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Official Toyko Auto show aka the Lexus TAKEOVER Thread (all pics, info, etc here)

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Old 10-24-05 | 12:05 PM
  #136  
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Originally Posted by TheOfficeBoy
Is it just me, or is there more than a passing resemblance to the LF-S in this Honda concept?
It's just you.
Old 10-24-05 | 12:08 PM
  #137  
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Default Coverage from Automobile

I believe this is the first design review of the LF-Sh.

http://car-reviews.automobile.com/ne...at-tokyo/1490/

Lexus Showcases Next LS Sedan with LF-Sh Concept at Tokyo
October 21, 2005
by Justin Couture / American Auto Press

L-Finesse Design Language Works Well with Full-Size Concept

The LF-Sh is a yet another Lexus concept depicting the brands L-Finesse design language, but this time it represents the next generation of a vehicle that has become synonymous with upscale luxury and quality on this side of the Pacific, the replacement for the full-size LS sedan.

But in and of itself, this stylish new concept vehicle could be the biggest test of Toyotas premium brand to date. The pressure mounted against Lexus concerning this cars introduction is beyond high, as its not only the preview of its forthcoming flagship model but is also being presented for the first time in the brands home country of Japan, where Lexus is a completely new entity.

So far, both the GS, which was first introduced as the LF-S concept, and the new IS, which debuted as the LF-C concept, in two-door retractable hardtop guise, have been well received in production trim, and posing serious threats in market segments where Lexus had previously been weak; the LF-Sh exhibits the same sense of confidence, although now in full-size form.

What gives the LF-Sh concept such great presence is its adherence to Lexus new L-Finesse design language. One might think that the same styling cues used on a sport compact sedan would clash when applied to the sizeable dimensions of the LS, but this interpretation works to compliment. Despite being the biggest Lexus concept car produced to date, these initial photographs show integrated creased edges and curvaceous panels that create a beautiful if not complete contrast to the current LS. While theres no arguing that the current LS is extremely efficient in design, it blends into the backdrop rather than projecting an image of individualism. L-Finesse works wonders, helping the concept garner attention without resorting to controversy (Audi A8, BMW 7-Series and now even the Mercedes-Benz S-Class).
The LF-Shs presentation does a fairly good job at disguising the vehicles size, betrayed only by a few softer edges. Overall, the car measures 199.2 inches in length, 73.8 inches in width, 57.7 inches in height, and it rides on a wheelbase of 116.9 inches. Translation: its the same size range as its main European competitors like the S-Class, A8 and 7-Series.

Interestingly, there is some internal interest at raising the LS competitive status by offering a long wheelbase version. Less drastic moves have been made elsewhere in the Lexus lineup, such as offering different drivetrains or all-wheel drive, but never in such a large scale. Lexus change on the "one size fits all" policy is sure to benefit the brand down the road by reaching a larger audience.

For the concept, Lexus has specified that the car will be powered by a V8 engine assisted by an electric hybrid motor (hence the h in its name). Its unclear exactly what type of motor will be used, but judging by the fact that its an eight-cylinder the unit under the hood of the LF-Sh concept is most likely the new 4.6-liter V8 with a low-performance assist system. Lexus claims that the car generates approximately 400-horsepower, enough to muscle it to the top of its class. As with optional drivetrains available in the GS and IS, all 400 ponies are harnessed to an electronically controlled all-wheel drive system. Details on the hybrid system, such as whether its a sandwich type (i.e. Lexus GS 450h) or front-wheel assist (i.e. Lexus RX 400h), have yet to be been announced.

As for production, its expected that a new 4.6-liter V8 featuring VVT-L dual variable valve timing, and D4-S direct injection will power the standard LS. Although the engine has yet to be officially confirmed, its been long speculated that power output will be around 350-horsepower, a significant improvement over the current 4.3-liters 290-hp. Without any great leaps and bounds of imagination, this car will be called the LS 460. This motor will most likely be paired to a six-speed automatic.

While buyers of current and previous LS models have been restricted to a single drivetrain, a large-displacement V8 engine of either 4.0 or 4.3 liters, for the first time with this new generation Lexus will be offering an alternative. The LS flagship (and Lexus flagship for that matter) will be the LS 600h, a hybrid-assisted version of the LS 460 generating the equivalent power of a car with a 6.0-liter engine (V8 or V12; whichever sounds more dramatic). Aside from offering unheard-of levels of performance, the LS 600h will also be a most economical full-size sedan, with diesel-like fuel consumption and even lower emissions.

If a potential timeline were to be put together for the LF-Sh / LS, it would look a little bit like this. The introduction of the LF-Sh with full details will take place promptly before the cars public showing at the Tokyo Motor Show, which just took place. Having completed its purpose of appetizer to the world, focus would shift to the production LS, scheduled to make an appearance in production-ready form at the 2006 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, this coming January. Finally, the long wheelbase and high-performance hybrid versions would be shown at the New York International Auto Show in April. Expect sales for the regular LS to begin late 2006.

4.3 liters, for the first time with this new generation Lexus will be offering an alternative. The LS flagship (and Lexus flagship for that matter) will be the LS 600h, a hybrid-assisted version of the LS 460 generating the equivalent power of a car with a 6.0-liter engine (V8 or V12; whichever sounds more dramatic). Aside from offering unheard-of levels of performance, the LS 600h will also be a most economical full-size sedan, with diesel-like fuel consumption and even lower emissions.

If a potential timeline were to be put together for the LF-Sh / LS, it would look a little bit like this. The introduction of the LF-Sh with full details will take place promptly before the cars public showing at the Tokyo Motor Show, which just took place. Having completed its purpose of appetizer to the world, focus would shift to the production LS, scheduled to make an appearance in production-ready form at the 2006 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, this coming January. Finally, the long wheelbase and high-performance hybrid versions would be shown at the New York International Auto Show in April. Expect sales for the regular LS to begin late 2006.
Old 10-24-05 | 03:03 PM
  #138  
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Default We are hearing that the next gen LS will have...

an 8 speed transmission (contrary to the above article) We cannot contain our excitement.....very giddy around here. The LF-A is another milestone for Lexus.
Old 10-24-05 | 03:12 PM
  #139  
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Originally Posted by Rockville
an 8 speed transmission (contrary to the above article) We cannot contain our excitement.....very giddy around here. The LF-A is another milestone for Lexus.
In 10 years, I wonder how many gears these auto trannies will have. 15? I can't imagine manuals having more than 6, but automated manuals like SMG I guess could, though even that's getting ridiculous.

At 8, seems like you might as well just go to CVT...
Old 10-24-05 | 05:17 PM
  #140  
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Originally Posted by XeroK00L
I believe this is the first design review of the LF-Sh.

http://car-reviews.automobile.com/ne...at-tokyo/1490/

Lexus Showcases Next LS Sedan with LF-Sh Concept at Tokyo
October 21, 2005
by Justin Couture / American Auto Press

L-Finesse Design Language Works Well with Full-Size Concept

The LF-Sh is a yet another Lexus concept depicting the brands L-Finesse design language, but this time it represents the next generation of a vehicle that has become synonymous with upscale luxury and quality on this side of the Pacific, the replacement for the full-size LS sedan.

But in and of itself, this stylish new concept vehicle could be the biggest test of Toyotas premium brand to date. The pressure mounted against Lexus concerning this cars introduction is beyond high, as its not only the preview of its forthcoming flagship model but is also being presented for the first time in the brands home country of Japan, where Lexus is a completely new entity.

So far, both the GS, which was first introduced as the LF-S concept, and the new IS, which debuted as the LF-C concept, in two-door retractable hardtop guise, have been well received in production trim, and posing serious threats in market segments where Lexus had previously been weak; the LF-Sh exhibits the same sense of confidence, although now in full-size form.

What gives the LF-Sh concept such great presence is its adherence to Lexus new L-Finesse design language. One might think that the same styling cues used on a sport compact sedan would clash when applied to the sizeable dimensions of the LS, but this interpretation works to compliment. Despite being the biggest Lexus concept car produced to date, these initial photographs show integrated creased edges and curvaceous panels that create a beautiful if not complete contrast to the current LS. While theres no arguing that the current LS is extremely efficient in design, it blends into the backdrop rather than projecting an image of individualism. L-Finesse works wonders, helping the concept garner attention without resorting to controversy (Audi A8, BMW 7-Series and now even the Mercedes-Benz S-Class).
The LF-Shs presentation does a fairly good job at disguising the vehicles size, betrayed only by a few softer edges. Overall, the car measures 199.2 inches in length, 73.8 inches in width, 57.7 inches in height, and it rides on a wheelbase of 116.9 inches. Translation: its the same size range as its main European competitors like the S-Class, A8 and 7-Series.

Interestingly, there is some internal interest at raising the LS competitive status by offering a long wheelbase version. Less drastic moves have been made elsewhere in the Lexus lineup, such as offering different drivetrains or all-wheel drive, but never in such a large scale. Lexus change on the "one size fits all" policy is sure to benefit the brand down the road by reaching a larger audience.

For the concept, Lexus has specified that the car will be powered by a V8 engine assisted by an electric hybrid motor (hence the h in its name). Its unclear exactly what type of motor will be used, but judging by the fact that its an eight-cylinder the unit under the hood of the LF-Sh concept is most likely the new 4.6-liter V8 with a low-performance assist system. Lexus claims that the car generates approximately 400-horsepower, enough to muscle it to the top of its class. As with optional drivetrains available in the GS and IS, all 400 ponies are harnessed to an electronically controlled all-wheel drive system. Details on the hybrid system, such as whether its a sandwich type (i.e. Lexus GS 450h) or front-wheel assist (i.e. Lexus RX 400h), have yet to be been announced.

As for production, its expected that a new 4.6-liter V8 featuring VVT-L dual variable valve timing, and D4-S direct injection will power the standard LS. Although the engine has yet to be officially confirmed, its been long speculated that power output will be around 350-horsepower, a significant improvement over the current 4.3-liters 290-hp. Without any great leaps and bounds of imagination, this car will be called the LS 460. This motor will most likely be paired to a six-speed automatic.

While buyers of current and previous LS models have been restricted to a single drivetrain, a large-displacement V8 engine of either 4.0 or 4.3 liters, for the first time with this new generation Lexus will be offering an alternative. The LS flagship (and Lexus flagship for that matter) will be the LS 600h, a hybrid-assisted version of the LS 460 generating the equivalent power of a car with a 6.0-liter engine (V8 or V12; whichever sounds more dramatic). Aside from offering unheard-of levels of performance, the LS 600h will also be a most economical full-size sedan, with diesel-like fuel consumption and even lower emissions.

If a potential timeline were to be put together for the LF-Sh / LS, it would look a little bit like this. The introduction of the LF-Sh with full details will take place promptly before the cars public showing at the Tokyo Motor Show, which just took place. Having completed its purpose of appetizer to the world, focus would shift to the production LS, scheduled to make an appearance in production-ready form at the 2006 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, this coming January. Finally, the long wheelbase and high-performance hybrid versions would be shown at the New York International Auto Show in April. Expect sales for the regular LS to begin late 2006.

4.3 liters, for the first time with this new generation Lexus will be offering an alternative. The LS flagship (and Lexus flagship for that matter) will be the LS 600h, a hybrid-assisted version of the LS 460 generating the equivalent power of a car with a 6.0-liter engine (V8 or V12; whichever sounds more dramatic). Aside from offering unheard-of levels of performance, the LS 600h will also be a most economical full-size sedan, with diesel-like fuel consumption and even lower emissions.

If a potential timeline were to be put together for the LF-Sh / LS, it would look a little bit like this. The introduction of the LF-Sh with full details will take place promptly before the cars public showing at the Tokyo Motor Show, which just took place. Having completed its purpose of appetizer to the world, focus would shift to the production LS, scheduled to make an appearance in production-ready form at the 2006 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, this coming January. Finally, the long wheelbase and high-performance hybrid versions would be shown at the New York International Auto Show in April. Expect sales for the regular LS to begin late 2006.
That was a great read, I think though, he got all the info from this site.

Incendiaryl good point, I wonder why no CVT. Maybe the hyrbrid will though, like th 400h and 450h
Old 10-24-05 | 10:03 PM
  #141  
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Originally Posted by Rockville
an 8 speed transmission (contrary to the above article) We cannot contain our excitement.....very giddy around here. The LF-A is another milestone for Lexus.
wow, 8 speed? man, the car would be shifting all the time?! maybe better to just use CVT
Old 10-25-05 | 07:09 AM
  #142  
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http://www.worldcarfans.com/news.cfm/newsid/2051025.003


Lexus LF-Sh Concept Unveiled

Lexus Reveals Hybrid Flagship at Tokyo Motor Show

Lexus has launched a luxury hybrid flagship at the 39th Tokyo Motor Show.




LF-Sh is Lexus’ fifth striking concept vehicle conceived under its L-finesse styling program.



This vehicle gives strong styling clues to the next-generation Lexus flagship, LS430.



LF-Sh was revealed alongside Lexus’ V10 LF-A supercar concept vehicle and the world’s first rear-drive luxury hybrid vehicle, GS450h sedan.



GS450h will be launched in Australia early next year.



LF-Sh continues Lexus’ commitment to high-performance hybrid vehicles.



It is an all-wheel-drive, powered by a V8 engine and hybrid electric motors.



“Performance, styling and advanced technology were core themes of the Lexus reveals at the Tokyo Motor Show,” Lexus Australia divisional manager Scott Grant said.



“Lexus plans to lead the way in introducing high-performance hybrid technology to the market.”



GS450h combines the performance of a 3.5-litre Quad Cam V6 petrol engine and a permanent-magnet electric motor to produce approximately 225kW of power, with an estimated 0-100km/h acceleration time of less than six seconds.



The Lexus LF-A concept completed the Lexus trio at the Tokyo show.



The luxury marque’s first supercar concept, the LF-A is based on a 40-valve V10 producing close to 370kW.



LF-A is based on the corporation’s developing Formula One technology.



The sleek two-seater concept blends the performance of an exotic sports car with the luxury refinements of a Lexus.



At 1220mm, LF-A is almost identical in height to the Ferrari F430.



“The LF-A concept expresses how we would design a premium sports car to compete with the best on offer,” Scott Grant said.



“We are hopeful it will be built as a production model, and that we would be able to make it available in Australia.”



GS450h luxury hybrid sedan specifications:

Total length: 4825mm
Total width: 1820mm
Total height: 1425mm
Seating capacity: 5


Lexus LF-A ultra-high-performance sports car concept specifications:

Wheelbase: 2580mm
Total length: 4400mm
Total width: 1860mm
Total height: 1220mm
Front tyre size: 245/40R19
Rear tyre size: 285/35R19
Old 10-25-05 | 03:22 PM
  #143  
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sorry MB but


Old 10-25-05 | 08:36 PM
  #144  
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Hmmm.... i went to a website and converted kW to hp..... 225kW is approximately 308hp.... the GS350 in Japan makes that kind of power without an electric motor So yea, you can say it'll have gobs more torque, but then again, its output is only slightly higher than that of a GS430.

The good news is, 370kW is slightly over 500hp!!!!!!!
Old 10-25-05 | 10:26 PM
  #145  
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Originally Posted by Faraaz23
Hmmm.... i went to a website and converted kW to hp..... 225kW is approximately 308hp.... the GS350 in Japan makes that kind of power without an electric motor So yea, you can say it'll have gobs more torque, but then again, its output is only slightly higher than that of a GS430.

The good news is, 370kW is slightly over 500hp!!!!!!!
Actually, 370kW = 496hp, not to mention that he says it's only gonna be "producing close to 370kW".

Let's hope he has no clue what he's talking about (the fact that he says the GS450h is gonna have only 225kW is a good sign that this is true).
Old 10-26-05 | 07:27 PM
  #146  
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Originally Posted by LexusLuver
sorry MB but


LMAO
Old 10-27-05 | 05:27 PM
  #147  
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More rumors.

http://www.bangkokpost.com/Motoring/...05_motor54.php

Japan's S-CLASS preview

Lexus, Toyota's upmarket nameplate, is set to lock horns with Germany's finest with the unveiling of the third-generation LS in Tokyo. Although called the LF-Sh concept, sources say this is the production version of the Lexus's flagship saloon rivalling the Mercedes-Benz S-class and BMW 7-series.

Due to hit world markets, including Thailand, late next year, the LS embodies design cues similar to those found in its smaller GS and IS brothers, though not as radical.

Lexus wants to make sure that it doesn't lose its existing crop of customers who may be tempted to stay loyal with the new LS, which should explain why its exterior profile is only a tad sleeker than the current model.

The upright rear end housing the squarish lights, in particular, only received tepid response from critics speaking to Motoring at the show

However, Lexus says that the LS's major selling points won't be its looks, but the technology it packs to match its rivals such as sophisticated seats aiding comfort, touch-screen interior functions and an array of active safety technology.

No technical details were released, although it is understood that the LS comes in two wheelbase lengths measuring 2,970mm and 3,090mm. The overall lengths of both versions measure over 5m.

The strategy to offer a regular and long wheelbase is deemed crucial in this segment where all competitors like the S-class, 7-series, Audi A8 and Jaguar XJ do the same. Asian customers have a strong preference for outright legroom space which is critically lacking in the current LS when compared to rivals'.

Power is expected to come from a 4.6-litre V8 _ up from the existing 4.3-litre _ churning out some 370hp, while driving the rear wheels. A more powerful 5.0-litre V8 with some 410hp and four-wheel-drive is also expected.

And, for the first time in its class, the LS should also be available with a petrol/electric hybrid. The concept's badge already reveals that hybrid power is being planned for the new LS and joins the RX400h and GS450h in the quest for cleaner exhaust emissions.

Mercedes has already announced that it will be offering hybrid powertrains in the S-class within three years.
Old 11-04-05 | 02:39 PM
  #148  
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Looks like Toyota did buy the SH-AWD from Honda, and I'm glad they did. SH-AWD is the BEST on-road AWD system on the market and we should expect nothing less than the best from the next LS.

http://www.business-standard.com/com...&autono=204664

Our apologies to Chris Bangle. We screamed at him when he created the new 7 Series BMW, for tampering with the classical sport-sedan looks of Beemers. We apologise, because the work he started with the 7 Series has been completed by Lexus and the result, as seen in the LF-Sh concept, has taken luxury car design the way forward.

Unlike the much maligned yet brilliant Beemer, the new Lexus sedan concept (which is certain to become the new flagship soon) features “well-closed shut lines” (including the bootline), and without resorting to extensive “flame surfacing”, manages to make the car stand out in a crowd.

The V8 petrol-plus-electric motor powertrain hangs around with a “super handling” four-wheel drive system. Expect S-Class Mercs to run for cover as and when Lexus produces it. Also on show was the LF-A sports coupe concept which Lexus premiered at Frankfurt a month back.

The V10 engine format might change since Formula One is going back to V8s next year.

The most significant car though is the GS450h, which can claim to be the first premium sedan with a hybrid powertrain — especially developed for front-engine, real-wheel drive layouts.
Old 11-04-05 | 05:58 PM
  #149  
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I'm very pleased to hear of the continuation of touch-screens...I hope that rumor stays true. Now for an interior that is as wonderful a leap forward as the exterior has been, if not more.
Old 11-05-05 | 08:20 AM
  #150  
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Originally Posted by jet864
Was this official? As far as I know, Lexus has only said "well over 300hp" or something to that efffect.

James

It's official Go HERE


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