The brand is also readying a new IS 300, which is said to be a radical departure from the current model, in packaging and design. Other replacement cars and SUVs will follow, all featuring variations of the new styling philosophy that Lexus, and most that have seen it, believe will raise it up to sales volumes where all of its models will compete as strongly as its ES 330 and RX 330.
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| The brand is also readying a new IS 300, which is said to be a radical departure from the current model. (Photo: Lexus Canada) |
Speaking of the RX, the world's first luxury hybrid will hit the market in April, shortly after the launch of GS, forever changing the way people perceive gasoline-electric hybrid vehicles.
"The GS is just the first of many new Lexus models," stated Payne; "2005 will also see the Lexus RX 400h roll into dealerships. Like the GS 430, the RX will also be equipped with the cutting-edge VDIM technology."
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| Hybrid versions of all Lexus vehicles are expected in the near future. (Photo: Lexus Canada) |
The RX 400h's Hybrid Synergy Drive enhanced 3.3-litre V6 achieves a total output of 268-horsepower, allowing it to accelerate at the same rate as competitive V8-powered luxury utes, but its fuel economy and emissions are like that of a compact car - definitely a have your cake and eat it too scenario.
Of course, hybrid versions of all Lexus vehicles are expected in the near future, with some talk of a hybrid V8-powered LS competing directly in the 12-cylinder uber-sedan class, with output levels upwards of 400-horsepower.
Showing the future of where Lexus is taking its styling, Payne also introduced the beautifully styled LF-X crossover concept. While it was originally shown in Tokyo for that city's 2002 auto show, it comes to Canada for the first time this week.