Fourth Consecutive Win For Lexus In What Car? Security Supertest
Lexus has been awarded the security accolade at the 2003 What Car? awards for the fourth year running. The LS430, winner for the third consecutive year, follows on from the award success in 2000 with the IS200. Lexus remains the only company ever to achieve the maximum score in the annual Security Supertest.
In the latest test, three Lexus models were requested for evaluation (IS300, SC430 and LS430) and all three scored the maximum 100 points thanks to consistent attention to detail. The LS430 went one step further with its standard equipment – laminated side glass. These specialised double glazed windows are designed to cut down noise, but also provide additional protection should anyone try to smash a window.
Not only does the LS430 offer protection from thieves with its top-notch door locks, immobiliser and secure hi-fi, it also benefits from added security with its intelligent keyless locking system. This incorporates the facility of unlocking only the driver’s door unless otherwise requested, which helps remove fears of an attack by an opportunist thief waiting nearby for doors to be unlocked.
Performance of the three Lexus models far exceeded Home Office guidelines in which a car’s locks must be able to withstand a two minute attack test and a five minute attack on the immobiliser system.
“To achieve a maximum score, a car has to go way beyond passing both the entry and drive away tests. However, it’s in going the extra mile that Lexus stands above every car maker,” commented Rob Aherne, Editor of What Car? at the Awards presentation in London this week.
Lexus secured its enviable top position with visible VIN (Vehicle Identification Number), marked parts, etched glass, secure spare wheel and locking wheel nuts.
The attention to detail from Lexus impressed the security team from What Car? to such a degree that they were in no doubt about voting Lexus as the clear winner, once again providing a benchmark for every other car manufacturer.
In addition to the award from What Car?, the LS430 is the only car on the market to achieve a five star rating in the NCSR (New Car Security Ratings) tests carried out in 2001. The Lexus scored a maximum five stars in the intensive ‘theft of’ vehicle tests and also in the ‘theft from’ tests.
ENDS
