Lexus RX 330 Leads Segment It Created

The Lexus RX 330, the best-selling model in the car-based, luxury SUV segment that it established, receives additional luxury details for 2006. The RX 330 was named the highest ranked entry luxury SUV in the J.D. Power and Associates 2005 Initial Quality StudySM (IQS), having also earned that title in 2004.

For 2006, the RX 330 luxury-utility vehicle adds an additional two-way power lumbar adjustment to the power front passenger seat, giving it the same 10-way control as the power driver seat. A new light-emitting diode (LED) glove box lamp and a new coin holder located in the center console add further convenience to the interior. Such changes reflect the attention to detail that has helped make the Lexus RX 330 the leader in its segment, and Lexus, the luxury vehicle market leader.

The RX 330 is built both in Japan at the Kyushu plant and at Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Canada, making it the first Lexus vehicle to be built in North America. The RX 330 platform was engineered from the outset to accommodate a hybrid powertrain, and so it shares its platform with the RX 400h hybrid model.

'The RX 330 sets a benchmark in quality, and that's just one reason it leads in sales,' said Bob Carter, Lexus group vice president and general manager. 'You can find many other reasons for the RX 330's overwhelming leadership in styling, packaging, luxury, technology, performance, safety and value.'

Lexus designed the RX 330 to provide the quietest and smoothest ride in its class. It delivers all-weather performance in both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive models. The RX 330 offers roomy accommodations, yet its efficient packaging makes it nimble and easy to drive.

The RX 330 is also designed to provide a high level of safety by offering a wide array of standard and available safety technology. Available in conjunction with the optional Lexus Navigation System, the rear back-up camera lens is mounted near the top of the license plate.

The system automatically projects a color image of what the camera lens can detect behind the vehicle onto the navigation screen when the vehicle is in reverse gear. The innovative Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS), which helps illuminate a turn or curve as the driver steers into it, is available with High-Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps as a standalone option.

Additionally, the RX 330 offers an available Dynamic Laser Cruise Control system like that offered on the Lexus LS 430 flagship sedan. The system uses lasers to measure distance from a vehicle traveling ahead and to help maintain a set distance from it.

The optional DVD navigation system integrates Bluetooth® wireless capability, voice activation and fourth-generation navigation software with expanded features.

Responsive, Refined Drivetrain

The Lexus RX 330 is powered by a 3.3-liter V6 engine that produces 223 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 238 lb-ft. of peak torque at 3,600 rpm. Continuously Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) helps optimize torque for quick and powerful response at all speeds. An electronic throttle control presides over several systems to maintain superior control of power flow. Known as Electronic Throttle Control with intelligence (ETC-i), this system helps manage idle speed, cruise control, Traction Control (TRAC) and Vehicle Stability Control (VSC).

Teamed with a five-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission, the V6 gives the RX 330 sporty performance, with zero-to-60 mph times of 7.7 and 7.8 seconds for the front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive models, respectively. The front-wheel drive model's EPA estimated fuel mileage ratings of 19 mpg city/25 mpg highway are among the best in class.

Comfortable Luxury, Smooth Ride

The RX 330 sets a benchmark for smooth, quiet ride quality, thanks to a rigid body structure, vibration-canceling engine mounts, sound-absorption materials and refined aerodynamic details. Noises from the powertrain, the road and wind have all been reduced to nearly the same levels as in the Lexus ES 330 sedan.

The stiff platform, standard 17-inch wheels and tight steering control help optimize handling response in the RX 330. Eighteen-inch wheels also are available. The optional air suspension system provides automatic leveling with four height settings to allow the driver to tailor the RX 330 to specific driving conditions or needs. With 'Normal' mode selected, the system automatically lowers the RX 330 by 0.3 inches at speeds over 62 mph for better stability. Selecting the 'Low' mode lowers the ride height by 0.6 inches to enhance handling response.

The 'High' mode setting raises ground clearance by 1.2 inches for driving over rough surfaces at speeds under 30 mph. An 'Access' mode lowers the RX 330 by 1.2 inches to provide easier entry, exit and loading. All RX 330 models with the air suspension system are equipped with a multimode sequential automatic transmission.

Advanced All-Wheel Drive

Both the front- and all-wheel drive RX 330 models come equipped as standard with the Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) system, which helps control loss of lateral traction while cornering. The VSC system helps keep the vehicle going on its intended course by detecting front- and rear-wheel slide during cornering, and attempting to control either condition with torque intervention and/or by applying the necessary brake pressure to the individual wheels.

The all-wheel drive RX 330 model uses a center differential to distribute engine power evenly between the front and rear wheels. If lateral wheelslip occurs, the VSC system re-apportions power from front-to-rear and side-to-side.

VSC and the Brake Assist feature work with the standard four-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). Brake Assist is designed to determine if the driver is attempting emergency braking. If the driver has not stepped firmly enough on the brake pedal to engage the ABS, the system applies maximum braking power until pedal pressure is released.

A Tire Pressure Monitor System alerts the driver via a light on the instrument panel if any of the tires is severely underinflated.

Comprehensive Safety Design

A high-strength cabin design and comprehensive Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) are designed to help provide a high level of crash energy management for all occupants. Structurally, the RX 330 is designed to help reduce damage to the passenger compartment even after front, side or rear impacts.

The Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) includes advanced front airbags for the driver and passenger, a knee airbag for the driver and front seat-mounted side airbags that are designed to help protect the torso, abdomen and pelvis. Side curtain airbags are designed to help offer additional crash energy management for the front and rear seat occupants. The side curtain airbags employ a roll sensor and can inflate if a predetermined threshold of vehicle roll angle is detected.

The technology behind the front airbags takes into account several factors, such as crash severity, passenger weight and driver seat position on the seat track.

The RX 330 offers several options designed to help improve visibility for night driving and poor weather conditions. Rain-sensing windshield wipers and HID headlights might be expected in this segment, but Lexus goes further by offering an AFS for better illumination in turns and curves.

With AFS, a central controller calculates the optimum lighting direction based on input from vehicle speed and steering angle and swivels the right and left headlights independently. The left beam can rotate from zero to 15 degrees in a left turn while the right beam remains in the center position. The right beam can rotate from zero to five degrees in a right turn while the left beam remains in a center position. A self-leveling feature (similar to HID) automatically levels the lights depending on road conditions. An AFS on/off switch allows the driver to disengage the AFS system at any time.

Versatile Utility and Benchmark Luxury

The RX 330's 106.9-inch wheelbase and 186.2-inch length result in an easy-to-drive, easy-to-park vehicle that provides roomy comfort for five occupants. The large rear cargo capacity of 38.3 cu. ft. expands to 84.7 cu. ft. with the rear seatbacks folded down. The rear seatbacks feature a versatile 40/20/40-split design, and the seat offers both sliding and reclining adjustments. An automatic retracting tonneau cover adds a measure of security and convenience to the cargo area.

Lexus craftsmanship and renowned attention to detail provide true luxury by design. Dual-zone automatic climate control and 10-way power front seats with available memory add comfort to the front cabin. The three-spoke steering wheel features easy-to-use controls for the audio system and trip computer. A sliding center console, adjustable light in the visor vanity mirrors and wood interior trim are among the details that set the tone for luxury in the RX 330. The high-performance audio system upholds the Lexus tradition of making premium sound quality standard.

For greater convenience, the standard power rear lift gate can be programmed for one-click opening via the keyless remote control. An auto-dimming rearview mirror with an integrated digital compass is standard, and both exterior mirrors are auto-dimming and heated. The integrated Homelink® transmitter can control a variety of compatible home security devices and systems.

Luxury extends to the smallest details in the RX 330, such as illuminated front cup holders. Premium-level options allow the customer to raise the luxury quotient even further. Notable examples include a power tilt/telescoping steering wheel with memory, a wide-opening multipanel moonroof and an illuminated entry system that lights the door handles, scuff plates and front footwells. A power rear liftgate and a wood and leather-trimmed steering wheel are among the standard luxury amenities offered in the RX 330. Customers can upgrade to the optional Mark Levinson® 11-speaker audio system and an in-dash six-disc CD changer. A factory-installed rear seat DVD entertainment system also is available.

Advanced Navigation Capability

The available DVD navigation system integrates several technologies for ease of use and minimized driver distraction. Voice activation helps make operation easier and more intuitive. Navigation software was upgraded in 2005 to expand capability and improve usability. The system provides multilanguage selection and very fast route calculation (about five seconds). Map modes with easy-to-understand graphics show freeway exit information, an intersection guide, upcoming exits (to avoid passing an intended exit), points of interest at the exits and a compass.

The DVD map database contains more than five million points of interest. The database for Chicago, Detroit, Los Angeles and New York also includes the 'building footprint' display feature that can show graphic representations of buildings and structures to help the driver identify his surroundings. System functions include multiple route calculations, route preview, simplified highway junction graphics and a dual-map screen mode.

The optional Lexus Navigation System also integrates Bluetooth® wireless technology. When combined with a compatible Bluetooth®-equipped phone, this global wireless technology allows the driver to transfer personal phone books to the navigation system and make hands-free phone calls through the navigation system's touch-screen control panel.

Customers can place hands-free calls in different ways. To help avoid driver distraction, the one-touch dial feature is the only dialing function that a customer can access when the vehicle is in motion. The system can store up to 18 one-touch dial numbers. Some Bluetooth® functions are disabled when the vehicle is in motion, however. The customer can use steering wheel controls to answer and end calls as well as adjust call volume.

As with all Lexus vehicles, the RX 330 comes with a 48-month/50,000-mile basic limited warranty with 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.

by Lexus

The new Lexus RX 350, the latest iteration of the World's most successful luxury SUV, goes on sale throughout Europe in April 2006. The RX model range's unrivalled reputation is founded on aerodynamically class-leading styling allied to excellent dynamic performance -most notably in the fields of engine performance, NVH, handling, ride comfort and braking- as well as a comprehensive range of advanced, technologically innovative features including air suspension, Neural Network Control air conditioning, an electrically operated tailgate, 40:20:40 split/folding rear seats and Intelligent Adaptive Front Lighting System (I-AFS). The RX range further benefits from the highest levels of active and passive safety, including a segment-first SRS knee airbag.

Reflecting Lexus' ongoing commitment to the pursuit of perfection in automotive quality, performance, technology and refinement, the RX model range has consistently topped the JD Power and Associates annual awards, winning the IQS (Initial Quality Study) category in 2001, 2003, 2004 and 2005, as well as the APEAL (Automotive, Performance, Execution, Layout) category in 1998, 2003, 2004 and 2005.

The new, 2006 Lexus RX 350 further refines driving pleasure through the classleadng performance of a new 3.5 litre V6 petrol powerplant. Mated to an ultrasmooth, 5-speed automatic transmission, this outstanding unit offers power and torque increases of 53kW/71DIN hp and 59Nm respectively over the previous RX 300, whilst simultaneously reducing fuel consumption by some 8%. Enhanced Noise Vibration and Harshness measures guarantee a marked reduction in noise levels at all vehicle speeds, whilst the new luxury SUV also features a new Mark Levinson® Premium audio system, as well as a new, high-speed Lexus Navigation System.

The highly compact, all-aluminium, chain-driven double overhead camshaft, 24 valve, 3,456cc V6 petrol engine features Dual VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing-intelligent) - an optimised variable intake and exhaust valve timing system- to achieve the perfect balance of high performance with low fuel consumption and emissions. A two-stage intake system featuring high efficiency ports with oblique spray injectors switches the air inlet path in accordance with driving conditions to both enhance performance and reduce noise. The port diameter and length have been optimised to improve output and torque, whilst an electric Acoustic Control Induction System (ACIS) adjusts the intake pipe length according to engine rpm, further boosting torque. Pentroof combustion chambers combine with iridium, high-ignitability spark plugs for excellent combustion and anti-knocking performance.

Roller rocker arms have been adopted for the chaindriven valve system, the marked reduction in friction between the cam and sliding components -15% at 2,000rpm- helping enhance fuel efficiency. In addition, the diameter of both intake and exhaust valves has been enlarged, whilst a concave camshaft profile increases valve lift to boost output. The system requires no valve clearance adjustment over the life of the vehicle. Within a stainless steel exhaust system, gas flow has been optimised to reduce exhaust pressure loss and enhance performance. And a catalyst-integrated exhaust manifold features ultra-thin-plate ceramic catalytic converters to further improve performance, significantly reduce warmup times and, hence, reduce emissions.

Extensive measures have been taken to maximise weight reduction within a remarkably compact powerplant design. The new V6 employs an aluminium die-cast cylinder block and intake manifold, lightweight pistons and a resin-made intake chamber. The overall engine assembly is made lighter and more compact through the installation of the water pump, oil filter and oil pump within the chain cover.

The new 3.5 litre V6 develops 203 kW/276 DIN hp @ 6,200 rpm and 342 Nm of torque at 4,700 rpm, awarding the new Lexus luxury SUV performance figures of 0-100kph in just 7.8 seconds, class leading in-gear acceleration and a top speed of 200 kph. With C02 emissions of 264g/km, the highly sophisticated 3.5 litre unit returns an outstanding 11.2 L/100km in the combined cycle.

ECT AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

AND 4-WHEEL DRIVE Equipped with Engine Torque Prediction, a Shift Phase Controller, a newly developed, high-efficiency torque converter and precise hydraulic control of the gearshift mechanism, the new transmission's wide range gear train promotes superior performance and excellent fuel economy.

The gearbox is able to execute multiple down-shifts on throttle kick-down –for example, from 4th to 2nd gearwithout the need to shift through intermediate ratios, significantly reducing downshift times, eliciting an even smoother gearshift and greatly enhancing throttle response. Moving the gearshift across activates a sequential-shift system, offering enhanced engine braking, precise control and greater driving involvement.

The RX 350's full-time 4-wheel drive deploys an even 50:50 torque split between front and rear wheels via a simple, compact and highly rigid transfer system, featurig a bevelled gear centre differential for optimum weight reduction. The RX 350's adopts a new centre differential featuring a viscous coupling. The limited-slip function inherent in this system not only promotes the smooth delivery of the increased horsepower generated by the new 3.5 litre V6, but also, allied to Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), further enhances traction and stability under all driving conditions.

ENHANCED NOISE VIBRATION AND HARSHNESS

Within the RX 350's highly rigid body structure, particular attention has been paid to noise and vibration reduction, ensuring that, though substantially more powerful than its predecessor, the new Lexus luxury SUV is significantly quieter at all engine speeds. Strategically placed sound absorbing materials to the bonnet, fender seal, dashboard, cabin floor, front footwells, roof headliner and transmission tunnel, allied to sound insulation to the cross-sections of all pillars combined with the use of foamed vinyl chloride in the car reduce the transmission of engine and road noise to the cabin to a minimum. In addition, the existing windscreen laminate has been replaced with a new three layer film, significantly reducing engine noise and wind noise at high cruising speeds.

MULTIMEDIA AND NAVIGATION SYSTEM

For those wanting best-in-segment best on-board infotainment, a new Mark Levinson® Premium system features a 10 channel, 300Watt amplifier, Dolby digital and DTS sound and 11 speakers. The system will also play MP3 and WMA files stored on an CD or DVD.

When installed in conjunction with the 7', 32,000 colour range, LCD centre console display screen of the next generation Lexus Navigation System, the Mark Levinson® Premium System introduces Lexus owners to the unparalleled audio experience of discrete home theatre entertainment optimised for the playback of music, music videos and DVD films within the luxurious environment of the new RX 350 interior. Employing a DVD disc to store map information of the entire Western Europe, the next generation Lexus Navigation System's speed of calculation has increased an impressive 65%, whilst the graphic draw performance is also three times faster. These enhancements offer substantially faster route calculation and map scrolling, areas in which the previous system was already a market benchmark.

The new Lexus Navigation System is equipped with 3-language voice activation, and voice guidance is available in 10 languages. The system is one of the few on the market to combine the advantages of both touch-screen and voice activation. A Search function that allows the user to search for the nearest Point of Interest using voice recognition has been incorporated, as well as a route tracing feature and lane guidance in major European cities. The voice recognition system responds to more than 200 spoken commands relating to the navigation, phone and audio functions in English, German and French.

A Bluetooth® phone, hands-free system is also integrated into the new Lexus Navigation System. It enables the user to make and receive hands-free phone calls by operating the touch-sensitive 7' LCD screen, or the steering pad switches. Moreover, the system can store all the contact numbers from a mobile phone or PDA SIM or USIM card.

Also available in the RX 350, the Lexus Parking Assist Monitor features a video camera mounted in the rear number plate surround that projects a full colour rear view of the surroundings onto the centre console display screen. Even greater manoeuvring accuracy is promoted by screen-generated guidelines which indicate the prospective path of the vehicle based on the current steering position, both for serial or parallel parking.

by Toyota Motor Europe

by Lexus