Showing posts with label lexus. Show all posts
Showing posts with label lexus. Show all posts

Tuesday, December 26, 2023

Lexus LBX

Lexus's first-ever compact crossover, the LBX, looks more like a glorified Toyota Yaris Cross but there's something more about this entry-level Lexus crossover.

2024 Lexus LBX
2024 Lexus LBX

Starting at 4.6 million Japanese Yen plus additional costs, the first-ever Lexus LBX is ironically slightly more expensive than its big brother, the UX, but being the glorified Toyota Yaris Cross it was meant to be, the LBX prefers to keep it modest on the city streets even though it was classified as a luxury vehicle.

2024 Lexus LBX
2024 Lexus LBX

Beginning with the design, the Lexus LBX is sized like its Toyota Yaris Cross derivative, making it easy to live with and park at its pace. With the front view reminiscent of the LM, the side view is highly reminiscent of today's Honda Fit and the rear view can be easily mistaken for an Aston Martin DBX so yes, it's classified luxury crossover from scratch but despite its luxury status, the LBX feels right at home at typical Japanese suburbs because of such sizing.

2024 Lexus LBX
2024 Lexus LBX interior

Asked about the interior, the LBX adopts the Tazuna concept approach applied in "new normal" Lexus vehicles, giving it a more minimalist approach. Behind the wheel, the LBX features a 12.3-inch TFT liquid crystal meter, a rather flashy HUD with touch tracer operation, and a 9.8-inch touch display audio, among others. As expected on a new normal Lexus, the controversial e-latch inside door handles are present, which is good until the car battery dies, rendering these handles inoperable, and leaving you trapped. Bad mark for Lexus there.

On the spacing side, this five-seater features foldable second-row seats, giving it 330 liters of boot space for FF variants when not using a 2-tier deck board. The extra two-liter under-deck storage gives slightly more space for goodies when needed.

2024 Lexus LBX
2024 Lexus LBX

The LBX is powered only by the 1.5L Hybrid Dynamic Force powertrain where the 1.5L M15A-FXE engine is connected to a 69kW electric motor and a Bipolar Nickel battery from the Aqua, producing a system power output of 136PS. Because all variants are mated to a CVT, the LBX's front-wheel drive variant can go up to 27.7kmpl of fuel economy under WLTC Mode standards while AWD variants get 26.2kmpl.

Running on the same GA-B platform as the Toyota Yaris Cross, the Lexus LBX behaves rather well on all walks of life even though it's a tad regular to drive on the open roads or with the AWD system that fits well on either tarmac, gravel, or snow. 

As for safety, the Lexus LBX is equipped with the evolved Lexus Safety System + and advanced parking assistance as well as Lexus Teammate Advanced Drive (Congestion Assistance), Lexus Teammate Advanced Park (with remote functionality), and Advanced Park remote functionality, among others.

It may be a glorified Yaris Cross that is slightly more expensive than its big brother, the UX, but the Lexus LBX is an entry-level crossover that prefers to be modest and down-to-earth not just on city roads but almost everywhere. Tackling through all walks of life and getting the job done is what the LBX does best, albeit not as exciting as expected, but still, it's all about keeping it plain and simple the Lexus way.

Photo: Toyota Motor Corporation

Friday, October 20, 2023

Lexus LM (TAWH15W)

Lexus's first-ever minivan, the LM, has arrived and those who believed that today's Toyota Alphard and Vellfire aren't luxurious enough for them should consider the fanciest equivalent if they have a massive price to pay.

2024 Lexus LM
2024 Lexus LM

The first-ever Lexus LM, priced at 20 million Yen plus additional costs, is no doubt the most expensive minivan in the world thanks to its ultra-luxurious features that can upset today's BMW 7-Series. Although this is basically the highest-ranked version of the Toyota Alphard it was based on, the Lexus LM is fit enough for the 1% to relax while on the move.

2024 Lexus LM
2024 Lexus LM

Beginning with the exterior design, the LM features an Alphard-esque side view while donning an un-Lexus front face and a rear view that proudly spells LEXUS all over. This is the first time you'll see a Lexus logo on the front face that is not in the grille since the LFA supercar from a long time ago and such appeal really means authority for the LM.

2024 Lexus LM
2024 Lexus LM interior

2024 Lexus LM
2024 Lexus LM interior

Despite its minivan looks, the Lexus LM is basically a four-seater fancy living digest because the driver's side and the passenger's side are separated by the 48-inch flat-screen monitor. Beginning with the driver's side, it's packed with the LFA-inspired instrumental panel that most Lexus models don as well as the HUD, a 14-inch touchscreen sat-nav, loads of USB-C ports, climate control, and so on.

On the passenger's side, this is where the out-on-a-limo experience kicks in because, with the special device, passengers can control the ottoman seats with the built-in massager, ambient lighting, the rear entertainment system, air conditioning, and others. Mind you, the rear monitor features a picture-to-picture experience so passengers can watch some movies while video conferencing with other businesspeople when they're out of the office, stuck in traffic, or whatever comes across them. Don't forget that there's a built-in refrigerator where they can store your refreshments as well.

2024 Lexus LM
2024 Lexus LM

Just like its lesser Toyota Alphard and Vellfire equivalents, the Lexus LM runs on the TNGA platform, front MacPherson struts, rear double wishbones, and ventilated disc brakes. The only powertrain is the same one used in the RX500 F SPORT Performance and the Toyota Crown Crossover. It combines the 2.4L T24A-FTS turbocharged engine with two electric motors and a nickel-metal battery, producing 371PS of system power output and while mated to a 6-speed AT, it has 13.5km/l of combined fuel economy based on WLTC Mode standards.

Because of the DIRECT4 all-wheel drive system, the LM feels different to drive compared to today's Toyota Alphard and Vellfire minivans with e-Four in it and it feels rather silly to put it on Sport Mode because that will make it a "king in its throne". Toilet finish. Speaking of toilet finish, the Lexus LM features a signature Rear Comfort driving mode that prioritizes comfort for rear passengers while on the move. Although it isn't textbook Rolls-Royce comfort, it soothes the rear passengers like a mermaid's tale all the way home.

Speaking of a mermaid's tale, the Lexus LM features the third-generation Lexus Intelligent Safety System+ (LSS+3.0) with a Pre-Crash Safety system, Front Cross Traffic Alert, Radar Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert, Lane Change Assist, Road Sign Assist, Adaptive High-Beam System, driver monitor, Proactive Driving Assist, and others. It even comes with the Lexus Teammate Advance Drive, and Advance Park as well.

The ultra-luxurious and ultra-expensive Lexus LM is the ultimate luxury minivan fit enough for the 1% to relax while on the move. Whether you're going to Okada, Newport World Resorts, Solaire, City of Dreams, Hann, or whatever casino-resorts these minivans serve, rest assured that the Lexus LM will blow away the lesser Toyota luxury minivans such as the Alphard, Vellfire, and the GranAce from arrival to departure. Consider yourselves VIPs.

Available Colors: Sonic Quartz, Sonic Titanium, Graphite Black Glass Flake, and Sonic Agate.

Photo: Toyota Motor Corporation

Thursday, April 20, 2023

My FH5 Log: The last V8 JDM Coupes

What do the Lexus RC and the LC have in common? They're both coupes, they both have V8 engines, and they both took part in Super GT a long time ago.


Lexus is the only Japanese car brand that can stuff a V8 engine on their sports coupes such as the RC F and the LC 500, and as the world braces for the new normal, they'll soon be wiped out from the face of the earth. Before giving these two V8 JDM coupes a proper send-off, let's get to know them first.


The facelifted Lexus RC F in its Track Edition (Performance Package in Japan) glory is one of the DLC cars in the game and one of the most potent Japanese sports cars to drive in the game. 

For its minor change, the RC F's 5.0L V8 engine has been slightly boosted by 5HP of power and 8Nm of torque thanks to its revised intake routing and lower rpm trigger for the secondary intake opening. While extensive lightweight materials aren't enough for an ordinary RC F, the Track Edition (Performance Package) variant saw the fixed rear wing, the bonnet, the roof, and other aerodynamic materials made from carbon fiber as well as Brembo carbon ceramic brakes, a titanium muffler and tailpipe, dropping the weight between 70 to 80kg. 

Such extensive lightweight work made this variant goes from 0-100kph in four seconds, half a second quicker than the pre-facelifted RC F.


The Lexus LC 500 is the prize car from Forza Horizon 5's Midnights at Horizon Dry Season Playlist. I obtained it after hitting 20 points in the said playlist and now that I got one, it's time to have a word with this car. Of course, because it runs on the TNGA platform, this is the first time the Forza franchise featured a Toyota/Lexus model donning the TNGA platform, so let's have an earful with it. Ahem. With styling inspired by the LF-LC Concept, the LC 500 is powered by the same 5.0L V8 engine as the RC F mentioned above but with 472HP of power produced while mated to a Lexus-first 10-speed AT. 

The Lexus LC became the last Lexus vehicle to compete in the Super GT's GT500 class before it was replaced by the Toyota GR Supra for the 2020 season. In its three-season tenure from 2017 to 2019, the LC 500 emerged as the two-time champion with the #37 KeePer TOM'S and the #6 WAKO'S 4CR LC500 bagging the titles.



Both the RC F and the LC500 are like two sides of the same coin. The RC F, in its Track Edition glory, is all about showcasing the true side of the RC F while the LC500, well, it was basically built with grand touring in mind, unlike its Super GT-winning equivalent. Differences aside, they're both a real blast to drive because of their "over 9000" behavior, rumbling V8 soundtrack, and the Japanism lurking beneath them. It's no wonder most speedo boys had wanton fantasies about Japanese sports cars, especially these two that are in their prime.



Speaking of prime, it's time to give these two Japanese V8 coupes the proper send-off they need, and with Guanajuato's my personal lab for their last dance, it's time to give these aging eight-cylinder samurais the regal finale they'll never forget. Roll the tape.


After their last dance, here are the results;

LC 500 - 1m.11.455s

RC F Track Edition - 1m09.336s

It looks like the RC F Performance Package wins the final fight against the LC500 by nearly two seconds. What an astonishing gap between them even though they're both powered by the same ancient force that woke them.


As their time in this unstable world is nearing its climax, rest assured that the LC500 and the RC F are the greatest machines ever to come out from Japan because they're the last V8 sports cars to come out from the Land of the Rising Sun. Although it sounds cruel, this is the new normal we live in but their legacies will be forever in our hearts and minds.

Domo arigato, our ever-favorite V8 JDM coupes. You made us proud.

Tuesday, April 11, 2023

Lexus RZ 450e

The first-ever Lexus RZ has arrived, signaling the start of Lexus's journey to electrification in the midst of the new normal. So, what's it all about Lexus's first original electric crossover that shook the world since its world premiere?

2023 Lexus RZ
2023 Lexus RZ

Priced at an ultra-expensive 8.8 million Japanese Yen plus additional costs, the first-ever Lexus RZ electric crossover is an all-original electric crossover built from the ground up and ready to take on the new normal like bread and butter. The razor-sharp looks, luxurious interior, cutting-edge technology, and modest performance made the RZ a worthy contender to the likes of Mercedes's EQC and Audi's Q8 e-Tron.

2023 Lexus RZ
2023 Lexus RZ

Beginning with the design, the RZ draws inspiration from the LF-Z Electrified Concept, the one that spearheaded Lexus's new design direction that was started with the second-generation NX. Forged by the brand's new design direction, the RZ, as the name implies, is razor sharp and knife edge in every direction, and if looks could kill, the RZ is the last thing you'll ever going to see on the road. It takes a stealthy approach as an electric crossover until it delivers its second strike.

2023 Lexus RZ
2023 Lexus RZ interior

Razor sharp the exterior design is, the RZ features a fully-functional interior that combines minimalism, a user-friendly approach, and comforts like a true luxury car should. At the driver's side, the RZ features a conventional steering wheel at launch, a rotary shift selector, a new and compact air conditioning unit, an available digital rear-view mirror, a 14-inch touchscreen with a rather annoying voice activation feature, USB-C connectivity, and more.

On the comfort side, the RZ can accommodate up to five people, and although too expensive to be used as a people carrier or for TNVS purposes, its purpose is to escort VIPs to their desired situation like a boss. As for boot space, the RZ can accommodate 522 liters of luggage with the rear seats present, and when folded down, it can fit up to 1451 liters. Coupled with useful features such as the hands-free power back door, a tonneau cover, and a hidden deck board underneath, there are many ways to make use of the RZ's boot space for keeps.

2023 Lexus RZ
2023 Lexus RZ

Running on the e-TNGA platform used by the rental-only Toyota bZ4X, the RZ features eAxle, DIRECT4 AWD system, and the most sophisticated chassis and suspension setup curated to deliver a signature Lexus driving feel no matter where you're going. With its posture, traction, and power distribution, the RZ's dynamics are nearly great to live with and it takes guts to fully understand how it behaves on the open road.

Asked about the steering, the RZ features a conventional rack-assisted electric power steering system that feels above average for an electric crossover like this. However, to bring the most out of the RZ, Lexus is working on a new One Motion Grip steer-by-wire system coming to this mid-decade as a new option. The One Motion Grip system involves the use of an F1-style steering wheel, otherwise known as the yoke, which delivers less stress and more engagement for the drivers. Although controversial, the special steering wheel is worth checking out if Lexus is done experimenting with it and ready for market introduction.

Because of its eAxle, DIRECT4, and its 71.40kWh li-ion battery pack, the RZ's electric propulsion system produces a total power output of 313PS and 432Nm of torque output. It has a 0-100kph time of less than five and a half seconds and a top speed of 160kph. The driving range is good for 494km based on WLTC Mode standards.

As an electric crossover built for the new normal, the Lexus RZ features a wide array of advanced safety features such as a Pre-Collision System, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert and Lane Tracing Assist, Lane Change Assist, Driver Monitor, Proactive Driving Assist, and more. Such features are worth surprising for the drivers behind the wheel, although some would not be happy about these features.

The first-ever Lexus RZ truly is the start of a new era for Lexus at the age of electrification. Although above average to drive until the yoke is loose, the razor-sharp styling, interior, and tech made the RZ fit for the new normal. This is something to watch out for; stealthy recasting and a second strike.

Available colors: Sonic Quartz, Sonic Iridium, Sonic Chrome, Graphite Black Glass Flake, Sonic Copper, and Ether Metallic.

Photo: Toyota Motor Corporation

Saturday, December 31, 2022

Lexus RX (A10/A15/H16/H17)

The Lexus RX, the forefather of luxury crossovers, is now on its fifth generation, and it promises to be the most revolutionary RX ever made because of its powerhouse choice of powertrains, highly advanced tech, and the most luxurious features to date.

2023 Lexus RX
2023 Lexus RX

With prices starting at 6,640,000 Japanese Yen plus additional costs, the all-new, fifth-generation, Lexus RX is the latest evolution of the forefather of luxury crossovers. How's it going right now is entirely up to this newest version, which is packed with new features that made it the best RX ever made.

2023 Lexus RX
2023 Lexus RX

Beginning with the design, the new RX carries the new-generation Lexus design DNA inherited from the current NX, so you can think of it as its big brother. While the controversial front face is the signature Lexus moment, the rear view can be easily mistaken for the defunct Infiniti QX70 while the rear view can be vaguely mistaken for an Opel Adam. Despite its debatable design, it's still the best of both worlds and the same goes for the sporty F SPORT variant with sporty aesthetics slapped all over.

2023 Lexus RX
2023 Lexus RX interior

The new interior adopts the Tazuna Concept approach to make it minimal and driver-focused. The Remote Touch from the previous model's gone because it now features a touchscreen on the dashboard with a set of dials on it for volume control and others as well as USB-C outlets, ambient lighting system, available Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound system, available Qi wireless charging port, and others. Some would find it rocket science but it's worth fun toying with its features, given that you don't want to spend too much time on the voice control a la Alexa.

On the passenger side, this five-seater is more spacious in boot space and legroom terms than the previous model thanks to its bigger dimensions. This should be more than enough to escort VIPS while carrying sensitive cargo like a classified courier on a mission.

2023 Lexus RX
2023 Lexus RX

Running on the improved TNGA platform, the all-new RX behaves better than the previous model it replaces, and no matter which driving mode you're on, be it in its most comfortable setting or in the sportiest setting (if you're in the F SPORT variant), it always leaves a lasting impression everywhere. Although it feels Audi-ish to drive, the new RX is all about making a statement on those behind the wheel.

Speaking of powerhouse choice of powertrains; the all-new RX is offered with a choice of a turbo, PHEV, and the first ever turbo-hybrid exclusive for the RX500 F SPORT Performance. The RX350's T25A-FTS 2.4L turbo engine produces 279PS of power, 430Nm of torque, and while mated to an 8-speed AT, it has 11.8km/L of fuel economy. In the first-ever RX450h+ PHEV, the A25A-FX5 2.5L petrol engine is connected to two electric motors generating a total of 309PS of power, and while mated to a CVT gearbox, it has 18.8km/L of fuel economy. Lastly, the first-ever RX500 F SPORT Performance combines the 2.4L T24A-FTS turbocharged engine to two electric motors and a nickel-metal battery, producing a sporty 371PS of power and while mated to a 6-speed AT, it has 14.4km/L of fuel economy. All are calculated by WLTC Mode standards.

Because the world is in the middle of the new normal, the all-new RX comes with Lexus Safety System +, a suite of advanced driver assistance systems such as Proactive Driving Assist, Pre-Collision Safety, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert, Advanced Drive, Advanced Park, and Safe Exit Assist, among many others.

After two decades of evolution, the fifth-generation Lexus RX feels like it had reached its zenith. It's not just an evolution, it's more like a revolution as some would say. As a luxury crossover built for all walks of life, the Lexus RX is all business, all leisure, like it or not. The more you know.

Photo: Toyota Motor Corporation

Wednesday, January 12, 2022

Lexus LX600 (VJA310W)

First launched in Japan in the fall of 2015, the Lexus LX is a monstrously-sized SUV catered for those who think their Toyota Land Cruiser is not enough. Although it has more power and luxury compared to its Land Cruiser brother, it struggled to catch up because of the bourgeois price tag and sizing that is worth a challenge on Japanese roads. With the arrival of the all-new LX, looks like owners of last year's Toyota Land Cruiser 300 Series are in for a bittersweet moment...

2022 Lexus LX
2023 Lexus LX

Priced at an ultra-expensive 12.5 million Japanese Yen plus additional costs, the all-new Lexus LX is prepared to steal the Toyota Land Cruiser 300's spotlight by any means necessary, although it's still as premium and capable as its Land Cruiser 300 brother, with some added touches that will bring tears of shame to those who have owned a Land Cruiser 300.

2022 Lexus LX
2023 Lexus LX

Beginning with the design, the all-new LX is something to be called bourgeois probably because of its added size that will be challenging to live with Japanese and European motoring conditions but mostly because of the massive front grille that will embarrass even the most bourgeois-looking BMWs of today. Speedo boys truly dislike cars with massive grilles because of being pointless and silly but this is the new normal, ladies and gentlemen. Although the front face is revolting, the LX is the second Lexus to ditch the logo at the back in favor of the LEXUS lettering first seen in the second-generation NX crossover as part of the brand's next design chapter.

2022 Lexus LX
2023 Lexus LX

Checking on the interior, the all-new LX now boasts two monitors on the dashboard, a first for a Lexus vehicle. The top is a touch screen that works, unlike the previous model where you will only use the Remote Touch to select various modes, which the new model no longer possesses. The bottom screen, meanwhile, is where it displays climate control and driving-related information. There's so much to toy around with the dashboard but the great Achilles Heel of the new interior is the new fingerprint recognition on the engine switch. While it was made to combat a bad case of GTA, the implementation of fingerprint recognition is like the one account per person rule. It's a lot difficult setting up a new one in the case when your original account's in trouble, but anyway, long story short.

In addition to having five or seven seats, the all-new LX features a four-seater variant for the first time under the EXECUTIVE tagline. The LX600 EXECUTIVE features two larger rear seats with extra legroom, special climate control features, a multi-function rear console, and extended legroom with an ottoman for when you want to relax. Something that Boss Madam is more than happy to have. Whichever LX you choose, they're more spacious than their predecessor as expected.

2022 Lexus LX

Just like the new Toyota Land Cruiser, the glorious V8 engine of its predecessor has been thrown away and replaced by a more polar bear-friendly V35A-FTS V6 3.5L Twin Turbo engine that produces 415PS of power and 305NM of torque. Mated to a Direct Shift 10AT, it delivers up to 8.1kmpl of fuel economy based on WLTC Mode Standards. Slightly more than the Land Cruiser.

Thanks to its GA-F platform, lightweight and rigid bodywork, front double wishbones, rear four-link rigid axle, Active Height Control, Adaptive Variable Suspension, all-wheel-drive, Electric Power Steering, Electronically Controlled Brake system, and many other improvements, not to mention offroad-handy features such as Crawl Control and Multi-Terrain Select, the new LX feels livelier and more capable than the previous model, although its spartan driving manners fit for a heavyweight offroader lingers on. It almost feels like an American offroader in various ways, but with the OFFROAD variant with a specially-made differential, the new LX feels like it's ready to take on the elements in style and command. Weekends at Hannibal's, anyone?

Being a high-value luxury offroader made in Japan, the all-new LX features Lexus Safety System+, an improved suite of safety features such as Pre-Collision System, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Road Sign Assist, Lane Tracing Assist, BladeScan, and more.

Being the most premium and capable Japanese luxury offroader ever built, the all-new Lexus LX is more than ready to take on the new normal with its commanding presence, luxurious interior, turbocharged V6 engine, and an arsenal of gadgetry. Those who had the Toyota Land Cruiser 300 will be sorry because the LX features everything that its Toyota equivalent doesn't have and those who haven't been feeling jelly, wishing they would like to have a taste of the new LX someday. Whatever the reason, the ultimate luxury offroader has finally arrived and it's time to roll down the red carpet for the new model.

Photo: Toyota Motor Corporation

Wednesday, December 8, 2021

Second Generation Lexus NX

The Lexus NX, Japan's answer to the Audi Q5, Mercedes-Benz GLC, and the BMW X3, is now on its second generation and this new model has signaled a fresh new chapter to the Lexus history. So, how did the new model manage to hit the reset button on the Lexus timeline and promise new beginnings? Let's find out.


The all-new, second-generation, Lexus NX, which starts at around 4,550,000 Japanese Yen plus additional costs, marks the new chapter of Lexus because judging by the looks of it, the new NX sets the template for future Lexus vehicles and this is something the world should look forward to it.

Why does the new NX set the new standard for Lexus? Look closely at its new design. For starters, the front face looks nearly identical to the previous model but the rear view is where everything changes because this is the first Lexus production model bearing the LEXUS lettering on the rear instead of the logo. This new adoption truly sparked a revolution, not evolution, in the future of Lexus designs and the new NX really is the prime example that the next generation of Lexus vehicles should follow, like it or not.

Although it's slightly bigger than the previous model, thanks to the GA-K platform its Toyota RAV4 equivalent dons, the new NX is almost compact and has no problems snugging through Tokyo traffic like a typical shot caller ready for another day at the meeting boardroom.



Like the new exterior design, the new interior also marks a major change for Lexus as well. The Remote Touch, first introduced in the third-generation RX in 2009, has been dumped for good and the new 9.8-inch screen on the dashboard is basically, surprise, a touch screen. Of course, to avoid scaring speedo boys behind the wheel, there are buttons and dials for the volume and climate control. Thoughtful thinking. That's surprisingly conservative compared to the German opposition donning speedo-boy-scaring gadgetries.

Despite its slightly longer wheelbase, the new model is slightly less roomy than the previous model, which is a bit of a whammy for the new model, judging by the fact that the boot space is 10L less than its predecessor with the rear seats present and with the rear seats folded, that's about 164L less. Ouch.


The GA-K platform the new NX dons gave the crossover a sedan-riding comfort and dynamics, which is pretty nice for a compact midsize SUV that tries to keep up against the Germans. Riding on FF layout alone, it's about as mild as a Dove soap, but with the 4WD layout on, the NX is all about being prepared for whatever life throws at it. Milder than the FF one but it's good on so many levels.

With the F SPORT variant, the NX's dynamics balance its mild character with a more dramatic feel, giving drivers plenty of reasons to enjoy it but in the end, it's all common sense.

The new NX is offered with a choice of new Dynamic Force engines such as the 2.5L petrol, 2.5L hybrid, and the first-ever 2.4L turbo engine. It's the first Lexus to have a PHEV variant, donning the same 2.5L PHEV powertrain as the RAV4 PHV. Petrol variants are mated to an 8-speed automatic while the hybrid and the PHV are equipped with the CVT.

The NX350 F Sport is the most fun of the range because the newly-developed T24A-FTS 2.4L turbo engine that powers it produces 279PS of power and 430Nm of torque. Those who wanted to experience the true expression of the new NX should go for the NX450h+ because the combination of the A25A-FXS 2.5L petrol engine, two electric motors, and a Li-ion battery delivers 309PS of power, three more than the RAV4 PHV, and 19.8km/L of fuel economy based on WLTC standards. Lastly, those who want to travel further should go for the less exciting NX350h because of the 2.5L hybrid powertrain that delivers up to 22.2kmpl based on WLTC standards.

The new NX comes with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, featuring the most advanced driver aids such as Risk Avoidance Emergency Steer Assist, Left Turn Oncoming Vehicle Detection/Braking, Right/Left Turn Oncoming Pedestrian Detection/Braking, the updated Pre-Collision System, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control with Curve Speed Management, Road Sign Assist, Lane Assistance, Intelligent High Beam, and more.

So, what to like about the new NX? It's the new design that sets the new standard for future Lexus vehicles coming soon, the functional interior, a wide array of powertrains available, and the most advanced tech available. What's not to like is the space and nothing more. Like it or not, the new NX is truly a sign of things to come for Lexus, and being the first to don the next evolution of Lexus designs, looks like the trumpet has blown. Get ready.

Photo: Toyota Motor Corporation

Thursday, December 31, 2020

Lexus IS (2021 minor change) and LS (2021 minor change)

Two Lexus sedans, the sporty IS and the ultra-luxurious LS, gained major refreshes for the 2021 model year and these latest facelifts look and feel like they're way beyond facelifts. Let's scope into these updated versions.

2021 Lexus IS

2021 Lexus IS interior

We begin with the sporty one known as the Lexus IS, the current third-generation model has gained a second and biggest minor change in its lifespan and this recent facelift made the IS look and feel different in every single way.

Beginning with the design, the facelifted IS is now sharper looking than the previous facelift, giving speedo boys more reasons to love this luxury sports sedan even more. Why? When this generation was launched in 2013, most speedo boys are in a shock over the way it looks and the first facelift made it even more questionable. With the second facelift of the third-generation IS, this is the IS that speedo boys demanded for, a sharp-looking luxury sports sedan that can be enjoyed harder for longer.

While the exterior now made even more admirable, the interior feels pretty much the same except that now, they've made the sat-nav screen longer than the old one and the seats even more premium. With all that comfort and all that tech to toy with, this newly facelift IS really means something.

As such, the IS still offers three choice of powertrains such as the 2.0L turbo, the 2.5L hybrid, and the 3.5L V6 engine. Due to a change of plans, the only way to get an all-wheel drive Lexus IS, in case when things get wet or freezing, is to go hybrid. That sucks because the normal petrol ones, the turbo and the V6, are rear-wheel drive as standard.

The Lexus IS gained some reworked dynamics after it was honed at the Toyota Technical Center Shimoyama. With its improved rigidity and reworked suspension, the IS feels even more matured to drive. You can spend the rest of your day off understanding this luxury sedan further.

While you were busy enjoying the IS's improved drivability, you should know that this 4.8 million yen car has festooned with the updated Lexus Safety System+ such as the Pre-Collision System with Frontal Collision Warning, Automatic Emergency Braking, Pedestrian Detection and Bicyclist Detection, All=Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert, and more.

2021 Lexus LS

2021 Lexus LS interior

Now, let's scope through the facelifted Lexus LS, which starts at around 9,996,000 Japanese Yen. For its latest facelift, the Lexus LS is now more mature looking than when it first came out in late 2017, judging by its new front face that features new, mature-looking headlights, which is better looking than the Z-shaped lamps from the pre-facelifted model.

Come close to the interior and apart from the new 12.3-inch touch-operated display, there's something alluring about the new LS's interior and that's because the folks from Lexus wanted to put a slice of Japanese art on the door trims. This is artisanship done right and with such artisanship involved in the making of the new LS's interior, you can really feel its Japanese vibes when you get accommodated into it. It's like wearing a fancy kimono, if you know what I mean.

Like the pre-facelift, the updated Lexus LS still offers a choice of a 3.5L V6 Twin Turbo (V35A-FTS) engine mated to a 10-speed automatic gearbox and the 8GR-FXS 3.5L V6 engine with two electric motors and lithium-ion battery, guaranteeing a 13.6km/L on the WLTP scale.

For the sake of technology, the updated Lexus LS features a rather clever but noticing Lexus Teammate, featuring the latest in advanced driving assist technologies. Such tech made the LS living in science-fiction and the Level 2 autonomy really is noticing and in case of speedo boy driving one, he'll be running scared because of the highly advanced safety tech that outsmarted him one by one.

These two facelifted Lexus saloons look and feel like they're way beyond facelifts and with all that tech festooned on it, the new IS and the new LS really shows that Lexus are on the serious side and it's time for us to get serious on these updated machines.

Photo: Toyota Motor Corporation

Lexus LC Convertible

The Lexus LC Convertible is now a living thing and it joined alongside the LC lineup, signaling Lexus' return to convertibles since the IS C and the SC, two forgotten open-tops. The question is, will the LC Convertible face the same fate as the other two or is it as fun to drive as its hardtop equivalent?

2021 Lexus LC Convertible

With prices starting at 15,000,000 Japanese Yen, it's about as costly as the LC500h in S Package grade, which is somewhat well-gambled for the wealthy speedo boy looking for a luxury Japanese sportscar that loves to taste the asphalt all day long.

Unlike its hardtop equivalent, the LC Convertible is available only with the almost prehistoric 2UR-GSE 4.0L V8 engine that produces 477 PS of power and 540Nm of torque while mated to a 10-speed Automatic Gearbox, which is common sense for the speedo boys.

Because being a convertible, it has gained around a hundred kilos of weight compared to the coupe but the added weight didn't bother its fun-to-drive character. Sure, it's not as fast and as quick as its European rivals but as a grand tourer, the LC Convertible truly fits the bill perfectly. Roof on or roof off, it really shows how much of a Lexus the LC Convertible is and for speedo boys, it's glory days.

Its enjoyable dynamics, despite the added weight and the expensive pricing worthy of a gambit, is what made the LC Convertible a good luxury sports car all around. Yes, it's not capable of winning drag races and track days but for a smooth ride like a grand tourer, the LC Convertible, like its hardtop equivalent, really means business and pleasure and we'd really want to thank Toyota for that.

Photo: Toyota Motor Corporation

Friday, October 23, 2020

Forza Horizon 4: Reasonably fast Toyotas

The Lexus IS F and the Toyota 86 completes the Series 27 prize car lists and now that I got my hands on these two let's have a quick navigation between these two rear-wheel drive JDM greats.


The IS F is the first of Lexus's high-performance F sub-brand, which is made to target the likes of Mercedes-AMG, BMW M, and Audi RS. Based on the second-generation IS, it was powered by a 5.0L direct injected 2UR-GSE V8 engine producing 423PS of power and 503Nm of torque. It was mated with an 8-speed paddle shift transmission.


The Toyota 86 made its world premiere at the 2011 Tokyo Motor Show and went on sale a year later, signaling Toyota's return to making sports cars. Built in cooperation with Subaru, which spawned its BRZ equivalent, the 86 is powered by a 2.0L flat-4 engine producing over 200PS of power while mated to either a 6-speed manual or automatic.



With the quick navigation over, let's give these two some actual demonstrations to see what they're made for.



Excellent. There's nothing more to talk about.

Friday, October 9, 2020

Forza Horizon 4: It's just an RC F

A trio of Toyota Motor Corporation's finest sports cars are making a comeback on the Series 27 update of Forza Horizon 4. One of them is the Lexus RC F, the car that I just won from the Horizon Autumn Playlist.


Served as the replacement to the legendary IS F, the RC F is Japan's answer to BMW M4 and it delivers similar performance compared to its German rivals. Under the hood, the RC F comes with the same 5.0L V8 engine derived from the IS F but it's been updated so it produces 477PS of power and 530Nm of torque. It is mated to an 8-speed SPDS.


With the quick info done, how about a little demonstration at the Festival?



Job well done. There's nothing else I can say.

Enjoy your new ride.

Thursday, February 20, 2020

Forza Horizon 4: The Lexus LFA

Lexus has returned in the world of Forza with the Lexus LFA, the legendary V10 supercar from Japan, and now that I've obtained it from the Series 19 Summer Playlist in the game, now's the ideal time to talk about what's what about this legendary Japanese supercar, which burst into scene a decade ago.



If my memory serves me correctly, the Lexus LFA is the pinnacle of Lexus' pursuit of perfection when it made a world premiere at the 2009 Tokyo Motor Show and then went into production a year later. With 500 units built from its two-year lifespan, the LFA comes with Japan's first ever V10 engine producing 552HP of power and 354lb-ft of torque. Even with production has ended in 2012, the LFA is a legendary JDM supercar in its own right.



Hard to believe it's been a decade since we first enraptured by the Lexus LFA's impression and although not as fast as its European rivals, the LFA still is one of the most enjoyable cars to drive from the past decade and it really is one of the all-time greats. Man, it's hard to miss this JDM legend, of course.



To see if the Lexus LFA is still a blast to drive ten years after, it's time to take it for a spin round Edinburgh with numerous rivals awaiting for its arrival. With the LFA set, it's time for a journey to the decade with the legend itself.


I really missed that noise. That V10 noise this car makes is like music to my ears.



Ten years passed and it's still a blast to drive, this is what made the Lexus LFA very special and it really withstood the test of time itself.

Enjoy your ride!

Sunday, November 3, 2019

GT SPORT: LC vs. GR Supra

With the final SUPER GT race bids farewell to Lexus after 13 years and welcomes Toyota back for next season, it might be the ideal time to compare the the outgoing and the incoming, in normal road-going forms of course, as the Lexus LC500, their current luxury sports coupe, battles against the Toyota GR Supra, the reborn sportscar and the first representative of the Reiwa era cars to see who is worthy of taking its place on SUPER GT duty.

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It's hard to believe that the LC500 will be the last Lexus to race at the GT500 class of the Super GT after 13 years since the SC430 went on service and followed by the RC F and the Concept LF-LC, but with Toyota's triumphant return to the GT500 class starting next year with the controversial but long-awaited GR Supra, the new decade will be a heck of a welcoming back party for the Toyota emblem as well as the revived Supra. Although welcoming, I still demonize these two Toyotas for being classified as Gran Turismo exclusives, but never mind all that, let's compare these two Toyota sports cars.

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Although this is the first Japanese sports car of the Reiwa era, the Toyota GR Supra isn't exactly Japanese or so because while it says Toyota, it's surprisingly engineered by BMW and built in Austria, meaning that this fully-imported GR Supra has some Eurasian flair on the global stage. Born in Europe but raised in Asia, the GR Supra really is a world-class sportscar that tickles the fancies of every car enthusiast who wished for Toyota to bring back the Supra. In the range-topping RZ form, it comes with the 3.0L BMW TwinPower Turbo engine producing 340PS of power and 500Nm of torque while mated to an 8-speed Steptronic gearbox.

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"You have a GR Supra? That's cute," so says someone who drove a Lexus LC because while the powertrain isn't as sophisticated as the Supra's, the TNGA platform lurking through the LC really means business on the go. The 477PS 2UR-GSE 4.0L V8 engine that powers it may not be capable enough to outsmart the Europeans but the soundtrack is definitely music to their ears and the best thing about the LC is that while it's not as fast as today's European luxury coupes, it's still a blast to drive and you can't stop driving one until you are fully satisfied.

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Having a blast driving these two at their natural home track, the Fuji Speedway, the Lexus LC and the Toyota GR Supra are starting to show their true colors. The LC is challenging but enjoyable while the GR Supra feels so accessible to drive even with the BMW connection lurking through its skin. They maybe road cars but they are starting to feel like proper SUPER GT racers and as I had fun driving them, the LC and the GR Supra went for a timed lap to see which one is worthy of being part of the SUPER GT story.


After timed laps, here are the results;

LC500 - 2:02.645
GR Supra - 2:03.614

What a surprising result! These two Toyota sports cars bear a near one-second difference and by such result, looks like the GR Supra is nearly a second slower compared to the Lexus LC500, which is surprisingly impressive because while the LC packs more power than the Supra, the Supra is surprisingly lighter than the LC, making it a stalemate comparison between the two. It's too close to call for these two Toyotas.

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Although a second slower compared to the LC500, the GR Supra has got what it takes to replace the LC500 in next year's Super GT and carry on with the tradition of Toyota's motorsport history that has been in their mantra for generations. It really is a bargain sports car that can be as enjoyable to drive as the heavyweights and after a close call with the LC500, I believe it's ready.

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Although I still demonize this car, the GR Supra never fails to surprise me and I can't wait to see what's next for the world-class sports car that has the heart of a true Toyota despite being born in Europe by Bimmer people. The more you know.