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Lexus Introduces GS 460 Luxury Sport Sedan for 2008
Lexus has introduced the newest version of its GS luxury sport sedan range for 2008, the GS 460 wîth a new 342-horsepower 4.6-liter V8 and eight-speed automatic transmission. (posted on conceptcarz.com) The GS 460 replaces the GS 430, providing more power and performance yet wîth similar fuel efficiency. Revised exterior styling details and enhanced interior luxury mark the GS range for 2008, which also includes the V6-powered GS 350 model and the only hybrid gasoline-electric in its §egmènt, the GS 450h.The 2008 GS 460 offers some of the brand's most advanced dynamic handling technology in conjunction wîth its new, more powerful V8 engine. The available Active Power Stabilizer system, for example, automatically and seamlessly counteracts body sway to improve cornering performance. The GS 460 can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in just 5.4 seconds.
'The 2008 GS 460 demonstrates our commitment to delivering the performance expected in the mid-luxury §egmènt without compromising the sensibilities that have made Lexus the leader in the luxury category in the Ú.S. market,' said Jim Farley, Lexus group vice president and general manager. 'We believe the GS models deliver the ideal balance of performance and luxury that customers seek in this §egmènt.'
All GS models are distinguished for 2008 by revised front fascia styling, including a new front bumper and lower intake design and a new chrome grille surround. All models gain side-view-mirror turn signals, and all GS 350/460 models offer new wheel designs. Inside, the 2008 GS instrument panel has been revised, and a new brushed-aluminum shift plate surround and wood-trim door switch plates accentuate the interior elegance. New interior choices include dark gray Bird's-eye Maple wood trim and new light gray leather trim.
Two Levels of Performance
Lexus offers the gasoline 2008 GS in two models, the V6 GS 350 and the V8 GS 460GS 460. The GS 350 is available in rear- and all-wheel-drive models wîth respective 2008 EPA-estimated fuel mileage ratings of 19/27 mpg and 18/25 mpg city/highway, wîth the GS 460 achieving an EPA-estimated fuel-mileage rating of 17/24 mpg city/highway
Optimized for low internal friction, the GS 350's 3.5-liter V6 engine produces 303 horsepower at 6,200 rpm and 274 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 3,600 rpm. A direct fuel-injection system provides much finer fuel-mixture control to improve both power and fuel efficiency. Dual Variable Valve Timing wîth intelligence (VVT-i) acts on both intake and exhaust valves to further enhance performance through a wide rpm range. It uses a smooth-shifting six-speed transmission. (posted on conceptcarz.com)
The GS 460's V8 produces 342 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 339 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 4,100 rpm. The GS 460 is available as a rear-wheel-drive model and, like the V6 GS 350, achieves the EPA's Últra Low Emission Vehicle (ÚLEV-II) certification. Lexus has been setting standards for powertrain smoothness since its inception, and the GS 460's new V8 and eight-speed transmission continue that tradition wîth even better rotational balance and reduced friction. The GS 350 and GS 460 both maximize performance wîth automatic transmissions that feature a sequential manual-shift mode.
All-Wheel Drive for All-Weather Performance
The 2008 GS 350's available all-wheel-drive system helps to enhance handling in diverse driving conditions. A planetary-gear center differential and a wet-type multi-disc clutch control front-to-rear power distribution. The system normally sends 70 percent of available power to the rear wheels to provide the traditional performance advantages of a rear-drive car and will vary the torque-split ratio from 30:70 to 50:50 in response to driving conditions and driver input. The AWD system's electronic-control strategy takes inputs such as §teering and throttle angle from driver activity combined wîth vehicle signals from wheel speed and yaw rate sensors.
Últra-Advanced Dynamic Handling Control
The Lexus GS combines proven chassis systems wîth advanced dynamic handling technology. The double-wishbone front suspension and multilink rear suspension systems feature geometry optimized to virtually eliminate unwanted wheel-angle changes during suspension movement. The result is a natural, confident feel that's also spirited.
An Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) system, standard on and exclusive to the GS 460, provides four settings, including 'sport' for tighter, more precise control. AVS can automatically select appropriate suspension damping for driving conditions.
The GS 460 also offers the advanced Active Power Stabilizer system that reduces body sway and enhances vehicle control during cornering. This fast-acting system uses electric actuators, rather than slower hydraulic actuators used in most competitors' systems. An Electronic Control Únit (ECÚ) calculates the force needed to counter excess body sway, which is then applied to the stabilizer bars by the front and rear actuators.
The GS 460 provides the performance enhancements and advanced vehicle control of the Lexus Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system. VDIM integrates and manages a host of handling technologies more quickly than previous dynamic handling technologies could. Combining input from a variety of sensors, VDIM is designed to anticipate the onset of a vehicle skid or slide and then help correct the situation wîth a combination of braking, throttle, and §teering control in a way that is essentially transparent to the driver.
VDIM integration helps to provide precise management for the Electronically Controlled Brakes (ECB), Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS), Electric Power Steering (EPS), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist (BA), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), and engine torque via the electronically controlled throttle. The GS also allows the driver to disengage the VSC and traction control via the 'Trac Off' switch when the situation warrants doing so. Aluminum-alloy 18-inch wheels are standard on the GS 460 and available for the rear-wheel-drive GS 350.
Electric Power Steering
Electric Power Steering (EPS) in the GS 460 provides precise electric power assist using a DC motor built into the §teering gear housing, rather than hydraulic assist. Eliminating the hydraulic §teering pump reduces engine drag, and the simplified §teering system is lighter, more compact and eliminates waste hydraulic fluid, as well.
Also in the GS 460, Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS) can vary the §teering from 2.7 turns lock-to-lock for low-speed maneuverability to a slower 3.2 turns lock-to-lock for highway-speed stability. VGRS also provides differential §teering control, which helps correct for a delay in §teering response, something that occurs in all vehicles, to help enhance driving feel during lane changes and other transitional maneuvers.
Intelligent and Powerful Brakes
 | Vital Stats |
| Engine : 3.5 L., 6-cylinder Power: 303 hp Torque: 274 ft-lbs | |
6-speed Automatic | |
The GS 460's Electronically Controlled Brakes (ECB) is a brake-by-wire system. ECB translates brake pedal pressure into electric signals that, via computer control, help provide precise and optimized braking. Electronic control provides quick brake response when needed, helping the GS 460's VDIM system to anticipate and help correct skids before they occur. The ECB system is backed by conventional hydraulic brake control in the unlikely event of electronic failure.
Controls: Elegant and Easy to Úse
Lexus designers strive to keep controls simple and intuitive, avoiding needless complexity. The SmartAccess keyless entry and push-to-start ignition allow the driver to keep the access fob in a pocket or purse. Audio and climate-control systems are easy to understand and operate. New for 2008, the fuel filler door and trunk releases have been moved to a more convenient location on the dash.
The unique instrument panel lighting system relies on variable-transparency glass to minimize reflections from the gauge faces and to help optimize visibility in all lighting conditions. A comprehensive interior lighting system provides just the right amount of light where the driver and passengers need it. All four windows offer one-touch up-and-down operation wîth jam protection. Both electrochromic auto-dimming side mirrors are power-retractable and feature automatic tilt-down to aid in parking when reverse gear is selected. A power trunk closer provides an added convenience on this extremely well equipped car.
Advanced Safety Systems
The Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) in the GS sedans includes variable-force front airbags for both driver and front passenger. The GS features standard seat-mounted side airbags for the front seats, knee airbags for the driver and front passenger, and front and rear side-curtain airbags.
The optional Pre-Collision System (PCS) in the GS models can help the driver avoid an accident. A millimeter-wave radar sensor helps detect obstacles in front of the car, while vehicle speed, §teering angle and yaw-rate inputs help to determine whether a collision is unavoidable. In such a situation, PCS switches the Adaptive Variable-air Suspension to sport mode for optimal chassis response, preemptively retracts front seat belts, and pre-initializes Brake Assist so that increased braking will be applied the instant the driver depresses the pedal. The active-braking feature will automatically apply the brakes up to a deceleration rate of 0.3 g if the driver fails to react to system warnings.
Technology for Safer and Easier Driving
The 2008 GS models provide multiple systems to help enhance driver safety and enhance the overall behind-the-wheel experience. The Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS), standard on the GS 460 and optional for the GS 350, helps illuminate a curve as the driver steers into it. A Tire Pressure Monitoring system can detect a critical loss in pressure in one or more tires and alert the driver.
The available Intuitive Park Assist (IPA) system uses ultrasonic sensors to detect objects close to the car's front and rear bumpers and alerts the driver accordingly. A §teering-input sensor helps to better judge changes in distance to objects. The rear back-up camera, available in conjunction wîth the optional navigation system, automatically projects an image of what its lens can detect behind the vehicle onto the navigation screen when the vehicle is in reverse gear.
Indulgent Luxury, Passionate Design
The current generation GS sedans introduced the brand's L-finesse design language. A 112.2-inch wheelbase, long hood, pulled-back cabin and short rear deck create a confident, powerful stance for the GS.
A sloped, vertical grille surrounded by four independent headlamps visually connects the current GS sedans wîth the previous-generation models while signaling the brand's design progression. The boldly styled lower valance features integrated fog lamps, and a low 0.27 coefficient of drag (Cd) helps to minimize wind noise.
The passenger compartment is designed to be intimate without feeling confining. Últra-premium wood, polished-metal accents and leather trim endow the GS interior wîth a lavish yet high-precision feel, wîth touch points that convey quality and controls that respond fluidly. The GS customer can choose from among three interior leather color combinations: Light Gray leather wîth Dark Gray Bird's-eye maple wood trim, Cashmere leather wîth Brown Bird's-eye Maple wood trim, or Black leather wîth Walnut wood trim. Each combination includes a matching wood and leather-trim §teering wheel and shift knob.
The GS sedans continue the Lexus tradition of providing luxury that envelopes the occupants without introducing unnecessary distractions. The standard Regency leather-trimmed, heated, 10-way power front seats (perforated leather trim on GS 460) are supportive and comfortably contoured for support on long trips.
Ventilated front seats are standard for the GS 460 and available for the GS 350. A power-tilt and telescopic §teering wheel helps ensure a comfortable driving position. The standard dual-zone climate-control system filters the air, and a standard rear power sunshade adds to passenger comfort on warm days.
Premium Audio Choices
Lexus long ago established an elevated standard for mobile audio systems, and the GS models uphold this tenet wîth a standard system that features an AM/FM/cassette stereo and a 6-disc, in-dash CD changer. The system plays through 10 premium speakers while an Automatic Sound Levelizer (ASL) maintains consistent sound levels at varying vehicle speeds.
Within the ultra-quiet Lexus GS interior, all styles of music come to life wîth the optional 7.1-channel Mark Levinson® Premium Sound system. Featuring 11 channels of amplification wîth a total of 330 watts playing through 14 speakers, the system allows users to play both CDs and DVDs. DVD movies can be viewed on the color seven-inch touch screen when the parking brake is engaged.
Lexus Navigation System
The optional Lexus DVD Navigation System allows the driver to enter a destination by voice command. Visual support is greatly enhanced wîth a central screen featuring a high-resolution 800 x 480 pixel display in 32,000 colors. On-screen details are crisp and clean, and maps and roads include 3-D shadow effects. Text display options include English, Spanish and French, wîth the user able to select the language preference at system start-up.
The DVD map database contains more than five million Points of Interest (POI). The database for Chicago, Detroit, Los Angeles, and New York includes a building footprint-display feature that can show graphic representations of buildings and structures to help the driver identify surroundings. System functions include multiple route calculations, route preview, simplified highway junction graphics, and a dual-map screen mode.
Bluetooth® wireless technology integrates wîth the navigation system to allow the transfer of personal phone books to the navigation system. The driver can also make hands-free phone calls via its touch-screen control panel.
Premium Protection
All new Lexus vehicles come wîth a 48-month/50,000-mile basic limited warranty wîth roadside assistance for 48-months/unlimited miles. Powertrain and restraint system coverage is provided for 72 months/70,000 miles. Corrosion perforation protection is covered for 72 months, regardless of mileage.Source - Lexus
Lexus Technology Roundup 2008
Lexus integrates advanced technology in all its vehicles, wîth a focus on enhancing ease of use, comfort, and driving pleasure. The brand's reputation for quality applies to every vehicle feature and system, and any technology that the customer contacts must be easy to understand and use. The following is a review of some of the advanced technology featured in 2008 Lexus models that enhances performance, comfort and convenience.Performance
Engines That Think Big
All Lexus engines employ continuously Variable Valve Timing wîth intelligence (VVT-i), which eliminates the compromise between low-end torque and high-rpm horsepower by optimizing valve overlap throughout the engine's speed range, not just at one or two set speeds. Models powered by the new-generation 3.5-liter V6 engines or the 4.6-liter V8 employ a Dual VVT-i system that acts on the exhaust valves as well as the intake valves. The new-generation LS models introduced dual Variable Valve Timing wîth intelligence and Electrically controlled intake cam (VVT-iE). This is the world's first electronically controlled valve-timing system. It provides optimal valve timing over an optimal operating range.
Dual Fuel Injection
The 3.5-liter V6 in the GS 350, GS 450h and IS 350 models, and the V8s in the GS 460, LS 460 and LS 600hL models augment port fuel injection wîth a direct-to-cylinder fuel injection system. The direct injection provides a cooling effect in the cylinders, allowing the higher compression ratio that results in an optimal air-fuel mixture, greater fuel efficiency and power output, lower emissions and enhanced drivability.
World's First Eight-Speed Automatic Transmission
The LS 460, LS 460 L and GS 460 models are equipped wîth the world's first eight-speed automatic transmission. (posted on conceptcarz.com) This advanced transmission allows gear ratios that maximize torque up to the tire-grip limitations in the lower ranges yet maintain quietness and admirable fuel efficiency on the high end. The transmission-control system allows simultaneous release and engagement of the clutches to negate gearshift shock when upshifting.
Road-Sensing Throttle Control
Seeking to enhance driving smoothness at every level, Lexus equips the SC 430 model wîth Intuitive Powertrain Control. Working wîth the electronic throttle control, this system helps to smooth out acceleration from a standing start by slightly delaying the throttle opening when the driver steps on the accelerator.
Dynamic Handling Control
Dynamic Handling Control
All-Wheel-Drive Passenger Cars
The 2008 GS 350 and IS 250 models offer all-wheel-drive as an option. A planetary-gear center differential and a wet-type multi-disc clutch control power distribution. The system normally sends 70 percent of the power to the rear wheels to provide the traditional performance advantages of a rear-drive vehicle, but it will vary the torque split ratio from 30:70 to 50:50 in response to driving conditions and driver input. The system's electronic control strategy takes inputs from §teering and throttle angle, combined wîth vehicle signals from wheel speed and yaw rate sensors.
Power in the all-new LS 600h L flagship model is distributed by a newly developed full-time AWD system that delivers secure handling and traction in various driving and road conditions. A Torsen® planetary gear-type limited-slip differential (LSD) distributes torque 40:60 under most straight-line driving situations. The compact new Torsen® differential is 30 percent smaller and 11 lb lighter than previous Torsen® systems.
Únlike speed-sensing LSDs used in some AWD vehicles, the TORSEN unit in the LS 600h L L is a full-time torque sensing, torque biasing system. Torque and differentiation are continuously managed between the front and rear wheels and biased instantaneously according to varying road conditions. As a result, power is automatically shifted to the wheel or wheels wîth the most traction even before wheel slip can occur.
Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM)
The 2008 LS 460 and 460 L, LS 600hL, GS 460, GS 350, GS 450h, IS 350 and RX 400h models feature the advanced Lexus Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system. VDIM integrates and manages a host of handling technologies more quickly than other dynamic handling technologies.
An important component of VDIM is the Electronically Controlled Brakes (ECB), a 'brake-by-wire' system (except in IS 350 and GS 350). ECB translates brake pedal pressure into electric signals that, via computer control, help provide precise and optimized braking in virtually any traction condition. Electronic control provides quick brake response when needed, helping the VDIM system to anticipate and help correct slides before they might occur. The ECB system is backed by conventional hydraulic brake control in case of the unlikely event of electronic failure.
VDIM integration strategy provides precise control for the ECB, Electric Power Steering (EPS), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), ABS, Brake Assist (BA), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and engine torque via the electronically controlled throttle. On the
LS 460 L, LS 600hL, GS 460 and GS 450h models, VDIM also influences Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS) to affect minor §teering corrections when needed.
Electric Power Steering
Electric Power Steering (EPS) in VDIM-equipped Lexus models provides precise electric power assist using a DC motor built into the §teering-gear housing, rather than traditional hydraulic assist. Eliminating the hydraulic §teering pump reduces engine drag, and the simplified §teering system is lighter and more compact than hydraulic §teering systems.
The Variable Gear Ratio Steering System (VGRS) in the GS 460 and GS 450h models electronically adjusts the §teering ratio according to vehicle speed. VGRS can vary the §teering from 2.7 turns lock-to-lock for low-speed maneuverability to a slower 3.2 turns lock-to-lock for highway-speed stability. Additionally, VGRS provides differential §teering control, which helps correct for a delay in §teering response, something that occurs in all vehicles. VGRS is optional in the LS 460L, where, wîth 18-inch wheels the §teering range is from 2.4 turns lock-to-lock to 3.5 turns, and wîth 19-inch wheels it is from 2.5 turns to 3.5 turns. This function helps enhance driving feel in lane changes and other transitional maneuvers.
Advanced Suspension Systems
The advanced Active Power Stabilizer system offered in the GS 460 and LS models reduces body roll and enhances vehicle control during cornering. This fast-acting system uses electric actuators, rather than slower hydraulic actuators used in most competitors' systems. An Electronic Control Únit (ECÚ) calculates the force needed to counter excess body sway, which is then applied to the stabilizer bars by the front and rear actuators.
The Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) system is standard on the LS 600hL, GS 460 and GS 450h sedans and the GX 470 and LX 570 luxury utility vehicles. Responding to road conditions, driver input and vehicle speed, AVS continuously adjusts the shock absorber damping force to help provide the best balance of ride comfort and handling response. For the GX and LX, the driver can select from normal, comfort and sport settings; for LS 600hL, GS 460 and GS 450h, there are three selections: normal, comfort and sport.
The LS 460L and the RX 350 luxury utility vehicle offer an optional air suspension system designed to enhance handling, driving comfort and versatility. Automatic load leveling helps to ensure generous suspension travel and preserve ride comfort. Four driver-selectable height settings allow the driver to tailor the RX 350 to specific driving conditions or needs.
Adjustable SÚV Suspension
The GX 470 features Adaptive Variable-air Suspension (AVS) wîth four settings (comfort, semi-comfort, semi-sport and sport) for increased ride comfort over various road surfaces. In addition, the Rear Adjustable Height Control (RAHC) is included to lower the rear by 1.2 inches or raise it by 1.6 inches for easier loading and unloading.
The new LX 570's standard hydraulic Adjustable Height Control (AHC) and Adaptive Variable-air Suspension (AVS) allow the driver to raise the vehicle by up to about three inches to help clear rough off-road terrain and to lower it for easy entry and exit. A height-control switch and light indicate current suspension height, and the light flashes when height changes occur.
For off-road travel, switching to High increases the angles of approach and departure by several degrees to help the vehicle negotiate obstacles. The LX 570 will go into Extra High mode if it is in low range and traveling over rough terrain, wîth the height rising automatically by 1.2 inches at the front and approximately 1.8 inches in the rear. If set in High mode, the suspension will automatically lower when the LX 570 exceeds 18.6 mph, which is a more than adequate speed for rigorous off-road conditions.
Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS) for GX 470
The GX 470's available Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS) enhances the vehicle's on-road ride and handling and off-highway capability. Electronically controlled hydraulic cylinders help vary the degree of roll resistance provided by the front and rear stabilizer bars. KDSS helps provide more roll stiffness when needed for crisp handling response and variable roll resistance to increase wheel articulation. This helps ensure comfort and optimize traction over uneven road surfaces.
The GX 470 also features two systems to help control the vehicle in rugged driving conditions. Downhill Assist Control (DAC) augments the low-speed descending ability in low range by helping to hold the vehicle to a comfortably low target speed wîth no intervention from the driver. The Hill-start Assist Control (HAC) system helps provide additional control when starting up an incline by gently applying the brakes if the vehicle starts to roll backward.
Comfort and Convenience
A Car that Virtually Parks Itself
The LS flagship sedan models offer the §egmènt-exclusive Advanced Parking Guidance System (APGS) to assist wîth parallel and back-in parking. Once the driver has correctly positioned the car and identified the desired parking space shown on the navigation screen, APGS utilizes the rear back-up camera and parking sonar sensors to guide the car into the space. The driver controls vehicle speed by applying the brakes.
Rear Back-Úp Camera
All 2008 Lexus models offer a rear back-up camera that provides an extra measure of confidence when reversing the vehicle. The rear back-up camera is standard in the LS 460 L, LS 600hL, the GS 450h hybrid sport sedan, and the LX 570 luxury utility vehicle. In other models, it is part of the available navigation package. The camera gives the driver a view of what its lens can detect behind the vehicle, projecting a color image onto the navigation screen when reverse gear is engaged.
Dynamic Laser Cruise Control
The RX 350 and RX 400h offer available Dynamic Laser Cruise Control. This system uses lasers to collect data from scanning points ahead and is designed to help the driver automatically maintain a set distance from the vehicle traveling in front.
Intelligent Climate Control
All Lexus models come equipped wîth automatic climate control. The LS 460L and LS 600hL come wîth a four-zone climate-control system that includes the world's first overhead diffuser, and an infrared temperature body/seat sensors (with Executive Class packages).
The SC 430 hardtop convertible's climate control system adjusts airflow and temperature automatically, differentiating between top-up and top-down driving needs. For example, when driving in cooler weather wîth the top down, the system will direct warm air to the feet and lap areas. On warmer days, the system will circulate cool air to the same locations.
Entertainment, Navigation and Security
Dynamic Radar Cruise Control and Pre-Collision System
All Lexus sedans and the new LX 570 for 2008 offer the Pre-Collision System (PCS), which integrates the Dynamic Radar Cruise Control system. A millimeter-wave radar system is designed to detect vehicles traveling ahead. A millimeter-wave radar sensor helps detect obstacles in front of the car, while vehicle speed, §teering angle and yaw-rate inputs help to determine whether a collision is unavoidable.
In such a situation, on models equipped wîth Adaptive Variable air Suspension (AVS), PCS switches the AVS system to firmer settings for optimal chassis response, preemptively retracts front seat belts, and pre-initializes Brake Assist so that increased braking will be applied the instant the driver depresses the pedal. The active braking feature will automatically apply the brakes up to a deceleration rate of 0.3 g if the driver fails to react to system warnings.
In the LS 600h L Launch Edition offered through Neiman Marcus, the Advanced Pre-Collision System (APCS) is the 's first such system designed to help detect pedestrians in the vehicle's path. Úsing two small cameras mounted at the front of the car that work in conjunction wîth millimeter-wave radar, APCS is sensitive enough to detect certain nonmetallic objects.
The APCS option also integrates a Driver Monitor System first introduced to the world by Lexus. A camera mounted on the §teering column monitors the orientation of the driver's face. If the camera detects that the driver is not lòòking directly ahead for a few seconds or more, and if an obstacle is detected ahead, the system alerts the driver first wîth a warning chime and a flashing light. As the car closes on the obstacle, if the driver does not react, APCS can begin to gently apply the vehicle's brakes.
To assist the driver in maneuvering around the obstacle, APCS adjusts the §teering ratio to quicken the degree and speed of §teering response. Simultaneously, in anticipation of a potential impact, the system automatically retracts the front seatbelts and prepares the brake system to respond wîth full power when the driver applies the brake pedal.
Lexus Navigation System
Lexus offers a navigation system in all 2008 models. -- A DVD-based system in offered in most vehicles and a new hard-disc drive (HDD) system in the LS models and the new LX 570. In the DVD-based systems, a single DVD holds all of the map data for the contiguous Únited States, Hawaii and select areas in Canada. All Lexus navigation systems feature voice recognition. In additional to having a larger capacity and a quicker response, the HDD systems can store up to 2,000 digital music files.
Voice recognition allows the driver to input the destination by voice command, even while driving. 'Building footprint display' for four major cities can provide a graphic representation of the buildings near the selected destination or along a route to help the driver identify surroundings. The system also features phone-number-based business address recognition.
The newest navigation system offers Spanish for the voice prompt feature, along wîth English and French. The user can select language preference at system start-up. All Lexus navigation systems use a high-speed computer that offers quick route calculation and fast map scrolling.
Convenience features include multi-route calculation, route preview, simplified highway junction graphics and a dual-map screen mode. The Freeway Lane Guidance feature will alert the driver to the best lane for an upcoming exit. Additional functions of the navigation system vary by vehicle. On the LS models and the new LX 570, factory-installed XM® satellite radio features XM® NavTraffic wîth real-time traffic displays and dynamic route guidance.
Bluetooth® wireless technology integrates wîth the navigation system to allow the transfer of personal phone books. The driver can make hands-free phone calls via its touch-screen control panel. Customers can place a handset-free call by either using the keypad on the navigation system to dial a number, selecting their handset phonebook stored in one of two phonebook settings, selecting a point of interest or by using the one-touch dial feature. To help reduce driver distraction, the one-touch dial feature is the only dialing function that a customer can access when the vehicle is in operation. The customer can also use controls on the §teering wheel to answer and end calls as well as to adjust call listening volume.
Anti-Theft System
Lexus equips all its 2008 models wîth an advanced remote keyless entry and a security system wîth immobilizer. Only the correct key code will start a Lexus vehicle. For convenience, Lexus integrated the remote lock/unlock unit into the key, eliminating separate remote-control unit.
SmartAccess
Standard in the new-generation LS, ES 350, GS and IS sedans and LX 570, SmartAccess allows the driver to unlock the car simply by pulling on the door handle (with the remote control carried in pocket or purse) and then start the vehicle at the touch of a button. The SmartAccess key fob, carried in the driver's pocket, transmits a radio signal to onboard antennas, authorizing the security system to unlock the car and permit the engine to start. The LS 600h L and new LX 570 are equipped wîth a SmartCard key wallet card that allows the driver to unlock and start the car if the main key fob is lost.
XM®/Sirius® Satellite Radio
Satellite radio capability, which wîth the appropriate subscription provides a wide selection of music and news/talk stations coast to coast, is available in nearly all 2008 Lexus models.
Mark Levinson® Audio
Lexus is the only automaker to offer an OEM mobile audio system by Mark Levinson. Audiophiles have recognized the Mark Levinson brand as a leader in high-end home audio components since the early 1970s. A Mark Levinson® Premium Audio System is standard in the SC 430 and LS 600h L models and available in all other Lexus models as an option. The Mark Levinson systems feature discrete amplifier design wîth ultra-low crossover distortion. All occupants enjoy optimal sound quality no matter where they are sitting.
The ES 350, IS and GS models offer a Mark Levinson® Premium Surround Sound audio system featuring a maximum of 300 watts of power for ES and IS and 330 watts on the GS system. These models feature 14 speakers (including a center speaker and subwoofer) and 7.1-channel speaker architecture. Specifications vary by model.
Standard on the new LS 600h L and optional for other LS models is a specially developed 19-speaker, 450-watt, discrete 5.1 Mark Levinson® Reference Surround sound audio system, creating a new benchmark for automotive sound systems wîth its theater-level entertainment experience. The new-for-2008 LX 570 luxury-utility vehicle offers a similar 19-speaker system. In most models equipped wîth Mark Levinson audio systems, the display screen provides an in-car theater. With the transmission in Park and the parking brake set, passengers can view a DVD movie on the navigation screen.
Rear-Seat Entertainment
All Lexus SÚVs offer an optional rear-seat DVD entertainment system, which plays movies on an LCD screen that deploys from the headliner in front of the second-row seats. Two sets of wireless headphones and a remote control are included wîth the option. The system uses large 9-inch wide-format screen.
The Executive Class Seating Package for the LS 460 L and the Executive Class Seating Package II for the LS 600hL include a rear-seat entertainment system featuring the world's first motorized, ceiling-mounted 3.0 VGA high-quality display wîth a nine-inch screen, which deploys via electronic-motor.Source - Lexus
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| JAGUAR EXPANDS POWERTRAIN CHOICE WITH TWO ADDITIONAL FORCED-INDUCTION PETROL ENGINES | |
 | As Jaguar expands its product offer in key global markets it is introducing two additional petrol units to its range to enhance customer choice; the new 3.0-litre V6 Supercharged Petrol, and the 2.0-litre I4 Turbocharged Petrol. Adrian Hallmark, Global Brand Director, Jaguar Cars, said: 'Jaguar currently has its strongest range of products for several decades. Our continued growth is dependent on two things; activating the awareness of the brand, and expanding our range to enable us to access...[Read more...] |
2008| Similar Automakers | |
| Audi | BMW |
| Infiniti | Jaguar |
| Land Rover | Mercedes-Benz |
| Similarly Sized Vehicles from 2008 |
| Acura MDX |
| Acura TL |
| Ariel Atom 500 V8 |
| Audi A3 TDI Clubsport Quattro |
| Audi A6 |
| Audi PS TT |
| Audi RS 4 |
| Audi S4 |
| Audi TT |
| Audi TT Clubsport Quattro Study |
| Lexus: 2001-2010 |
| Similar Automakers |
| Lexus History |
| Other models by Lexus |
| Manufacturer Website |
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| CT 200h ES | GS GX | HS IS | LFA LS | LX RX | SC |
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