Latest news with #Lexus-first
Daily Record
23-05-2025
- Automotive
- Daily Record
JOHN MURDOCH'S DRIVE TIME: We take a look at the new Lexus flagship and KMG Rexton commercial
The eighth generation Lexus model is packed with advanced features and will be available as a hybrid and fully electric car when it arrives next year. In this instalment of John Murdoch's Drive Time, John takes a look at the new Lexus flagship, which will arrive in the UK next year, and the KMG Rexton commercial, which has just been released. A stunning looking new Lexus ES has been unveiled more than 35 years after the original set new standards in the world of luxury motoring. The eighth generation model is packed with advanced features and will be available as a hybrid and fully electric car when it arrives next year. Innovations such as the Lexus-first 'Hidden Tech' switches - made possible by Lexus's Arene software platform - and the latest sophisticated multimedia and safety systems all feature in the new saloon. It was revealed at the Auto Shanghai show in China and builds on the qualities of the previous model of 2018. The latest ES has been developed with a new Lexus design concept - Clean Tech x Elegance. Lexus says that investment made in comfort, refinement and luxury moves the car closer to the quality, spaciousness and specifications associated with larger executive-grade models while, its performance and handling, both in hybrid and battery electric versions, delivers the high levels of comfort, confidence and control that define the Lexus Driving Signature. The upper section is wide open to prioritise the driver's view, while the instrument combimeter is presented in an asymmetrical 12.3-inch digital array, allowing for a lower meter hood to be used. Material quality is raised with soft leather-like accents and dynamic lighting effects. Noise reduction - a trademark of the brand - was prioritised with improved door sealing and the use of glass with high sound insulation quality in the front doors. Lexus says the way sound is distributed within the cabin has been carefully managed to deliver a more natural and harmoniously balanced acoustic experience. The high quality of the ES's interior is supported by a new Lexus technology, Hidden Tech switches which are both minimalist and unobtrusive. When the car is turned off, the switches are not visible beneath the dashboard upholstery and when the driver switches the car on, they light up and are revealed to give the look of a touch-panel with a haptic feedback when used. The rear cabin can be fitted with reclining seats and, for the seat behind the front passenger, an ottoman leg support for an exclusive chauffeur-driven style experience. The front passenger seat has a forward-folding function to maximise rear leg room. Two battery electric ES versions will be available - the ES 350e front-wheel drive model delivering an output of 221bhp and the all-wheel drive ES 500e, with an output of 338bhp. Both benefit from Lexus's expertise in advanced electrification to unlock the full potential of the new Lexus global architecture-K platform, including new eAxles which integrate both the power control unit and transaxle. The ES 500e is equipped with Lexus's DIRECT4 intelligent electric all-wheel drive system which provides continuous adjustment of drive torque distribution to all four wheels, according to driver inputs and the road conditions. It can vary from 100:0 to 0:100, based on data from sensors monitoring acceleration, wheel speed and steering angle. In terms of size, the car is 165mm longer at 5.14 metres and up to 115mm taller at 1.56 metres while it is 55mm wider at 1.92 metres. Wheelbase has grown by 80mm to 2.95 metres. Lexus says that UK pricing and full details of the new ES will be available early next year. Meanwhile, a commercial version of the KGM Rexton has been announced, costing from £34,995. It made its debut at the recent Commercial Vehicle Show at the NEC in Birmingham and like the SUV on which it is based will have a 3.5-tonne towing capacity. The vehicle offers a secure load area with over 2200-litres of space, has a payload in excess of 700kg and can easily accommodate several standard Euro pallets. Three versions will be available with the line up topping out from £38,995 for the Rexton K50. The all-wheel drive vehicle is powered by a 2.2-litre turbo diesel engine delivering a maximum power of 202ps mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The vehicle conversion has a full-height fixed mesh bulkhead as standard and opaque reinforced rear windows, for added security. The load area is carpeted, with an optional rubber mat available as an accessory. The entry level K30 is priced from £34,995 and features LED lights all round, faux leather heated and ventilated seats and a 12.3-inch display screen, alloy wheels and a powered tailgate. Mid-range K40 models - priced from £35,995 - come with leather seats, LED cabin mood-lighting and additional safety features such as blind spot detection and rear cross traffic warning while the K50 adds more features including a sunroof and rear air conditioning. It attracts commercial Vehicle BIK taxation, is eligible for capital write-down and has a first-year VED of £345. And did you know Lanarkshire Live had its own app? Download yours for free here.
Malaysian Reserve
20-05-2025
- Automotive
- Malaysian Reserve
2026 LEXUS RZ ADDS MORE POWER AND PERFORMANCE
New, extended lineup offers more power, greater efficiency, and dynamic performance Optimization of the battery electric system increases range and shortens charge times Expanded lineup includes RZ 550e F SPORT AWD with Lexus-first virtual manual gear shift system (M Mode) to promote an engaging driving experience PLANO, Texas, May 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The enhanced 2026 Lexus RZ made its North American debut today. The battery electric luxury SUV features comprehensive revisions that deliver more power, greater range, and a new driving experience. Since the launch of the RX 400h in 2005, Lexus has been a pioneer in electrification within the luxury market. Based on its electrification vision 'Lexus Electrified', Lexus aims to promote a multi-pathway approach to the adoption of electric vehicles such as HEVs (hybrid vehicles), PHEVs (plug-in hybrid vehicles) and BEVs (battery electric vehicles) to address the diverse needs of its customers and markets. Additionally, Lexus works to significantly enhance basic performance using electrification technology, offering a driving experience and lifestyle unique to Lexus BEVs. The RZ launched in 2023 and was Lexus' first globally available, purpose-built battery-electric vehicle, embodying the unique Lexus driving experience and design brought by electrification technology. Following its debut, the RZ has evolved with customer needs, bringing to market a front-wheel-drive (FWD) option in 2024 to expand the driving range. The 2026 RZ features a redesigned battery electric system, delivering increased motor output, an extended driving range, and reduced charging times under ideal conditions. In addition, it debuts a new addition to the lineup—the RZ 550e F SPORT AWD, which is equipped with higher-output front and rear motors, achieving a more powerful and exhilarating driving experience. The RZ lineup will have three different power options: 221 total system horsepower (RZ 350e FWD), 308 total system horsepower (RZ 450e AWD), and 402 total system horsepower (RZ 550e F SPORT AWD). With a diverse lineup, the new RZ is designed to meet the needs of a broad range of drivers, from those who prioritize daily convenience and practicality to those who want a more engaging and dynamic driving experience. The 2026 RZ is assembled at the Motomachi plant in Japan and is expected to go on sale later this year. Introduction of the RZ 550e F SPORT AWDF SPORT arrives to the RZ lineup, giving customers an option for a more exhilarating driving experience and sportier styling. The RZ 550e F SPORT AWD generates a maximum system output of 402 total system horsepower, making it the most powerful RZ model. Lexus-first M ModeLexus is also introducing M Mode on the 2026 RZ 550e F SPORT AWD, an electronic system that provides virtual manual gear shifting via paddle shifters. This innovation helps to deliver a sportier, more responsive driving feel. M Mode is a system that allows drivers to control power output with paddle shifters, as if using a manual transmission. Exterior Designed for PerformanceThe RZ 550e F SPORT AWD has an exterior design that includes distinctive black F SPORT features such as the F SPORT emblem, rear spoiler, front and rear bumper moldings, front grille, and 20-inch wheels with aero covers, which contribute to weight reduction and help to improve energy efficiency by smoothing airflow. The F SPORT model will be available in an exclusive new color, Wind, a solid light gray with subtle metallic highlight—a bold contrast to the black F SPORT features. In total, seven exterior monotone colors and four exterior bi-tone colors will be offered across the RZ lineup. Increased Driving Range and Faster ChargingThe 2026 RZ adopts the North American Charging System (NACS) charging port (SAE J3400) on the passenger's side of the vehicle. It will also have Level One and Level Two AC charging with a higher capacity 11-kW on-board AC charger (up from 7-kW capacity on the prior model year). Under ideal conditions when using DC fast charging* it is capable of charging from 10% to 80% battery capacity in around 30 minutes. The vehicle comes with an improved EPA-estimated driving range of approximately 300 miles for the RZ 350e FWD and approximately 260 miles for the RZ 450e AWD when equipped with 18-inch tires and charged under ideal conditions. The new RZ 550e F SPORT AWD sees an EPA-estimated driving range of approximately 225 miles when equipped with 20-inch tires and charged under ideal conditions. *Ranges and charging times will vary depending on weather and other factors. Lexus Driving SignatureLexus Driving Signature (LDS) is a guiding philosophy behind the development of Lexus vehicles, providing a unified driving experience across the lineup. LDS emphasizes a linear connection between the driver and vehicle and promotes a smoother, more comfortable ride. There is also exceptional quietness unique to Lexus BEVs, achieved through source-level noise and vibration suppression. The Evolution of the RZ InteriorThe 2026 RZ's cabin remains a minimalist, yet airy and maximally appointed luxury environment. The 2026 RZ will offer an improved Dynamic Sky™ Panorama Glass Roof, enabling greater shading when opaque and a clearer view of the outside when transparent. The RZ 550e F SPORT AWD interior features a sophisticated combination of Black Ultrasuede® interior trim with blue stitching accents available only on this grade. The design includes a center console with a micro-geometric pattern design, front F SPORT scuff plates, a steering wheel with the F SPORT emblem, and aluminum pedals and footrests, all designed to create a sporty driving experience. A Lexus-first, the available Ultrasuede® door trim features a laser-etched pattern design. Following the introduction of Door Trim Shadow Illumination on the RZ in 2023, Lexus has applied another first, adding a subtle flickering movement on the door trim that results in the available Thematic Illumination with Animated Door Trim Shadow Illumination. Based on Lexus' design philosophy 'Time in Design,' the faintly changing shadow patterns evoke the passage of time, providing a comfortable cabin experience for the vehicle's occupants. Full vehicle specs and pricing will be available closer to the on-sale date. 2026 RZ Preliminary Specifications Powertrain RZ 350e RZ 450e AWD RZ 550e F SPORT AWD Overall Length 189.2 in Overall Width 74.6 in Overall Height 64.4 in Wheelbase 112.2 in Vehicle Weight 4,500 lbs.*3 4,750 lbs.*3 5,000 lbs.*3 Tire Size 18／20-inch 18／20-inch 20-inch Estimated Range Approx: 300miles*1 *3 Approx: 260 miles*1 *3 Approx: 225 miles*1 *2 Estimated Electrical Consumption 266 Wh/mile*1 *3 306 Wh/mile*1 *3 353 Wh/mile*1 *2 Total Electrical Power 74.69 kWh*4 76.96 kWh*4 Connector Type North American Charging System (NACS) (SAE J3400) Onboard Charger Output 11 kW System Max Output 165 kW (221 hp) 230 kW (308 hp) 300 kW (402 hp) Acceleration (0-60) 7.2 sec 4.9 sec 4.1 sec *1 Provisional testing *2 20-inch tires *3 18-inch tires *4 The batteries are calculated according to IEC 62660-1 About Lexus Lexus' passion for brave design, imaginative technology, and exhilarating performance enables the luxury lifestyle brand to create amazing experiences for its customers. Lexus began its journey in 1989 with two luxury sedans and a commitment to pursue perfection. Since then, Lexus has developed its lineup to meet the needs of global luxury customers in more than 90 countries. In the United States, Lexus vehicles are sold through 244 dealers offering a full lineup of luxury vehicles. With nine models incorporating Lexus Hybrid Drive, Lexus is the luxury hybrid leader. Lexus also offers nine F SPORT models, one F performance model and one F model. Lexus is committed to being a visionary brand that anticipates the future for luxury customers. MEDIA CONTACTSBrooke
Yahoo
20-05-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
2026 LEXUS RZ ADDS MORE POWER AND PERFORMANCE
New, extended lineup offers more power, greater efficiency, and dynamic performance Optimization of the battery electric system increases range and shortens charge times Expanded lineup includes RZ 550e F SPORT AWD with Lexus-first virtual manual gear shift system (M Mode) to promote an engaging driving experience PLANO, Texas, May 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The enhanced 2026 Lexus RZ made its North American debut today. The battery electric luxury SUV features comprehensive revisions that deliver more power, greater range, and a new driving experience. Since the launch of the RX 400h in 2005, Lexus has been a pioneer in electrification within the luxury market. Based on its electrification vision "Lexus Electrified", Lexus aims to promote a multi-pathway approach to the adoption of electric vehicles such as HEVs (hybrid vehicles), PHEVs (plug-in hybrid vehicles) and BEVs (battery electric vehicles) to address the diverse needs of its customers and markets. Additionally, Lexus works to significantly enhance basic performance using electrification technology, offering a driving experience and lifestyle unique to Lexus BEVs. The RZ launched in 2023 and was Lexus' first globally available, purpose-built battery-electric vehicle, embodying the unique Lexus driving experience and design brought by electrification technology. Following its debut, the RZ has evolved with customer needs, bringing to market a front-wheel-drive (FWD) option in 2024 to expand the driving range. The 2026 RZ features a redesigned battery electric system, delivering increased motor output, an extended driving range, and reduced charging times under ideal conditions. In addition, it debuts a new addition to the lineup—the RZ 550e F SPORT AWD, which is equipped with higher-output front and rear motors, achieving a more powerful and exhilarating driving experience. The RZ lineup will have three different power options: 221 total system horsepower (RZ 350e FWD), 308 total system horsepower (RZ 450e AWD), and 402 total system horsepower (RZ 550e F SPORT AWD). With a diverse lineup, the new RZ is designed to meet the needs of a broad range of drivers, from those who prioritize daily convenience and practicality to those who want a more engaging and dynamic driving experience. The 2026 RZ is assembled at the Motomachi plant in Japan and is expected to go on sale later this year. Introduction of the RZ 550e F SPORT AWDF SPORT arrives to the RZ lineup, giving customers an option for a more exhilarating driving experience and sportier styling. The RZ 550e F SPORT AWD generates a maximum system output of 402 total system horsepower, making it the most powerful RZ model. Lexus-first M ModeLexus is also introducing M Mode on the 2026 RZ 550e F SPORT AWD, an electronic system that provides virtual manual gear shifting via paddle shifters. This innovation helps to deliver a sportier, more responsive driving feel. M Mode is a system that allows drivers to control power output with paddle shifters, as if using a manual transmission. Exterior Designed for PerformanceThe RZ 550e F SPORT AWD has an exterior design that includes distinctive black F SPORT features such as the F SPORT emblem, rear spoiler, front and rear bumper moldings, front grille, and 20-inch wheels with aero covers, which contribute to weight reduction and help to improve energy efficiency by smoothing airflow. The F SPORT model will be available in an exclusive new color, Wind, a solid light gray with subtle metallic highlight—a bold contrast to the black F SPORT features. In total, seven exterior monotone colors and four exterior bi-tone colors will be offered across the RZ lineup. Increased Driving Range and Faster ChargingThe 2026 RZ adopts the North American Charging System (NACS) charging port (SAE J3400) on the passenger's side of the vehicle. It will also have Level One and Level Two AC charging with a higher capacity 11-kW on-board AC charger (up from 7-kW capacity on the prior model year). Under ideal conditions when using DC fast charging* it is capable of charging from 10% to 80% battery capacity in around 30 minutes. The vehicle comes with an improved EPA-estimated driving range of approximately 300 miles for the RZ 350e FWD and approximately 260 miles for the RZ 450e AWD when equipped with 18-inch tires and charged under ideal conditions. The new RZ 550e F SPORT AWD sees an EPA-estimated driving range of approximately 225 miles when equipped with 20-inch tires and charged under ideal conditions. *Ranges and charging times will vary depending on weather and other factors. Lexus Driving SignatureLexus Driving Signature (LDS) is a guiding philosophy behind the development of Lexus vehicles, providing a unified driving experience across the lineup. LDS emphasizes a linear connection between the driver and vehicle and promotes a smoother, more comfortable ride. There is also exceptional quietness unique to Lexus BEVs, achieved through source-level noise and vibration suppression. The Evolution of the RZ InteriorThe 2026 RZ's cabin remains a minimalist, yet airy and maximally appointed luxury environment. The 2026 RZ will offer an improved Dynamic Sky™ Panorama Glass Roof, enabling greater shading when opaque and a clearer view of the outside when transparent. The RZ 550e F SPORT AWD interior features a sophisticated combination of Black Ultrasuede® interior trim with blue stitching accents available only on this grade. The design includes a center console with a micro-geometric pattern design, front F SPORT scuff plates, a steering wheel with the F SPORT emblem, and aluminum pedals and footrests, all designed to create a sporty driving experience. A Lexus-first, the available Ultrasuede® door trim features a laser-etched pattern design. Following the introduction of Door Trim Shadow Illumination on the RZ in 2023, Lexus has applied another first, adding a subtle flickering movement on the door trim that results in the available Thematic Illumination with Animated Door Trim Shadow Illumination. Based on Lexus' design philosophy "Time in Design," the faintly changing shadow patterns evoke the passage of time, providing a comfortable cabin experience for the vehicle's occupants. Full vehicle specs and pricing will be available closer to the on-sale date. 2026 RZ Preliminary Specifications Powertrain RZ 350e RZ 450e AWD RZ 550e F SPORT AWD Overall Length 189.2 in Overall Width 74.6 in Overall Height 64.4 in Wheelbase 112.2 in Vehicle Weight 4,500 lbs.*3 4,750 lbs.*3 5,000 lbs.*3 Tire Size 18／20-inch 18／20-inch 20-inch Estimated Range Approx: 300miles*1 *3 Approx: 260 miles*1 *3 Approx: 225 miles*1 *2 Estimated Electrical Consumption 266 Wh/mile*1 *3 306 Wh/mile*1 *3 353 Wh/mile*1 *2 Total Electrical Power 74.69 kWh*4 76.96 kWh*4 Connector Type North American Charging System (NACS) (SAE J3400) Onboard Charger Output 11 kW System Max Output 165 kW (221 hp) 230 kW (308 hp) 300 kW (402 hp) Acceleration (0-60) 7.2 sec 4.9 sec 4.1 sec *1 Provisional testing *2 20-inch tires *3 18-inch tires *4 The batteries are calculated according to IEC 62660-1 About Lexus Lexus' passion for brave design, imaginative technology, and exhilarating performance enables the luxury lifestyle brand to create amazing experiences for its customers. Lexus began its journey in 1989 with two luxury sedans and a commitment to pursue perfection. Since then, Lexus has developed its lineup to meet the needs of global luxury customers in more than 90 countries. In the United States, Lexus vehicles are sold through 244 dealers offering a full lineup of luxury vehicles. With nine models incorporating Lexus Hybrid Drive, Lexus is the luxury hybrid leader. Lexus also offers nine F SPORT models, one F performance model and one F model. Lexus is committed to being a visionary brand that anticipates the future for luxury customers. MEDIA CONTACTSBrooke View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Lexus Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
