Mitsubishi CA-MiEV Concept, 2013

 

 

 

• Mitsubishi CA-MiEV Concept, 2013

The Mitsubishi Motors now explores the full electro-mobility engineering palette - Pure Electric (EV), Hybrid Electric (HEV), Plug-in Hybrid Electric (PHEV) - hinted at through two concept cars world-premiered at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show, next to the New Outlander PHEV, one of which is the CA-MiEV Concept electric vehicle.
 

It started R&D on electro-mobility back in 1966, today's Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) always considered that electric vehicles (EV) should eventually become long-term core products - a view vindicated by recent concerns over global warming.

From the pioneering i-MiEV in 2009 and a self-imposed objective of 20% of EV-based cars by 2020, MMC has already made significant steps in this direction as demonstrated with the all-new Outlander Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle ("PHEV") and its most innovative "Dual Design" architecture.

Showcase
Supported by three years of i-MiEV global customer feedback since 2009 as well as continuous progress in battery technology and electric drive train, MMC now considers taking pure EVs beyond a mostly urban environment with a next generation compact EV such as this CA-MiEV Concept.

Whilst at this stage not planned for production, this concept car is intended as a showcase of the various technologies MMC intends to introduce mid- to long-term across its range of global vehicles.

In particular, this demonstrator can rely on next generation EV systems and high density batteries, light weight as well as advanced aerodynamics to offer a 300 km driving range (or about one week of driving for an average European driver[2]), perfectly suited for suburban & country daily life.

Further innovative real-life features include magnetic resonance wireless charging technology and smartphone activated functions.

0.26 Sleek
Mitsubishi Motors first true concept car in years, CA-MiEV Concept can be understood as a declaration of intent, stressing the return to Engineering's primacy within the corporation to better serve (global) customer demand.

Hinted at through the first products of MMC's latest product cycle (pioneering 44g/km Outlander PHEV, lightweight 92 g/km Mirage[3]), this creed will be further adhered to with the introduction of next generation technologies throughout the range over the coming years.

Design play no small part in the new development with a clear emphasis on aerodynamic performance. After Global Small's segment record 0.27 Cd, the 5-door CA-MiEV Concept compact hatchback takes the baton with a Cd target of 0.26.

Very sleek, the arrow-shaped CA-MiEV Concept brings a degree of high tech sleekness to small car design, all the way to its unusual canopy sloping rear roof line.

Highly efficient (full flat floor, rear-view cameras, minimal air intakes, rear diffuser), CA-MiEV Concept is also full of dramatic detailing - from the boomerang-sculptured front and rear lights to the ascending side character line enclosing the rear wheel arches to create a strong forward motion effect.

High Density
To power CA-MiEV Concept, MMC inaugurates its next generation high efficiency drivetrain:

• All-in-One integrated power unit (80 kW motor + inverter + charger) - to help with energy management, packaging and weight reduction.
• Compact flat battery pack - to help with packaging (especially for possible later applications like range extender) and better long term battery performance.
• Magnetic resonance wireless charging technology - to help with user-friendliness, as jointly announced in September 2011[4] by WiTricity Corporation, IHI Corporation and Mitsubishi Motors Corporation and currently under investigation and testing.
• High density energy Lithium-ion batteries - to help with energy efficiency and also with packaging.

Connected
Roomy, sleek, lightweight and efficient, a future electric vehicle like CA-MiEV Concept - but also any future ICE, HEV or PHEV Mitsubishi vehicle for that matter) shall also be connected to the rest of the planet, infrastructure permitting, with telematics features such as:

• Automatic e-mailing in case of theft.
• Automatic e-calling in case of an emergency.
• Remote controlling (engine start/no start, panic alarm, door locking.
• Data transfer (maps) from Smartphone to in-car system
• Remote energy monitoring or pre-heating for EVs and PHEVs (already featured with Outlander PHEV).

Read More

Mini Clubvan Camper, 2013

 

 

 

•  Mini Clubvan Camper, 2013

Hygiene is always a key part of any weekend away and MINI's ingenious design engineers have even got that covered. The Camper's generous specification also includes an integrated hand-held shower, with a water tank housed underneath the load floor.

The freedom of the open road, a dynamic driving experience and everything you need with you - the MINI Clubvan Camper has it all.

The world's smallest luxury camper van, a MINI Clubvan which has been transformed into a versatile home on wheels. Behind the solid side windows there is a spacious sleeping berth for one person, plus a small, extendible kitchenette complete with propane stove and chest fridge.

On-board facilities includes the MINI Navigation Portable XL sat-nav, which will help drivers find their way to the most remote spots. If the weather is unkind a television can provide entertainment and chilly mornings can be made more comfortable thanks to an auxiliary heater.

A particular highlight is the MINI Clubvan Camper's roof. The small glass panel can be opened for ventilation or star-gazing, while the storage rack above means owners can travel with equipment for outdoor pursuits.

Read More

Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG, 2014

 

 

Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG, 2014

The most powerful series production four-cylinder engine in the world
Two figures show that the Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG holds pole position in its displacement segment: the newly developed AMG 2.0-litre turbo engine is the most powerful series production four-cylinder turbo engine in the world. A maximum output of 265 kW (360 hp) and up to 450 Nm of torque are unmatched by any other mass-produced turbocharged four-cylinder engine worldwide.

The power density of 133 kW (181 hp) is also absolutely unrivalled.In this discipline, the new AMG high-performance turbo engine even outstrips the most powerful super sports cars.

The substance of the new Mercedes-Benz vehicle architecture for front- and all-wheel drive provides the perfect basis for the A45 AMG and at least two other high-performance premium automobiles from Affalterbach. In designing and developing the Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG, the experts at AMG have drawn on the company's decades of experience in motorsport and the production of powerful, high-performance vehicles. As such, the A45 AMG will inherit the corporate DNA and embody the AMG brand claim "Driving Performance" to perfection: a fascinatingly sporty driving experience combined with impressive craftsmanship and pronounced individuality.

The high power and torque output and the combination with the performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive lead to extremely dynamic performance: the A45 AMG accelerates from zero to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.6 seconds, while its top speed stands at 250 km/h (155 mph) [electronically limited].The specially developed AMG engine is also a model of efficiency - the Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG also leads its segment on this front, with fuel consumption of 6.9 litres per 100 km (40.9 mpg) in NEDC combined mode. This is accompanied by particularly low exhaust emissions:the A45 AMG already complies with the EU6 emissions standard which is not scheduled to enter into force until 2015, combined with the limit for the particle count per kilometre which will be mandatory from 2017.

The basis for these impressive figures is provided by the high-tech package which has been put together by Mercedes-AMG.As a high-performance engine belonging to the BlueDIRECT family, the AMG 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo engine features spray-guided direct petrol injection via piezo injectors positioned centrally in the four combustion chambers. The combination of multiple fuel injection and multiple spark ignition improves fuel utilisation and increases thermodynamic efficiency substantially, leading to lower exhaust emissions.Other highlights include the gravity-die sandcast all-aluminium crankcase, weight-optimised crank assembly with forged steel crankshaft and forged pistons with friction-optimised piston rings, NANOSLIDE cylinder wall technology, air-water charge air cooling, generator management and ECO start/stop function.

Twin-scroll turbocharger and AMG sports exhaust system with exhaust flap
Mercedes-AMG addresses the essential challenges concerning the response of small-displacement turbo engines by means of a twin-scroll turbocharger, maximum derestriction of the exhaust system and an innovative injection strategy. The twin-scroll technology provides for a more spontaneous build-up of charge pressure, making effective use of exhaust gas back pressure, exhaust gas temperature and exhaust gas impulse. This results in a swifter build-up of torque right from the lower rev range.As a positive side-effect, the twin-scroll technology also benefits fuel consumption and exhaust emissions. At a maximum charge pressure of 1.8 bar, the AMG 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo engine also leads the field in this respect.

The AMG sports exhaust system features large pipe cross-sections and an automatically controlled exhaust flap.This technology, which is familiar from the SLK 55 AMG, reconciles the two apparently conflicting aims of tangible dynamism and hallmark Mercedes comfort on long journeys.The flap is continuously adjusted by map control according to the power called up by the driver, load status and engine speed. The two striking tailpipes of the AMG sports exhaust system emit a fascinating, full engine sound which is particularly impressive during powerful acceleration.

An AMG Performance exhaust system with exhaust flap and featuring a dedicated tailpipe trim design is optionally available for the A45 AMG. This provides for an even more emotional and striking engine sound when the throttle is open and during gear shifting. The double-declutching function during downshifting and the interruption of ignition and injection during upshifting under full load produce a particularly throaty sound with the AMG Performance exhaust system and create a level of emotionality which is otherwise the reserve of engines with more than four cylinders.

High-performance cooling system with components from the SLS AMG
The highly capable driving dynamics of the A45 AMG call for a highly effective cooling system. On the basis of the components belonging to the SLS AMG, a low-temperature circuit is additionally deployed for air-water charge air cooling of the four-cylinder turbo engine. The large cooler section at the front level of the cooling module is supplemented by an additional cooler in the wheel arch. Together with the charge air cooler which is connected in series, a high-performance electric pump ensures the required flow through the water coolers located behind the large intake ports. This provides for ideal cooling of the highly compressed charge air, thereby contributing towards optimum engine performance.

Cooling of the transmission oil is integrated in the water cooling circuit for the engine. The water cooler positioned behind the front apron is supported by the heat exchanger which is fitted directly on the transmission and supplied with cooling water as required by means of an auxiliary pump.

Engine production - a tradition of hand-built excellence
Similarly to all eight- and twelve-cylinder engines, the new AMG 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo engine is also hand-built according to the traditional AMG philosophy of "one man, one engine". An exclusive assembly line has been set up for the new AMG engine at the Mercedes-Benz engine production plant in Kölleda - where all BlueDIRECT four-cylinder engines are built for the A- and B-Class models. A characteristic feature of the "one man, one engine" production process is the AMG engine plate bearing the signature of the responsible engine fitter. Apart from serving as an AMG hallmark confirming superlative production quality, the AMG engine plate also attests to the peerless DNA of Mercedes-Benz's high-performance brand.

AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission
Dual clutch transmission and all-wheel drive - the drive package onboard the new Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG is a demonstration of high-end engineering prowess.The AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT seven-speed sports transmission is directly flange-mounted on the transversely installed AMG 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo engine.Key software modules have been adopted from the SLS AMG super sports car with its inspirational power transmission concept. The dual clutch transmission of the A45 features seven gears, three driving programmes, a double-declutching function and RACE START for optimum acceleration. The strengths of the AMG DCT sports transmission include spontaneous gear shifting without any interruption in tractive power, a tailor-made control strategy, extremely smooth and easy gear shifting and a high level of efficiency. Reinforced gear wheels provide for maximum stability. Synchroniser rings with carbon-fibre friction linings improve durability while also optimising the response time during manual gear-changing - the ideal basis for ambitious laps on cordoned-off race tracks.

"Momentary M mode" for even greater dynamism and driving enjoyment
Another special feature designed to enhance dynamic performance and driving enjoyment is so-called "Momentary M mode". In C and S mode, this enables the driver to activate manual mode ("M") without having to remove a hand from the steering wheel, by pressing the "up" or "down" shift paddle once. In Momentary M mode the driver experiences the dynamism and performance of gear-shifting in manual mode in all of the automatic driving programmes, with automatic up- and down-shifting into the bargain.This allows the driver to devote his full attention to the vehicle's impressive performance.

The shift times in manual mode "M" and in Sport mode "S" are similarly sporty in character to those of the SLS AMG GT super sports car. Briefly and precisely interrupting ignition and injection under full load leads to even faster gearshifts with a more emotional sound than ever. In "C" mode (Controlled Efficiency), tangibly soft transmission and engine characteristics support a fuel-efficient and comfort-oriented driving style.The ECO start/stop function is also active in "C" mode.

Read More

McLaren 12C GT Sprint, 2014

 

 

•  McLaren 12C GT Sprint, 2014

To produce a new high performance variant of the 12C McLaren GT, named the 12C GT Sprint, designed to offer further enhanced handling through optimised aerodynamics and track focus.

The track-only model signifies the continued development of the 12C model, and bridges the gap between the 12C, itself fully accomplished on both road and track, and the all-out racing 12C GT3 and 12C GT Can-Am Edition models. It has been designed and developed by McLaren GT, the race car building arm of the McLaren Group, and retains many of the unique systems from the 12C road car, on which it is based.

Built around the lightweight carbon fibre MonoCell chassis, and with developments to systems such as ProActive Chassis Control, (PCC), Brake Steer and the McLaren Airbrake, the latest model from McLaren GT has been honed to deliver a more track-focused GT racing experience whilst retaining the balance and precise characteristics much praised in the road car.

The McLaren 12C GT Sprint, finished in heritage McLaren Orange as standard, makes its world premiere at the 2013 Goodwood Festival of Speed. Initial batch of 20 cars will be delivered in 2013, available from McLaren retailers at a price point below GBP £200,000 (plus applicable taxes/duties).

Generating 625PS, the optimised 3.8-litre twin turbo engine includes a unique oil system, and cooling system which features a 12C GT3 developed central front radiator. The GT Sprint retains the 12C's seven speed twin clutch gearbox.

The PCC suspension system has been tuned and recalibrated to suit the cars lower ride height and racing slick tyres, providing a firmer and more circuit-orientated setup. The McLaren 12C GT Sprint has three unique handling modes which allow the driver to select their preferred damping, roll stiffness and ESP settings.

Externally, the 12C GT Sprint features optimised aerodynamic and cooling upgrades. At the front is a more aggressive front bumper, GT3-inspired bonnet with radiator exit ducts and front wing louvres. Lowered by 40 mm, the 12C GT Sprint is fitted with track-focused braking system with carbon ceramic (CCM) brake discs. Tyre changes are made easier through an on-board air jacking system and centre-locking 19-inch OZ wheels, shod with Pirelli racing slick tyres.

Inside , the McLaren 12C GT Sprint is fitted with an FIA-approved rollcage and integrated fire extinguisher system. A fully adjustable HANS-approved, lightweight composite racing seat fitted with full six-point harness provides the optimum driving position, while an air-conditioning system is retained, albeit a lightweight version, offering added comfort.

A carbon fibre dash houses the race developed digital display and key vehicle controls which interface with a McLaren GT developed steering wheel.

Further enhancements are available through a range of bespoke options including a CFD (computational fluid dynamics) developed aerodynamic package including carbon fibre rear wing and front splitter, and further lightweight components including a polycarbonate windscreen.

Read More

Mazda CX-9, 2013

• Mazda CX-9, 2013

The Mazda CX-9 features the MZI 3.7-liter V6 engine and a six-speed automatic transmission for powerful and refined driving pleasure.Mazda Motor Corporation hold the world premiere of the refreshed Mazda CX-9 crossover SUV at the 2012 Australian International Motor Show. The 2013 CX-9 will be launched in Australia in late 2012.

Mazda CX-9 is a crossover sport-utility SUV featuring a distinctive sporty appearance, a high-quality cabin, the flexibility of three-rows, and Mazda's exciting "Zoom-Zoom" driving dynamics. The current CX-9 has sold over 210,000 units in 74 countries, including North America and Australia, as Mazda's range-topping SUV.

The Mazda CX-9 carries over the utility and dynamic driving performance of the current model while adopting Mazda's "KODO - Soul of Motion" design theme at the front and rear for even sportier styling and stronger presence. Enhancements in craftsmanship and interior design further the feeling of quality and refinement. With regard to equipment, the infotainment system features the latest audio, navigation and speech-recognition systems based on the Human Machine Interface (HMI) which is intuitive to use. In addition, advanced active-safety features, such as Forward Obstruction Warning System, Lane Departure Warning System, and High Beam Control System, help drivers recognize and avoid danger.

Read More

Maserati Quattroporte Zegna Edition Concept, 2013

 

 

•  Maserati Quattroporte Zegna Edition Concept, 2013

The car, presented as a limited edition concept, is intended for development into a production version in 2014 and will maintain the same personality and quality of the current Quattroporte range.

The Maserati Quattroporte Ermenegildo Zegna Limited Edition concept car to be unveiled at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show features a unique new look in colour scheme, materials and finish.

A leading role in the Maserati Quattroporte Ermenegildo Zegna Limited Edition concept car is played by its interior. Classical warm hues like moka and greige are re-interpreted in a modern key to emulate Zegna's latest men's fashion collections, conveying a formal, sophisticated character. Interior components such as seats, door panels and roof lining are finished in genuine soft leather, in addition to a velvet-smooth, bright fabric that, due to Zegna's vast experience and know-how, guarantees the level of performance needed for automotive applications.

Ermenegildo Zegna's concept for the Maserati Quattroporte limited edition is the result of a close collaboration between two companies that are linked by history, tradition and exclusivity.

The exterior of the Maserati Quattroporte Ermenegildo Zegna Limited Edition concept car features a special effect paint finish that simulates the fluidity and purity of metal, by using ultra-fine aluminium pigments. A gloss black primer amplifies the brilliance of the aluminium pigments and creates a sensation of depth. The platinum metal colour effect finish is warmly nuanced to express the car's classic and sophisticated yet technically advanced character.

The material and chromatic research behind the Maserati Quattroporte Ermenegildo Zegna Limited Edition is based on a play between the classical and the contemporary.

Read More

Lotus Evora Sports Racer, 2013

 

 

•  Lotus Evora Sports Racer, 2013

The arrival of the acclaimed Exige S; featured marque at the Goodwood Festival of Speed; a new flagship retail store in Regent Street; third place in the F1 Drivers' Championship and fourth in the F1 Constructors' Championship; and amongst various racing exploits, another series win for a Lotus with an Evora GTC taking the MSA British Endurance Championship.


There are 3 main factors that set the 'Sports Racer' apart from the existing Evora range; firstly, it receives a unique exterior colour scheme with an optimised interior to match. Secondly, it comes fully loaded, boasting Lotus' ultimate specification. While thirdly, it's more affordable than ever, representing great value.
 
The excitement of this race series win, the new Lotus Evora 'Sports Racer' is a visually enhanced and optimised version of the mid-engined 3.5 litre V6 sports car, available in both naturally-aspirated or supercharged variants. The Lotus Evora 'Sports Racer' proves its value on the pocket, as well as on the road and track - it delivers phenomenal performance, exclusive style, incredible excitement and genuine affordability!

Price
Available in the UK and across Europe, the Lotus Evora 'Sports Racer' adds outstanding value to the already exceptional Evora range, priced in the UK at £57,900 for the Evora with 280 PS or £65,900 for the 350 PS supercharged Evora S. For UK customers, the cost benefits are clear; by opting for the pre-packaged Lotus Evora 'Sports Racer' savings range from £6,450 to £7,150 respectively.

Aesthetics
The Lotus Evora 'Sports Racer' is available in a choice of four colours: Aspen White, Carbon Grey, Nightfall Blue and Ardent Red. To stand out from the crowd, the 'Sports Racer' receives unique contrasting accents of gloss black across the roof, front splitter, rear diffuser and side sills, exaggerating the Evora's aggressive stance and sleek silhouette. Further black elements include black rear badging, black door mirror pods and gloss black forged wheels with a choice of either red or black brake calipers which all work to give the 'Sports Racer' a more dramatic and focused appearance.

The inside, the 2+2 seating option is standard and comes adorned with black leather 'Premium Sports' seats trimmed with red contrast piping and stitching. The dash, doors and centre console receive a liberal dose of Slate Grey SuedeTexTM with red contrast stitching, highlighting the car's sporting character.

Like your interiors a bit louder? Go for Venom Red leather 'Premium Sports' seats with black contrast piping and stitching. All Evora 'Sport Racer' interiors are complemented by gunmetal dashboard panels, as is standard in the Evora S.

The Gadgets
The Lotus Evora 'Sports Racer' comes loaded with optional extras as standard. The 'Sports Pack' provides switchable sports mode with sharper throttle response, increased rpm limit and sportier setting for Dynamic Performance Management (DPM), sports diffuser and cross-drilled brake discs. The 'Tech Pack' provides upgraded speakers and stereo system, DVD player, 7" WVGA touch screen display, Bluetooth® mobile phone connection, USB connection for various iPod® models, MP3 players and memory sticks, tyre pressure monitoring, cruise control and rear parking sensors. This is topped of with electric power-fold mirrors and a reversing camera as standard.

Read More

Lexus RX 450h, 2013

 

 

•  Lexus RX 450h, 2013

6-Speed Multi-mode Automatic Transmission with Paddle Shift Control
The 6-speed automatic transmission of the RX 350 F SPORT versions is now equipped with a steering wheel-mounted paddle shift control. The paddle switches can be used even with the gear selector in D range, allowing the driver to quickly change to fixed range mode without the need to engage S range via the gear lever.

The launch of the first RX in 1998, Lexus created the Luxury SUV segment, combining, for the first time, all the flexibility, practicality and durability of a Sports Utility Vehicle with the handling, performance, refinement and ride of a luxury sedan.

The RX was the first ever SUV to be equipped with a full hybrid power train in 2005. Today, after three generations, two of which have been equipped with Lexus Hybrid Drive technology, the RX remains a key model for Lexus.
 

The new, upgraded Lexus RX model range made its world debut at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show. The new RX exterior features a new, more elegant and aggressive frontal design. An enhanced interior offers an expanded choice of colour schemes, new trim finishes, a new steering wheel, a revised instrument binnacle and a second generation Remote Touch Interface (RTI).

The versatility of the European flagship RX 450h's Lexus Hybrid Drive system has been enhanced by the addition of a Sport mode, supplementing the full hybrid powertrain's Normal, Eco and EV (electric only) drive modes. The EV mode can now be activated with a separate switch.

Further enhancing the dynamic and sporting character of the new RX and designed to attract new customers to the model range, a new F SPORT version will be available. Expected to account for some 30% of future model range sales, the new F SPORT grade features bespoke exterior and interior design and driving dynamics technology.

The Interior Design
Further broadening the appeal of its spacious, luxurious and technically advanced dual-zone 'crossover' cockpit, the new RX interior features an expanded choice of colour schemes, new trim finishes, a new steering wheel, a revised instrument binnacle and a second generation Remote Touch Interface (RTI).

Adding to the choice of interior colour schemes available, Saddle Tan, and F SPORT-exclusive Black and White Grey designs join the existing Ivory, Black and Light Grey line-up.

The choice of trim inserts has also increased; luxurious Walnut and classic Dark Grey complimented by the addition of modern, Dark Grey bird's eye maple and F SPORT-exclusive Silver finishes.

Clearly differentiating it from the smooth leather finish, the semi-aniline leather upholstery now incorporates diamond shaped perforations. Seat stitching has been enhanced by the use of thicker thread and more prominent colours, and the dashboard design enlivened through the addition of a matt silver insert above the glovebox.

A new, more comfortable steering wheel features a cross-section which is no longer uniform throughout its circumference. Its varying profile allows for a relaxing grip and smooth steering inputs. Wood finish steering wheels are now available with heated rims.

The driver's instrument binnacle of RX 450h versions is equipped with a new Hybrid System Indicator design featuring clearly delineated, Charge, Eco and Power zones. New ambient illumination changes according to both driving conditions and the selected drive mode.

In EV (electric only), Eco or Normal drive modes, when the Hybrid System Indicator needle is in the Charge or Eco zones, the ambient illumination is blue. It will extinguish if the needle enters the Power zone. In Sport mode, the ambient illumination remains red at all times.

The centre console box has been extensively revised to enhance its practicality. The console lid opening angle has been increased to 95 degrees to improve access. Both the USB port and accessory socket have been moved closer to the top of the box interior, which now features a closable door and a removable divider plate.

The new RX model range is equipped with a second generation Remote Touch Interface (RTI). This Lexus-unique, multi-function control device has been enhanced for increased user-friendliness and ease of operation. It now features the world's first slide-type joystick control mechanism which functions much like a computer mouse, and the ENTER command is now accomplished simply by pushing the controller.

In conjunction with enhanced RTI control, the multimedia system's full colour LED display now has multi-screen capability. This allows for the permanent display -and independent control- of three types of information simultaneously, such as map, vehicle information, audio, navigation input, air conditioner functions and incoming call.

Exterior Design
The new Lexus RX range is hallmarked by a bold, elegant and highly individual frontal treatment which adopted throughout the brand to strengthen the Lexus family identity between model ranges.

Giving the new RX a powerful, commanding road presence, this new, more aggressive design is a further evolution of a styling cue first developed on the CT 200h and GS model ranges.

The inverted trapezoid upper grille and slanted lower grille have been combined and integrated into a single element, bridging the bumper mid-section to create a prominent 'spindle' shape. Reinforcing this more modern and bolder identity, the lower grille now features horizontal bars and is finished in black.

Positioned on a higher plane than the grille itself -a unique Lexus characteristic- a new, clear lens headlamp cluster design incorporates a choice of halogen, High Intensity Discharge (HID) or Light Emitting Diode (LED) headlamps. The headlamps are underscored by integral LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL) which form the L-finesse arrowhead motif, reinforcing the unique visual signature of the new RX model range.

Now also fitted with clear lenses, the rear lamp clusters have been redesigned with a stronger, more sweeping horizontal emphasis, adding elegance to the rear of the vehicle.

The current choice of 18" or 19" aluminium wheels is expanded by the addition of a new 19" alloy wheel design, and four new exterior colours are available -Satin Silver, Burgundy Red, Sienna Brown and Midnight Blue, bringing the choice of colours available to 10 in total.

Drive Mode Select (Normal, Sport, ECO and EV)
Supplementing the Normal and Eco drive modes of the full hybrid powertrain's E-CVT intelligent electronic transmission, a new Sport mode further improves the performance and dynamic ability of the RX 450h. These three drive modes can be selected through the steering wheel, whilst the EV mode (electric only) can be now activated through a separate EV switch.

From start-up and at speeds of less than 50km/h the RX 450h automatically operates in EV mode, driving under electric motor power alone. The driver may also select EV mode manually. This unique driving mode is only available through the full hybrid technology of Lexus Hybrid Drive.

The EV drive mode allows for relaxing urban driving with minimal noise, and zero CO2, NOx and particulate emissions, for up to two kilometres. Because the petrol engine is switched off throughout its operation, the EV drive mode contributes to a significant reduction in the new Lexus' overall fuel consumption.

In Eco mode, throttle response to aggressive accelerator pedal inputs is reduced and air-conditioning control optimized for improved fuel economy. Depending on driving conditions, the Eco mode can help customers adopt a relaxed driving style, and can achieve a perceptible reduction in fuel consumption.

Specifically tuned to deliver greater electric motor power, Sport mode maximises the new RX 450h's performance and agility. It not only modifies the throttle and Electric Power Steering (EPS) settings to give a faster response to driver inputs, but also provides less intrusive operation of the Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control (TRC) systems, allowing drivers to fully exploit the Lexus full hybrid's extended dynamic abilities.

The distinct character of each drive mode is further reinforced through changes to the driver's instruments. Lit in hybrid blue for the EV, Eco and Normal drive modes, the instrument panel ambient illumination automatically alters to red when the Sport mode is selected.

ALL-NEW F SPORT GRADE
Further enhancing the dynamic and sporting character of the new RX and attracting new customers to the model range, a new F SPORT version is now available.

Expected to account for up to 30% of all future RX sales in a new, 4 grade model range structure, the F SPORT grade features bespoke exterior and interior design and driving dynamics technology.

Exterior Design
F SPORT versions of the new RX are instantly identifiable by significantly more aggressive, model-unique frontal styling. A deeper, more vertical front bumper incorporates a bigger lower section of the Lexus family 'spindle' grille design.

Incorporating a full-width, aerodynamic spoiler for improved high speed stability, the lower bumper's flared extremities house deeply rebated fog lamps. Both upper and lower grilles feature a sporting, F SPORT-specific mesh design.

In profile, F SPORT models may be identified by exclusive, 19" shaded alloy wheels and front wing F SPORT badging.

The Interior Design
The F SPORT-exclusive interior is hallmarked by an exclusive, Black and White Grey colour scheme. It features black, smooth leather upholstery with white grey perforations and contrast stitching, steel silver painted trim inserts and a black ceiling to give the interior a more cockpit-like feel and aid driver concentration.

Performance Dampers
F SPORT models further benefit from the lateral performance damper system, which is designed to absorb and minimise undesirable body vibrations, offer a more linear steering feel and contribute to improved ride comfort.

In lieu of conventional fixed bracing, the system features a front performance damper connecting the left and right front suspension towers, and a rear damper connecting the left and right sides of the rear lower back panel.

With a construction similar to that of a typical monotube suspension damper, the front and rear performance damper assemblies differ according to the variations in body rigidity, noise and vibration of their surroundings, optimising their ability to absorb body torsion, flexure and fine vibrations.

The installation has reduced vehicle floor vibrations across a wide frequency range, reduced body deformation through a drop in left and right front suspension tower displacement, and even lowered audio system white noise levels.

Although difficult to analyse even using Computer Aided Design, micron-sized, minuscule vibrations manifest themselves as a slight discomfort when turning the wheel and minute deviations in vehicle behaviour during straight line acceleration. Their elimination brings a new dimension of steering response, agility and ride comfort to the premium SUV segment.

Read More