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Lexus has introduced the RZ 450e F Sport Performance, a special edition electric crossover, at the 2024 Tokyo Auto Salon. Limited to 100 units for sale exclusively in Japan, this model brings a sporty aesthetic to the RZ lineup. While the F Sport Performance maintains the standard power figures of the RZ 450e, it focuses on improved handling, featuring track-tuned dampers and springs from Toyota’s Shimoyama Technical Centre.

The special edition boasts a distinctive appearance, with 17 new aero parts enhancing its aerodynamic profile. Notable additions include a dual carbon fibre wing setup, with one wing extending from the roof and a second attached to the raked rear hatch. A rear spoiler below the second wing adds a unique touch. The front end receives a carbon fibre splitter with blue accents, complemented by a vented hood. Additional aero elements around the wheels and a specific rear valance complete the exterior enhancements.

To set it apart, the F Sport Performance is finished in a new matte paint colour called Hakugin, described as “white-silver,” inspired by the silent silver world of light and shadow. Blue and black accents contrast against the matte paint, extending to the interior. The cabin features black Ultrasuede seats with blue stitching and various blue trim elements throughout the dashboard and interior.

Pricing for the RZ 450e F Sport Performance is approximately $82,000 (RM381k), and interested buyers in Japan must participate in a lottery system for a chance to purchase one of the 100 units produced. While this special edition is limited to the Japanese market, it showcases Lexus’s commitment to delivering unique and performance-focused models in the electric vehicle segment.

Lexus telah memperkenalkan RZ 450e F Sport Performance, sebuah model istimewa jenama crossover elektrik, di Tokyo Auto Salon 2024. Terhad kepada 100 unit untuk dijual secara eksklusif di Jepun, model ini membawa estetika berseni kepada rangkaian RZ. Walaupun F Sport Performance mengekalkan nilai kuasa standard RZ 450e, ia memberi tumpuan kepada peningkatan kawalan, menampilkan penyerap dan spring dari Pusat Teknikal Shimoyama Toyota.

Edisi istimewa ini mempunyai penampilan yang mencolok, dengan 17 bahagian aero baru yang meningkatkan kelihatan aerodinamiknya. Tambahan penting termasuk penambahan dua spoiler karbon, dengan satu yang meluas dari bumbung dan satu lagi melekat pada hatch belakang. Spoiler belakang di bawah menambah sentuhan unik. Bahagian hadapan menerima splitter karbon dengan aksen biru, dilengkapi dengan penutup berlubang. Unsur aero tambahan di sekitar roda dan bahagian belakang diffuser khusus melengkapkan peningkatan luaran.

Untuk membezakannya, F Sport Performance dilengkapkan dengan warna matte baru yang dipanggil Hakugin, digambarkan sebagai “putih-perak,” terinspirasi oleh “silent silver world of light and shadow”. Aksen biru dan hitam kontras terhadap cat matte, meluas ke bahagian dalaman. Kabin ini menampilkan tempat duduk Ultrasuede hitam dengan jahitan biru dan pelbagai unsur hiasan biru di sepanjang papan pemuka dan dalaman.

Harga bagi RZ 450e F Sport Performance kira-kira $82,000 (RM381,054), dan pembeli yang berminat di Jepun harus mengambil bahagian dalam sistem loteri untuk berpeluang membeli salah satu daripada 100 unit yang dihasilkan. Walaupun edisi istimewa ini terhad kepada pasaran Jepun, ia menunjukkan komitmen Lexus untuk memberikan model unik dan berfokus prestasi dalam segmen kenderaan elektrik.

Lexus telah membuat kenyataan di Tokyo Auto Salon 2024 dengan konsep LBX Morizo RR. Konsep inovatif ini menggabungkan enjin tiga silinder yang bertenaga dari GR Yaris dan GR Corolla ke dalam crossover premium, mempersembahkan varian lebih mewah dari Yaris Cross. Menjauh dari jangkaan konvensional, LBX Morizo RR memuatkan enjin G16E-GTS berkuasa turbo 1.6 liter, memberikan tenaga mengagumkan sebanyak 300hp dan tork sebanyak 399Nm.

Berdasarkan kepada GR Corolla Morizo Edition, kuasa pemanduan dari enjin tiga silinder ini menjanjikan pengalaman pemanduan yang seronok, menantang persepsi konvensional mengenai prestasi crossover. Berbeza dengan kotak gear manual enam kelajuan eksklusif GR Corolla, LBX Morizo RR dilengkapi dengan transmisi automatik lapan kelajuan yang baharu, menyalurkan kuasa enjin secara cekap ke semua empat roda.

Diberi nama mengikut pengerusi Toyota, Akio Toyoda, yang nama panggilannya ialah Morizo, LBX Morizo RR lebih rendah dengan susunan suspensi yang lebih keras, memberikan kehadiran yang lebih dinamik di jalan raya. Tubuh yang dipertingkatkan menampung tayar 19 inci yang dibalut dengan tayar 235/45 R19, menyumbang kepada cengkaman dan kestabilan yang lebih baik.

Menambah sentuhan berbeza, aksen kuning di sepanjang konsep ini merupakan penghormatan kepada warna tandatangan Akio Toyoda. Petunjuk visual, yang digabungkan dengan suspensi hadapan jenis MacPherson, bahagian belakang jenis double-wishbone, dan disc brakes di keempat-empat penjuru, menekankan reka bentuk yang menunjukkan prestasi.

Walaupun konsep LBX Morizo RR tidak menjamin model pengeluaran, ia berfungsi sebagai persembahan menarik kebolehan Lexus untuk menyuntik semangat prestasi tinggi ke dalam crossover. Konsep ini mencabar persepsi konvensional mengenai crossover mewah, memberi petanda tentang potensi penambahan yang mendebarkan dan dinamik kepada barisan produk Lexus. Sementara peminat automotif menantikan maklumat lanjut, LBX Morizo RR berdiri sebagai bukti komitmen jenama untuk menerobos batasan dan menentukan semula jangkaan dalam usaha mencapai pengalaman memandu yang menyeronokkan.

Lexus has turned heads at the 2024 Tokyo Auto Salon by showcasing the LBX Morizo RR concept, a bold move that integrates the potent three-cylinder engine from the GR Yaris and GR Corolla into a premium crossover. Launched as a more upscale variant of the Yaris Cross, the LBX Morizo RR breaks free from conventional expectations by housing a turbocharged 1.6-litre G16E-GTS engine under its hood.

What makes this concept truly exciting is its power output – a robust 300hp and 399Nm of torque. This inline-three powertrain, derived from the GR Corolla Morizo Edition, promises an exhilarating driving experience, challenging the perception of what a crossover can deliver in terms of performance.

Unlike the GR Corolla, which exclusively offers a six-speed manual gearbox, the LBX Morizo RR takes a different approach with a newly developed eight-speed automatic transmission. This torque-converter ‘box, making its debut in the 2024 GR Yaris, efficiently channels the engine’s prowess to all four wheels of this compact yet powerful crossover.

Named after Toyota’s chairman, Akio Toyoda, whose nickname is Morizo, the LBX Morizo RR adopts a lower stance with a stiffer suspension setup, giving it a more dynamic presence on the road. The widened body accommodates 19-inch wheels wrapped in 235/45 R19 tyres, contributing to improved grip and stability.

A distinctive touch in homage to Akio Toyoda is the inclusion of yellow accents throughout the concept, reflecting his signature color. The visual cues, coupled with a MacPherson strut front suspension, double-wishbone rear, and disc brakes on all corners, underscore the concept’s performance-oriented design.

While the LBX Morizo RR concept doesn’t guarantee a production model, it serves as a compelling showcase of what Lexus can achieve by infusing a high-performance spirit into a crossover. The concept challenges the conventional perception of luxury crossovers, hinting at the potential for a thrilling and dynamic addition to Lexus’s lineup. As automotive enthusiasts eagerly await further details, the LBX Morizo RR stands as a testament to the brand’s commitment to pushing boundaries and redefining expectations in the pursuit of driving excitement.

Lexus is set to unveil a new concept car at the Japan Mobility Show 2023, offering a preview of their first next-generation Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) expected to start production in 2026. While specific details about the concept weren’t disclosed, it’s anticipated to align with the teaser sketch previously released by Toyota under the Lexus brand.

Lexus is committed to a groundbreaking approach for their next-gen BEV, revolutionising the car body’s modular structure, altering production methods, and completely overhauling the software platform. The design will prioritise Lexus characteristics, focusing on aerodynamics for the exterior and utilising sustainable, high-quality materials for the interior.

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Lexus Malaysia recently introduced the fifth-generation Lexus RX 350 back in May, and now, a new variant has entered the Malaysian market: the 2023 Lexus RX 500h F Sport. This new hybrid variant joins the Lexus RX family with a high-torque 2.4-litre turbo engine paired with an electric motor.

It shares the same Lexus design language as the RX 350, including the signature ‘spindle grille’ that has been Lexus’ hallmark for the past decade but has now evolved to be part of the body; Lexus now calls it the ‘spindle body’. However, the hybrid model comes in F Sport trim which includes gloss black trimming, 21-inch wheels, dual-tone side mirrors and a few other unique touches that distinguish it from the petrol variant.

Retained are the Ultra Slim 3-Beam LED Projector headlights, with a black-toned extension providing subtle presence and highlighting the L-signature DRL. These are of course are part of the enhanced and refined Lexus signature. The front edge of the bonnet has been raised, and the height of the bulge on the bonnet has been optimised to aid the driver in better line tracing while cornering.

To emphasise the broad and low shape even further, the rear design features a simplified volume with a single lens wrapping around the body sides. The lamp design incorporates the recognisable L-shaped light bar for brand consistency. The L-pattern graphic is employed to showcase individuality, with slightly dimmed turn signal and reverse lamps in the red lens area.

The model name logo is situated at the bottom right, and as first seen on the new NX, the ‘L’ mark has been replaced with the centrally located LEXUS emblem.

Several bodywork components have undergone wind tunnel refinement to smoothen airflow, reduce wind resistance, and eliminate turbulence. For example, the front fascia effectively conducts airflow around the spindle body to cool the brakes. Other aerodynamic features include flush window and door mouldings, as well as a fin on the bottom edge of the rear bumper that reduces airflow turbulence behind the rear wheels. The position and design of the rear spoiler were also taken into account.

The RX 500h F Sport boasts 21-inch light alloy wheels finished in matte black, paired with Michelin tyres sized at 235/50R21. These tyres provide high-quality ride comfort and tranquillity while delivering enhanced grip. The tyre sidewalls feature a Premium Touch finish, enveloping them in a deep premium black hue and a velvety tactile sensation, achieved through Michelin’s distinctive mould technology.

The new RX utilises the improved GA-K (Global Architecture – K) platform, which is stronger than the previous generation. This strength is achieved through the use of stronger metals in key areas like the side rockers, roof, and B-pillars, along with advanced adhesives and welds, resulting in enhanced overall rigidity.

The car’s overall weight has been reduced by decreasing the thickness of the side members and door assemblies. Additionally, changing the front wings from steel to aluminium has brought about additional weight savings and enhanced the car’s front/rear weight distribution. Consequently, the car is now 90 kg lighter and has a lowered centre of gravity by approximately 15 mm.

While the new RX’s total length remains unchanged at 4890 mm, its wheelbase has grown by 60 mm to 2850 mm. The front track is wider by 15 mm, and the rear track is broader by 65 mm in this new generation RX. Although the front overhang remains the same, the rear overhang is reduced by 60 mm. The body width has increased by 25 mm, while the overall height remains at 1695 mm.

The new RX’s interior embraces the Tazuna concept, a design philosophy influenced by the Lexus Driving Signature and initially introduced in the NX. ‘Tazuna’ draws from the Japanese term for horse reins, symbolising the crucial connection between rider and horse, akin to the harmonious interaction sought in the driving experience.

The HUD (Head-up Display), instrument panel, and centre display follow a layout that promotes an unobstructed line of sight, reducing the need for excessive driver head movement. The strategic arrangement and modular design of these key information sources ensure that minor adjustments in the driver’s viewing angle are sufficient for easy visibility. Essential driving controls are conveniently located around the steering wheel.

The RX 500h F Sport trimming is made up of Ultrasuede material – a special seat upholstery that complements the genuine leather seats. Ultrasuede is a synthetic leather with a suede-like feel, made mostly from plant-based materials.

Every aspect of the cockpit layout, from the shapes and visuals to the lighting, is employed to convey an ambiance that embodies the spirit of ‘omotenashi’ hospitality. Various stages of ‘welcoming’ and ‘farewell’ are incorporated to embody this sentiment.

Lighting plays a role in this process, with cabin illumination designed around the principles of Seamless Anticipation, Incisive Simplicity, and Intriguing Elegance of L-finesse. Indirect lighting is utilised instead of direct light sources. The ambient lighting offers a selection of 64 colours that you can choose and combine. Additionally, there are 14 pre-selected low-saturation colours designed to evoke various emotions and atmospheres.

The driver has two types of displays for essential information while driving. The first is a high-definition display known as Digital Combination Metres. Three different types of displays can be selected: normal, eco, and sport. Each mode prioritises relevant information. The RX 500h F-Sport includes an exclusive racing-style readout to enhance the model’s performance-focused atmosphere.

In addition to the prominent displays, there’s a Multi-Information Display that you can adjust using the touch tracing operation function on the steering wheel switches. These switches are organised by priority, with lower-priority switches accessible on the screen. This design has decreased the number of physical switches by 37%, going from 80 switches previously to 51 switches in the new RX.

The second display is the Head-Up Display (HUD), initially utilised in fighter aircraft, and now projected onto the windscreen in front of the driver. The colour Head-Up Display has three modes, showing different levels of information: full mode displays Lexus Safety System+ status, standard mode summarises key details, and minimum mode shows just the speed. You can adjust its position, rotation, and brightness.

The RX now features a new Full HD 14-inch EMV (Electro Multi Vision) wide display, which functions as the control centre for vehicle operations and the infotainment system. A Dynamic Voice Recognition System enables drivers to activate different functions, and connectivity options include Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and wired connections through USB ports. It also comes with a Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound System with 21 speakers.

There are four USB ports for the front occupants (three Type-C and one Type-A). The Type-C charging ports allow charging at a maximum of 15W. A Qi wireless charger is also available. The rear occupants also have two Type-C USB ports.

With the rear seats in use, the available volume is 612 litres, and loading is also easier as the floor level is 30mm lower.

As mentioned earlier, the RX 500h F Sport is powered by a 2.4-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder petrol engine (T24A-FTS) with Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) technology. It employs a fresh parallel hybrid design that integrates the petrol engine, front motor, power control unit, and hybrid battery pack. This powertrain links to a 6-speed transmission, delivering 366hp and 460Nm of torque to a compact 76kW rear e-axle. The combined system output results in a 0 to 100km/h time of 6.2 seconds.

Lexus introduces some firsts in the RX, such as the Wet Start Clutch (WSC) for smooth HEV driving. This uses a mechanical clutch for direct power and precise torque control. There’s also a new 2-port Vane Oil Pump for better oil distribution and reduced pump losses. Another innovation is the High Voltage Electric Oil Pump, providing hydraulic supply and oil cooling for the WSC.

The RX 500h F Sport uses its electric motor to reduce fuel consumption, allowing it to travel 20% farther on each tank of fuel. As a hybrid, the battery charges while driving, so owners don’t need to worry about finding charging stations during long trips.

The RX incorporates an innovative low-resistance nickel-metal hydride (Ni-MH) battery pack with a bipolar design. This structure provides robust output and fuel efficiency. Positioned beneath the rear seat, it maintains cabin and cargo space while also ensuring quieter operation through improved air-cooling refinement.

It also comes with Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) to control the damping force of the shock absorbers on all four wheels in response to driving operations and road surface conditions. There are two damping force modes – Normal and Sport – which the Drive Mode Select enables. Also equipped is the Dynamic Rear Steering (DRS) with an enlarged rear wheel turning angle. This makes the RX500h more maneuverable in tight parking lots as it turns the rear wheels in opposite direction to the front wheels, and then at higher speed turns the rear wheels in the same direction as the front wheels, making the big SUV feel agile.

The new generation RX features an improved version of LSS+ (Lexus Safety System+), employing the current technology with new functions and consisting of:

PCS – Pre-Collision System

DRCC – Dynamic Radar Cruise Control with Stop & Go Function

LDA & LTA – Lane Departure Alert & Lane Tracing Assist

AHS – Adaptive High-beam System with BladeScan

RSA – Road Sign Assist

Lexus Malaysia is offering the RX 500h F SPORT in four colour options: White Nova Glass, Sonic Iridium, Graphite Black Glass Flake, and Sonic Copper. The RX 500h F SPORT comes with a five-year unlimited mileage warranty, while the Hybrid Battery Pack is covered for eight years with unlimited mileage, extendable for two more years. Bookings are available starting August 18th, 2023, and prices begin at RM 498,888.00.

With a sufficient electric driving range for commuting and the safety of an internal combustion engine (ICE) when the battery runs out, plug-in hybrids are a step towards full electrification for those who aren’t ready to embrace electric cars. Recognising this and in line with Toyota’s multi pathway move towards efficient mobility, Lexus has introduced the RX 450h+.

According to Lexus, the RX 450h+ has a combined fuel economy rating of 35 km/l and 56 km of all-electric driving range.

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Toyota may be working on a brand-new three-row electric SUV under the Lexus name. According to the Lexus RX Owners forum, the Japanese automaker submitted four new trademark applications to the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPA) for various Lexus TZ models on July 19, 2023.

Lexus RX 350 

The TZ450e and TZ550e are two of the four names the company wants to trademark. The letter “Z” indicates BEVs. As an electric alternative to the RX, Lexus offers the RZ 450e while Toyota offers the bZ4X. The firm recently unveiled the 2024 Lexus TX, a three-row petrol SUV that sits between the RX and the GX and shares its GA-K chassis with the Toyota Grand Highlander. The new TZ is the TX’s all-electric alternative.

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Perhaps the most significant factor for any car purchase is reliability. Nobody likes to waste their valuable time and money on costly repairs or to be stranded at the side of the road waiting for help. The UK’s automobile owners claim that a Lexus offers the least chance of all things happening. Because of this, the Japanese premium automaker has been awarded as the winner of Most Reliable Car Brand at the 2023 Auto Trader New Car Awards.

It has won the title four times in the past five years, which is based on the opinions and experiences of more than 220,000 UK car owners who participated in Auto Trader’s yearly poll.

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Ahead of the new model’s debut on June 5 at a special event in Milan, Italy, Lexus surprised everyone with a few teaser photographs. The luxury division of Toyota isn’t revealing any other information about the car, but we think that maybe it might be a revival of the discontinued CT lineup?

The Lexus CT is a 5-door hatchback hybrid electric car that made its premiere at the March 2010 Geneva International Motor Show. It is also the first production model in Lexus’s family to introduce the “Spindle Grille” design as seen in its fascia.

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