Lexus Future Perfect

Lexus to present LF-C concept and new GS and RX400h production models at Paris Motor Show

Lexus will use the opportunity of the Paris Motor Show to display both its latest future concept car, the LF-C, and to showcase two new production models which will be launched in Europe in 2005: the new generation GS and the hybrid power RX400h. In addition, the Lexus stand will also focus on revisions to the current model range, including the development of DVD-navigation systems with Bluetooth® wireless technology for the RX300 and SC430.

LEXUS LF-C CONCEPT CAR

The Lexus LF-C concept car will be making its European debut at the Paris Motor Show. The vehicle is the third in a series of concept studies that have been created to express a new Lexus design rationale, following on from the LF-S and LF-X models presented in Tokyo last year.

The LF-C showcases elements of styling and technology that are anticipated in the next generation Lexus IS model. The car is constructed on a rear-wheel drive platform with a front-mounted V8 engine. The principle feature of the body is a retractable hard top that can be moved through four different positions. This unique element, the work of the Calty Design Centre in California, allows the car to be changed from a coupe to a convertible with targa and speedster configurations in between.

The roof is fully automatic, controlled by the touch of a button, and stows neatly away through a surprisingly narrow opening in the boot.

NEW GENERATION LEXUS GS

The new Lexus GS is the first production car to be created using the new Lexus design philosophy. It integrates elegant, seamless coachwork with unparalleled cabin ergonomics and luxury interior fit and finish.

In Europe the GS will go on sale during the first half of 2005, offered with a choice of the Lexus 4.3-litre V8 or new 242bhp 3.0-litre V6 petrol engines. Both power units are matched to a new, close-ratio six-speed automatic transmission with sequential shift mode. The Adaptive Variable Suspension lets the driver choose between two damper settings to suit driving style and road conditions.

The GS has been created with the express aim of achieving class-leading safety performance. It benefits from Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM), which enhances performance, traction control and vehicle stability. Further contribution to safety is made by the radar-controlled Pre-Crash Safety system (PCS), which automatically ensures optimum emergency braking performance and pre-tensioning of the front seatbelts.

LEXUS RX400h – THE WORLD’S FIRST PERFORMANCE HYBRID SUV

The revolutionary Lexus RX400h four-wheel drive sport utility vehicle is the world’s first performance hybrid SUV, a petrol/electric powered car positioned in the premium segment.

The RX400h is powered by Lexus’s Hybrid Synergy Drive, a full hybrid system that allows the vehicle to operate in petrol or electric mode alone, or in a combination of both, according to driving conditions. This produces a unique combination of high performance, quiet, seamless progress, frugal fuel consumption and ultra-low carbon dioxide emissions for its class. Such is the potency of the hybrid system, the car can accelerate from rest to 62mph in 7.6 seconds, yet in combined cycle driving can match the fuel consumption of a typical family saloon with a four-cylinder petrol engine.

The powertrain comprises a conventional 3.3-litre V6 petrol engine with front and rear electric motors, together delivering a maximum power output of 268bhp via a seamless, continuously variable automatic transmission and intelligent electric four-wheel drive. European sales of the Lexus RX400h will commence in the first half of 2005.

NEW TECHNOLOGY ADVANCES FOR LS430, RX300 AND SC430

Lexus is adopting a series of advanced technical features to further improve the safety and functionality of its model range. At the Paris show it will present the new Pre-Crash Safety system and Adaptive Cruise Control (PCS and ACC), newly available as an option package on the LS430.

It will also announce the availability of an upgraded Lexus Navigator satellite navigation system for the RX300 and SC430, equipped with Electronic Traffic Avoidance (ETA), a function that helps the driver avoid traffic jams on programmed routes by offering the option of a strategic diversion. The equipment also features a new voice recognition function that can recognise more than 200 spoken commands relating to the navigation and audio systems.

In addition, both the RX300 and SC430 gain the latest Bluetooth® wireless technology which permits instant hands-free use of compatible mobile telephones.

ENDS