Using sexual imagery to sell cars is nothing new, but Lexus has put an interesting twist on the usual. They have taken a photo of Tori and turned it into a race track.

The new advertising campaign, dubbed TORI 500, is based around the new GS’ abilities and includes an iOS app, videos and print ads, as well as online components and live events. The iOS app, SUPERMODLED, is a camera app that allows users to place Tori into their own photos, while the Behind-The-Scenes video shows drivers Greg Tracy and Scott Pruett competing around the TORI 500 track for a chance to take the supermodel on a victory lap.

Lexus wants eyes on its new products and has created an interesting, and successful, way to achieve that goal.

Underneath the LX is essentially a Toyota Land Cruiser.  The wheelbase, ride height and drivetrain are the same.  Under the hood, the i-Force 5.7 liter DOHC V8 pumps out a solid 383 horsepower and 403 lb-ft of torque.  Newly connected to its six speed automatic and lo-range all wheel drive is Toyota’s Crawl Control feature that modulates the brakes and throttle for just the right amount of traction.  Needless to say, the body-on-frame LX can easily hold its own in the muck.

What separates the Lexus from the Toyota can be seen in the aesthetics.  The outside gets the brand’s new “hour glass” grille, LED daytime running lights, larger fog lamps and newly sculpted tail lights.  New chrome finish sets off the smoother bumper covers both front and rear.  On the inside, the LX is filled with luxury and technology.  A new multi-media system and display can be found in the center as well as improved seat cooling, a power outlet for the middle row and revised trims and accents.  The standard navigation system now supports Lexus’s Enform application suite which integrates smartphones into the truck’s media system.  Sirius data services can offer real time traffic and weather and Enform can even pull up Facebook pages.  For an added $$1,510, any LX 570 can be outfitted with the Luxury Package that includes a beverage cooler, semi-aniline leather, a heated steering wheel, heated and cooled front seats and heated rear seats.  For those long family trips across the tundra, the $2,005 rear seat entertainment system can be added.  All 2013 Lexus LX 570 models will hit dealerships in February 2012.

Source: Lexus

Made up of a grouping of leaders in North American and International automotive design, the EyesOn Design judges are a tough crowd to please.  Not only are new concepts judged by aesthetics and innovation, but their functionality as well.  With its sleek body and obviously efficient hybrid powerplant, the LF-LC should be an indication that Lexus will soon try to mesh economy with fast.  “The LF-LC is a striking design and breathtaking in its beauty,” said Mark Templin, Lexus group vice president and general manager. “The team at Lexus quickly fell in love with this concept vehicle and it’s rewarding to see that the industry agreed. Receiving the EyesOn Design Award is a great start to what promises to be a fantastic year for Lexus.”

Source: Lexus

“Crafted from a clean sheet of paper at the request of Lexus headquarters in Japan, the LF-LC blends both high technology and organic shapes to connect the driver to the machine,” said Mark Templin, Lexus group vice president and general manager. The car’s mechanicals are still shrouded in mystery, but the 2+2 body can reveal a relatively tidy size.  With a long hood, short rear and big fenders, it is safe to assume that the LF-LC is rear wheel drive.  The hour-glass grille that has been so prominent on Lexus concepts of late is present but the LF-A’s rear engine cover is not.  More than likely, this car has its power plant up front judging by for-miles hood.  What that power plant is exactly will have to wait until January 9.  “The clean lines of the vehicle emphasize motion, creating a distinctive look for this futuristic sport coupe.”

Source: Lexus

The first run of GS cars will be powered by Toyota’s 3.5 liter DOHC V6.  Producing 306 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque, the 3,795 lb rear wheel drive sedan will hit 60 mph in 5.7 seconds.  All wheel drive will be offered and both versions of the GS 350 will use a six speed automatic.  Following the debut of the 350 will be the release of the 450h hybrid.  Word is still out as to if and when the V8 version of the GS will hit, but chances are that one will make it to a Lexus dealer before 2012 is up.

Source: Lexus

So far, a total of 283,200 Toyota and 173,000 Lexus models are at risk.  The 2004 Avalon, 2004 and 2005 Camry, Highlander, Sienna and Solara, the 2006 Highlander HV hybrid, as well as the 2004 through 2005 ES330, RX330 and 2006 RX450h hybrid are all affected.  Each vehicle uses the 3.3 liter 3MZ-FE V6.  The remedy might not happen right away as Toyota must source and obtain all the necessary replacement parts first.  According to the company’s press release, “once the replacement parts have been produced in sufficient quantities” than notification to owners will take place.  When contacted, a Toyota or Lexus owner will be offered the opportunity to have their crankshaft pulley inspected and if needed, replaced all at no charge.  The notification process is scheduled to begin starting the first of 2012. 

Source: Toyota

In 2007, the Lexus GS was the first sport sedan to enter the market with a hybrid variant.  For the soon-t0-be fourth generation GS, Lexus and Toyota engineers have stayed strong to their commitment to hybrid technology as the 2013 edition will feature the latest Lexus Hybrid Drive system.  Fitted under the hood of the GS 450h is a new Atkinson cycle DOHC 3.5 liter V6.  By adopting the Atkinson cycle, compression is delayed due to intake valves closing late.  A high expansion ratio is thus created, reduces intake and exhaust energy losses.  A new intake tumble generator and direct injection have also been fitted to the V6 so it can be matched just right with the electric motor assist.

The high-output, water-cooled permanent magnet electric motor in the GS 450h is assisted by a nickel-metal hydride battery.  A power control unit and power split devices moderate the work of both the engine and electric drive system.  A new drive selector offers plenty of driving modes, from normal, sport plus, Eco and EV mode.  The power control unit can allow the battery to deliver up to 650 volts in sport mode and limits the output to 500 volts in Eco.   The 450h is capable of driving solely on the electric drive, gasoline engine or a combination of both.  Power is transferred to the rear wheels by way of a CVT and brings a total of 338 horsepower to the ground for a 0-60 time of 5.6 seconds.  Someone at Nissan better let the Infiniti M35h know that it is going to have some serious competition when the 2013 Lexus GS 450h is released.

“The all-new GS 450h will provide our customers with an exciting blend of performance and precision in a new hybrid package,” said Mark Templin, Lexus group vice president and general manager in the U.S. “With its dynamic exterior styling, roomy interior and advanced technology features, the GS 450h further demonstrates Lexus’ mastery of the luxury hybrid.”

Source: Lexus

The biggest change for 2012 comes in the form of the least expensive Lexus, the CT 200h.  New for 2012 is the F Sport Package that adds some needed aggression to the little hybrid.  The suspension has been lowered and retuned to be stiffer and more flat in corners.  The exterior has been enhanced with new front and rear bumpers, a mesh grille, larger rear deck spoiler and F Sport badging.  17 inch F Sport wheels finish off the outside while inside, special metallic trim adds a more youthful feel.  And all 2012 CT 200hs will be featured with Toyota’s Vehicle Proximity Notification System that emits an external sound to alert pedestrians that the vehicle is approaching while in electric-only mode.

Other changes to the Lexus line up include new wheels and tires for the high performance IS F sport sedan.  The 19 inch wheels are wider than before and further supported by new-for-2012 Sachs supplied shocks.  Inside will be a new, red leather interior that replaces the previous orange on black seats.  Pricing for the car has increased by $640 to $61,300.

Up $500 is the MSRP for the 2012 RX 400h Hybrid SUVs, both front wheel drive and all wheel drive models.  The front wheel drive now runs for $45,235 while the all wheel drive edition costs $46,825.  Pricing for the other dedicated Lexus hybrid, the HS 250h, have also increased.  Up $700 from 2011, both the base and the Premium are more expensive at $37,030 and $39,800 respectively due a revised interior material.  All 2012 Lexus models will be arriving in dealerships later this summer through early fall.

Source: Lexus

“Today, buyers in the mid-size luxury segment want a more engaging driving experience, styling that makes a statement, and a roomier interior package,” said Mark Templin, Lexus group vice president and general manager. “With the all-new GS, we’re giving them what they asked for, and more.”

Along with a new Lexus signature spindle grille, the GS is a car that conveys a tangible sense of driver confidence, with a redesigned chassis and a wide, strong stance that inspires and rewards driver participation with crisp and precise handling.

GS engineers challenged themselves to develop a more spacious interior environment. While leaving exterior dimensions virtually unchanged, they dramatically increased cabin and trunk space to create an interior that can easily transport passengers and their luggage in luxury and style regardless of distance.

Richly endowed with world-class features and premium details, the new GS is supported by advanced, performance-enhancing technology that makes it more than just a luxury car. The driver and front passenger will enjoy the clean appearance of the new high-resolution central control display.

A New Personality and An Invitation To Drive

Designing the new GS 350 to be both strong and agile was a key focus of the engineering team. They looked to the Lexus LFA supercar for inspiration and carried over some key elements to provide a more engaging driving experience, including a new aerodynamic body; a completely new platform with a wider stance and stiffer structure; a transmission with quicker shifts; distinctive engine sound and exhaust notes; and better seat support.

The new platform is more rigid compared to the current model. Engineers conducted extensive platform testing, ultimately increasing the number of spot welds and adding laser welds in very specific locations. The track, wider by almost two inches, works in combination with a revised suspension design to assure a more solid stance and superior cornering performance.

The new suspension system is designed to help guide the 2013 GS through corners with precision. In the front, upper and lower control arms are made from aluminum and employ larger bushings. The rear subframe has been completely redesigned to accommodate an all-new multi-link rear suspension, using improved suspension geometry that retains tire cornering force and enhances rear control. With the stiffer platform and lighter components, the shocks can use lighter-viscosity oil, so they move easily and respond to small inputs more quickly.

The use of front and rear aluminum control arms helps reduce unsprung weight and results in significant improvements in agility, roll damping, ride comfort, body control and steering precision. Overall, the suspension is lighter and stronger, allowing it to react to driver input readily, and ride quietly without harshness. Ventilated disc brakes featuring four-piston aluminum front calipers are endowed with the latest electronic enhancements to help provide braking balance and control.

Customized Driving Experience

The new GS is powered by an advanced 3.5-liter V6, four cams, and four valves per cylinder with dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i). At 306 horsepower, it is one of the most powerful base engines in the segment, as well as the only one with both port and direct injection. It propels the GS from 0-60 mph in 5.7 seconds and at the same time, fuel economy has been improved.

Acceleration from 30 to 50 mph can take just 3.0 seconds, and improved engine sound characteristics complement the bolder, more energetic personality of the new GS. The six-speed sequential shift automatic transmission has paddle shifters and sport driving functions as standard equipment.

The transmission incorporates many features adopted from the Lexus IS F high-performance sedan — including faster shifts, earlier torque converter lockup and downshift throttle blips — to support four driving modes that can be operated by toggling the new Lexus Drive Mode selector. In addition to the Normal mode, the following settings let the driver customize the driving experience:

ECO mode revises throttle mapping, seat heating, and climate control systems for better fuel economy. In ECO mode, meter lighting changes to blue.
SPORT S mode revises throttle mapping and transmission shifting priorities to fully exploit the capabilities of the powertrain. In SPORT S mode, meter lighting changes to red.
SPORT S+ mode (available on some models) engages handling enhancements via a sport setting of the adaptive variable suspension, steering system, and vehicle stability control (VSC) together with the powertrain enhancements of SPORT S mode.

An optional electronically controlled all-wheel-drive system is designed to enhance traction in a variety of driving conditions. The system can vary front-to-rear torque balance from 50/50 to as much as 30/70, depending on driving conditions, for exceptional control.

Innovative Lexus Design

The 2013 GS expresses a new generation of Lexus’ design philosophy with its precisely sculpted exterior and will lead the rest of the lineup in an entirely new direction. When designers shaped the GS they visualized the flow of air around it and, like the LFA supercar, maximized aerodynamic efficiency for class-leading coefficient of drag.

The GS fuses distinctive style with engineering functionality. Fins incorporated into the side of the tail lamps and the design of the trunk area all help direct air over and past the car. The rear bumper underbody area was designed for reduced wind resistance to help keep the car firmly planted on the ground. Finally, air inlets located on the outer edges of the lower grille serve as cooling ducts.

The signature spindle grille with its trapezoidal contours evolved from current Lexus styling and fully integrates into the aggressive front bumper allowing for efficient airflow. This distinctive Lexus design feature combined with the deep-set, high-tech headlamps and L-shaped LED daytime running lamps further express the vehicle’s confident and dynamic character. The headlamps use a projector beam design, adding a strong, chiseled appearance and excellent illumination.

From the side, the GS projects the image of a spacious sport sedan with a road-hugging wider stance. The tapered lower rocker panel and the short front overhang give the vehicle a sense of motion. Width-enhancing front and rear wheel arches adds an athletic stance enhancing the vehicle’s dynamic presence.

The rear bumper features a distinctive exhaust diffuser and centered aero fins to help control underbody airflow. Combined with the L-shaped LED tail lamps, a Lexus design cue, these rear bumper features lend a high-performance appearance. Overall, the new GS sheet metal represents a significant extension of the Lexus L-finesse philosophy that is the core of all Lexus product design.

The GS 350 will feature three colors that are new to the Lexus color palette: Riviera Red, Meteor Blue Metallic and Liquid Platinum. Vehicles in Riviera Red will benefit from glass flakes incorporated into the coating that adds a high level of brilliance to the paint. Lexus engineers developed a new advanced coating process for Liquid Platinum exteriors. The GS 350 will be the first Lexus to adopt this new coating technology. Vehicles with the Liquid Platinum exterior will appear more radiant as an additional metallic texture gives both strong shading and defined, sharp highlights. This metallic effect makes subtle and defined bodylines more noticeable and the surface appear finely polished.

Spacious Interior with Premium Upgrades

The GS provides more overall space for all occupants. With these changes, the new GS offers comfortable space for front and rear passengers.

Upgraded accommodations start with the driver. The entire cabin was created around the driver and the driving experience. A horizontal-themed instrument panel emphasizes the spaciousness through its wide layout. A redesigned seat frame and changes to steering column architecture enable an improved driver seating position for increased comfort, better forward visibility and overall command of the road. Equal attention has been paid to maximizing space for rear passengers, adding headroom, legroom, knee room and improved foot space compared to the current generation GS.

Door openings have also been revised for easier ingress and egress. Trunk space has been increased by almost 25 percent, and trunk access is improved with a wider, deeper opening.

Painstaking attention to detail was applied to the GS cabin as well to create a balance of luxurious and technological amenities and emotional design. The new layout of the long, sculpted dash gives the driver and front passenger a sense of roominess through its clean center stack and new, large high-resolution center control display placed deep near the front windshield. Most of the comfort and convenience controls such as audio and climate were relocated to provide a cleaner and more sophisticated dash layout.

The interior includes a number of embedded premium upgrades as standard equipment. A new energy-saving auto climate control system called S-Flow uses the occupant-detection system to focus airflow only to the front area where passengers are actually seated, a first-in-class technology. A next-generation Remote Touch with one-push confirmation is standard on all models and enables smooth, intuitive operations control.

The Remote Touch allows the user to operate the climate, audio, phone controls, optional navigation system and more. The screen menus are selected with the controller, eliminating the need to reach out. Remote touch also reduces eye movement and helps users operate functions with reduced effort and distraction. A standard rear back-up camera helps add security and convenience.

The finely crafted cabin detail is complemented further by ambient lighting that unobtrusively welcomes and guides the user into the vehicle, providing a carefully designed experience. New white LED lights are sequentially lit to illuminate the areas around the doors, center console and footwells. A new analog clock with LED indicators, carved from an ingot, adds a unique touch, at once both modern and traditional.

Cabin materials include three types of wood specially chosen to highlight the unique flavors of the model variations. Meticulously detailed contrast stitching is used as a visual accent on the instrument panel, door trim, center console, shift knob and steering wheel to create a rich, tailored interior space.

Seamless Connectivity

Next-generation Lexus multimedia brings a host of standard entertainment and connectivity enhancements, including enhanced Bluetooth® capability with automatic phonebook download and streaming audio.

GS buyers will get DVD audio and video compatibility, MP3 sound enhancement, 5.1 Surround Sound, and a high-resolution eight-inch central control display centrally located high up in the instrument panel. An SMS text-to-speech feature allows the driver to be read text messages and send preset responses with a compatible smart phone. HD Radio™ with iTunes tagging and a three-month trial subscription to SiriusXM Satellite Radio are standard. The Gracenote Media management system creates dynamic music playlists and a voice recognition solution recognizes nicknames for music artists and even some mispronunciations.

By adding the optional navigation system, GS owners can get an industry-first 12.3-inch, split-screen, high-resolution multi-media display. The split-screen ultra-large display enhances visibility through the use of advanced, high-definition graphics that are easy to read and easy to use. The 12.3-inch screen is large enough to support simultaneous, split-screen viewing of a large map display, plus audio, climate or other vehicle information.

GS buyers will also have access to next-generation Lexus Enform®, the system that leverages mobile phone technology to provide a new level of connectivity and information management. Local searches can be conducted through Bing, or use voice-enabled apps to make restaurant reservations through OpenTable, get movie tickets via MovieTickets.com or tap into internet radio, including Pandora® or iHeartRadio.

They will also appreciate the ability to check-in on Facebook, and search for restaurant reviews on Yelp. SiriusXM data services offer information on stocks, traffic, weather, sports and fuel prices. The system is updatable and upgradeable through over-the-air downloads, so new apps and content can be readily added.

For audiophiles who insist on the ultimate in audio performance, an 835-watt, 17-speaker Mark Levinson audio system is available. The system provides 7.1 Surround Sound through 10 channels using a new class D Digital amplifier and luxury-first Green Edge™ speakers that are lighter, more energy-efficient and have less distortion. The new system produces almost three times as many watts per channel over the previous generation.

Integrated Safety Systems

In addition to enhanced braking systems and an impact-absorbing body structure, the new GS offers significant advances in both passive and active safety systems as standard equipment.

There are a class-leading 10 airbags in the new GS, including a knee airbag for both front driver and passenger. Rear seat occupants have seat-mounted side airbags, and all four outboard occupants are equipped with side curtain airbags.

New Whiplash Injury Lessening (WIL) front seats increases the likelihood that occupants will be in optimum position at the moment of impact, enhancing the protective effect of the seatbelt system. Standard seatbelts with pretensioners with force limiters used for front and outboard rear seats further assist occupant protection.

Available options to help further enhance occupant safety include a pre-collision system, which uses the dynamic radar cruise control system to provide early warning of upcoming objects that might result in a collision. The system also uses a first-in-class infrared camera to monitor the driver’s eyes to check on driver status. In the event that the driver does not appear to be looking forward when a collision appears imminent, the system will initiate the warning at an earlier threshold. If the driver still does not respond and make the appropriate maneuver, the system will initiate braking intervention up to two seconds prior to impact, helping to lessen the severity of the collision.

Other available safety systems include a Night Vision System that enhances driver visibility at night; Heads Up Display (HUD); a Blind Spot Monitor that helps detect vehicles in rear/side blind spots; and Lane Keep Assist (LKA) with Lane Departure Warning (LDW). GS is the first in its segment to offer LKA with active steering torque to provide a small amount to assist in maintaining course, while the LDW feature alerts the driver if the system detects that the vehicle is beginning to drift out of the lane.

“The new GS 350 combines luxury, outstanding driving dynamics and world-class technology features in a new and bold design,” said Templin. “We expect this car to occupy a key position both at the core of the Lexus brand and at the heart of the mid-luxury sedan segment.”

The roof is a single, lightweight polycarbonate shell, just 8 mm thick and weighing only 26 kg.  It will allow for full visibility for the couple and shouldn’t hinder the LS’s already vault like construction.  For the majority of the tour, the Landaulet will be able to run in its zero-emissions mode as speed will tend to be low.  Once the wedding is finished, the Lexus LS600h L Landaulet will be displayed first at the Media Centre and after that moved to its future home at the Oceanographic Museum.