone tell me why the Blazer is getting so much hate? It's quite attractive outside (but suffering from GM interior syndrome inside, see Buick below). Certainly, it's no worse than the Ford Edge at which it's obviously targeted.

Buick:

The Regal GS, a vehicle I've long liked, had its replacement there with about a $45,000 sticker. Sadly, the refresh doesn't keep up with the competition. It's interior is unimpressive, and the sleek design just somehow doesn't come together, being less than the sum of its detailing. There are a LOT of nicer vehicles inside and out (including the Giulia sitting 20 feel away for only $4500 more).

I'll use the Buick entry to discuss GM interiors in general. They were doing so well for a while. What's happened? Small gauges, bizarre and gravely dash plastics, odd and blobby shapes to dash components and door trim, the cheapest pieces seemingly reserved for things you touch. And so.... many... intersecting... lines... GMC, Buick, Chevy, it's the same across their lineup. They need to fix interiors and fast.

Kia:

Let's talk about the Stinger. WOW. The surprise of the show for me. Very interestingly, they had a Stinger and the G70 sitting about 30 feet away from each other and, to my shock, I vastly preferred the Stinger. I find its interior far more focused, honest, and less busy. It actually looks more bespoke inside and out. And I love the hatch. This could be my next car, we'll see. Good thing it's so impressive, as the AWD GT2 on the floor was priced in G70 territory ($54,000).

No K900 on the stand, which I wanted to see :(

The brand has some legs, as their stand was mobbed.

Ford:

Not being a truck, SUV, or Mustang guy, I couldn't get up any enthusiasm to visit their stand, and after owning 2 Fords in my life (Taurus SHO and SVT Contour), the brand and I are probably done...

Genesis:

I so badly want to love the G70, but this is the third time I've gotten a close look at it and I just can't get all the way there. The exterior still whispers "G35" to me (all the more so with a Q50 sitting 15 feet away). The interior, despite looking awesome in photos, feels busy, overdesigned, and dated to me. Squint, and I could think it's an economy car, the center console being particular aimless and underdesigned in particular. I hate the three HUGE HVAC dials, and its stuck-on dash screen feels more in-your-face than most. Sigh. I really wanted to fall in love...

I liked the G80 Sport quite a bit, but it's interior sadly just doesn't justify the price and whispers "cheap." Used might be a different story, though...

That said, the G90 interior is spectacular and my kids would kill for those back seats.

Infiniti:

See Acura: Everything here feels old, especially the dual screen dashes (which, a few years ago, felt fresh and design forward, which is the danger of tech focused design.... Beware, Audi...). The Q50 and its bigger brother, is it Q80? I don't remember or care. They all feel so sad and, with their Pontiac-like sport body cladding, so wanna be. And adding insult to injury, their local flagship dealer, located right next to Porsche in a particular franchise of dealers in THE CITY proper, just decamped waaaay out to a distant exurb. It feels fitting. Buh-bye....

Lexus:

I couldn't stick around here long, I'm just sooo unimpressed by the brand. That said, the LS interior and seats are excellent and the ES interior (despite an impressive exterior refresh) is very disappointing. It really feels (and even smells!) like a Toyota.

Speaking of interiors, BTW, with the Toyota stand literally across the aisle, it's impossible to ignore that these companies obviously share studios. If you want to make your 100K LS feel like a fraud, just go sit in a new Corolla, an Avalon, an ES, and then your LS. Now, everything cranks up in quality as expected, but these kids obviously have the same parents in their swooping interior shapes, their organization of controls, and even in switchgear look and feel.

Lincoln:

Ok, the Aviator was the second surprise of the show for me. It's a knock-out. Oh, that exterior. People at the show would just stop in their tracks and stare. You couldn't enter, but you could look inside at the interior, and it's very impressive. It's the Navigator theme - updated. This SUV is America's Land Rover, and if Lincoln prices this right, it deserves to be a massive hit. I hate SUVs, and even I'd think about buying this vehicle. The new Caddy XT6 is in so much trouble...

I have no love for something Navigator sized, but boy that interior is tremendous...

Standing back and looking at the Lincoln stand, they've accomplished something here. Everything looks the part of upscale product, the style across the lineup is coordinated, the grille finally works on newer models, the Black Label interiors really feel special. Lincoln may have found their niche?

Mazda:

In their palpable move upscale, they're feeling a little dull. The 6 is a snoozer.

The new (attractive) 3 was there, looking like an escapee from a Euro Alfa Romeo design studio, but you couldn't go in it. As everyone else has observed, those c pillar blind spots on the hatch are ENORMOUS.

McLaren:

They had 6 of these or so lined up at the show in a tour-de-force display. I could have stared at these for hours. Rolling automotive art. The world's most lust-worthy brand right now?

Nissan:

I didn't care enough to check out their stand. Sorry...

Volvo:

So, this is the most confusing brand to me. I don't love their new universal interior style, but I give them huge credit for trying new and different things with materials and design. They had some of my favorite (S90 interior design is so warm, creamy, and comfortable) and least favorite (most S60 trims) design points of the show.

The S60 R-Design seats were hands down my most comfortable of the show. OMG, they're heaven sent. No other seats should ever be designed, these are perfect...

Does anyone else find the little Swedish flag sewed on the front seats a little insulting in a wholly owned Chinese car company? I mean, Swedish design heritage is one thing, but actually a physical little flag on the seats? Really??

Tech aging warning number 3, the Volvo digital gauges do not impress...

In the end, I'm seriously neutral on Volvo. I have a lot of respect for what they're doing, but somehow it's not connecting with me. I just don't love it.

I know I've missed some brands and models here, but this is what stool out. This was a show without BMW, MB, Caddy, Jagular, LR, among others, as auto shows continue to wane. I wish I could have a car with the Stinger's passion, the Volvo S60's seats, the Audi A7's dash, the Alfa Giulia's size, and the Genesis G70's manual. Short of that, nothing out there is wowing me right now, which is in part a function of how good everything is, and in part the parity that market leaders have reached and that everyone else is aspiring to match. I've always had models I've lusted over (look at what I own), but that's not the case right now...

Based on the show alone what three cars would I love to have in my driveway? The Aviator, the Stinger, and the G90 with me as a rear passenger.

​

Any questions or comments?

[eddiejpoplar]

First Drive: 2018 Buick Regal GS

ALPHARETTA, Georgia — The hilly region north of Atlanta is an emotional landscape straight out of a Bob Ross painting. Nestled among its happy trees are smooth, winding roads that lend themselves to spirited driving, which we’re here to do in the new 2018 Buick Regal GS.

A well-proportioned sedan, the Regal GS is clad in finely sculpted bodywork with visual cues that differentiate it from the standard Sportback, including unique front and rear fascias, 19-inch wheels, and red Brembo brakes. It’s a fine fit for this region of the south-eastern U.S. as they showcase the best of what’s up and coming for both Buick and Georgia.

GM’s long-standing 3.6-liter V-6 powers the Regal GS, making 310 hp and 282 lb-ft of torque in this application. The powerplant is coupled with a relatively new nine-speed automatic transmission that shifts quickly and never hunts for gears. The combination delivers smooth acceleration over a linear power band sent to all four wheels. A torque-vectoring, twin-clutch rear differential similar to the one Buick uses in the Regal TourX wagon also makes an appearance.

In the Regal GS, Buick offers three preset driving modes. The car drives in a default mode that favors comfort and more economic driving. Sport mode increases steering weight, quickens shifts, makes the AWD system more rear-biased, and stiffens suspension. The third mode, GS, has a shift schedule that holds gears longer, even heavier steering, and the firmest suspension settings.

Despite its preference for aggressive driving, GS mode didn’t fatigue me beyond the weighty steering. What really impressed me was how capable the default mode was on even the most technical sections of the mountain.

In the middle of the day, we stopped by Atlanta Motorsports Park, where we participated in a series of parking lot test exercises. These included forward and reverse slaloms, acceleration and brake tests, and a fun 180-degree turn spin. Even with tires intentionally over-inflated past 50 psi, braking, grip, and chassis control felt solid.

Much of the comfort and quiet of the Regal Sportback carries over into a package that also feels sporty and athletic, even with the forfeiture of Buick’s signature “Continental ProContact with ContiSilent quiet tuning” tires in favor of all-season sport tires. It was easy to hold a conversation at highway speeds, which is notable given the insulation disadvantage liftbacks have versus traditional three-box sedans.

Drivers cannot disable engine start-stop, but chief engineer Martin Hayes says his team fine-tuned the system. A key change is what he called a “McDonald’s drive-through algorithm,” which prevents the engine from shutting off again until the vehicle exceeds about 7 mph after restarting. We encountered some traffic on the final leg of our drive and the system checks out in stop-and-go as well.

There’s plenty of safety tech to go around in the Regal GS. Our tester had the optional Driver Confidence Package. It includes a competent adaptive cruise control system, unobtrusive but effective lane departure warning, and forward collision alert and braking. The heads-up display is also part of this safety suite and was highly legible even through polarized sunglasses.

Starting at $39,070 the 2018 Buick Regal GS is a great value proposition for those looking for a blend of performance and technology. Our tester rang in at $44,110 after destination charges, more than $1,000 less than the Acura TLX A-Spec—and the difference is even greater between it and the Lexus IS F-Sport AWD, which starts at $47,825. Not only does the Regal’s V-6 kicks out more power than both, the package offers plenty of luxury to vie for the front of the pack in the tough segment.

The 2018 Regal GS shows that although crossovers may be the mainstay of modern Buick, the brand also offers a capable sports sedan that delivers a comfortable and quiet experience on the freeway that’s also joyful when it’s time to rip through the corners among the happy trees.

2018 Buick Regal GS Specifications ON SALE Now PRICE $39,070/$44,110 (base/as tested) ENGINE 3.6L DOHC 24-valve flat-6/310 hp @ 6,800 rpm, 282 lb-ft @ 5,200 rpm TRANSMISSION 9-speed automatic LAYOUT 4-door, 5-passenger, front-engine, AWD sedan EPA MILEAGE 19/27 mpg (city/hwy) L x W x H 192.9 x 73.3 x 57.3 in WHEELBASE 114.4 in WEIGHT 4,270 lb 0-60 MPH 5.9 sec (est) TOP SPEED N/A

The post First Drive: 2018 Buick Regal GS appeared first on Automobile Magazine.

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[crazy4tank]

10 Times Lexus Built Awesome Sports Cars | HotCars

New Post has been published on https://coolcarsnews.com/10-times-lexus-built-awesome-sports-cars-hotcars/

10 Times Lexus Built Awesome Sports Cars | HotCars

Lexus started out as an unique Toyota project in 1983 to build up a new luxury sedan. That resulted in the launch of the Lexus LS model in 1989, the same 12 months the Lexus brand was officially set up as Toyota’s luxury automobile division. Lexus traditionally plays in the luxury vehicle segment but the company does have a good number of performance-oriented machines in their inventory. These types of cars fuse the luxury DNA along with bold sports car styling, engine strength, and of course, performance and speed. The particular sports car market is a highly competing space, but Lexus has been capable of keep its head above drinking water with some really high-quality products that can even go up against more knowledgeable rivals like Mercedes Benz, BMW, and Nissan.

10 2006 Lexus SC430

via mecum

The SC430 has got the distinction of being one of the first sports vehicles that was offered with an electronically foldable hard-top. Now, we know this vehicle got a lot of hate back in the time, but it's also extremely charming plus unique. It might be one of the most underrated Western sports cars from the 2000s.

Still, its electric-folding roofing gave it an air associated with luxury that was a strong selling point plus helped partly cover up the fact that it had not been a particularly great-looking car. We've observed worse but those oversized headlamps and excessive front overhang actually pushes the car to borderline ugly .

via topspeed

However , the particular SC430 packed a 4. 3-liter V8 power plant that created 288hp and 317 pound-feet torque capacity. That’s enough power for some good sports car performance and the car will not disappoint with a sub-6 second set you back 60mph and 143mph top speed.

nine 1992 Lexus SC400

via mecum

Interestingly, the first-generation SOUTH CAROLINA sports coupe was deemed to become better-looking than its successor. The overall opinion was that it handled much better too. Car and Drivers reviewed the car plus concluded that it was, ‘beautifully styled, eminently refined and great to drive. ’

via bringatrailer

The SC400 even outperformed rivals like the Acura Legend and the Mercedes Benz 300CE. The car was pre-loaded with an electronically controlled automatic tranny that allowed you to switch among power and normal modes, every with its own shift points. This particular, coupled with a 250hp V8 motor, made the driving experience very an interesting one.

8 Lexus RC200t

via motor1

The Lexus RC200t is a bargain deal with beginning prices that hover around $40, 000 when new. What you obtain is a well-packaged sports car that is not much behind powerhouses like Mercedes Benz, Audi, and BMW.

via youtube . com

It is driven by a 2 . 0-litre turbocharged inline-four engine that generates 241hp with 5, 400rpm and an impressive 258 pound-feet of torque from just one, 650rpm. 8-speed paddle shifters can be found and it helps feed all that capacity to the rear wheels.

Related: These Are The ten Best Japanese Sports Sedans Associated with 2020

7 Lexus IS F

via motorbiscuit

The Lexus IS F was scrapped from the model lineup within 2014 and it slipped into the report books as the brand’s first despoliation into the high-performance segment.

through autoevolution

So far as performances were concerned, the car carried out creditably, with a 4. 6-second zero - 60mph time and thirteen seconds for the quarter mile. Sadly, performance is not alone to guarantee the car’s survival and disappointing product sales led to the cancellation in 2014. However , the story does have a delighted ending because the IS DEFINITELY F is now set for a return .

6 Lexus RC F

via timesfreepress

The first REMOTE CONTROL F debuted in 2013 in the Tokyo Motor Show as the high-performance variant of the RC-series models. Instead of using a brand-new platform, the engineers decided to blend the best bits from 3 additional models; the GS sedan, CAN BE sedan and IS convertible.

through cnet

The normal RC F packs a five. 0-litre V8 engine and lots of other goodies that make driving a true delight. The only letdown is the weight which, at over four, 000 pounds, makes it rather awkward for a sports car. It will still gallop to 60mph in about four. 3 seconds though.

5 Lexus LC500

through cars

This particular sports car is one of the best modern vehicles by Lexus yet, with its striking curves, headlight design and modern outline. It debuted in 2017 and the recent unveiling of the transformable version implies the car is set another phase of market penetration.

via car buzz

The are a few motor options available too to appeal to the wider audience. There’s the cross powertrain that combines a 3 or more. 5-litre V6 with 132kW electrical motor for a 354hp total output. Then you definitely have the raw naturally aspirated OF V8 that pumps out a husky 471hp at over 7, 000rpm. This V8 option can do zero - 60mph in 4. four seconds and power on to a good electronically limited top speed of 168mph.

Associated: Lexus LC500 Adds Lightness, Gets Exterior Mods

four Lexus RC Farrenheit Track Edition

via motor1

The ‘RC’ designation here stands for ‘Radical Coupe’ and that’s as extreme because it gets with the RC F Monitor Edition. This sports coupe trades several metal bits with co2 fibre and straps on a group of light 19-inch BBS wheels. This particular, and a couple of other tweaks, associated with car 176 pounds lighter compared to standard RC F.

through carscoops

The particular 5. 0-litre V8 has been retuned too and adds 5hp to create a total of 472hp and 395 pound-feet of torque. Launch control has become a standard option and if you get this right, you can expect a 60mph run in less than 4 seconds.

3 Lexus RC F GT3

via lexusuk

As the name and pictures depict, this purpose-built sports car struts its stuff at several aggressive GT3 racing series. It’s not difficult to spot the differences which established this track weapon apart from the share RC F .

through youtube

The particular massive rear wing and notable diffusers help keep the car planted at the tracks as it whips around high speed corners. The V8 engine today produces over 500hp, up through 472hp in the road-legal RC Farreneheit Track Edition. That extra energy allows for a top speed of 176mph.

Related: 10 Greatest Track-Ready Japanese Sports Cars Below $15, 000

2 Lexus LFA

through motortrend

There was clearly no holding back with this 1. Lexus intended to make a big declaration with the LFA, right from when it had been unveiled as a concept in 2006 at the North American International Auto Display. Production ceased in 2012 and the car’s value on today’s market is usually estimated to be around $500, 500.

via motor1

That’s a lot of money for a Lexus and you can conclude then that they do succeed in their quest then. It isn’t really all about the value though. The LFA handles like a dream and has one of the best appearing V10 engines ever fitted to the production car.

1 Lexus LFA Nurburgring Edition

via hagerty

Don’t feel bad if you have by no means seen one of these. There are only fifty units in existence and most of them are usually undoubtedly squirrelled away in personal garages. This is a real shame since the LFA Nurburgring was designed for a lot more than just being a garage queen.

via motorauthority

There’s that melodious V10 motor that revs all the way to nine, 000rpm. It has 10hp more than the LFA. This one also boasts a firmer suspension setup, fixed rear side and various carbon fibre pieces that make for a pretty exhilarating generating experience.

Next: 10 Times Toyota Constructed Awesome Sports Cars

[robertvasquez763]

ITS Connected: Toyota Crown Concept Signals Next Step for V2V Networks

–

In continuous production since 1955, the Toyota Crown is one of the auto industry’s longest-running nameplates. We haven’t thought much about it since 1971, the last time Toyota offered the car for sale in the United States, although the new Crown concept is a pleasant reminder of Japan’s penchant for fancy Toyota sedans.

–

The Crown concept is essentially the 15th-generation Crown, which will launch in Japan next summer. Unlike the 12-cylinder Toyota Century, the Crown has never shuttled the Japanese emperor or aspired to any level of royalty. It’s a high-end, generic-looking four-door that’s part Lexus GS and part previous-gen Camry. The most interesting thing about the Crown concept is that it includes a new vehicle-to-vehicle networking function called ITS Connect, which stands for Intelligent Transport Systems.

–

–

Toyota has been installing similar V2V and vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I) technology in certain Japanese models since 2015. The system uses a 760-MHz radio band to communicate with roadside sensors and with other equipped Toyota vehicles, not unlike the car-to-X system found on the current Mercedes-Benz E-class.

–

Toyota goes further, however, by linking adaptive cruise control to the preceding vehicle’s actual acceleration and braking. It can warn drivers of collisions during a turn across a lane of oncoming traffic and alert drivers to changing traffic signals and nearby emergency vehicles. Other than a few generic references to improving traffic flow and sharing vehicle diagnostics to predict maintenance problems, Toyota hasn’t outlined what functionality the next-gen Crown will offer, although it does mention “solving societal problems” [like hunger?]. Nevertheless, you can guess that Toyota is about to install a lot more computers and wireless sensors in its cars and that they’ll eventually make their way here.

–

–

It’s Your Funeral, Pal. Luckily, There’s an Utterly Fab Toyota Crown Hearse for Sale!

–

More Oomph, Even Weirder Looks: Toyota Shows C-HR Hy-Power Concept

–

Little Helper: Toyota’s i-TRIL Concept Is an Urban Kid Hauler

–

–

Really, we’d just like a Lexus with an automatic rear-door opener and closer like in the Toyota Crown Comfort, Japan’s venerable—and delightfully analog—taxi.

–

from remotecar http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/caranddriver/blog/~3/iBdmPWYzeJI/

via WordPress https://robertvasquez123.wordpress.com/2017/10/05/its-connected-toyota-crown-concept-signals-next-step-for-v2v-networks/

[jesusvasser]

ITS Connected: Toyota Crown Concept Signals Next Step for V2V Networks

-

In continuous production since 1955, the Toyota Crown is one of the auto industry’s longest-running nameplates. We haven’t thought much about it since 1971, the last time Toyota offered the car for sale in the United States, although the new Crown concept is a pleasant reminder of Japan’s penchant for fancy Toyota sedans.

-

The Crown concept is essentially the 15th-generation Crown, which will launch in Japan next summer. Unlike the 12-cylinder Toyota Century, the Crown has never shuttled the Japanese emperor or aspired to any level of royalty. It’s a high-end, generic-looking four-door that’s part Lexus GS and part previous-gen Camry. The most interesting thing about the Crown concept is that it includes a new vehicle-to-vehicle networking function called ITS Connect, which stands for Intelligent Transport Systems.

-

-

Toyota has been installing similar V2V and vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I) technology in certain Japanese models since 2015. The system uses a 760-MHz radio band to communicate with roadside sensors and with other equipped Toyota vehicles, not unlike the car-to-X system found on the current Mercedes-Benz E-class.

-

Toyota goes further, however, by linking adaptive cruise control to the preceding vehicle’s actual acceleration and braking. It can warn drivers of collisions during a turn across a lane of oncoming traffic and alert drivers to changing traffic signals and nearby emergency vehicles. Other than a few generic references to improving traffic flow and sharing vehicle diagnostics to predict maintenance problems, Toyota hasn’t outlined what functionality the next-gen Crown will offer, although it does mention “solving societal problems” [like hunger?]. Nevertheless, you can guess that Toyota is about to install a lot more computers and wireless sensors in its cars and that they’ll eventually make their way here.

-

-

It’s Your Funeral, Pal. Luckily, There’s an Utterly Fab Toyota Crown Hearse for Sale!

-

More Oomph, Even Weirder Looks: Toyota Shows C-HR Hy-Power Concept

-

Little Helper: Toyota’s i-TRIL Concept Is an Urban Kid Hauler

-

-

Really, we’d just like a Lexus with an automatic rear-door opener and closer like in the Toyota Crown Comfort, Japan’s venerable—and delightfully analog—taxi.

- from Performance Junk WP Feed 4 http://ift.tt/2yYoujM via IFTTT

[jrgarcia]

High Expectations Through Reputation

I was excited to finally get behind the wheel of a Lexus vehicle. I had already driven the 2018 Lexus 500H prototype earlier this year; and fell in love with the design and performance. I consider the 500H to be the prettiest car of the year. It’s the only vehicle that looks like it belongs in the year 2017. So when I held the keys the 500H’s little brother, the 2017 Lexus IS 200t, my expectations were high. After a week with the Lexus IS 200t a few things became clear. The car looks great, it is very maneuverable, and I didn’t like it.

Exterior

Dressed in Ultrasonic Blue, the IS 200t turned heads everywhere it went. People looking over their shoulders to get a second glance at this fancy looking blue car to see the badge. I myself was looking at it constantly when walking away from it in parking lots. If Love Potion #9 was a real drink Ultrasonic blue would be its flavor.

Matched with its signature grille (that always reminded me of the mask from Predator) and gun metal grey 17 inch wheels the IS 200t look like a true sports sedan. Trying to find a bad angle on this car is like trying to find Waldo in a candy cane factory. After a while you give up and just accept that the 2017 Lexus IS 200t is a great looking car. One that will stand out from its typical German competitors.

Interior

This particular model came equipped with the F-Sport package when included upgraded, race inspired, seats that hug you in place. The one drawback is that they can be a little difficult to get in and out of if you aren’t as limber as you used to be, or as small. The all black interior of the IS 200t felt high quality but looked drab. All black? I have cars from the last century that use one color for the whole interior. I wished they would have inserted a different color to accent the black. The only thing that offsets the sea of black is the analog clock in the center of the dash.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

The F-sport steering wheel felt well-made, not too big, and offered grip where you expected as a driver. However, it did remind me of a driving simulator steer wheel, complete with paddle shifters and an array of buttons on the wheel. The dash cluster offers a cool trick inspired by Lexus’ crown jewel the LFA were the digital center gauge can be moved to the left or right. Allowing you to move your speedometer to your desired specifications. If you are looking for the digital clock it is located in the gauge cluster in small print, instead of on the center dash where one is often used to seeing it.

The center screen on the IS 200t is over 10 inches which is big enough to give you a split screen of information. Like having the radio on one side and the GPS map on the other. It is too bad that the graphics don’t look as pretty as other competitors and the mouse joystick used to navigate the screen is too sensitive and takes getting used to. I would not recommend trying to adjust settings while driving. It moves rapidly at the slightest touch which will force you to look at the screen to make sure you are selecting the desired option.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

The rear seat is small, as in with most sedans in its class, and has a hump in the middle of the floor. If you plan on fitting five people in this car the person in the middle will need to sit with their legs slightly apart. The trunk is small compared to sedans in its price range, and others below it. But my biggest problem with the interior is how noisy it was. This is a Lexus, why am I able to hear to the tires hum across pavement? It almost put me to sleep during long distance driving.

Specs and Performance on the 2017 Lexus IS 200t

The Lexus IS 200t is powered by a 2.0 liter turbo charged four cylinder engine putting out 241hp, and managed by an 8-speed automatic transmission. Even though the IS 200t weighs nearly two tons, tipping the scales at over 3,700 lb, the car can accelerate from 0-60 in 7 seconds. Which is, not bad. It offers three different drive modes: Eco, Normal, and Sport. As well as a specific mode for snow. Sport mode stiffs everything up, slightly, and delays the gear changes to hold the engine at its peak performance. While eco mode does the opposite and keeps everything mellow to promote frugal fuel consumption. Fuel economy on the IS 200t is 22mpg city and 32mph highway – I only managed to average 27mpg on the highway (in Eco mode).

On the road, the IS 200t has no trouble getting up to speed. It accelerates well with a faint rumble from the duel exhaust as the turbo spools through the gear changes. Steering is light and precise. You always know where the front wheels are and can maneuver the IS 200t with marksman like accuracy. The paddle shifters would be more entertaining if the engine had more grunt. Sort of felt like I was just flicking the paddle on an arcade game. The brakes are always at the ready to stop you on a dime if needed.

During my review I raced my own mother in her own sporty sedan, a 2015 Kia Optima turbo. The Kia has 271 horsepower and a 6-speed transmission. Off the line the Kia had the Lexus beat by a full car length but the Lexus managed to pull off a win when its 7th and 8th gear kicked-in and gave it longer legs to catch up and pass the Kia, barely.

Pricing for the 2017 Lexus IS 200t starts in the high 30’s, with the F-Sport package adding $3,545 to the sticker price. The model shown was retailed at $46,545. The Ultrasonic blue paint was a $595 option, and Navigation system / Mark Levinson Audio system added $2,835 to the final price. Thankfully, it comes with plenty of safety features as standard, like:

• Pre-collision Warning with Pedestrian Detection, • Dynamic Radar Cruise Control • Lane Departure Alert with Steering assist • Automatic Intelligent High Beam Headlamps

Final Thoughts, Maybe My Expectations Were Too High

I’m sure many will disagree with what I thought about the 2017 Lexus IS 200t, but I just couldn’t find enough reasons to justify its sticker price. It feels like the type of vehicle a premium brand puts out for people who buy based off brand recognition. The kind of people who wear their pay check and care more about the brand name than the actual product. Lexus has the ability to make amazing vehicles, but didn’t put their heart and soul into the IS 200t. It’s a car that relies too much on its name history and therefore feels it doesn’t have to try as hard to get our attention. If you are in the market for a Lexus vehicle I would highly recommend spending more money on a model (GS maybe?) that is higher up on Lexus’ line up.

Read more reviews and articles here.

It looks great in person, and on paper, but does it live up to the reputation of its brand? High Expectations Through Reputation I was excited to finally get behind the wheel of a Lexus vehicle.

[carandreviews-blog]

Lexus LC500

This is the new Lexus LC500 car, the organization's first fantastic tourer. It takes as much motivation from the splendid LFA as it does the organization's current execution models the RC F and GS F.

Fueled by a 5-liter V8, the back wheel-drive roadster will achieve the showrooms in the late spring of 2017 a sticker price of £76,595, making it less expensive than a fundamental PDK prepared Porsche 911 Carrera and well down on the as a matter of fact more capable Jaguar F-Type R.

The uplifting news is that Lexus has disregarded turbocharging for the LC500. The 4969cc normally suctioned V8 takes the piece utilized as a part of the GS F and RC F models and changes essentially everything else. Crest power is 470bhp, as in those F models, and lands here at 7100rpm – indistinguishable to the GS F and 700rpm higher than the RC F. Top torque moves from 391lb ft to 398lb ft delivered at 4800rpm.

Drive is to the back wheels through a ten-speed (yes, ten-speed) coordinate drive auto gearbox. In manual mode, when utilizing the paddleshifters, the gearbox responds rapidly to your summons – the multi-plate grip framework gives execution that Lexus says is practically identical with a twofold grasp gearbox, however without the wear. The initial nine riggings are more similarly spread than expected for more cadenced moving (third and fourth cover an indistinguishable transmission capacity from third in the eight-speed 'confine the RC F) and beyond any doubt enough you can rapidly punch through the apparatuses with next to no kick as the proportions swap. The last tenth rigging goes about as an overdrive to quiet everything down while cruising. On the off chance that you decide on the Sport+ trim model you additionally get a constrained slip differential and back wheel guiding.

Notwithstanding the LC500 weighing 1935kg (almost 500kg heavier than a 991 Carrera S), Lexus stills claims it will sprint to 60mph in 4.4sec, with a top speed of 168mph.

Created on Lexus' new GA-L stage (Global Architecture Luxury), the LC500 includes twofold jointed wishbones at the front and a multi-interface setup at the back. There are four driving modes to choose from: Comfort, Eco, Sport and Sport+, and the extra propping inside the motor sound and around the front suspension lessens weight and secures the front end however much as could reasonably be expected without giving up refinement.

Here's the uplifting news: the LC500 is truly rather great – in a stupendous tourer instead of 911 sort of way. Also, Lexus plainly knows it, giving us a chance to free on the Circuito Monteblanco in southern Spain.

Circuits and street one-sided GT autos aren't generally glad associates, however the V8 makes a not too bad clench hand of the turns, turns and short straights of Monteblanco, particularly given its heavy kerb weight.

Keep the revs high and the motor punches you pleasantly out of the more tightly corners while the soundtrack gets progressively inebriating as the revs rise. With the auto in Sport+ mode there's a little slip from the back wheels before the electronic guides rein you back, in spite of the fact that on the off chance that you decide on the Sport+ demonstrate, with its restricted slip differential and back wheel directing, there's a more extensive spread of conformity accessible to you – or you can utilize the tech to keep a more tightly line and a higher pace all through the corner and get the power on prior to more noteworthy impact.

In spite of the fact that Lexus says musicality is the watchword for the LC, and that it's attempted to make an auto which you can drive with a mood, the controlling could do with marginally shaper responses and more feel. There's a dead spot far from the middle – most likely to take into account the 'sniffle figure' on fast autobahns – however after that responses are to be sure cadenced, giving a straight reaction to inputs if not the vibe that we should you know when the front wheels are touching the very edge of a kerb.

Far from the track, the LC's GT guarantee sparkles brighter. The frame gives a decent harmony between being receptive and caution and cosseting like all great GTs ought to. You're in an ideal situation utilizing the oars to keep the motor revs high for the best reaction (and the best commotion), while getting that looked for after mood through a progression of curves in the Andalucian slopes is anything but difficult to do and generally remunerating – for a fabulous tourer.

In genuine Lexus style, while cruising the LC is shockingly noiseless (that tenth proportion without a doubt helps) empowering you to encounter the top notch Mark Levinson sound framework, or the Pioneer unit (recollect that them?) on lesser models.

The work of Lexus' takumi (ace specialists) is obvious all through the lodge, no place more so than on the broad entryway boards, which have what seems like a skimming handle – a moderate pleasure.

Unfortunately the dash and guiding wheel are an ergonomic upset catches littered about like popcorn on a film floor. For instance, you'll either leave the path takeoff cautioning on or, more probable, off – so why stick a catch that controls it on the guiding wheel? Also, the horns standing out of the instrument binnacle with controls for the driving modes on one side and the footing control on the other resemble the originators neglected to incorporate a couple of more catches somewhere else. Lexus would do well to benchmark BMW's iDrive framework for vehicle and infotainment controls.

The instrument show is fairly more fruitful, with a LFA-style single round dial that slides sideways to uncover additional data on a TFT screen.

Gratefully, that is by all account not the only thing that helps us to remember the LFA. There is a little LFA enchantment about the way the LC will reward and interest in equivalent measure. Like the LFA, it's not completely impeccable, but rather similarly like the LFA it's an improbable and enticing opponent to the consistent decisions.

[crazy4tank]

10 Times Lexus Built Awesome Sports Cars | HotCars

New Post has been published on https://coolcarsnews.com/10-times-lexus-built-awesome-sports-cars-hotcars/

10 Times Lexus Built Awesome Sports Cars | HotCars

Lexus started out as an unique Toyota project in 1983 to build up a new luxury sedan. That resulted in the launch of the Lexus LS model in 1989, the same 12 months the Lexus brand was officially set up as Toyota’s luxury automobile division. Lexus traditionally plays in the luxury vehicle segment but the company does have a good number of performance-oriented machines in their inventory. These types of cars fuse the luxury DNA along with bold sports car styling, engine strength, and of course, performance and speed. The particular sports car market is a highly competing space, but Lexus has been capable of keep its head above drinking water with some really high-quality products that can even go up against more knowledgeable rivals like Mercedes Benz, BMW, and Nissan.

10 2006 Lexus SC430

via mecum

The SC430 has got the distinction of being one of the first sports vehicles that was offered with an electronically foldable hard-top. Now, we know this vehicle got a lot of hate back in the time, but it's also extremely charming plus unique. It might be one of the most underrated Western sports cars from the 2000s.

Still, its electric-folding roofing gave it an air associated with luxury that was a strong selling point plus helped partly cover up the fact that it had not been a particularly great-looking car. We've observed worse but those oversized headlamps and excessive front overhang actually pushes the car to borderline ugly .

via topspeed

However , the particular SC430 packed a 4. 3-liter V8 power plant that created 288hp and 317 pound-feet torque capacity. That’s enough power for some good sports car performance and the car will not disappoint with a sub-6 second set you back 60mph and 143mph top speed.

nine 1992 Lexus SC400

via mecum

Interestingly, the first-generation SOUTH CAROLINA sports coupe was deemed to become better-looking than its successor. The overall opinion was that it handled much better too. Car and Drivers reviewed the car plus concluded that it was, ‘beautifully styled, eminently refined and great to drive. ’

via bringatrailer

The SC400 even outperformed rivals like the Acura Legend and the Mercedes Benz 300CE. The car was pre-loaded with an electronically controlled automatic tranny that allowed you to switch among power and normal modes, every with its own shift points. This particular, coupled with a 250hp V8 motor, made the driving experience very an interesting one.

8 Lexus RC200t

via motor1

The Lexus RC200t is a bargain deal with beginning prices that hover around $40, 000 when new. What you obtain is a well-packaged sports car that is not much behind powerhouses like Mercedes Benz, Audi, and BMW.

via youtube . com

It is driven by a 2 . 0-litre turbocharged inline-four engine that generates 241hp with 5, 400rpm and an impressive 258 pound-feet of torque from just one, 650rpm. 8-speed paddle shifters can be found and it helps feed all that capacity to the rear wheels.

Related: These Are The ten Best Japanese Sports Sedans Associated with 2020

7 Lexus IS F

via motorbiscuit

The Lexus IS F was scrapped from the model lineup within 2014 and it slipped into the report books as the brand’s first despoliation into the high-performance segment.

through autoevolution

So far as performances were concerned, the car carried out creditably, with a 4. 6-second zero - 60mph time and thirteen seconds for the quarter mile. Sadly, performance is not alone to guarantee the car’s survival and disappointing product sales led to the cancellation in 2014. However , the story does have a delighted ending because the IS DEFINITELY F is now set for a return .

6 Lexus RC F

via timesfreepress

The first REMOTE CONTROL F debuted in 2013 in the Tokyo Motor Show as the high-performance variant of the RC-series models. Instead of using a brand-new platform, the engineers decided to blend the best bits from 3 additional models; the GS sedan, CAN BE sedan and IS convertible.

through cnet

The normal RC F packs a five. 0-litre V8 engine and lots of other goodies that make driving a true delight. The only letdown is the weight which, at over four, 000 pounds, makes it rather awkward for a sports car. It will still gallop to 60mph in about four. 3 seconds though.

5 Lexus LC500

through cars

This particular sports car is one of the best modern vehicles by Lexus yet, with its striking curves, headlight design and modern outline. It debuted in 2017 and the recent unveiling of the transformable version implies the car is set another phase of market penetration.

via car buzz

The are a few motor options available too to appeal to the wider audience. There’s the cross powertrain that combines a 3 or more. 5-litre V6 with 132kW electrical motor for a 354hp total output. Then you definitely have the raw naturally aspirated OF V8 that pumps out a husky 471hp at over 7, 000rpm. This V8 option can do zero - 60mph in 4. four seconds and power on to a good electronically limited top speed of 168mph.

Associated: Lexus LC500 Adds Lightness, Gets Exterior Mods

four Lexus RC Farrenheit Track Edition

via motor1

The ‘RC’ designation here stands for ‘Radical Coupe’ and that’s as extreme because it gets with the RC F Monitor Edition. This sports coupe trades several metal bits with co2 fibre and straps on a group of light 19-inch BBS wheels. This particular, and a couple of other tweaks, associated with car 176 pounds lighter compared to standard RC F.

through carscoops

The particular 5. 0-litre V8 has been retuned too and adds 5hp to create a total of 472hp and 395 pound-feet of torque. Launch control has become a standard option and if you get this right, you can expect a 60mph run in less than 4 seconds.

3 Lexus RC F GT3

via lexusuk

As the name and pictures depict, this purpose-built sports car struts its stuff at several aggressive GT3 racing series. It’s not difficult to spot the differences which established this track weapon apart from the share RC F .

through youtube

The particular massive rear wing and notable diffusers help keep the car planted at the tracks as it whips around high speed corners. The V8 engine today produces over 500hp, up through 472hp in the road-legal RC Farreneheit Track Edition. That extra energy allows for a top speed of 176mph.

Related: 10 Greatest Track-Ready Japanese Sports Cars Below $15, 000

2 Lexus LFA

through motortrend

There was clearly no holding back with this 1. Lexus intended to make a big declaration with the LFA, right from when it had been unveiled as a concept in 2006 at the North American International Auto Display. Production ceased in 2012 and the car’s value on today’s market is usually estimated to be around $500, 500.

via motor1

That’s a lot of money for a Lexus and you can conclude then that they do succeed in their quest then. It isn’t really all about the value though. The LFA handles like a dream and has one of the best appearing V10 engines ever fitted to the production car.

1 Lexus LFA Nurburgring Edition

via hagerty

Don’t feel bad if you have by no means seen one of these. There are only fifty units in existence and most of them are usually undoubtedly squirrelled away in personal garages. This is a real shame since the LFA Nurburgring was designed for a lot more than just being a garage queen.

via motorauthority

There’s that melodious V10 motor that revs all the way to nine, 000rpm. It has 10hp more than the LFA. This one also boasts a firmer suspension setup, fixed rear side and various carbon fibre pieces that make for a pretty exhilarating generating experience.

Next: 10 Times Toyota Constructed Awesome Sports Cars

[crazy4tank]

10 Times Lexus Built Awesome Sports Cars | HotCars

New Post has been published on https://coolcarsnews.com/10-times-lexus-built-awesome-sports-cars-hotcars/

10 Times Lexus Built Awesome Sports Cars | HotCars

Lexus started out as an unique Toyota project in 1983 to build up a new luxury sedan. That resulted in the launch of the Lexus LS model in 1989, the same 12 months the Lexus brand was officially set up as Toyota’s luxury automobile division. Lexus traditionally plays in the luxury vehicle segment but the company does have a good number of performance-oriented machines in their inventory. These types of cars fuse the luxury DNA along with bold sports car styling, engine strength, and of course, performance and speed. The particular sports car market is a highly competing space, but Lexus has been capable of keep its head above drinking water with some really high-quality products that can even go up against more knowledgeable rivals like Mercedes Benz, BMW, and Nissan.

10 2006 Lexus SC430

via mecum

The SC430 has got the distinction of being one of the first sports vehicles that was offered with an electronically foldable hard-top. Now, we know this vehicle got a lot of hate back in the time, but it's also extremely charming plus unique. It might be one of the most underrated Western sports cars from the 2000s.

Still, its electric-folding roofing gave it an air associated with luxury that was a strong selling point plus helped partly cover up the fact that it had not been a particularly great-looking car. We've observed worse but those oversized headlamps and excessive front overhang actually pushes the car to borderline ugly .

via topspeed

However , the particular SC430 packed a 4. 3-liter V8 power plant that created 288hp and 317 pound-feet torque capacity. That’s enough power for some good sports car performance and the car will not disappoint with a sub-6 second set you back 60mph and 143mph top speed.

nine 1992 Lexus SC400

via mecum

Interestingly, the first-generation SOUTH CAROLINA sports coupe was deemed to become better-looking than its successor. The overall opinion was that it handled much better too. Car and Drivers reviewed the car plus concluded that it was, ‘beautifully styled, eminently refined and great to drive. ’

via bringatrailer

The SC400 even outperformed rivals like the Acura Legend and the Mercedes Benz 300CE. The car was pre-loaded with an electronically controlled automatic tranny that allowed you to switch among power and normal modes, every with its own shift points. This particular, coupled with a 250hp V8 motor, made the driving experience very an interesting one.

8 Lexus RC200t

via motor1

The Lexus RC200t is a bargain deal with beginning prices that hover around $40, 000 when new. What you obtain is a well-packaged sports car that is not much behind powerhouses like Mercedes Benz, Audi, and BMW.

via youtube . com

It is driven by a 2 . 0-litre turbocharged inline-four engine that generates 241hp with 5, 400rpm and an impressive 258 pound-feet of torque from just one, 650rpm. 8-speed paddle shifters can be found and it helps feed all that capacity to the rear wheels.

Related: These Are The ten Best Japanese Sports Sedans Associated with 2020

7 Lexus IS F

via motorbiscuit

The Lexus IS F was scrapped from the model lineup within 2014 and it slipped into the report books as the brand’s first despoliation into the high-performance segment.

through autoevolution

So far as performances were concerned, the car carried out creditably, with a 4. 6-second zero - 60mph time and thirteen seconds for the quarter mile. Sadly, performance is not alone to guarantee the car’s survival and disappointing product sales led to the cancellation in 2014. However , the story does have a delighted ending because the IS DEFINITELY F is now set for a return .

6 Lexus RC F

via timesfreepress

The first REMOTE CONTROL F debuted in 2013 in the Tokyo Motor Show as the high-performance variant of the RC-series models. Instead of using a brand-new platform, the engineers decided to blend the best bits from 3 additional models; the GS sedan, CAN BE sedan and IS convertible.

through cnet

The normal RC F packs a five. 0-litre V8 engine and lots of other goodies that make driving a true delight. The only letdown is the weight which, at over four, 000 pounds, makes it rather awkward for a sports car. It will still gallop to 60mph in about four. 3 seconds though.

5 Lexus LC500

through cars

This particular sports car is one of the best modern vehicles by Lexus yet, with its striking curves, headlight design and modern outline. It debuted in 2017 and the recent unveiling of the transformable version implies the car is set another phase of market penetration.

via car buzz

The are a few motor options available too to appeal to the wider audience. There’s the cross powertrain that combines a 3 or more. 5-litre V6 with 132kW electrical motor for a 354hp total output. Then you definitely have the raw naturally aspirated OF V8 that pumps out a husky 471hp at over 7, 000rpm. This V8 option can do zero - 60mph in 4. four seconds and power on to a good electronically limited top speed of 168mph.

Associated: Lexus LC500 Adds Lightness, Gets Exterior Mods

four Lexus RC Farrenheit Track Edition

via motor1

The ‘RC’ designation here stands for ‘Radical Coupe’ and that’s as extreme because it gets with the RC F Monitor Edition. This sports coupe trades several metal bits with co2 fibre and straps on a group of light 19-inch BBS wheels. This particular, and a couple of other tweaks, associated with car 176 pounds lighter compared to standard RC F.

through carscoops

The particular 5. 0-litre V8 has been retuned too and adds 5hp to create a total of 472hp and 395 pound-feet of torque. Launch control has become a standard option and if you get this right, you can expect a 60mph run in less than 4 seconds.

3 Lexus RC F GT3

via lexusuk

As the name and pictures depict, this purpose-built sports car struts its stuff at several aggressive GT3 racing series. It’s not difficult to spot the differences which established this track weapon apart from the share RC F .

through youtube

The particular massive rear wing and notable diffusers help keep the car planted at the tracks as it whips around high speed corners. The V8 engine today produces over 500hp, up through 472hp in the road-legal RC Farreneheit Track Edition. That extra energy allows for a top speed of 176mph.

Related: 10 Greatest Track-Ready Japanese Sports Cars Below $15, 000

2 Lexus LFA

through motortrend

There was clearly no holding back with this 1. Lexus intended to make a big declaration with the LFA, right from when it had been unveiled as a concept in 2006 at the North American International Auto Display. Production ceased in 2012 and the car’s value on today’s market is usually estimated to be around $500, 500.

via motor1

That’s a lot of money for a Lexus and you can conclude then that they do succeed in their quest then. It isn’t really all about the value though. The LFA handles like a dream and has one of the best appearing V10 engines ever fitted to the production car.

1 Lexus LFA Nurburgring Edition

via hagerty

Don’t feel bad if you have by no means seen one of these. There are only fifty units in existence and most of them are usually undoubtedly squirrelled away in personal garages. This is a real shame since the LFA Nurburgring was designed for a lot more than just being a garage queen.

via motorauthority

There’s that melodious V10 motor that revs all the way to nine, 000rpm. It has 10hp more than the LFA. This one also boasts a firmer suspension setup, fixed rear side and various carbon fibre pieces that make for a pretty exhilarating generating experience.

Next: 10 Times Toyota Constructed Awesome Sports Cars

[eddiejpoplar]

Grand Touring Across California in a 2018 Lexus LC 500

CAMBRIA, California — It was probably around the third visit to the Lexus stand when I realized I was staring at one of the most striking, captivating cars I’ve ever seen. This in 2016, at a frigid, snowbound Detroit auto show, when Lexus trotted the stunning LC 500 out for its world debut. I distinctly remember returning to the Lexus show stand multiple times, trying to drink as much of the LC 500 as I could. Fast forward over a year, and I’ve nabbed the keys to a Liquid Platinum 2018 Lexus LC 500 for the weekend. With an evening and two full days cleared out, I’m set to explore what happens when Japan plants its flag in European-held territory.

For the record, I never said the LC 500 is beautiful, and after hours of oogling, I’m not sure it is. It’s alluring, engrossing, and unbelievably unique, but I remain unconvinced it’s objectively a beautiful car. In place of conventional good looks we get something incredibly original, and that’s worth the nearly six-figure price of entry alone. Aside from perhaps a handful of canopy lines, the LC is a wild, origami moonshot away from the established design consiglieri at Aston, Ferrari, Mercedes, and Jaguar.

The whole shape is awash with contradiction–that massive grille really, really shouldn’t work as well as it does. We paid for the Predator-aping Spindle Grill with the tax of time, dealing with different iterations until Lexus finally made it work. On the older RX models, it’s garish and gaping. On the LC, it’s arguably the most significant portion of the design, yanking the taut curves and angles from the front half of the body forward.

If you see one in person, spend some time walking around the 187.4-inch-long coupe. This isn’t an easily digestible shape—save for the BMW i8, this is the closest we’ve gotten to a concept car that snuck into production. From the insane, thick wheel design to the abruptness of the flat side, you could spend hours and not fully understand why the design “works.”

Inside, it’s not quite as shocking as the outside wrapper. It’s still very much sculptural, with gently rising curves and flat surfaces that create an environment much more special than more pedestrian Lexus offerings. Most of the buttons were heavy and comprised of metal, and the leather was some of the richest I’ve seen from the brand. On the door, sweeping lines ascended up the suede insert, interrupted by a floating door handle that’s as elegant as anything I’ve seen on much, much more expensive cars.

Things only get better once you find the metal start button behind the steering wheel, nudging the 5.0-liter naturally aspirated V-8 to life. Sound familiar? It should be—this is the same 2UR-GSE V-8 we’ve enjoyed since its debut in the 2008 IS-F. 471 hp and 398 lb-ft of torque are on tap, routed to the rear wheels through Lexus’ 10-speed automatic transmission.

It’s an older heart and you’ve got to punt the needle to the top to extricate the power, but that only means you can drink in the sensational soundtrack. The 5.0 is shared with the GS F and RC F, but it never sounded better (or louder) than it does in the LC. Much like the styling, the sound is wholly unique – not European, not American. There’s a touch of euro about it, but brings in a pure mechanical thrash accompanied by a gutsy intake resonance that I haven’t heard anywhere else.

At 4,280 pounds, it’s not light, but GTs by definition are weighty, substantial vehicles. Weight-shaving ascetisisim is the antithesis of grand touring—there’s always insulation, big engines, cushy seats, and complicated sound systems to keep occupants cosseted. Thanks to the V-8, performance is more than adequate, with 0-60 mph arriving in a claimed 4.4 seconds, and a top speed limited to 168 mph.

GTs are dual-purpose vehicles, offering the capability to dance around a slippery highland pass when the coastal path is too clogged with tour buses. For handling, I checked into the canyon roads weaving above Malibu, hitting all my regular paths. These tight, technical roads proved too claustrophobic for the LC’s sizeable hips and too bumpy for the over-active traction control system that cut power completely on more than one occasion.

Quickly, I charged through LA freeways to Angeles Crest, a canyon pass more sympathetic to wider, faster cars. Here, the LC was at home, holding sharply to the Crest’s myriad sweepers. As a bonus, there’s a tunnel near the top for bouncing the V-8 off the top of the tach.

Dynamically, it drives as well as you would expect it to, with medium-weight steering and easy, powerful brakes. Don’t expect much for tight, small corners, but long, gradual curves are the LC’s forte. As before, peak power arrives toward the top of the range, requiring a heavy foot to hustle, which is slightly off-key for GTs. You want consistent power delivery down low, with an unfussy transmission. The 10-speed was quick, but too often it would get confused and hold a gear too long, or upshift far too quickly.

After returning home that night, I wasn’t convinced I’d done any real GT-ing in the stop-and-go LA traffic. Sunday was fast approaching, so I laid out a course up north to Cambria, California for the next morning.

Located roughly 250 miles northeast of my home in the South Bay, the village of Cambria is a picturesque seaside hideout in-between Los Angeles and San Francisco. Aside from Hearst Castle and the nearby pine forest, there isn’t much to see here, but it makes for a perfect endpoint to a scenic coastal sprint.

In the morning, I’m out the door before the sun fully breaches the horizon. The Rioja Red leather-and-suede seats are a touch chilly, so both the seat and the steering wheel heaters are clicked on. It’s a 20 minute stroll through empty beachside streets to the highway, enjoying the LC’s comfortable ride and excellent sound system before I reach the 101.

For a brief stretch before Santa Barbara, the 101 touches the coast, providing spectacular vistas that fall right in line with the elegance of the LC 500. Out on the straight and smooth tarmac, it’s quiet and refined, showing very little of the raucous V-8 character found up on the Crest. Passengers in other cars crane their necks as I pass, likely taken aback at the Lexus badge on the rear bumper.

The Lexus’ 21.7-gallon fuel tank means I don’t have to stop for fuel until my destination, giving me peace of mind. In Cambria, I cruise around the wooded hills in search of photo spots before giving up and returning to downtown for some lunch. It was barely mid-day, and I still had some travel legs under me, so I set my sights on wine country.

A quick loop around Cambria puts me back on the 101, before shortly turning off onto highway 46. This meanders through straw-colored hills for 30-odd miles before washing into Paso Robles, one of the many wine-centric areas of California. I’m not the biggest oenophile, so I was here for the scenery – and to open the taps on the LC a little more. Exploration concluded with a cruise through wineries and farmlands, stopping on the side of a secluded backroad for another chance to oogle the LC.

It was only mid-afternoon, but I had a six hour drive ahead of me, and I had already been in the seat most of the day. I pointed the Lexus’ spindle grille toward home and fired, winding back down the coast and through increasingly clogged highways. I arrived long after the sunset, but was not much worse for the wear. Through the roughly 600-mile round trip, the Lexus proved to be as comfortable, approachable, and entrancing as its much more expensive and finicky European counterparts.

Job well done? I think so. The LC could almost get by on its stunning looks alone, and didn’t have to feel as satisfying to drive as it did. The LC 500 and LC 500h are the first of the breed, and considering this is a clear shot across the bow of the established GT players, watch this space for higher-performance variants to arrive in the future.

So, the next time your Cambria calls, give the 2018 Lexus LC 500 a try – it just might be better than you expect.

2018 Lexus LC 500 Specifications

ON SALE Now PRICE $92,995  (base) ENGINE 5.0L DOHC 32-valve V-8/471 hp @ 7,100 rpm, 398 lb-ft @ 4,800 rpm TRANSMISSION 10-speed automatic LAYOUT 2-door, 4-passenger, front-engine, RWD coupe EPA MILEAGE 16/26 mpg (city/hwy) L x W x H 187.4 x 75.6 x 53.0 in WHEELBASE 113.0 in WEIGHT 4,435 lb 0-60 MPH 4.4 sec TOP SPEED 168 mph

IFTTT

[eddiejpoplar]

ITS Connected: Toyota Crown Concept Signals Next Step for V2V Networks

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In continuous production since 1955, the Toyota Crown is one of the auto industry’s longest-running nameplates. We haven’t thought much about it since 1971, the last time Toyota offered the car for sale in the United States, although the new Crown concept is a pleasant reminder of Japan’s penchant for fancy Toyota sedans.

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The Crown concept is essentially the 15th-generation Crown, which will launch in Japan next summer. Unlike the 12-cylinder Toyota Century, the Crown has never shuttled the Japanese emperor or aspired to any level of royalty. It’s a high-end, generic-looking four-door that’s part Lexus GS and part previous-gen Camry. The most interesting thing about the Crown concept is that it includes a new vehicle-to-vehicle networking function called ITS Connect, which stands for Intelligent Transport Systems.

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Toyota has been installing similar V2V and vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I) technology in certain Japanese models since 2015. The system uses a 760-MHz radio band to communicate with roadside sensors and with other equipped Toyota vehicles, not unlike the car-to-X system found on the current Mercedes-Benz E-class.

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Toyota goes further, however, by linking adaptive cruise control to the preceding vehicle’s actual acceleration and braking. It can warn drivers of collisions during a turn across a lane of oncoming traffic and alert drivers to changing traffic signals and nearby emergency vehicles. Other than a few generic references to improving traffic flow and sharing vehicle diagnostics to predict maintenance problems, Toyota hasn’t outlined what functionality the next-gen Crown will offer, although it does mention “solving societal problems” [like hunger?]. Nevertheless, you can guess that Toyota is about to install a lot more computers and wireless sensors in its cars and that they’ll eventually make their way here.

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It’s Your Funeral, Pal. Luckily, There’s an Utterly Fab Toyota Crown Hearse for Sale!

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More Oomph, Even Weirder Looks: Toyota Shows C-HR Hy-Power Concept

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Little Helper: Toyota’s i-TRIL Concept Is an Urban Kid Hauler

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Really, we’d just like a Lexus with an automatic rear-door opener and closer like in the Toyota Crown Comfort, Japan’s venerable—and delightfully analog—taxi.

- from Performance Junk Blogger 6 http://ift.tt/2yYoujM via IFTTT

[eddiejpoplar]

ITS Connected: Toyota Crown Concept

-

In continuous production since 1955, the Toyota Crown is one of the auto industry’s longest-running nameplates. We haven’t thought much about it since 1971, the last time Toyota offered the car for sale in the United States, although the new Crown concept is a pleasant reminder of Japan’s penchant for fancy Toyota sedans.

-

The Crown concept is essentially the 15th-generation Crown, which will launch in Japan next summer. Unlike the 12-cylinder Toyota Century, the Crown has never shuttled the Japanese emperor or aspired to any level of royalty. It’s a high-end, generic-looking four-door that’s part Lexus GS and part previous-gen Camry. The most interesting thing about the Crown concept is that it includes a new vehicle-to-vehicle networking function called ITS Connect, which stands for Intelligent Transport Systems.

-

-

Toyota has been installing similar V2V and vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I) technology in certain Japanese models since 2015. The system uses a 760-MHz radio band to communicate with roadside sensors and with other equipped Toyota vehicles, not unlike the car-to-X system found on the current Mercedes-Benz E-class.

-

Toyota goes further, however, by linking adaptive cruise control to the preceding vehicle’s actual acceleration and braking. It can warn drivers of collisions during a turn across a lane of oncoming traffic and alert drivers to changing traffic signals and nearby emergency vehicles. Other than a few generic references to improving traffic flow and sharing vehicle diagnostics to predict maintenance problems, Toyota hasn’t outlined what functionality the next-gen Crown will offer, although it does mention “solving societal problems” [like hunger?]. Nevertheless, you can guess that Toyota is about to install a lot more computers and wireless sensors in its cars and that they’ll eventually make their way here.

-

-

It’s Your Funeral, Pal. Luckily, There’s an Utterly Fab Toyota Crown Hearse for Sale!

-

More Oomph, Even Weirder Looks: Toyota Shows C-HR Hy-Power Concept

-

Little Helper: Toyota’s i-TRIL Concept Is an Urban Kid Hauler

-

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Really, we’d just like a Lexus with an automatic rear-door opener and closer like in the Toyota Crown Comfort, Japan’s venerable—and delightfully analog—taxi.

- from Performance Junk Blogger 6 http://ift.tt/2yYoujM via IFTTT

[jesusvasser]

ITS Connected: Toyota Crown Concept

-

In continuous production since 1955, the Toyota Crown is one of the auto industry’s longest-running nameplates. We haven’t thought much about it since 1971, the last time Toyota offered the car for sale in the United States, although the new Crown concept is a pleasant reminder of Japan’s penchant for fancy Toyota sedans.

-

The Crown concept is essentially the 15th-generation Crown, which will launch in Japan next summer. Unlike the 12-cylinder Toyota Century, the Crown has never shuttled the Japanese emperor or aspired to any level of royalty. It’s a high-end, generic-looking four-door that’s part Lexus GS and part previous-gen Camry. The most interesting thing about the Crown concept is that it includes a new vehicle-to-vehicle networking function called ITS Connect, which stands for Intelligent Transport Systems.

-

-

Toyota has been installing similar V2V and vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I) technology in certain Japanese models since 2015. The system uses a 760-MHz radio band to communicate with roadside sensors and with other equipped Toyota vehicles, not unlike the car-to-X system found on the current Mercedes-Benz E-class.

-

Toyota goes further, however, by linking adaptive cruise control to the preceding vehicle’s actual acceleration and braking. It can warn drivers of collisions during a turn across a lane of oncoming traffic and alert drivers to changing traffic signals and nearby emergency vehicles. Other than a few generic references to improving traffic flow and sharing vehicle diagnostics to predict maintenance problems, Toyota hasn’t outlined what functionality the next-gen Crown will offer, although it does mention “solving societal problems” [like hunger?]. Nevertheless, you can guess that Toyota is about to install a lot more computers and wireless sensors in its cars and that they’ll eventually make their way here.

-

-

It’s Your Funeral, Pal. Luckily, There’s an Utterly Fab Toyota Crown Hearse for Sale!

-

More Oomph, Even Weirder Looks: Toyota Shows C-HR Hy-Power Concept

-

Little Helper: Toyota’s i-TRIL Concept Is an Urban Kid Hauler

-

-

Really, we’d just like a Lexus with an automatic rear-door opener and closer like in the Toyota Crown Comfort, Japan’s venerable—and delightfully analog—taxi.

- from Performance Junk WP Feed 4 http://ift.tt/2yYoujM via IFTTT