Master of the Metaphysical

There’s another “Meister” on the Lexus GS development line. His name is Shuichi Ozaki, and for him, job success isn’t measured on a clipboard. It’s measured by the width of a smile.

His job is to identify, safeguard, and optimize the mix of emotions that create the uniquely human appeal of the new GS—and all Lexus vehicles.

The concept of stitching a sense of human feeling into the established Lexus tapestry of luxury and performance is a fascinating one. It starts with the recognition of a car’s ability to inspire human beings. For Ozaki, that inspiration comes from depth. Not the depth of paint, or the depth of a seat cushion, but the depth of human emotion.

“A car is an industrial product assembled from parts and technologies,” he says. “That structure gives it depth. Woven into a Lexus is an extra layer of hand craftsmanship, with each individual or team trying to craft parts—all of them masterpieces—that reflect the creator’s passion. Passion has depth. It has the ability to move people. My task is to add another layer of passion by evaluating and fine-tuning the entire vehicle—by feeling.”

This extra investment in emotion has been applied to the humblest of parts. Take the driver footrest. Rather than the usual flat surface, it’s shaped in a gradual curve. “It was clear to us that the curved form was the most natural human fit,” says Ozaki. “But finding the best curve was a very sensitive balance that even high-tech devices couldn’t measure. We had to use our own five senses.”

Also, consider the steering wheel. On the road, Ozaki’s attention to detail translates into a feeling that you’re always exactly the right distance away from the wheel, no matter how you hold it. There’s no feeling of being “hemmed in,” as Ozaki puts it.

These GS sensations are subtle—and that’s exactly how Ozaki likes it. He wants these emotional enhancements to be felt on a near-subliminal level.

“If someone says ‘wow, look what’s been achieved,’ I see that as a problem,” he explains with a smile. “When the driver grips the steering wheel made with these great materials—premium leather, wood, or bamboo—the comfortable feeling should flow up from the hands and into the mind. That should give rise to a sense of satisfaction and excitement, and a heightened sense of confidence in having made the right buying choice. All that should happen without the driver noticing.”

 

Courtesy of Lexus

2013 Lexus GS - "Design"

The 2013 GS is more than just an all-new Lexus. Its driver-inspired interior, unprecedented level of connectivity, and innovative safety systems represent an entirely new expression of Lexus design philosophy and engineering passion.

2013 Lexus ES Spotted in China!

The next-generation 2013 Lexus ES has been revealed by way of Chinese forum XCar — let’s start off with the full photo gallery:

Besides its larger size, the very first thing I notice about the new ES is the coupe-like roofline that glides down into the trunk:

More than anything, this line defines the car to me — it’s a bold statement by Lexus to change their best-selling sedan in such a strong manner, especially when the style and size bring to mind the flagship LS.

As for the rest of the exterior design, I’m not sold on the hoodline and the way it cuts across the front-end, but the side profile makes it all worth it:

And then there’s the interior, which is such a quantum leap over the existing model that only a side-by-side comparison will do:

Here’s a closer look at the interior:

As with the new GS, this ES interior could sell the car on its own — there’s simply no way to overstate the improvement compared to the current model and its teardrop center console.

Now, I try not to get too excited or too disappointed by leaked cameraphone photos, but the new ES looks like a homerun to me. What do you think?

 

Courtesy of Lexus Enthusiast

Thank you for the rave review! We love hearing from our happy customers.

"We purchased a used Lexus GX and were very impressed with everyone we worked with, especially Jim Kirchner. He breaks all of the stereotypes of a sales person. Jim seems like a great guy that really cares about his clients and prospects."

Top Gear Reviews the 2013 Lexus GS 450h F Sport

A spot of localised interrogation reveals the words most associated with Lexus are: ‘soft', ‘comfortable', ‘old-mannish', ‘reliable', ‘tape deck' and ‘dentist'. Which makes the brand sound like an old people's home. Ever considered a Lexus? Probably. Then you bought a BMW or Audi.

Lexus wants us to rethink the prejudice. And this new GS is the spear-tip of a shiny new direction. This particular car is the GS450h F-Sport, packed full of clever tech and sporting one of the most aggressive bumpers ever seen on a production car. The rest of the launch range - a non-F-Sport 450h and a 205bhp 2.5-litre GS250 petrol V6 - are a little less visually intimidating, but they all get a serious refresh. So that means a new platform, all-new interiors and exteriors and revised drivetrains.

The 450h gets a new version of the Lexus Hybrid Drive, a 3.5-litre Atkinson cycle V6 petrol in tandem with an electric motor to give 338bhp or, depending on demand, either running solo. Nickel-Metal Hydride batteries take care of the energy storage, and a six-speed sequential shift E-CVT manages the transfer to the rear wheels. It adds up to a respectably fast saloon, and an especially fast hybrid: 0-62mph in 5.9 seconds and limited to 155mph. So far, so good.

It stays positive. The GS450h was always pretty rapid. But you got the feeling that when you pushed it hard, it got clear of its comfort zone. Now it's more distinctly vigorous. All cars get adaptive variable suspension, but the F-Sport goes one better with Lexus Dynamic Handling, featuring dynamic rear steering, a variable-ratio steering rack and electric power steering. Translation? The rear wheels steer in the opposite direction to the fronts under 50mph for that nimble feeling, in the same direction at higher speed for stability, and the electric steering changes ratio and weight depending on demand. It's good. More distinct than before, easily more dynamic. But complex and not - understandably - with all that much natural fluency.

The inside has also undergone a serious revamp. The battery pack is now stacked rather than laid flat in the rear, meaning a much bigger boot and improved knee room throughout. The interior is more European - think thoughtful and sober - with the slick dash dominated by a huge 12.3in screen, good-quality materials thoughout, and all the comfort-orientated buttons you could wish for in a generous standard spec.

It makes the GS450h F-Sport a lovely sports cruiser, capable of driving around in quiet munificence. Quick and quiet on the day-to-day, slightly anonymous (F-Sport excepted), rapid rather than devastating, relatively efficient and pleasing company. But the 450h is way too pricey. Lexus needs to be pitching similar performance and price, and offering an option to the default choices.

Tom Ford

The numbers
3456cc, V6, RWD, 338bhp, 255lb ft, 47.8mpg, 137g/km CO2, 0-62 in 5.9secs, 155mph, 1820kg

The verdict
Better than the old GS, surprisingly nimble, nice interior and a properly interesting choice.

Courtesy of Top Gear via Lexus Enthusiast

Lexus of Wayzata - Luxury Contest! Enter to win fabulous prizes!

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Like us (link) and enter to win a grand prize trip for two flying First Class on Sun Country Airlines. Grand Prize winner will select from 3 fabulous destinations.  Additional prizes include $1000 to Continental Diamond, Timberwolves tickets, an Auto Spa package, a gift card to Kowalski’s and a gift card to Sunset’s Restaurant.

Lexus & Sports Illustrated Present the "Tori 500"

Can you handle the curves of Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Model Tori Praver? Want to show-off a custom photo with you and Tori? Go behind the scenes of the making of "Tori 500," then download our two new iPhone apps at http://www.Lexus.com/Tori500.

Toyota Motor Corporation Vehicles Dominate J.D. Power and Associates 2012 Vehicle

Dependability Study

TORRANCE, Calif., February 15, 2012 – Eight Lexus, Toyota, and Scion models captured segment awards in the 2012 J.D. Power and Associates Vehicle Dependability Study, a performance equal to all other vehicle brands combined and more than twice as many as the runner-up nameplate.

The study also found:

• Lexus is the number one nameplate improving by 23 fewer problems/100

“We are extremely pleased that not only did we win awards in eight of the 14 model segments, but that in two segments we finished one-two and made the podium in 12 segments overall”, said Jim Lentz, President and Chief Operating Officer Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.

2012 Vehicle Dependability Study performers by segment

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Entry Premium Car

Ranking: 1

Lexus ES350

81/100

 

Midsize Premium Crossover SUV

Ranking: 1

Lexus RX350

85/100

 

Large Premium Car*

Ranking: 1

Lexus LS460

72/100

 

Lexus Nameplate 

Ranking: 1 

Premium Brands Industry Average

129

Additional examples of Toyota’s commitment to the highest standards for quality, safety, reliability and retained value include:

• Lexus was the highest ranking nameplate in the industry in the 2011 J.D. Power Initial Quality Study and earned more segment awards than any other premium brand.
• The Lexus IS won the entry premium car segment in the 2011 J.D. Power and Associates Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study.
• Toyota and Lexus won 11 awards – more than half the 21 total awards – in IntelliChoice.com’s Best Overall Values of the Year.
• Two Lexus vehicles were named 2012 “Top Safety Picks” by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. The 2012 Lexus models are:  Lexus CT 200h and RX

####

Courtesy of Toyota Newsroom

2013 Lexus RX & RX F Sport Revealed!

A brochure for the 2013 Lexus RX has been leaked online, and it confirms the crossover will be getting both a mid-cycle update and a F Sport package — first off, here’s the full brochure:

When the third-generation RX was introduced in 2009, it was a move towards a more masculine look when compared to the second generation, and this update takes it even further with an expert application of the new spindle grille:

Even more aggressive is the F Sport package:

Can’t believe how good the RX F Sport looks, especially as a mid-cycle improvement — I’m not crazy about how it looks with the vented front under spoiler, but that doesn’t take away from the overall appeal.

Courtesy of Lexus Enthusiast

Your Monday Maintenance Tip: Five Simple Ways to Save Money on Gas

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1) Replace the fancy gasoline with low-octane fuel
In filling up your car , make sure to buy the lowest grade of gasoline. However, choose the most appropriate gas for your automobile. Knowing which fuel works best for your car is always located in your owner's manual. Look it up.
Filling up your car with premium gasoline, even if it can be filled with low-octane fuel, is just a waste of money. Besides, not buying the high-octane gasoline won't boost your car's performance, anyway.

2) Remember to tighten the gas cap
Gas naturally evaporates from your car when the gas tank has an escape. According to the statistics, over 145 million gallons of gas evaporate yearly due to missing, damaged and loose gas caps. Why be one of those careless car owners? Tighten those gas caps now.

3) Air conditioning and shade
During summer, the intense sun can evaporate fuel instantly and make the insides of your car burn your skin up. For this reason, parking your car in the shade can be an effective gas-saving routine.
Besides, once you've parked your car in a shady place, using the gas-hogging air conditioning can be counted out. Just remember that air conditioning can drag your car's fuel economy by 10 to 20 percent.

However, when air conditioning is necessary, cool your car down by opening the windows, vents and sunroof. Turning on the air conditioning at full blast once you go into your car will definitely waste your money and gas.

4) Engine Care
A car that is out of tune or failed an emission test can drag your gas mileage down to up to 4 percent. Regular tune-ups as well as spark plug and air filter replacements can provide your car with over 30 percent of fuel efficiency.

5) Fast Cars with good mileage
Buying cars with a good mileage is probably the most important tip in saving money on gas. To know which car provides good gas mileage, check with an unbiased car dealer.

Believe it or not, these five simple routines can stretch up your gas dollar. Try it now and let it become your daily habit.

 

Courtesy of Fast Lanes

Our happy customers have great things to say! Thank you both for the kind words.

"I am so glad that we came to Lexus of Wayzata. Greg Loop of the used car sale department was very helpful and knowledgeable. He knew exactly what we needed and followed up with emails and phone calls with updates. I am very satisfied with our purchase. I would like to 100% recommend Greg and this dealership."

"I am so glad that we came to Lexus of Wayzata. Greg Loop was very helpful and knowledgeable. He knew exactly what we needed and followed up with emails and phone calls with updates. I am very satisfied with our purchase. I would like to 100% recommend Greg and this dealership."

The Lexus Eco Challenge: Making A Difference One School At A Time!

Teens changing the world for the $500k Lexus Eco Challenge. Learn how one team takes their project underwater to help sea life. To learn more about the program, please visit http://bit.ly/9acWQo

Lexus and Scholastic Announce Second Round of Winners in the 2011 - 2012 Lexus Eco Challenge

See the full gallery on Posterous

TORRANCE, Calif., February 7, 2012 – Sixteen student teams from 11 states have been named winners in the second round of the fifth annual Lexus Eco Challenge, an educational program and contest that inspires and empowers young people to learn about the environment and take action to improve it. Lexus will award a total of $500,000 in grants and scholarships throughout this year’s program.

Students across the country demonstrated their commitment to the planet with programs addressing air and climate issues. Each winning team has earned $10,000 in scholarships and grants to be shared among the students, teacher, and school. The winning teams have secured an invitation to participate in the Final Challenge with a chance to win one of two $30,000 grand prizes and eight $15,000 first-place awards. In addition, the winning action plans will be featured on a special webpage to inspire other students to take action in their communities at www.scholastic.com/lexus.

“The thought and effort that these teens put into each Lexus Eco Challenge submission is truly inspiring,” said Mark Templin, Lexus group vice president and general manager. “At Lexus, we’re proud to give them the opportunity to show their capabilities to others, as well as discover their own potential to improve the environment around them.”

For each of the challenges, teams are required to define an environmental issue that is important to them, develop an action plan to address the issue, implement the plan, and report on the results. The Challenge #2 winning teams that best addressed environmental challenges associated with air and climate are:

High School Teams:

• New York (Jericho) – “The United Nations International Team” – Jericho High School – Studied the effects of air pollution on human health and development of lung cancer
• Massachusetts (Boston) “BLS Youth Climate Action Network” – Boston Latin School – Launched a paid green training program in Summer 2011.
• Florida (Miami) – “Trophic Troopers” – Miami Palmetto Senior High School – Educated school on use of fossil fuels and implemented ways to conserve energy.
• Texas (Manor) – “The Eco Pirates” – Mano New Tech High School – Addressed how recycling affects our health and the heath of the planet (global warming).
• Missouri (St. Louis) – “Team Inspire Green” – Parkway North High School – Developed a green program addressing climate change and aimed to reduce the impact on the planet via a program that could appeal to the masses.
• Illinois (Bartlett) – “Mother Nature’s Minions” – Bartlett High School – Implemented a TerraCycle program at schools to address fossil fuel usage.
• Hawaii (Wahiawa) – “WE ACT” – Leilehua High School – Developed a program to
encourage energy conservation and address climate change and air pollution.
Worked at their school and in their community to educate and implement composting ideas.
• California (La Crescenta) – “Carbonators” – Clark Magnet High School –
Investigated effects of fossil fuel usage and how renewable energy can be an alternative solution.

Middle School Teams:

• Massachusetts (Ashburnham) – “EAG” – Overlook Middle School – Educated school on climate change issues including global warming, the need to lower emissions, and deforestation.
• New York (Lagrangeville) – “SOS” – Lagrangeville Middle School – Educated school on global warming and taking steps to reduce waste
• Florida (Lakeland) – “Air Leaks” – Lawton Chiles Middle Academy – Discovered air leaks in homes and educated on the importance of proper insulation.
• South Carolina (Hanahan) – “HMS Hawks” – Hanahan Middle School – Educated community about air quality issues and the need to reduce air pollution and initiated carpool and tree planting program.
• Kentucky (Lexington) – “One-Towel Wonders” – SCAPA Bluegrass – Looked at how much water is wasted and carbon emitted when running the washer and dryer unnecessarily. They encouraged students to use one towel a week to reduce number of loads of laundry done to reduce emissions.
• Michigan (Whitehall) – “WMS Carbon Busters” – Whitehall Middle School – Aimed to reduce their school’s carbon footprint by conserving energy, increase recycling and offset carbon emission by planting trees.
• Missouri (Nevada) – “Team T.R.E.E.” – Nevada Middle School – Reduced carbon footprint by conserving energy and communicating the necessity of these actions by implementing Green Week at school.
• California (Salinas) – “BV Scientists” – Buena Visa Middle School – Improved air quality and reduced air pollution through reduced use of fossil fuels.

The winners in this year’s Lexus Eco Challenge will be announced in spring 2012. In addition to the ongoing contest, the Lexus Eco Challenge also includes educational materials created and distributed by Scholastic, the global children’s publishing, education and media company at www.scholastic.com/lexus.

The Lexus Eco Challenge is part of The Lexus Pursuit of Potential, a philanthropic initiative that generates up to $5 million in donations each year for organizations that help build, shape and improve children’s lives.

# # #

Courtesy of Toyota Newsroom

Your Monday Maintenance Tip: Car Battery Life

Your car's battery is the heart of its electrical system and the chief cause of winter weather start-up woes. In cold weather, the battery loses about half its strength while the demands on the battery increase. Low temperatures reduce the battery's engine-cranking power, and by thickening the engine oil, they also make it more difficult for your engine to turn over. Cold fuel doesn't vaporize well, which adds to the difficulty.

Almost all private and public vehicles that we see on major and provincial roads use battery for their electrical needs. Radio, lights, horn and the ignition system is dependent on the battery which is a component of the vehicle’s electrical system.

Some may be wondering why the vehicle’s battery doesn’t drain off quickly despite continuous and repeated use. This is because vehicles have their own charging system composed mainly of the alternator and voltage regulator. The charging system ensures that the battery is continuously charged every time the engine is running.

The most common type of battery vehicles use is the lead acid-type battery. These types of batteries have lead and lead oxide plates submerged in about 35 percent sulfuric acid and 65 percent water solution, creating a chemical reaction. The product of this chemical reaction is electricity.

Most often than not, drivers put tap water on batteries, unaware of its negative effects. Tap water has minerals that can ruin battery function, which would eventually slow down the electricity generation. It is necessary to use distilled or de-mineralized water only on batteries to prevent break down.

Care for car battery

The battery is one of the most important parts of the vehicle that needs continuous check-up and maintenance. It is important to know the appropriate care to extend its operating life and at the same time, proper handling to prevent accidents.

Here are some important tips to consider in battery maintenance:

• First, wear eye, hand protection and the proper clothes are worn if you are going to personally check your battery. Remember, battery contains acid and protective gears can shield you from the corrosive chemicals inside the battery. When battery is mishandled, it may cause burns or more serious injuries. Once you are fully-geared, place the battery properly and make sure that it’s stable, not shaking or rocking when mounted, to avoid any short circuit.
• Check the terminals where the battery cables connect to be sure they are tight and free of corrosion. If corrosion is present, get a qualified technician to clean the terminals.
• The plates must always be submerged in water (distilled or de-mineralized) inside the battery but never over-fill your battery. The water level must not go below the recommended level to prevent rapid deterioration of battery plates. Fill to 1/4" below bottom of split ring (1 1/2" below top). Water should be added after charging. Filling before charging can cause the battery electrolyte to bubble over during charging. If plates are exposed, however, add enough water to cover the plates by 1/8" before charging.
• Don’t use sulfuric acid in refilling the battery, it is recommended to use water only for refilling. The sulfuric acid inside more or less remains the same throughout the battery life. (Some batteries do not require water refilling because they are sealed. These are commonly known as maintenance-free batteries.)
• Change the battery in case you happen to see any cracks, vents or swelled battery casing. Most likely, your battery is gradually failing and replacement is inevitable.
• Also, always make sure that the battery is always clean. Even a small amount of dirt can cause “power leak” causing uncontrolled discharge and electricity loss.
• Make sure the battery is firmly secured to its mounting bracket. An unsecured battery that shifts around can become damaged, and possibly cause short circuits. All exposed metal parts of the terminals and cables should be greased to prevent future corrosion.
• Aside from the battery, you must also check the electrical wirings and cables to ensure that there are no stray strands or damaged insulation (leading to exposed wires) that may cause electrical leaks and short circuits.
• Batteries come in many different sizes. When replacing a car battery, make sure you choose the right size for your car. When it comes to car batteries, bigger is not always better.
• The terminal clamp of the cable must be kept clean. Use a simple solution of baking soda and water in cleaning the terminal clamp especially when you notice the accumulation of white powdery substance around the electrodes. There are times the engine would not start if the battery terminal is corroded.
• In removing or cleaning the battery, remove first (-) ground cable followed by the (+) cable. If you are going to reinstall the battery, the (+) cable must be put first before the (-) ground cable. In this way, we can avoid short circuit if the wrench accidentally touches the grounded part of the vehicle.
• Use warm water and a mild detergent to remove grease and dirt from the plastic surface of the battery. This is important because a layer of dirt can actually act as a conductive agent, causing the battery to constantly discharge slightly.
• Do your part in protecting the environment by simply returning used batteries to battery shops for recycling. Recycling is one good way to reduce pollution.
• Your mechanic can load-test your battery to see if it is capable of sufficient charge on below-freezing days.  Replace it if it does not pass the test.
• “The battery is literally the life spark of your car,” says Dave McMullen, director of marketing at EnerSys, makers of Odyssey Dry cell Batteries. “Your automotive winterizing routine should include a full check up and cold-weather prep for your car battery.” If you live in climate that is excessively cold, think about obtaining a battery or engine heater. The heater will help the battery start the car by reducing the power necessary.
• Read your owner's manual before disconnecting your battery to ensure that computer or radio memories are not lost. You may need to enter a password to get these components functioning again. These passwords are normally included with the owner's manual packet that came with your vehicle.
• Always disconnect the battery before doing anything else. Remove the cable from ground first, which is usually the negative terminal. This disconnects the battery from the car’s entire electrical system and minimizes the risk of causing sparks. Then remove the positive terminal connection. Never use a screwdriver to pry off stuck-on battery cable terminals because you could damage connections inside the battery post. Instead, use a battery puller tool to remove cable terminals.
  

  Recharging guidelines for maximum life

  • Recharge immediately after each use
  • Use battery charger matched to the battery's size
  • Do not overcharge; an automatic charger that turns off or on with a timer is your best bet
  • Always slow charge a deep cycle battery; never fast charge or boost charge it
  • A 10-12 hour charge with the appropriate charger at the correct amp rate will usually bring your battery to a full state of charge from a deep discharge

    
    Courtesy of SmartMotorist.com

We're thrilled to see the fantastic feedback! Thank you all for the wonderful reviews.

"Jim is an amazing representative. He is knowledgable, polite and courteous. He followed up with phone calls and emails. He resolved questions and concerns immediately. The remainder of the staff we met and worked with were also amazing. I have already recommended Lexus of Wayzata - Jim Kirchner to several people."

"Jim was very helpful in my search for a new car. He pointed me in the direction of a used Mitsubishi that was within my price range but had all the aspects I was looking for. He was honest and openly communicative throughout the entire process. He also has done a great job following up post sale to make sure everything is going smoothly. I would definitely recommend him to anyone looking for a new or used vehicle!"

"I've purchased 2 cars with Jim Kirchner....and will definitely be back! He took great care of us! I felt like he was focused on us!"

"I brought my 07 Lexus GS in for service. The speedometer had failed. While I waited, they tested the speedometer unit and found that the dash unit needed to be replaced. This entails removing the dash and replacing the whole unit.. I also had the oil, oil filter and air filter changed.

Lexus US agreed to replace the unit at no charge even though the car was out of standard warranty. This is one of the key reasons why I am now on my third Lexus, as they back up their cars with great service. In addition my experience with Lexus of Wayzata from the sale to the service has always been top notch. Our family has other cars and I am usually the one that brings in the car for service, but non of the other brands treat the customer as well." - Robert

Lexus of Wayzata - Luxury Contest! Enter to win fabulous prizes!

Like us (http://on.fb.me/z7WFkX) and enter to win a grand prize trip for two flying First Class on Sun Country Airlines. Grand Prize winner will select from 3 fabulous destinations.  Additional prizes include $1000 to Continental Diamond, Timberwolves tickets, an Auto Spa package, a gift card to Kowalski’s and a gift card to Sunset’s Restaurant.

The New 2013 LX

 The third-generation Lexus LX 570 will see a notable update this year with the introduction of the 2013 model.

Its restyled front-end features the new spindle grille, one of the key elements of the updated L-finesse design language, as well as LED daytime running lights that complement the headlamp design.

Other exterior changes include wider bodyside moldings; new taillamps; updates to the front and rear bumpers; and a stainless steel accent on the rear bumper protector:

The instrument panel has been redesigned, and it includes a new multi-information color display:

A noteworthy feature, says Paul Williamsen, National Manager of the Lexus College, is the Multi-terrain System, which allows the driver to “optimize performance” by selecting from five terrain types.

Williamsen also points out that there’s a new Turn Assist feature: “This is for when you’re turning at low speed, such as in a campground. The system adds more brake force to the inside rear wheel, so it tightens the turning radius of the vehicle.”

The 2013 LX 570 arrives in dealerships in early February.

 

Courtesy of The Lexus Enthusiast