LEXUS LATEST: a digest of recent news from Lexus
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Centrepiece of the Lexus stand at the Geneva motor show was the new RX 450h, displaying new styling, including the distinctive ‘spindle’ grille design that will be a signature feature of a succession of new models, led by this summer’s new GS saloon.
As well as sharper looks, the full hybrid RX 450h will also gain a new F Sport version. Not only does this come with sportier styling inside and out, it was shown at Geneva with a lateral damper system (like that first seen in the CT 200h) that sharpens handling and absorbs fine vibrations and noise. UK specifications for the new RX will be announced later with the model due to go on sale in this summer.
Geneva also marked the first European showing of the LF-LC, a concept hybrid sports coupe created by Lexus’s California design studio. It’s been the toast of the show in Detroit and Chicago and has put down markers for what kind of exciting new models Lexus might deliver in the future.
The effectiveness of Lexus Hybrid Drive in reducing CO2 emissions is revealed in independent figures from vehicle data and intelligence provider JATO. Reporting average CO2 figures for each brand in Europe for 2011 this week, it notes that, thanks to the introduction of the CT 200h, Lexus has achieved a significant 28 per cent reduction from 166.7 to 120g/km, making it one of only eight brands that have already met the European target of 130g/km set for 2015.
A good car has to be able to handle the curves, and to publicise the potential of the new GS saloon Lexus in the USA created a new virtual racing application in which the track is based on the figure of Sports Illustrated Swimsuit model Tori Praver. The app is all part of the on-line promotion activity supporting Lexus’s role as Sports Illustrated’s new automotive marketing partner.
You can keep up-to-date with more Lexus news and activities through the official Lexus blog, Facebook page and Twitter.
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