Lexus RC F GT3 Concept, 2014

The World premiere of the new Lexus RC F GT3 concept at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show signals Lexus' intent to support GT3 sports car racing in 2015.

Jointly developed over two years by Lexus International and its subsidiary Techno Craft, and built by the latter in Japan, the RC F GT3 concept is based on the new RC F coupe, the most powerful V8 performance car yet developed by Lexus.

4705 mm long, 2000 mm wide, 1270 mm high and with a wheelbase of 2730 mm, the RC F GT3 concept is wider and lower that the standard RC F, yet, with the interior stripped to racing specification, weighs just 1,250 kg.

A modified version of the RC F's V8 engine develops some 540 DIN hp.

The launch of the RC F GT3 concept marks the start of a long-term commitment to GT3 racing by Lexus. Testing will begin this year, with a view to supporting sports car racing teams participating in 2015 GT3 racing open to cars in this category.

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Lexus IS US-Version, 2014

 

 

Lexus IS US-Version, 2014

The Lexus debuts the third-generation 2014 IS sport sedan, with a bold design highlighted by the new dynamic signature spindle grille and for the first time separated LED Daytime Running Lights. A combination of "aggressive elegance," a more powerful road presence and a stronger brand identity help make the new IS models more alluring than ever.

A new Drive Mode Select system features up to five driving modes. The IS 250 and IS 350 feature ECO, NORMAL, and SPORT modes. The IS 350 F Sport features four drive modes: ECO, NORMAL, SPORT S, and SPORT S+. These drive modes are tailored to meet the driver's preferred combination of economy, comfort, performance and handling characteristics. In addition, AWD models also feature a SNOW mode.

The available F Sport package includes unique 18-inch wheels and special suspension tuning, unique interior and exterior design. It is available for IS 250 and IS 350 RWD and AWD models. The Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) featured on IS 350 F Sport allows the driver to fine tune the IS F Sport's ride characteristics with a choice of two settings; Normal, for everyday driving comfort, and SPORT S or SPORT S+ mode, for optimized body control and agility. Exclusive for all IS 350 models and IS 250 F Sport, is an intake sound generator that creates a more sporting engine note.

The Lexus LFA supercar provided design inspiration for the driver-focused Lexus IS cockpit. F Sport models inherit the innovative TFT instrumentation with moving center ring from the LFA.

The driver can appreciate improved seating position and headroom, while the rear seat offers significantly improved roominess, ingress , and egress. Separating the shocks from the springs results in a larger trunk, as well.

New luxuries abound in the 2014 Lexus IS. A high-efficiency dual-zone climate control system uses new, touch-sensitive electrostatic temperature switches. The IS offers two multimedia systems. A standard high-resolution Lexus Display Audio (LDA) with controller or the optional Lexus navigation system.

The navigation system is operated via a second-generation Lexus Remote Touch Interface (RTI) multi-function control device, which also allows control of the climate, audio, phone controls and more.

Ten Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) airbags are standard. The IS models employ the innovative Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system, which integrates Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Traction Control (TRAC) and Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) active safety systems with the Electronic Power Steering (EPS) or, where fitted (for IS 350 F Sport), Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS).

The new IS may also be equipped with the available pre-emptive Pre-Collision System (PCS), which incorporates Adaptive Cruise Control. The model range adds several advanced new active safety features, including an Automatic High Beam (AHB) headlamp system, a Lane Departure Alert (LDA) system, a Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) system and a standard Auto Location Tire Pressure Warning System (AL-TPWS).

The Chassis/Body/Suspension/Brakes/Tires

• New construction techniques include laser screw welding and adhesive body bonding that help provide a substantial increase in overall body rigidity.
• New rear sub frame and cowl side braces help to further enhance handling control and steering response.
• Revised front suspension with a 20 percent increase in sway rigidity and a new multilink rear suspension to help provide increased grip and control.
• New Electric Power Steering System for a smoother more accurate feel with greater feedback.
• One 17-inch wheel design and three 18-inch wheel designs.

The Safety/Security

• High- and ultra-high-tensile steel body structure help provide excellent optimal occupant protection.
• Pre-Collision System (PCS) with Adaptive Cruise Control; PCS enables deceleration when the driver applies the brakes automatically activating Brake Assist which can increase the braking force under certain conditions if the system can help decelerate the vehicle.
• Ten SRS airbags; two-stage dual SRS front airbags, driver and front passenger SRS knee airbags, front and rear (new) SRS side airbags, as well as full length SRS side curtain airbags.

The Luxury/Comfort/Convenience

• New interior design with LFA-inspired, driver-focused cockpit and enhanced rear seat roominess and luggage capacity.
• New quilted driver's seat offers greater comfort and better lateral support.
• Dual-zone automatic climate control with new, touch-sensitive electrostatic switches.
• Lexus Display Audio (LDA) with display audio controller.
• Available Lexus navigation system with Remote Touch Interface (RTI) and Enform App Suite.
• 4.2-inch full color multi-information display including audio, trip, navigation, phone, ambient temperature.

The Interior Design

• Driver-oriented cockpit design inspired by Lexus LFA supercar.
• Dashboard is divided into two distinct zones, a display zone and an operation zone, offering drivers more comfortable, ergonomically ideal interaction with the vehicle's control systems.
• Combination of longer wheelbase and a special front seat design increases rear seat legroom by 1.6 inches
• Standard 60:40 split-folding rear seats.
• Five interior colors: Black, Light Gray, Parchment, Flaxen and Rioja Red (exclusive to F Sport)
• Soft touch finishes throughout, including padding on the center console sides.
• Silver metallic trim analog clock with surface-emitting illumination.

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Lexus GX 460, 2014

 

 

 Lexus GX 460, 2014

Redesign features a new interpretation of the Lexus spindle grille with standard LED headlamps and daytime running lights. LED fog lamps are now available. The luxurious and spacious GX receives several interior enhancements. A new touch-screen display audio adds an eight-inch screen, backup monitor, HD Radio™, Bluetooth audio, automatic phone book transfer, a vehicle information display and complimentary traffic and weather data provided via HD Radio. The cabin also gets new linear espresso wood/abyss black trim. Mahogany wood trim is included on both the Premium Package and Luxury model. For 2014 the GX offers an available Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA).

The Lexus GX continues to provide additional value to drivers who want a fully capable LUV. The new Premium Package will be at the same price as the base 2013 model year GX 460 and has the following features:

•     Navigation system with backup monitor
•     Perforated leather trimmed interior
•     Heated & ventilated front seats
•     Heated outboard rear seats
•     Intuitive Parking Assist
•     Three Zone Climate control

The new GX Luxury model includes Adaptable Air Suspension, Navigation, Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), Intuitive Parking Assist, and 18-inch split six-spoke wheels with liquid graphite finish.

The Lexus GX 460 teams a 4.6-liter V8 engine with a six-speed Electronically Controlled Transmission with intelligence (ECT-i) for an output of 301horsepowerat 5,500 rpm. The GX 460 has an EPA-estimated 15 mpg city and 20 mpg highway.

The GX has a class leading standard 10 airbags and on the Luxury model available Advanced Pre Collision with Driver Monitor.

The Lexus GX 460 is one of the few premium luxury utility vehicles that can deliver genuine trail driving capability. Combining that capability with Lexus luxury and on-road performance makes it even more exceptional. The standard full-time four-wheel drive uses an electronically controlled transfer case and a TORSEN® torque-sensing limited slip center differential which can be electronically locked. It also offers a low range for off-road driving. The TORSEN differential distributes power 40:60 front/rear under most driving conditions and changes the ratio as needed based on wheel slip.

The ability to change to a 30:70 front/rear ratio during steering maneuvers helps enhance vehicle tracking through curves. If the rear wheels spin, the center differential can change the ratio to 50:50 front/rear to help control the slippage.

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Lexus GS 300h, 2014

 

 Lexus GS 300h, 2014

The fourth generation Lexus GS first went on sale in Europe in 2012 as a three model range comprising the GS 250, the GS 350 AWD and the high-performance flagship, the full hybrid GS 450h. Adding a fourth model to the range, the Lexus GS 300h launch starts in December 2013.

Positioned at the heart of the E-Premium segment, the new GS 300h reinforce Lexus' appeal to the fleet market, representing an attractive alternative to 2.0 litre diesel engined rivals. The Lexus GS 300h is expected to account for more than 55% of all GS sales, a significant part of that percentage representing fleet customers.

With the IS 300h on the market since summer of 2013 and the new CT 200h to be launched early in 2014, the GS 300h will bring new strength to Lexus' line-up of full hybrid vehicles in three core market segments: C, D and E Premium.

Coinciding with the launch of the new Lexus GS 300h, several design, technology and safety enhancements are introduced across the entire GS model range.

The Lexus GS 300h available as an F SPORT version, featuring bespoke design elements and model-specific technologies for an even more engaging drive.

FULL HYBRID POWERTRAIN
The new front engined, rear-wheel drive Lexus GS 300h's second generation Lexus Hybrid Drive system is similar to that installed in the IS 300h. Featuring a L4 Atkinson cycle petrol engine with D-4S direct injection technology and two electric motors, it offers significant reductions in fuel consumption and CO2, NOx and particulate (PM) emissions, and a uniquely smooth and engaging driving experience.

The full hybrid drive system combines a powerful 105 kW/143 DIN hp electric motor with a 2.5 litre, four-cylinder, 16 valve, DOHC Atkinson cycle petrol engine featuring a next generation D-4S fuel injection system, Dual VVT-i and a high-efficiency Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) system. The engine develops 133 kW/181 DIN hp at 6,000 rpm, and 221 Nm of torque at 4,200-5,400 rpm.

With the rear wheels driven through the hybrid system's Electronically controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (ECVT), total system power is 164 kW/223 DIN hp.

Conversely, the new Lexus full hybrid returns class-leading CO2 emissions starting from 109 g/km and an average fuel consumption of 4.7 l/100 km.

DRIVING DYNAMICS
As with every model in the GS range, the Lexus GS 300h has been designed to offer customers an engaging driving experience.

Specific airflow management combined with exceptionally narrow panel gaps and addition of numerous aerodynamic under-body elements and aero-stabilising fins award the Lexus full hybrid a drag coefficient of only Cd 0.26.

Body rigidity optimised already on the 2012 GS ensures precise response to steering inputs. Double wishbone front and multilink rear suspension systems offer improved agility, optimum steering feel and a particular focus on rear stability, further enhancing Lexus' legendary ride comfort.

The upgraded braking system of the 2012 GS range features more powerful brakes, improved pedal feel and enhanced Electronically Controlled Braking (ECB) for greater responsiveness and more refined ABS control.

In addition, the Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) available on the Lexus GS 300h fine-tunes ride characteristics by independently adjusting the performance of the suspension at all four wheels in response to driver input, vehicle body motion and road surface conditions.

As with the GS 450h F SPORT, the new GS 300h F SPORT version features retuned front and rear suspension to further enhance the efficiency of the AVS system, maximising body control and steering response.

The Exterior Design
The new Lexus GS 300h shares the bold, dynamic exterior design of the rest of the GS model range, including an aggressive frontal treatment featuring the brand's trademark spindle grille design. A further development of Lexus' unique, L-finesse design philosophy, it gives the GS range the powerful, commanding road presence appropriate to a Lexus performance sedan.

A new range of F SPORT-specific exterior colours is introduced with the launch of the GS 300h - F White, Starlight Black and Midnight Blue. LED fog lamps are also now available on F SPORT models and, previously exclusive to the F SPORT grade, 19" alloy wheels are now also available on Luxury grade GS models.

The Interior Design and Comfort
The beautifully crafted GS interior represents a continuation of Lexus' interior design evolution.

An ergonomically designed, dual-zone, driver-focused cockpit combines increased driver's seat adjustment range with optimum control placement and advanced Human Machine Interface technologies, enabling customers to remain alert and comfortable over long periods of time.

A range of highly innovative technologies also enhance the quality of life on-board. They include an 'S-Flow' energy saving air-conditioning system with integrated climate management and award winning 'nanoe' technology, and a second generation Remote Touch Interface (RTI) linked to one of the world's largest 12.3" full colour on-board LED multi-information display screens.

In addition, the Lexus GS 300h may be equipped with a top-of-the-range, 17-speaker Mark Levinson Premium Audio system offering sound quality equivalent to that of a live concert hall performance.

The introduction of the GS 300h sees the GS range interior additionally enhanced by a new, boot-type shift lever design and the availability of a new, colour Head-Up Display (HUD) system.

Consistent with the entire GS range, the Lexus GS 300h offers ample space to all occupants, with a particular focus on head and leg room. The GS 300h seats provide exceptional comfort and superior holding characteristics for the widest possible range of body types. And redesigned door openings feature wider apertures for ingress and egress, especially at head height.

Allied to the interior's exceptional comfort levels, high-quality materials and finishes convey a premium look and feel, with a level of craftsmanship and attention to detail for which Lexus is globally renowned.

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Lexus CT 200h, 2014

 

 

 

Lexus CT 200h, 2014

Reinforcing the progressive luxury that is the hallmark of the Lexus brand, the new Lexus CT 200h compact luxury hatchback offers more sophisticated exterior styling, a more refined interior with upgraded equipment, enhanced driving comfort and a stronger differentiation of the F Sport version.

A key model for Lexus in Europe
The Lexus CT 200h plays a critical role for Lexus. Positioned in the C-premium segment, the largest and most competitive segment of the European market, it represents the entry point to the Lexus brand. Designed to appeal to younger customers, it also attracts 85% of buyers from other brands.

The Lexus CT 200h has a short history, but has quickly established itself as a core model in Lexus' European line-up. Since its launch in January 2011, the CT 200h has sold no less than 42,000 units throughout the continent, representing about 25% of total global sales for this model.

The CT 200h is the best-selling Lexus in several European countries, including France, UK, Italy, Spain, Norway and the Netherlands.

Significant resources have been invested on the development of the new CT 200h. More than 1,400 engineers and staff have been associated with this project, focusing on two main objectives:

To reinforce the Progressive Luxury image of the Lexus CT 200h through a bolder design, in line with the new Lexus brand strategy.
Secondly, to enhance the driving experience, both through the improvement of the vehicle's drivability and the traditional Lexus values of comfort, refinement and high technology.

SOPHISTICATED EXTERIOR DESIGN
The exterior styling of the new Lexus CT 200h is more dynamic and sophisticated, and is designed to appeal to a younger target market.

The front introduces a further evolution of the Lexus 'spindle grille' design. The centre has been pushed forwards to create a powerful, more three-dimensional form which generates the highly aerodynamic shaping of the bonnet, lower bumper and front fenders.

The new grille features bottom corners spaced 100mm wider than on the current model, and a lowered spindle 'pinch point', reinforcing the CT 200h's low front profile and wide, sporting track.

Its spindle shape emphasised by a dark finish, the contrast between the upper chrome and lower metallic paint trim surrounds further emphasises the more sophisticated, three-dimensional structure of the new grille.

As with every Lexus, the grille is positioned lower than the headlamps to create the resolute look which hallmarks the brand. The headlamps themselves feature new, projector LED lamps with a new, high quality, smoked metallic finish.

Fog lamp housings at the lower bumper extremities have been detailed to match the dark finish of the spindle grille. They feature integral, aerodynamic slits which help smooth the flow of air around the front of the vehicle for improved high speed stability.

In profile, the new Lexus CT 200h may be identified by a choice of newly developed, 10-spoke, 16" and 17" alloys, and a new shark fin-style roof antenna.

To the rear, a new bumper design which is 20 mm lower at the extremities features a more horizontal structure. It incorporates distinctive, L-shaped reflector housings and a black lower centre section to emphasise the vehicle's low centre of gravity and broad rear stance.

The new CT 200h is available in a choice of 11 body colours including a new Red. And all paintwork now benefits from a scratch-resistant, self-restoring top coat.

REFINED INTERIOR DESIGN AND UPGRADED EQUIPMENT
The new Lexus CT 200h interior has been refined to offer greater comfort, enhanced levels of equipment and improved visual and tactile quality.

The driver now benefits from a new, 370 mm diameter steering wheel matching that of the IS model range.

The Optitron instrument binnacle is now available with an integral, 4.2" TFT (Thin Film Transistor) screen which may be linked to the multimedia system and controlled via steering wheel-mounted switches. The central meter surround has been accentuated with a bright metal finish.

The central TFT multimedia display screen is now of a thinner, fixed design. The Lexus Media Display and Lexus Premium Navigation systems feature added functions, improved operability, and enhanced hands-free and voice recognition control. The former features a new, centre console-mounted controller.

Added functions include twin port, multi-USB compatibility; a USB-stored photo display function; a mirror link function (LDA); album cover art display; and a cache radio function which records 20 minutes of a programme for replay if missed.

Fully described below, the Remote Touch Interface (RTI) features a more user-friendly push entry control switch, the Lexus Navigation System has been substantially upgraded, and the Lexus audio systems benefit from the adoption of the world's first bamboo loudspeaker technology.

Additional equipment upgrades include the availability of rear view and back guide monitors for the LDA system, as well as Intuitive parking Assist, a Tyre Pressure Warning system and a Traction Control 'Off' switch.

A new Light Control System features Welcome lighting, which illuminates selected exterior and interior lights for 15 seconds when the vehicle is unlocked; a Follow Me Home system which illuminates the headlamps and selected other lighting for between 30 and 120 seconds; and the automatic cut-off of interior lights 20 minutes after the ignition is switched off.

The centre console insert colours and combinations have been revised. A new door panel insert and upholstery design incorporates stitching for added visual quality. A choice of 5 trim finishes now includes Shimamoku wood. And a new, more sophisticated, metal film finish has been added to the centre console controls.

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Lexus RX 450h, 2013

 

 

 Lexus RX 450h, 2013

6-Speed Multi-mode Automatic Transmission with Paddle Shift Control
The 6-speed automatic transmission of the RX 350 F SPORT versions is now equipped with a steering wheel-mounted paddle shift control. The paddle switches can be used even with the gear selector in D range, allowing the driver to quickly change to fixed range mode without the need to engage S range via the gear lever.

The new, upgraded Lexus RX model range made its world debut at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show. The new RX exterior features a new, more elegant and aggressive frontal design. An enhanced interior offers an expanded choice of colour schemes, new trim finishes, a new steering wheel, a revised instrument binnacle and a second generation Remote Touch Interface (RTI).

The versatility of the European flagship RX 450h's Lexus Hybrid Drive system has been enhanced by the addition of a Sport mode, supplementing the full hybrid powertrain's Normal, Eco and EV (electric only) drive modes. The EV mode can now be activated with a separate switch.

Further enhancing the dynamic and sporting character of the new RX and designed to attract new customers to the model range, a new F SPORT version will be available. Expected to account for some 30% of future model range sales, the new F SPORT grade features bespoke exterior and interior design and driving dynamics technology.

With the launch of the first RX in 1998, Lexus created the Luxury SUV segment, combining, for the first time, all the flexibility, practicality and durability of a Sports Utility Vehicle with the handling, performance, refinement and ride of a luxury sedan.

The RX was the first ever SUV to be equipped with a full hybrid powertrain in 2005. Today, after three generations, two of which have been equipped with Lexus Hybrid Drive technology, the RX remains a key model for Lexus.

Interior Design
Further broadening the appeal of its spacious, luxurious and technically advanced dual-zone 'crossover' cockpit, the new RX interior features an expanded choice of colour schemes, new trim finishes, a new steering wheel, a revised instrument binnacle and a second generation Remote Touch Interface (RTI).

Adding to the choice of interior colour schemes available, Saddle Tan, and F SPORT-exclusive Black and White Grey designs join the existing Ivory, Black and Light Grey line-up.

The choice of trim inserts has also increased; luxurious Walnut and classic Dark Grey complimented by the addition of modern, Dark Grey bird's eye maple and F SPORT-exclusive Silver finishes.

Clearly differentiating it from the smooth leather finish, the semi-aniline leather upholstery now incorporates diamond shaped perforations. Seat stitching has been enhanced by the use of thicker thread and more prominent colours, and the dashboard design enlivened through the addition of a matt silver insert above the glovebox.

A new, more comfortable steering wheel features a cross-section which is no longer uniform throughout its circumference. Its varying profile allows for a relaxing grip and smooth steering inputs. Wood finish steering wheels are now available with heated rims.

The driver's instrument binnacle of RX 450h versions is equipped with a new Hybrid System Indicator design featuring clearly delineated, Charge, Eco and Power zones. New ambient illumination changes according to both driving conditions and the selected drive mode.

In EV (electric only), Eco or Normal drive modes, when the Hybrid System Indicator needle is in the Charge or Eco zones, the ambient illumination is blue. It will extinguish if the needle enters the Power zone. In Sport mode, the ambient illumination remains red at all times.

The centre console box has been extensively revised to enhance its practicality. The console lid opening angle has been increased to 95 degrees to improve access. Both the USB port and accessory socket have been moved closer to the top of the box interior, which now features a closable door and a removable divider plate.

The new RX model range is equipped with a second generation Remote Touch Interface (RTI). This Lexus-unique, multi-function control device has been enhanced for increased user-friendliness and ease of operation. It now features the world's first slide-type joystick control mechanism which functions much like a computer mouse, and the ENTER command is now accomplished simply by pushing the controller.

In conjunction with enhanced RTI control, the multimedia system's full colour LED display now has multi-screen capability. This allows for the permanent display -and independent control- of three types of information simultaneously, such as map, vehicle information, audio, navigation input, air conditioner functions and incoming call.

Exterior Design
The new Lexus RX range is hallmarked by a bold, elegant and highly individual frontal treatment which adopted throughout the brand to strengthen the Lexus family identity between model ranges.
The inverted trapezoid upper grille and slanted lower grille have been combined and integrated into a single element, bridging the bumper mid-section to create a prominent 'spindle' shape. Reinforcing this more modern and bolder identity, the lower grille now features horizontal bars and is finished in black.

Positioned on a higher plane than the grille itself -a unique Lexus characteristic- a new, clear lens headlamp cluster design incorporates a choice of halogen, High Intensity Discharge (HID) or Light Emitting Diode (LED) headlamps. The headlamps are underscored by integral LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL) which form the L-finesse arrowhead motif, reinforcing the unique visual signature of the new RX model range.

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Lexus IS, 2014

 

 

 Lexus IS, 2014

The all-new Lexus IS model range made its European debut at the Geneva Motor Show. The range includes the IS 300h - the first IS to feature Lexus Hybrid Drive - and the rear-wheel drive IS 250, as well as a further evolution of the F Sport package, available for both models.

Driving performance is considered the single most important element of sport sedan ownership by D-premium segment customers. In conjunction with a dramatic new design featuring the Lexus spindle grille, the new IS has been engineered to provide outstanding dynamic capabilities and driving experience.

The new Lexus IS also showcases an all-new interior that combines all the refinement and quality expected of any Lexus, with a more sporting, focused driver's environment, a significant improvement in rear seat space for best-in-class roominess, and a larger, more convenient luggage compartment.

A RESOLUTE LOOK
The dramatic design, sleek surfacing and tight, sporting proportions of the all-new IS perfectly reflect the significant advances made to the dynamic capabilities and driving performance of the Lexus premium compact sedan.

At 4,665 mm overall, the new Lexus IS is 80 mm longer and 10 mm wider than its predecessor. The front overhang has increased by just 10 mm, and the wheelbase has been extended by 70 mm to 2,800 mm.

Following the new generation GS, ES and LS models, the all-new IS features the sophisticated dynamism of the Lexus spindle grille frontal design, awarding the compact sedan a combination of aggressive elegance, a more powerful road presence and a stronger brand identity.

Beneath a new pop-up hood design which allows for the lowest possible vehicle front profile whilst optimising pedestrian impact protection, the grille is flanked by headlamp clusters clearly positioned on a higher plane than the grille itself.

The new, powerfully articulated headlamp is underscored by Lexus trademark L-shaped LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL) located independently below the cluster, giving the new IS a unique, highly distinctive visual signature.

INTERIOR DESIGN
The clean, horizontal theme of the new Lexus IS interior design is bisected by the strong upward sweep of the centre console, creating a snug, focused, ergonomically ideal environment from within which the driver can fully exploit the new Lexus compact sedan's superb driving dynamics.

The newly designed, quilted driver's seat offers greater comfort and better lateral support. The seat hip point has been lowered by 20 mm. The new, LFA-inspired, 3-spoke, 370 mm diameter steering wheel features a new paddle shift switch shape for easier, more accurate operation, and improved ergonomics to the wheel-mounted switchgear.

The angle of the wheel has been lowered 3 degrees, and steering reach adjustment has been increased by 23 mm, creating a more sporting driving position.

With 50 mm of its 70 mm longer wheelbase dedicated to increased rear seat space and 20 mm dedicated to increased luggage capacity, the new, 10 mm wider IS offers rear seat occupants significantly increased levels of comfort. The combination of extended wheelbase and a thinner front seat design generates an 85 mm increase in knee room for the new, 60:40 split/folding seats. And a 20 mm increase in the gap between the B pillar and the front corner of the seat improves accessibility.

The new IS follows the GS and LS in adopting a Drive Mode Select system, with meter illumination and multi-information display design changing from blue to red in sports driving modes, along with the switching of the hybrid system indicator to a tachometer in the IS 300h.

Dual-zone Air Conditioning with Electrostatic Switches
The new IS features a dual-zone air conditioning system with touch-sensitive, electrostatic switches to control the air conditioning temperature. Sliding a finger up or down the bar shaped switch allows for temperature adjustment in 0.5 degree increments. Temperature can also be adjusted by simply pressing the top or bottom half of the switch or the arrow markings.

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