Toyota's New Infotainment System Aims to Fix Past Issues

Lexus Interface

With the introduction of the new NX model, Lexus will also be rolling out their new user interface design, simply named Lexus Interface. In what seems to be a very bold move on paper, the manufacturer is attempting to compete against Google and Apple, bringing customers a new all-inclusive way to interact with their vehicles.

Taking a Risk?

And that's a bold move because let's face it, no automobile manufacturer has ever been able to create an infotainment system that functions better than that of our smartphones, or even just as well. And that's a build-in disadvantage of the industry. By the time each new vehicle goes from design to production, a few years will have passed. And the interface design will have already become outdated before the cars are rolled out into dealer lots.

>>Join the conversation about the new infotainment system right here in Club Lexus.

A More Complete Design

Toyota, however, is optimistic that they have found a solution. They tasked their software design experts at Toyota Motor North America with the creation of the new interface. And they made certain to include all the functionalities customers have come to expect from Google and Apple system, seamlessly integrated into the vehicle's infotainment system.

>>Join the conversation about the new infotainment system right here in Club Lexus.

Services

In addition to standard AM, FM, and satellite radio, Lexus Interface features Apple Music and Amazon Music streaming services. Google/YouTube Music seems to have been left out, at least for now. In terms of navigation, the system is connected to Google Maps, with the capability to download maps and directions ahead of time, in case of a lack of data service.

>>Join the conversation about the new infotainment system right here in Club Lexus.

Powerful Processor

The system will also feature a significantly more powerful computer, with 5 times the processing power of the previous interface system. And the entire experience is designed with a strong focus on the user. The physical screen and controls are designed in a driver-centric fashion. In their press release, Lexus has been adamant about their focus on providing the absolute best possible experience for the customer.

>>Join the conversation about the new infotainment system right here in Club Lexus.

Virtual Assistant

And that includes a voice command system. Lexus' Virtual Assistant (VA) is designed to serve as the primary point of communication between the users and the vehicles. How it all will perform in reality remains to be seen. But there's plenty of potential here.

>>Join the conversation about the new infotainment system right here in Club Lexus.

Styling Integration

What we can see is the aesthetic integration of the new infotainment system, including much larger screens. And although it practically follows the same blueprint laid out by other manufacturers, (i.e. iPad in the middle of the dashboard) the Lexus designers have done well to make it look harmonious with the rest of the interior space.

>>Join the conversation about the new infotainment system right here in Club Lexus.

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