Matthew_McNally

from auto123 by AlexCAMS@aol.com The hybrid-powered version of the RX sport utility vehicle from Toyota's upscale Lexus division will come to Canada this April at two price points -- $62,200 for the RX 400h Premium trim and $69,700 for the Ultra Premium trim of the same vehicle. That amounts to a surcharge of $6,420 over the Premium version of the RX 330, and $6,365 over the Ultra Premium version of the same car. For the company's part, Rebecca Wu asks consumers to ''remember that there is really no comparison between RX 400h and RX 330.'' The more expensive model ''gives you the advantages of the Hybrid Synergy Drive powertrain (great fuel efficiency, and low emissions), new stability control, the equivalent of 268 hp, unique 18-inch alloy wheels, electric power steering, electronic brake control, electrically-powered air conditioning, and other features.'' Whatever price consumers end up paying for the RX 400h, Stuart Payne, the director responsible for Lexus in Canada, re-iterates the point that the SUV is fairly unique as a hybrid-powered vehicle because it's been designed to provide performance as well as fuel efficiency and low emissions.'' Payne notes that, with the RX 400h, ''we've combined the exceptional performance of our Hybrid Synergy Drive with unsurpassed luxury and attention to detail to create a truly remarkable vehicle, while delivering it at a price that will make the RX 400h very attractive to Canadians looking for the ultimate luxury SUV.'' The RX 400h features a Hybrid Synergy Drive (HSD) powertrain with a 3.3-litre V6 and a high-torque electric-drive motor-generator, plus a rear electric-drive motor-generator. ''Together with an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission,'' explains Payne, ''RX 400h delivers the equivalent of 268 hp to accelerate from 0-100 kmh in under eight seconds, with improved low- to mid-speed response.'' Payne further points out that the RX 400h powertrain has ''fuel efficiency comparable to that of an average compact sedan,'' as well as a Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (SULEV) rating, which is ''one of the most stringent emissions ratings in the industry.'' Every RX 400h is equipped with Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM), a feature that's unique to the hybrid models in the RX range. Payne says ''VDIM is a ground-breaking system that uses a variety of sensors to anticipate vehicle stability control problems and correct the situation through braking and throttle control. The new VDIM system is less intrusive than a conventional vehicle stability system, and ultimately more effective.'' Regardless of trim level, Payne notes, the RX 400h comes with unique brushed aluminum interior accents to ''create a look and feel that complement the vehicle's high-tech performance. Inside and out, the RX 400h continues the Lexus tradition of fine materials and craftsmanship.'' At the Premium trim level, Payne explains, the RX 400h includes nearly every feature in the traditional RX 330 with an in-dash six-disc CD changer, power rear door, power tilt sliding moonroof, high intensity discharge headlamps, adaptive front lighting system, and premium illuminated entry. The Ultra Premium trim level takes all of these standard features and adds a Mark Levinson audio system with 11 speakers, two sets of wireless headphones, rear audio joystick controls, a rear seat DVD entertainment system, a seven-inch liquid crystal display rear monitor, audio and DVD remote controls, and a DVD-based navigation system.

the new GS is hitting the streets - maybe the dealer really wants to get the old stock off the lot?

another nice piece Steve - well done. are people really making that big a deal over this car?

/matt checks the thread again. /matt notices that there are STILL NO PICS /matt looks at SW03ES, and taps his watch impatiently

Edmunds.com sends a reporter under cover to work in a car dealership. the 4 square sheet was very interesting - not seen that technique used over here (at least not in that form). you guys experience this type of selling? He makes several allusions to the first dealership as being a high pressure dealership that sells luxury japanese cars. but they also sell minivans - so its not Lexus

These are the C-Best settings I have copies of. As you can see - they do not list the RX you could try asking your dealer to use these anyway - cant imagine Lexus would have a made a completely different set, when these are common across so much of their range.

If you want it YOU better call charles!! B) ← yeah - Charles does check in pretty regularly - but I would give him a bell - make sure you stake your claim for the freebie! :D His details are Charles Shepherd Mgr. Special Projects. 949-588-8300

Read all about the launch, including exclusive official pictures, by clicking the link below. Lexus Launch New 2006 IS at Geneva Auto Show. Click on the pictures for luscious high resolution images

Read all about the launch, including exclusive official pictures, by clicking the link below. Lexus Launch New 2006 IS at Geneva Auto Show. Click on the pictures for luscious high resolution images

Read all about the launch, including exclusive official pictures, by clicking the link below. Lexus Launch New 2006 IS at Geneva Auto Show. Click on the pictures for luscious high resolution images

Read all about the launch, including exclusive official pictures, by clicking the link below. Lexus Launch New 2006 IS at Geneva Auto Show. Click on the pictures for luscious high resolution images

Read all about the launch, including exclusive official pictures, by clicking the link below. Lexus Launch New 2006 IS at Geneva Auto Show. Click on the pictures for luscious high resolution images

Read all about the launch, including exclusive official pictures, by clicking the link below. Lexus Launch New 2006 IS at Geneva Auto Show. Click on the pictures for luscious high resolution images

Read all about the launch, including exclusive official pictures, by clicking the link below. Lexus Launch New 2006 IS at Geneva Auto Show. Click on the photos for luscious high resolution photos - which we received direct from Lexus

Read all about the launch, including exclusive official pictures, by clicking the link below. Lexus Launch New 2006 IS at Geneva Auto Show

can tell by the interior thats its the new model - the 2006. I dont know if its a GS300 or GS430 though - maybe SW03ES can tell us

gotta applaud a man putting the effort into his motor there are lads in the UK spend 3k on stupid looking over the top bodykits, spoilers the size of mid size car, undecar neons, LED washer lights etc. This sounds like a much better investment

I'll take a pack - just to *BLEEP* off the animal rights nutters! :D

thats a result! well done! now - where are pics? :whistles:

lowering it would be even better mate B) couldn't you ask to test drive an ES on 17"s - see how much the ride quality drops? never put it through a car wash - there is a place by me that does it all by hand. dont do too bad a job either

just like to thank everyone who has signed up as a gold member, and will be entered into this draw. Thanks a lot! Its only through the support of people like yourselves that we can ensure that the club stays around. Good Luck in the Draw! If you haven't entered yet - you should be quick - competition ends in 3 days! Click here for details

just like to thank everyone who has signed up as a gold member, and will be entered into this draw. Thanks a lot! Its only through the support of people like yourselves that we can ensure that the club stays around. Good Luck in the Draw! If you haven't entered yet - you should be quick - competition ends in 3 days! Click here for details

just like to thank everyone who has signed up as a gold member, and will be entered into this draw. Thanks a lot! Its only through the support of people like yourselves that we can ensure that the club stays around. Good Luck in the Draw! If you haven't entered yet - you should be quick - competition ends in 3 days! Click here for details