First Impression: Lexus LFA

Lexus was founded in 1989 to function as Toyota's luxury brand. The first two cars made by Lexus were the LS 400 and ES 250. In 2005, Lexus premiered a supercar concept and showed a more refined supercar concept in 2007. In 2008, Lexus reveal a roadster version of the supercar concept. In October 2009, Lexus revealed the production model at the Tokyo Auto Show. Lexus calls the supercar the LFA. The LFA is the first ever supercar made by Lexus. In December 2010, the first LFAs went into production. Over a 25 month span with 20 LFAs produced monthly, 500 LFAs will be produced.

I first saw the Lexus LFA at the June 2011 edition of Houston Cars and Coffee. There was a huge crowd around the LFA. It is a nice looking grand tourer, but there were better looking grand tourer at the event. The LFA's exterior was deisgned with an emphasis on downforce. With air intakes in the back, one would think the engine is in rear, but the rear air intakes help cool the breaks. The side mirrors are designed to help funnel air into the rear air intakes. The engine is actually in the front-middle of the car.The gap between the hood and front bumper help feed air to the engine. It has a small trunk in the rear that is accessible by lifting the rear glass. This is a great initial supercar by Lexus.

The LFA is powered by a 4.8L V10, paired to a six-speed semi-automatic transmission, that produced 552 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque. The LFA goes from 0 to 60 mph in 3.6 mph and reaches a top speed of 202 mph. Prices for the LFA start at $375,000. The Lexus LFA is fast, but it is very expensive for car that goes 202 mph. There are cars that are faster and quicker than the LFA and cost less than $200,000.

Jay Leno did a feature of the LFA, which can be seen at www.jaylenosgarage.com. Richard Hammond reviewed the car during Top Gear Series 14, Episode 7. The LFA is playable in Grand Turismo 5, Shift 2: Unleashed, and Forza Motorsport 3.

Final Thoughts: The LFA is the best car made the Toyota Motor Company. It shows that Toyota and its other brands can make exciting high performing vehicles while making boring hybrids at the same time. Toyota can produce the Prius and the Lexus CT 200H hybrids while producing the Lexus LFA. One of Toyota's rival, Honda, stopped making the NSX and S2000 to focus on the production of the CR-Z and Insight hybrids. Compared to the Nissan GT-R, the Lexus LFA is faster and quicker and has a better design. It is fast, but there are several cars that are quicker, faster and less expensive than the LFA. The LFA is a very clever super car and is the fastest production car made in Japan. The price is just too high for what it is. The Ferrari 599, Chevrolet Corvette ZR1, and Lamborghini Gallardo are faster and less expensive than the LFA. Still, there is nothing like the LFA on the road and this car will stand out in parking lots and on the roads. People will stop to look at it.

CarJunkie
Photo taken from a digital camera

First Impression: Lexus CT 200h

Lexus is  the luxury brand of Toyota. Lexus is known for making luxury cars and sport sedans. The brand produced its first supercar, the LFA, in December 2010. Lexus also has made hybrid versions of its popular models, the HS (IS hybrid), RX, GS, and LS hybrids. These car have good performance. When I first saw the CT 200h hybrid, I thought maybe Lexus would make a vehicle that is only available with hybrid drivetrain that is not slow. Then I remembered who owns Lexus.

I first saw the CT 200h at the 2011 Houston Auto Show. This was one of two hybrids that Lexus was exhibiting. The other was the LS 600h. My initial thought was "Great another hybrid hatchback." I was going to just ignore this car, but commercials started airing and Lexus was claiming 40+ mpg in the commercials. I took a look at its performance and was not impressed.

The Lexus CT 200h is powered by a 1.8L I-4 engine and a high-output, permanent-magnet, electric-drive motor with an EV mode that produce 134 hp and 152 lb-ft.  It goes from 0-60 mph in 9.8 seconds and reaches a top speed of 113 mph. It has the same 0-60 time as the third generation Toyota Prius and has a higher top speed than the Chevrolet Volt and Prius. The price for the CT 200h starts at $29,120.  It is cheap for a Lexus but it is one of the slowest cars Lexus currently makes. This is Lexus' version of the Toyota Prius, just with a higher top speed.

It is a new car, so it has not been featured in video games. There are reviews online of this car, but nothing from Top Gear or Jay Leno's Garage. Motorweek will be featuring the car next month.

Final Thought: It is cheap and slow. There are better cars for under $30,000. Any Volkswagen Golf would be a better buy than the CT 200h. It is another hatchback that is is not "hot." The CT 200h is the Prius of Lexus.

Carjunkie
Photo taken from a camera phone

Lexus CT200h Review

The World Car Fans of the crew have received what appears to be an official document of the Lexus 200h TC before the next week to reveal the Geneva Motor Show, and while the records are light on details, we have our first glimpse the excellent view of the Euro-brand hybrid hatch.

The style has been significantly watered down the concept that LF-Ch debut in Frankfurt last year, a merger rates within walking distance of the saloon and a profile very similar to the Toyota Auris. Getting to 170 inches long, 69.5 cm wide and 56 inches tall with a wheelbase of 102 inches, CT 200h is suspended by a MacPherson front, double wishbone arrangement at the rear 17-inch wheels and spokes manifold.

Motivation comes with a 1.8-liter VVT-i petrol four-cylinder equipped with a power indefinitely, electronically controlled transmission with a continuously variable power supply to the front wheels. A pack of nickel-metal hydride batteries mounted beneath the cellar, and three driving modes are available - Eco, Normal and Sport - and the ability to operate in full-EV.

Then we saw the concept Lexus LF-Ch in 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show, a model that could compete head to head with other luxury compacts like the BMW 1 Series and Audi A3 is available exclusively as a hybrid.

The concept Lexus LF-Ch combined with elegant design elements full hybrid powertrain in a 5-door compact package suitable to meet the needs of most demanding customers with its bold grille Lexus premium compact hood sitting on a deep, curved bumpers full front with a trio of entries giving a perfect balance between accuracy and power. While finely sculpted front wings on the aerodynamic flow front bumper to create a comprehensive set of arcs and a set of brake cooling ducts deep to the LF-Ch powerful and useful position.

CT 200h hybrid combines a gasoline engine of 1.8 liter VVT-i, a powerful engine, a generator, a high performance battery, a power control unit and a power split device that uses a planetary gear combine and re-distribute the power of the engine, electric motor and generator operational needs.

The car will make its debut next week in the world in the Geneva Motor Show and will begin production in late 2010.

RATES UPDATE 12/15/10: Lexus has finally released the prices 200h CT USA 2011. CT 200h base price is $ 29,120 and, depending on the options you want to go all the way over $ 30,900. optional packages are also available, depending on the options you receive. Premium Audio package costs $ 1,125, the same package that costs $ 1,475 rear-view camera. package costs $ 1,330 leather trim, while the satellite navigation package costs $ 2,445. Finally, Lexus also offers a package that includes the Pre-Collision System Dynamic Cruise Control $ 1,215.

The visual impact of the L-finesse is done inside. Again, a simple powerful form results of the same quality craftsmanship in every detail to create a unique cabin design efficient, elegant and spacious. The intensive use of metallic finishes and dark materials, soft touch strengthens the quality of the environment. The form and shape of each component of the interior has been carefully designed to express an organic feel, as evidenced by the balance of the metal accents and generously cut and polished, bound in leather.

CT 200h retains concept design of the LF-Ch asymmetric dashboard, which focuses on the pilot, focused on a warm, very focused line combines excellent ergonomics with advanced Human Machine Interface Technologies.

Based on the future of interior design is the Lexus dashboard subdivided into two distinct zones: an upper display area, with an 8 "LCD multi-screen at an ideal distance for viewing at a glance eye, and a lower zone of cooperation providing access to unique design shifter and commands such as IF award-winning Remote Touch.

Remote Touch operates on principles similar to a computer mouse, allowing the driver to access, control and customize a wide variety of infotainment and vehicle set up programs.

appropriate level of full-transmission CT 200h hybrid and agility of the new chassis, low riding position is very strong dominated the sport, wide grip steering wheel and instrument binnacle housing a large, high visibility, game two. In Sport mode, the hybrid detector binnacle is a tachometer and a blue light turns red. Two rings setting and in the spotlight at the center of the cluster is illuminated in red, change the whole atmosphere in the cabin of the new Lexus to improve the agility and dynamic qualities.

The long wheelbase 200h CT provides comparable scale to the rear passenger of a vehicle in this segment and with the hybrid battery stored under the floor, the rear seats fold down to create a large space: 700 liters.

Lexus lf-gh Review

Lexus has revealed it will release a new car sedan concept of high-end NY Auto Show this year. The concept will showcase a new design language is said to preview the next generation Lexus GS-Series sedan. limited information on cars were launched while the Lexus Twitter account Twitter principles "LF-Gh: .. Lexus LF = long term hybrid h = G = .... ... This may involve the brand new GS and although the LF-Gh use of hybrid technology.

As for the dimensions that 2012 GS go, Lexus says the new platform will use a stretched giving it a longer wheelbase than the current product. Measures for new design also mentioned to be wider than the current sedan. Meanwhile, the car will use new equipment operating units, similar engine but a set from the current design, although the size of the V6 engine is said to extend to four.0 liters. The Lexus LF-Gh concept will be announced April 19 concert in New York the motor. We have to wait and see all the details and what we can expect to see in the next Lexus GS, stay tuned.

Today, 2011 New York Auto Show Lexus has introduced its new LF-Gh Hybrid Concept, the concept of rear-wheel-drive is powered by Lexus Hybrid Drive transmission. Speculation is that the Lexus LF-A Concept Gh suggestions for the next generation Lexus GS sedan - however, Lexus says that the "Premier Grand Touring Sedan" features, which are transferred to vehicles of the future.

Design LF-Gh more aggressive and sharp, without leaving a feeling of luxury. Design LF-Gh inherited by future Lexus models.

LF-fitted inside Gh future of Lexus, where every detail has been designed to create an environment that is oriented toward the driver. The interior uses high quality materials, claims Lexus.

"Although only a concept, the LF-Gh hopefully resonate with his Lexus customers worldwide and communicate our intention to promote new ideas in the face of Lexus luxury in the coming years," said Kengo Matsumoto, General Manager Design Division Lexus, Toyota Motor Corporation

2012 Lexus LFA Review

If you thought going to the dealer and negotiate a financing or leasing is a task harass, wait until you hear what you have to follow to buy 2012 Lexus LFA. As announced last month, the flagship F-Series portfolio is beginning to attract a $ 375,000 - and this price does not include options, delivery, processing and handling.

Customers can choose between three different configurations included in the basic level of MSRP:
1 Composition of the seats in leather or Alcantara-trimmed.
Set of two leather or Alcantara seat covers, Lexus Navigation System, Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound.
Configuration 3 "leather or Alcantara-trimmed seats, navigation system, Lexus, Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound System, and Lexus with Enform Safety Connect.

Sounds simple enough right? Wrong. With only 500 units of the LFA produced worldwide, only 150 do so in the United States. Toyota says the response from customers has exceeded the number of cars available, and it is possible that all customers who have expressed interest in the origin will have the pleasure of owning the first Lexus supercar.

If you have already expressed interest in the new Lexus LFA could (and we emphasize could) contact you at some place between March and June. Once you have been informed of his opportunity to order, you will have 10 days to submit a deposit of $ 10,000. Provided they pass the credit check at this point, you have to deposit another $ 50 000 before the ALF is built, it will be next year. Once your car is built and delivered to you, you have to pay rent, according to Lexus was $ 12,398.44 per month for 24 months. However, under the regime of 1PAY rental company, you have to make full payment of 24 months before - which means that you must write a check for $ 297,562.56 Lexus before making your LFA to turn. After 24 months if you love your ALF, you can save for a final payment of $ 93,750.

2012 Lexus IS250 reviews and ratings for changing the characteristics of the life of critical vehicle information, auto reviews, car ratings and car for all makes and models. Read reviews minibuses SUV, hybrid ... As we all know gas prices are increasing day by day, so that the demand for hybrid cars is increasing among the drivers. There are several drivers of luxury hybrid Lexus RX 400h, but is very popular. Lexus 200h T2012 CT examination and Prices for the luxury brand of Toyota sedan adds a sporty European flavored as a "dedicated" hybrid Lexus and the smallest ever.

Interior 2012 Lexus LFA

For all that happy-talk marketing, 2012, the LFA is an injury to the Lexus lineup and had a complicated pregnancy. The program began in 2000, Lexus was the first concept car at the 2005 Detroit Auto Show. Subsequently, the convertible version appeared in Detroit in 2008, although it has since been canceled. Meanwhile, the LFA has been seen as prototypes for testing, the Nordschleife, and the two cars ready became a 24-hour race at the Nurburgring in 2008 and 2009.

The engine is a 4.8-liter V-10 developed with Yamaha. Is a compact unit that makes 553 hp at 8,700 rpm and 9000 rpm dizziness diet. Of peak torque of 354 lb.-ft. at 6800 rpm, with 90 percent available between 3700 and 9000 rpm.

The interior is modest, but tasteful. The car we drove was a mixture of leather, carbon fiber, Alcantara, and "satin-metal" adorn the cockpit. Lexus will offer seat covers in 12 colors of leather or 10 tons of spare Alcantara, with three choices of color for the roof in Alcantara. "Spacious" describes the cabin, although luggage space is minimal. supportive bucket seats have eight-way power adjustments, and the driving position is superb. Checks are minors so easy to find and use as a standard in the Lexus sedan, and LFA even the very operation of the mouse style for its multi-function center console screen, as in a sport-ute RX350.

Vehicle type: front-engine, rear-wheel drive two-seater two-door coupe

PRICES base estimate: $ 350,000

Engine Type: DOHC 40-valve V-10, aluminum block and heads, fuel injection port

Displacement: 293 cu in, 4805cc

Power (SAE net): 553 rpm hp @ 8700

Torque (SAE net): 354 lb-ft @ 6800 rpm

TRANSMISSION: 6-speed automated manual

DIMENSIONS:

Wheelbase: 102.6 in Length: 177.4 in

Width: 74.6 cm Height: 48.0 in

Curb weight (C / D is): � 3500

PERFORMANCE (C / D EST):

Zero to 60 km / h: 3.5 seconds

Standing � mile: 11.8 sec

Top speed (drag limited, claims manufacturer): 202 km / h

Lexus ES 350, 2010

Lexus ES 350, 2010

 

In its fifth generation, the Lexus ES 350 continues to blur the line between "entry luxury" and "prestige luxury." Revised headlamps, a new grille, new grille surround, chrome body side molding and new front bumper with revised lower intake and integrated fog lamps underscore the car's refined character. Side mirrors now feature integrated turn signals, and the tail lamps are redesigned. Elegant new exterior colors accentuate the distinctive design in the 2010 ES 350.

For 2010, renowned Lexus luxury is enhanced by revised steering wheel controls, as well as new wood trim choices. A revised center console offers more storage than before. An array of new user technologies expands navigation capability and music playing options. The updated optional navigation system features improved Voice Command casual-language voice recognition to enhance owner convenience.

The new standard Lexus Memory System controls and stores settings for the driver's seat (except lumbar), outside mirrors and steering wheel. Rain-sensing windshield wipers, previously optional, are now standard.

Two all-new telematics products are available with a complimentary one-year trial subscription. Safety Connect is standard on non-navigation equipped vehicles. Lexus Enform, which automatically comes with Safety Connect, is only available with navigation-equipped vehicles.

Engine/Transmission/Drivetrain/Performance
The Lexus ES 350's aluminum 3.5-liter V6 produces 272 horsepower at 6,200 rpm and 254 lb.-ft. peak torque at 4,700 rpm. The chain-driven camshafts employ Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (Dual VVT-i) for optimal performance and efficiency at all engine speeds.

The six-speed automatic Electronically Controlled Transmission with intelligence (ECT-i) provides a sequential manual shift feature for a more involved driving experience when desired. Shifting strategy adapts to driver input, with rapid kick-down response.

Chassis/Body/Suspension/Tires/Brakes
The Lexus ES 350 owes its smooth, quiet ride in large part to a rigid unibody structure that allows the four-wheel independent suspension to be tuned to provide responsive handling agility and ultra-smooth ride quality. The low 0.28 coefficient of drag (Cd) helps minimize wind noise while also helping to maximize highway fuel efficiency. Standard 17 x 7-inch aluminum alloy wheels with a new split five-spoke design carry 215/55R17 all-season tires. A full-size spare wheel/tire is available.

Standard Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) with traction control system integrates the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and the Brake Assist (BA) safety feature. A new VSC cut-off switch for 2010 is useful if it becomes necessary to extricate the car from deep snow or other difficult conditions, such as mud or sand.

Safety/Security Features
A reinforced front- and rear-structure passenger compartment forms the foundation for passive safety in the Lexus ES 350. In addition to advanced dual-stage front airbags and front seat-mounted side airbags, the Lexus Supplemental Restraint System includes rear seat-mounted side air bags (previously optional, now standard), side-curtain airbags that extend from the A-pillar to C-pillar and a knee airbag for both the driver and front passenger, for a total of 10 airbags throughout the cabin.

The optional Pre-Collision System (PCS) can help reduce collision damage. The package includes Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, which uses millimeter-wave radar to measure and help maintain a pre-set distance from a vehicle traveling ahead. The multi-information display within the combination meter will show a car icon with the selected following distance.

If, based on a variety of inputs, PCS determines that a collision is unavoidable, the system preemptively retracts the front seat belts and pre-initializes BA so that increased braking will be applied the instant the driver depresses the pedal. Active Braking can automatically apply the brakes up to a deceleration rate of 0.3 g if the driver fails to react to system warnings.

The optional dual-swivel Lexus Adaptive Front Lighting System (AFS) helps illuminate a turn or curve as the driver steers into it. A medium-to-high speed mode (over 19 mph) allows both the right and left front headlamp bulbs to swivel toward the direction of the turn at the same time.

Luxury/Comfort/Convenience
Lexus' craftsmanship and attention to detail provide true luxury by design in the Lexus ES 350. Standard leather-trimmed seating is available in three colors. For 2010, the Ultra Luxury Package adds double-contrast stitching for the seats, console and door trim, a feature seen in prestige-luxury models, and perforated, semi-aniline leather.

A one-touch tilt/slide power glass moonroof is standard, as well as a dual-zone automatic climate control system, 10-way power front seats (with standard driver memory) and a power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel.
The standard multi-information display, located in the combination meter, is easy to operate. Its main feature is a trip computer that provides outside temperature, driving range, fuel consumption and average speed readouts. A new Eco Driving indicator helps encourage economical driving. The display also includes an oil maintenance reminder and system warnings.

The standard leather-trimmed steering wheel integrates easy-to-use controls for the audio system, trip computer, and multi-information display, as well as voice control for the available navigation system when so equipped. The standard auto-dimming rearview mirror features an integrated digital compass. Heated exterior mirrors help melt away morning fog or frost, and an illuminated entry system lights the interior foot wells and the exterior with puddle lamps.

The SmartAccess keyless entry and push-to-start ignition system allows the driver to enter and start the car without needing to remove the access fob from pocket or purse. The standard HomeLink� transmitter can control compatible garage-door openers and home-security devices.
Convenience details abound throughout the Lexus ES 350, including illuminated front cup holders and an interior lighting system. Using the new Lexus Memory System feature, the driver can now tailor numerous vehicle preferences, including lighting, power windows and moonroof, steering wheel, and door lock control.

The standard Lexus Premium Audio system includes an in-dash, six-disc CD changer, Automatic Sound Levelizer and an integrated satellite radio receiver (complimentary 90-day trial subscription included). New for 2010, the system adds iPod�/USB connectivity, Bluetooth� hands free phone capability and music streaming.

Luxury Options
The customer can "layer" luxury in the Lexus ES 350 by adding the Ultra-Luxury Package, or by selecting from a number of standalone options which include heated and ventilated front seats, HID with AFS, and Intuitive Park Assist (IPA). The IPA system uses ultrasonic sensors to detect objects close to the car's front and rear bumpers, alerting the driver and showing distance to objects in the multi-information display.

The available touch-screen Lexus Navigation System with rear back-up camera, revised for 2010, allows the driver to enter a destination using the updated Voice Command casual-language voice recognition. The system integrates control for the Lexus Personalized Settings feature and adds Bluetooth� phonebook download. Voice command, a casual-language-based voice recognition feature, is standard on navigation-equipped vehicles. This new technology allows the driver to give fewer and more flexible, conversational commands in a specific order for easier access to audio, climate, and navigation system functions to help drivers focus more on the road ahead.

The Ultra-Luxury Package includes a panorama glass roof; perforated semi-aniline leather-trimmed seating (new Black/Saddle color combination for 2010); power rear sunshade; passenger memory; the HID/AFS lighting system; and a wood- and leather-trimmed steering wheel and shift knob. Exclusive Liquid Graphite-finish 17-inch 10-spoke alloy wheels add a distinctive touch.

Interior Design
Built on a 109.3-inch wheelbase, the midsize Lexus ES 350 provides a roomy and inviting interior. The driver and passengers are treated to intelligent, elegant luxury, with touch points that convey quality and controls that respond fluidly.

The high level of Lexus craftsmanship is immediately evident in the Lexus ES 350, with bright, clear Optitron� gauges, premium wood, as well as polished metal and leather accents that echo prestige-luxury models. For 2010, Parchment leather replaces Cashmere; new Walnut trim replaces Medium Brown Walnut, and Dark Brown Bird's Eye Maple trim is added.

5 Most Fuel Efficient Cars 2011

At the summer of 2008 in U.S, gas prices average around $4.50/gallon in the U.S. After the summer of 2008, gas prices plummeted down to $2.00/gallon and people were beginning to enjoy going out more. However, as of April 2011, the price is already $4.00/gallon and it is predicted that it will reach over $5.00/gallon within the next year or so.

The best ways to save money is not drive at all and just stay home, sit in front of your computer all day long! Most of us can't do that because we must drive to work and we live in a society where driving is a necessity. How many miles are you getting from a gallon of gas? There will be no expensive cars in this post and none of the cars here will reach 0-60 in 5 secs, but these cars will save you money on gas every year. Lets see...

1. Toyota Prius: 51 City/48 Hwy (50 Combined), Base Price: $23,050. 1.8-liter, with 4-Cylinder engine and 134 hp, 0-60 mph in 9.8 secs. The most fuel efficient car on the market is the Toyota Prius, also the most demanding car in the U.S. A small sedan, but roomy enough for 5 and it is perfect for those that drive over 100 miles a day to work. The 3rd Generation Toyota Prius model is on sale since 2009 and currently available for purchase at most Toyota dealers.

2. Lexus CT 200h: 43 City/40 Hwy (42 Combined), Base Price: $29,120. 1.8-liter, with 4-Cylinder engine and up to 134 hp, 0-60 mph in 9.8 secs. Why not have both luxury and fuel efficiency in one car? The Lexus CT 200h does just that by offering great gas mileage with a luxurious feel. Wow your friends and colleagues with a whopping 42 mpg in a Lexus.

3. Honda Civic Hybrid Tie for third are the Honda cars, which both give an estimated combined 41 mpg. The Civic Hybrid has more room and cargo space, while the Insight is much more affordable.

Honda Civic Hybrid: 40 City/43 Hwy (41 Combined), Base Price: $23,950. 1.3-liter, 4-Cylinder engine with 110 hp, 0-60 mph in 11.3 secs.

4. Ford Fusion Hybrid in the fourth spot are two contenders from Ford Motors with each having a combined 39 mpg. These hybrids are packed with a powerful engine which give out 191 hp. The Fusion Hybrid is more affordable. Ford Fusion Hybrid: 41 City/36 Hwy (39 Combined), Base Price: $28,405. 2.5-liter, 4-Cylinder engine with 191 hp. 0-60 mph in 8.4 secs.

5. Honda CR-Z or Hyundai Sonata Hybrid: Ranking in fifth place is a duel between the H companies; CR-Z and the Sonata Hybrid each has a estimated combined 37 mpg. Honda offers a sporty coupe at a comfortable price range while Hyundai offers a full sedan with great gas mileage.

Honda CR-Z: 35 City/39 Hwy (37 Combined), Base price: $19,345. 1.5-liter, 4-Cylinder engine with 122 hp. 0-60 mph in 9.7 secs.

Hyundai Sonata Hybrid: 35 City/40 Hwy(37 avg.) Base Price: $25,795. 2.4-liter, 4-Cylinder engine with 206 hp. 0-60 mph in 9.2 secs.

What do you think of this list? If there are better fuel efficient cars available on the market, please list those cars and link to them. We only list cars that are currently available for purchase and has already been on the market. Concept cars that have not been release cannot be on the list because it is not yet available for purchase. Your comment is very valuable and it will help us keep the list accurate.

2011 Lexus CT 200h The Best Lexus Cars

The 2011 CT 200h is completely different from any other Toyota or Lexus model. Indeed, it doesn't share a platform with any of them. It's a four-door/five-passenger hatchback, a highly practical style of vehicle that is popular in Europe but traditionally doesn't sell well in the U.S. With the price of regular gasoline now above $3, American tastes may start to change.

The new front-wheel-drive Lexus CT 200h, which is scheduled to hit dealer showrooms in late February, is a terrific upscale alternative to the Toyota (TM) Prius. This all-new model has two big selling points: A relatively low price�it's the least expensive model in Lexus' lineup, with a starting price of $29,995�and an average fuel economy rating of 42 miles per gallon.

It's no BMW (BMW:GR), but the CT 200h offers a nicer cabin and greater driving panache than high-mileage competitors such as the Prius and Honda (HMC) Insight. If your priority is the greatest possible fuel economy the Prius is still the best buy on the market, as far as I'm concerned. If you're willing to pay a bit more for nicer styling and better handling, the CT 200h is well worth a look.

A 1.8-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine and a pair of electric motors combine to give the Lexus CT 200h some 134 horsepower, while an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (CVT) works as ringleader. In Edmunds testing, the CT 200h jogs from a standstill to 60 mph in a torpid 10.4 seconds on the way to a pass through the quarter-mile in 17.6 seconds at 78.8 mph, but don't let this discourage you, since in real-world driving, the CT feels reasonably well-powered and responsive in most situations. It comes to a stop from 60 mph in 120 feet, a reasonable effort considering its less-than-sticky, low-rolling-resistance tires.

If the car feels lighter on its feet than any other Lexus, it's because it is. Lexus engineers kept its heft down to a modest 3,130 pounds, making it both the trimmest model in the automaker's fleet and the trimmest model in its segment.

We exploit the CT's playfulness by putting it in "Sport" mode and the drive mode knob indicates our choice by lighting up in bold crimson. Throttle response instantly becomes more aggressive and steering sharpens, since this mode modifies their settings for quicker response each time the driver taps the gas pedal or turns the wheel. Sport mode also dials back the car's stability and traction control systems, allowing us more direct control of the Lexus.

Although the CT 200h's suspension features the usual MacPherson struts in front and a fully independent, double-wishbone suspension in back, this is the first Lexus to offer a lateral performance damper system. It's a unique design meant to reduce body vibrations and promote a more comfortable ride, and this technology helps give the car a well-planted feeling that's more German than Japanese. Those expecting traditional luxury-car plushness might find ride quality somewhat firm, though, and things can get downright harsh and brittle in Sport mode.

We find the front seats comfortable and nicely padded, but some might find them a little low-slung. To give the car's cabin a sporty feel, Lexus designed the seats with a low hip point, which means that ingress and egress require a little more effort than you might expect from a vehicle that isn't a purpose-built performance car. Even the steering column is set at a low angle (21 degrees), though it can be customized via tilting and telescoping.

We like the placement of the CT 200h's shift lever, as it sits high on the graceful slope of the driver-angled center stack in a perch that allows us to manipulate it with minimum effort. There's not much room for in-cabin storage, though, since the glovebox, door bins and center bin are all too small to shoulder any meaningful burden.

The relatively straightforward navigation system is governed by Lexus' Remote Touch controller, which is essentially a mouse that sits on the driver side of the center console. Its placement is indicative of the thoughtful ergonomics found throughout the cabin; there's almost zero exertion required to grasp it, given that it rests mere millimeters away from where the driver's hand naturally falls on his thigh.

We're surprised to find that with the front seat adjusted for a driver roughly 6 feet tall, there's enough room in the cramped-looking rear seat for a passenger of similar height. The CT 200h is able to pull off this magic trick due to its cleverly constructed front seatbacks, which feature recessed hollows that eke out additional knee room for those seated in the second row.

Luggage capacity is 14.3 cubic feet, which is more than you'll find in the 1 Series but less than that of the A3 and C30. Rear visibility is passable but not great, given that the car's C-pillar is substantial and sizable rear-seat headrests obstruct the view.

The CT 200h's low stance and fastback silhouette give it an appealingly sporty look, but its sheet metal calls to mind more economical hatchbacks, which could be a turn-off for the most premium-minded buyers.

Within the cabin, soft-touch surfaces quilt the most heavily trafficked contact points. Leather upholstery is available but our test car is lined with a synthetic imitation that's 50 percent lighter and a perfectly acceptable substitute. The look of the cabin is modern and upscale, save for the radio's dated-looking panel layout and display screen.

The 2011 Lexus CT 200h is a good pick for shoppers who want Lexus prestige without sticker shock and steep fuel bills. It's also a solid bet for those in search of a less ubiquitous, more high-end alternative to the frugal Prius.

Chicago Preshow: Lexus CT 200h Concept Tune by Five Axis

Lexus will be showing off a wilder CT 200h prepared by parent company Toyota's tuning partner Five-Axis at the upcoming 2011 Chicago Auto Show, which runs for the public from February 11 to 20. The highly-modified Five Axis Project CT will be dressed in a custom made wide body kit with hybrid's bad-boy appearance further enhanced by the JDSU �Dark Passage� paint, the lowered ride height (thanks to a TEIN Flex coilover suspension system), and custom 19-inch FIVE:AD forged alloy wheels.

No word on any powertrain improvements, but the CT 200h concept study will get a bespoke interior treatment and a Stoptech High Performance Big Brake Kit on the front.

The Five Axis Project CT will be joined by numerous Lexus models including vehicles from last year�s SEMA Show such as a customized LS600h L by VIP Auto Salon and a revamped RX 450h courtesy of tuner Paul Tolson, EST Styling, plus the full range of production models like the 2012 LFA sports car.

Lexus Issues Voluntary Recall on 245,000 GS and IS Models in the U.S.

Lexus has issued a voluntary safety recall involving some 245,000 cars in the U.S. because of a potential defect that may cause fuel leakage. The models affected by the recall include the GS300 and GS350 from the 2006-2007MY, the IS 250 from the 2006-2009MY, and the IS 350 from the 2006-2008MY.

The company said that due to insufficient tightening, the connection between the fuel pressure sensor and a certain fuel line could loosen over time, resulting in a possible fuel leak. No accidents related to the problem have been reported to date.

According to statement from Lexus' parent company Toyota, the firm's dealers will inspect the vehicles and if no leakage is found, will tighten the sensor with the proper torque. In case of a confirmed fuel leak, the gasket between the fuel sensor and the delivery pipe will be replaced and the sensor tightened. As expected, all operations will be conducted free of charge.