Lexus LS600h L Pebble Beach Edition, 2009

Lexus LS600h L Pebble Beach Edition, 2009

Lexus introduced the first-ever Lexus LS600h L Pebble Beach Edition and the sixth Lexus SC430 Pebble Beach Edition to commemorate its continuing partnership with Pebble Beach Company. The vehicles were unveiled at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance Lexus Fashion Preview on August 15, 2008. Production of these 2009 Pebble Beach Edition vehicles are limited to 50 Lexus LS600h L flagship hybrid luxury sedans and 300 Lexus SC430 hardtop convertibles. Pebble Beach Edition owners have the opportunity to customize their ownership experience by selecting from one of three distinctive merchandise packages: Callaway Golf Experience, Travel Package or Epicurean Encounter.



The Lexus LS600h L's distinctive L-finesse styling is complemented by a unique exterior/interior color combination exclusive to the Pebble Beach Edition with a Truffle Mica exterior paint combined with an exclusive two-tone Alabaster and Black leather trim interior with Dark Grey Bird's-eye maple wood trim. Additional styling cues include 19-inch, five-spoke wheels with a unique finish, Pebble Beach interior badging, premium black floor mats with stainless steel badging, and blue illuminated scuff plates. The Pebble Beach LS hybrid comes standard with the Advanced Pre-Collision System (APCS) which incorporates the world's first system designed to help detect pedestrians in the vehicle's path, as well as world's first Driver Monitor System that helps warn drivers if it senses an obstacle ahead of the car and that the driver's head is not facing forward. The APCS system helps prepare the car for evasive action or collision by triggering appropriate sensors in the car and retracting the front seatbelts. Furthermore, the Lexus LS600h L Pebble Beach Edition is equipped with the Advanced Parking Guidance System, Rear-Seat Entertainment System (RSES), power rear-door sunshades and rear-seat side airbags.



Celebrating its sixth year, the new Lexus SC430 Pebble Beach Edition receives an exterior/interior color combination with a Mercury Metallic exterior paint and an exclusive two-tone Ecru and Black leather trim interior with Black Bird's-eye maple wood trim. The retractable hardtop convertible includes special-edition brushed chrome badging on the front fenders and center console, and an Ecru The Lone Cypress� logo embroidered on black carpeted floor mats. It also features a color-keyed rear spoiler, 18-inch Machined Tourmaline alloy wheels, and white illuminated scuff plates. All-season run-flat or summer run-flat tires are available.



The Lexus partnership with Pebble Beach Resorts initiated in August of 2003 with the debut of the first Lexus SC430 Pebble Beach Edition. This established Lexus as the Preferred Vehicle of Pebble Beach Resorts and has offered Pebble Beach Edition Lexus owners a variety of amenities designed to evoke the exclusivity that comes with an excursion to the Pebble Beach Resorts. Presently, guests of Pebble Beach Resorts can experience the on-going partnership with complimentary time in a Lexus test-drive vehicle or transportation service to and from several locations in a Lexus Guest Transportation vehicle.



In February 2008, the Pebble Beach Edition RX 350 and ES 350 models were introduced into the collection. The Lexus LS600h L is the fourth vehicle model to receive a Pebble Beach Edition package.



The 2009 Lexus SC430 and Lexus LS600h L Pebble Beach Edition vehicles go on sale in September and October 2008, respectively.



Lexus Personalization Program

Owners of an RX or ES Pebble Beach Edition can customize their ownership experience with the Lexus Personalization Program. Three distinct categories of packages are designed to invoke the unparalleled feel of the world-famous Pebble Beach Resorts: The Callaway Golf Experience, Travel Sets, and Epicurean Encounter. Owners can select from item(s) in one of the packages.



The Callaway Golf Experience

Four exclusive packages are designed to improve the look and performance of one's golf game. One dozen personalized Callaway Golf Tour ix Golf Balls can be combined with a Callaway Golf Ft-I driver or Callaway Golf Hyper X driver and one X Hybrid. Three Callaway Golf X-Forged wedges and one Odyssey White Hot XG 2-Ball putter are matched to one dozen personalized Callaway Golf Tour ix Golf Balls. One case (12 dozen) of personalized Callaway Golf Tour ix Golf Balls is also available.



Travel Package

Pebble Beach Edition owners can carry style and refinement from their vehicle into a luxury hotel with one of three luxury luggage packages. A caf�-colored three-piece leather luggage set includes two cabin duffels, one carriage duffel, and personalized embossed luggage tags. Two pairs of Callaway Golf Eyewear complement the caf�-colored leather briefcase or the caf�-colored leather tote bag.



Epicurean Encounter

Those owners interested in improving their culinary skills can choose the Epicurean Encounter. They can select a six-piece Viking� Santoku Cutlery Set including 10-slot maple knife block or a four-piece Viking Cookware set. Both come with a Viking Cooking School $200 gift card redeemable for cooking classes or merchandise online at vikingrange.com. The 

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Lexus LF-Ch Concept, 2009

Lexus LF-Ch Concept, 2009

Making its world debut at the 2009 Frankfurt motor show, the Lexus LF-Ch Concept is Lexus's first approach to the competitive European premium compact segment. It reflects the growing demand for cars that are smaller and more fuel and CO2 efficient, but with no compromise in levels of refinement and driving pleasure. By next year the compact segment is expected to claim the largest share of the European premium car market. The Lexus LF-Ch Concept reaffirms Lexus's commitment to Europe, combining compact dimensions, stylish five-door, full hybrid technology and low emissions to satisfy the most demanding customer requirements and to appeal to a new, younger generation of customers.



Exterior design

The Lexus LF-Ch Concept presents a powerful evolution of Lexus's L-finesse design philosophy. Rooted in Japanese culture, L-finesse is expressed in every aspect of the car, not only in the visual harmony between the interior and exterior design, but also in the combination of leading-edge engineering and technology with a user-friendly simplicity of function.



The designers focused on the careful juxtaposition of opposing major and minor elements. Intriguing contrasts are created between the powerful, machine-like overall surfacing of the bodywork and the painstaking detail of even the smallest elements, creating a synergy between technologically driven design and a fluid, hand-sculpted quality.



A new, bolder Lexus grille design sits above a deep, full-width bumper and air dam, giving a perfect balance of precision and power. The sharply sculpted, aerodynamic front wings overlap the front bumper to create deep, front brake-cooling air intakes and give the Lexus LF-Ch a powerful and purposeful wide-track stance.



In profile, the tapered side glazing, a muscular, rising beltline and a sharply truncated rear overhang project the car's premium compact character. The steeply raked windscreen, long flowing roofline, blacked-out B-pillars and rear doorhandles integrated in the C-pillar window trim combine to give the appearance of a sporting pillarless coupe.



At the rear the trailing edge of the roof overhangs the rear window to create an integrated rear spoiler. The tailgate section has a pronounced step, which flows from the muscular wheelarches and is anchored by the wraparound tail lamp design. Aerodynamic detailing of the lower bumper smoothes airflow from beneath the car and feeds ventilation to the rear brakes.



Subtle finishing touches include discreet Lexus hybrid blue badging and sharply tapering chrome mouldings. The harmonious synergy of the design is further expressed in the contrasting, lively yellow exterior finish and calming blue interior illumination.



Interior design

The principles of L-finesse are carried through to the interior where again a powerful simplicity harmonises with hand-crafted quality in the detailing to create a calm, efficient and elegant design.



The cabin features a strongly asymmetric dashboard that is firmly driver-focused with outstanding ergonomics. The driver's needs are seamlessly anticipated in several surprising elements, for example, when the car is started a greeting is presented on the navigation screen and an ambient lighting pattern appears in the headliner, creating a sophisticated lounge feel.



Extensive use of semi-aniline leather, polished aluminium, wood and soft-touch materials reinforces the theme of harmonious contrast in the dashboard, door panels and seating. The design of the seats is inspired by high quality furniture, with exposed metal frames, lightweight leather and grained black wood used in inter-related layers, shaped to reflect the intrinsic nature of each material used.



The driving position is low and well-supported, with a wide-grip steering wheel with paddle shift controls and an instrument binnacle housing large twin dials embellished with a turbine motif.



To help keep the driver's focus on the road ahead, distracting instrumentation and switchgear has been kept to a minimum by using Lexus Remote Touch controls, as first seen in the new RX 450h. Using a multi-information display on top of the dashboard, Remote Touch works like a computer mouse, letting the driver access control and customise a range of information, entertainment and vehicle set-up programmes.



As with every Lexus, hospitality is at the heart of the ownership experience. To this end, the Lexus LF-Ch's comprehensive on-board entertainment package includes iPhone docking for rear seat passengers.



Powertrain and driving performance

Allied to a wide track, long wheelbase and low centre of gravity, the Lexus LF-Ch's full hybrid powertrain is engineered to deliver all the performance customers expect from a premium compact hatchback, while at the same time returning low fuel consumption, CO2 and NOx emissions.



With the benefit of the full hybrid technology of Lexus Hybrid drive, the car can be driven in a fully electric EV mode, a power option that is not available to drivers of mild hybrids. This allows for urban driving with minimal noise and zero emissions.



Lexus LF-Ch Concept dimensions

    * Overall length: 4,300

    * Overall width: 1,790

    * Overall height: 1,400

    * Wheelbase: 2,600

    * Tyres (front and rear): 225/35R20

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Lexus IS 350, 2009

Lexus IS 350, 2009

The Lexus IS sedans showcase revised styling and gain enhanced interior function and improved handling for 2009. New suspension and steering tuning improve stability and control, and the Lexus IS 250 model, in both rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive models, gets the advanced Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system. Already standard on the Lexus IS 350 model, VDIM integrates all of the car's dynamic-control systems to provide superior handling and traction.



The Lexus IS grille and front bumper cover are revised, as are the rear bumper cover and taillight clusters. New turn signals are now integrated into the exterior mirrors, and the 17-inch and 18-inch alloy wheels feature new designs for 2009. On rear-wheel drive models, the 18-inch wheels can now be equipped with all-season tires.



Inside the Lexus IS Lexus enhanced form and function with a revised instrument panel center cluster. The paddle shifters now function in D mode, and some controls have been changed for improved convenience. The rear seat headrests are now foldable to aid rear visibility. New interior colors include Ecru (replacing Cashmere) and Light Gray (replacing Sterling), both accented by new contrast stitching on the seats, door panels, and console lid.



Engine/Transmission/Drivetrain/Performance

The 2009 Lexus IS line offers three models: The rear-wheel-drive Lexus IS 350, the rear-drive Lexus IS 250 and an all-wheel drive Lexus IS 250. The IS 250's 2.5-liter V6 engine delivers 204 horsepower at 6,400 RPM and 185 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 4,800 rpm. The Lexus IS 350's 3.5-liter V6 delivers 306 horsepower at 6,400 RPM along with 277 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,800 rpm and can accelerate the car from zero-to-60 mph in just 5.3 seconds. Both engines use aluminum cylinder blocks and heads and employ dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i), which controls timing on both the intake and exhaust camshafts.



Chassis/Body/Suspension/Tires/Brakes

The Lexus IS is engineered to provide for a sporty driving experience. Its double-wishbone front suspension features a high-mount upper control arm, and the lower arm uses a large, liquid-filled bushing at the rear to minimize vibration and harshness. The multilink rear suspension emphasizes precise control of geometry in all dynamic conditions, helping make the Lexus IS sport sedans ultra-stable for confident driving. High-strength steel and aluminum suspension components reduce unsprung weight, helping the Lexus IS remain stable on bumpy surfaces and improving ride comfort.



Safety/Security Features

Passive-safety technology in the Lexus IS begins with a reinforced passenger compartment that helps protect the occupants with front- and rear-crush structures. Seatbelt pre-tensioners and force limiters are used for the front and outboard rear seats.



Luxury/Comfort/Convenience

Standard amenities for the Lexus IS models include 10-way power front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control with rear-seat vents and a pollen filter (plus a smog filter on Lexus IS 350), power moonroof with one-touch open/close and seven open-position settings, manual tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, all power windows with automatic up/down feature and jam protection, and an auto-dimming rear-view mirror. The Lexus IS 250 AWD model in addition features standard heated, leather-trimmed seats.



Exterior Design

The Lexus IS sedans show a strong family resemblance to the Lexus GS models while establishing their own distinctively sporty identity. A notably wide stance and long wheelbase, coupled with tightly drawn bodywork, give the Lexus IS an athletic, road-hungry yet sophisticated style. Carefully shaped body contours, a subtle ducktail-curved trunk lid and "air kick" tail lamps contribute to a low 0.28 coefficient of drag (Cd).



Interior Design

The Lexus IS models' luxurious cabin features intelligently designed displays and controls that are easy to see and use. Bright, clear Optitron gauges and smartly integrated metallic trim, or available Bird's-eye Maple trim, help create an elegant yet sporty environment. Premium interior materials and meticulous attention to detail convey the Lexus identity.

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Lexus GX 470, 2009

Lexus GX 470, 2009

The 2009 Lexus GX 470 is a full-capability luxury utility vehicle delivering an outstanding combination of power, comfort and confidence for any kind of driving. The Lexus GX 470 is positioned between the brand's prestige-luxury LX 570 and unibody-based RX models.



Engine/Transmission/Drivetrain/Performance

The Lexus GX 470 is powered by a 4.7-liter V8 engine that produces 263 horsepower and 323 lb-ft. of peak torque. Equipped with Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i), the V8 provides ample torque across a wide speed range, helping make the Lexus GX 470 feel responsive in everyday driving and giving it excellent towing performance. The Lexus GX 470 meets Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle II (ULEV-II) certification.



Chassis/Body/Suspension/Tires/Brakes

The Lexus GX 470 is constructed with robust body-on-frame construction for rugged capability on or-off-road. Independent front suspension and rear air suspension with self-leveling control deliver a smooth on-road ride without compromising rugged off-road capabilities. Standard 265/65SR17 tires are mounted on 17-inch alloy wheels.



Safety/Security Features

The Lexus GX 470 is equipped with a comprehensive array of safety systems. Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) helps keep the Lexus GX 470 going on its intended course by detecting front- and rear-wheel slide during cornering and attempting to control either condition with a combination of torque intervention and individual wheel braking. Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) utilizes the ABS and distributes proper brake force between the front and rear wheels according to driving and wheel-load conditions.



Luxury/Comfort/Convenience

The Lexus GX 470 presents a luxurious passenger environment with the extraordinary fit and finish expected in a Lexus. Standard features include: automatic climate control (available rear air conditioning enhances comfort for third-row passengers); leather seating surfaces and trim; premium audio system with a six-disc in-dash CD changer; steering wheel audio controls; rain-sensing windshield wipers; power moonroof; a wood and leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob; memory system for the driver's seat, steering wheel position and outside mirrors; heated front seats; and an overhead console with integrated HomeLink� transmitter.



Luxury Options

The available Mark Levinson� Premium Audio system will please the discriminating audiophile with its 240 watts of continuous power at 0.01 percent Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) and 14 speakers. A standard input jack for an iPod� or other music player expands listening choices. The system plays DVDs as well as conventional and MP3/WMA-formatted CDs. When the Lexus GX 470's parking brake is set, the Mark Levinson system can play a DVD movie on the navigation-system screen. The available rear-seat entertainment system plays DVD programs on a nine-inch, wide-format LCD screen.



Exterior Design

The Lexus GX 470's purposeful design is accented by details that underscore its capability and its luxury positioning. The color-keyed (dark metallic) front grille, framed by distinctive character lines on the hood, features three horizontal bars and chrome finish surround. The front bumper features standard integrated fog lamps. Color-keyed fender flares, running boards, bumpers, mirrors, and lower body cladding convey elegance and solidity. Chrome door handles and roof rack with chrome side rails add luxurious detail. In the rear, three-stack design sculpted tail lamps feature a clear combination lamp lens cover on the turn signal and reverse lamps that are located under a chrome license plate garnish. Tasteful luxury touches abound, including green-tint UV protection front glass, privacy glass on rear windows, running board lamps, and reverse lamps with green tint.



The optional Sport Package adds a distinctive visual signature, with smoked front and rear light bezels, chrome exhaust tip and dark graphite finish on the roof rack. Inside, the dark graphite center console and instrument panel trim complements the Black Bird's-eye Maple wood trim.



Interior Design

The V8-powered Lexus GX 470 provides the luxury appointments and workmanship of a Lexus sedan. The Lexus GX 470 offers eight-passenger seating with an available third-row seat. Ivory or gray leather trims the seat facings, headrests, armrests, door trim, shift knob and steering wheel. Optitron instrument gauges are a traditional and functional Lexus design element, while genuine wood trim on the dashboard, center console and door panels and chrome door handles add to the luxurious cabin design.



The foldable and reclining 60/40 split second row seat lets the customer optimize the Lexus GX 470 for passenger comfort and cargo capacity. There are eight interior assist grips (10 with optional third row seat). Lexus' typical attention to detail is seen in conveniences like the dual sun visors with slide mechanism and illuminated vanity mirrors, door courtesy lights, and swing-out type rear quarter windows with privacy glass.

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