William Maley

By William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com January 16, 2013 Acura has announced pricing for their upcoming flagship, the RLX. The base RLX will start $49,345* (includes $895 destination charge) and will come equipped with 3.5L V6 rated at 310 horsepower. All of that power goes to a six-speed automatic down to the front wheels. All front-wheel drive RLXs will also come equipped with Acura's Precision All-Wheel Steer (P-AWS) which adjusts the angle of the rear wheels improve handling and agility. Other standard features will include Lane Departure Warning and Forward Collision Warning; Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS), Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow, and Blind Spot Information (BSI) system. Acura will offer five different model grades for the RLX. Those grades include, RLX - $49,345 RLX with Navigation - $51,845 RLX with Technology Package - $55,345 RLX with Krell Audio Package - $57,845 RLX with Advance Package - $61,345 *All prices inlcude a $895 destination charge The RLX will go on sale in Mid-March. But Acura will be doing a "Destination RLX" program at dealers starting in February to provide potential customers "with the opportunity to experience the numerous new technologies." One model not listed here is the new RLX Sport Hybrid Super Handling All-Wheel Drive. Acura says that model will come out sometime later this year. Source: Acura William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. Press Release is on Page 2 Acura Announces Launch Plan and Pricing for 2014 RLX Flagship Sedan Feature-rich Acura RLX boasts numerous signature Acura-exclusive technologies, delivers incredible value on a luxury scale with starting price of $48,450 DETROIT, Mich., The all-new 2014 Acura RLX flagship sedan will debut at Acura dealerships on March 15, 2013, with a manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) starting at $48,450*. Featuring an all-new 310-horspower direct-injected SOHC i-VTEC V-6 powerplant, the most spacious passenger cabin in its class, and the first-ever application of signature Acura technologies including Precision All-Wheel Steer™ and Jewel Eye™ LED headlamps, the RLX delivers new levels of technology-enhanced performance, safety, and luxury-class comfort to Acura's range-topping sedan. "With an array of signature Acura technologies, the 2014 Acura RLX sets a new standard for luxury in the Acura lineup," said Jeff Conrad, vice president and general manager of Acura Sales. "The feature-rich RLX epitomizes Acura's 'Man-Machine Synergy' product direction, utilizing advanced technology and smart vehicle design to deliver incredible performance, comfort and value on a luxury scale." Destination RLX In February, Acura dealers will kick off the "Destination RLX" client experience program – with every Acura dealer nationwide featuring two 2014 Acura RLX sedans, weeks ahead of the March 15 on-sale date, providing Acura clients with the opportunity to experience the numerous new technologies available on the RLX luxury performance sedan. Flagship Features The 2014 Acura RLX is powered by an all-new, 310-horsepower, direct-injected SOHC 24-Valve i-VTEC® V-6 powerplant, Acura's first-ever direct-injected engine architecture. Utilizing Variable Cylinder Management™ (with the ability to deactivate the rear bank of three cylinders) in combination with a lightweight and aerodynamic body design, the new Acura RLX is anticipated to carry a class-leading EPA fuel-economy rating of 20/31/24 mpg1 (city/highway/combined). With the longest rear-seat legroom (38.8 inches), longest tandem seating distance (36.4 inches), and widest front and rear shoulder room in the mid-luxury class, the new RLX delivers full-size interior space in a nimbler, more efficient midsize luxury sedan exterior package. Featuring the first-ever application of Acura Precision All-Wheel Steer™ (P-AWS) the RLX achieves new levels of handling agility, high and low-speed maneuverability, and confident handling control for a two-wheel-drive luxury sedan. Precision All-Wheel Steer is the world's first technology to feature independent and continuous control of the left and right rear-wheel steering (toe) angles. Its benefits include crisper lane changes, more nimble cornering, enhanced dynamic response, tighter radius low-speed turning, and confidence-inspiring control. As previously announced, a version of RLX featuring Acura's new Sport Hybrid Super Handling All-Wheel Drive® (Sport Hybrid SH-AWD®) technology, producing 370 horsepower with expected EPA fuel-economy ratings of 30 city/30 highway/30 combined, will debut later in 2013. Further, the new RLX confidently competes in the high-end luxury sedan market with an incredible array of leading-edge technologies, including the next-generation AcuraLink® cloud-based connected car system with AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic™ featuring freeway traffic and, for the first time, surface street traffic information.New standard safety technologies include Lane Departure Warning and Forward Collision Warning, a driver's knee airbag, and the next-generation of Acura's Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™ II) body structure; along with available Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS). The RLX will also offer a bevvy of leading-edge visibility and driver-assistive technologies, including Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow, Blind Spot Information (BSI) system, Multi-view Rearview Camera, Expanded View Driver's Mirror, and front and rear parking sensors. The 2014 Acura RLX will be available in five grades – the well-equipped RLX, the RLX with Navigation, the feature-packed RLX with Technology package, the RLX with Krell Audio package, and the top-of-the-line RLX with Advance package. MSRP* RLX $48,450 RLX with Navigation $50,950 RLX with Technology Package $54,450 RLX with Krell Audio Package $56,950 RLX with Advance Package $60,450 Exterior Design and Function The RLX follows an "aero-fused" exterior design motif with its wide and athletic stance, sharp upswept bodylines, aerodynamic greenhouse, and distinctive new Jewel-Eye™ LED headlights offering improved down-the-road illumination and lighting characteristics. The RLX's sleek upper body combines with aerodynamic features to deliver best-in-class levels of aerodynamic efficiency. Seven spoke 18x8J aluminum-alloy wheels and 245/45 R18 all-weather tires are standard, while Technology, Krell and Advance grades feature 19x8J wheels and 245/40 R19 tires. The RLX's alloy wheels also feature a noise-reducing design that lowers tire noise by 7 decibels across the audible frequency range. Additional exterior features available on the RLX include an acoustic glass windshield and door glass, integrated power rear sunshade, front and rear parking sensors, heated and auto-dimming side mirrors, and rain-sensing windshield wipers. Interior Design and Function The RLX interior features premium, soft touch materials throughout, with the tasteful application of premium metal and wood-grain accents. A stitched leather instrument panel, center console and steering wheel, along with available Milano perforated leather seats, communicate a new level of craftsmanship and refined luxury appeal in Acura's top-of-the-line sedan. Luxury form and function are smartly integrated in the RLX's new center console, featuring dual screens – an 8-inch Navigation screen and a 7-inch On-Demand Multi-Use Display™ touch screen – that provide easy and direct one-touch access to key functions, including audio, climate control, navigation, and text-to-voice SMS text message functionality. The sliding, leather-trimmed armrest conceals a dual-hinged center storage compartment with easy access for both the driver and front passenger to USB connectivity, 12-volt accessory power outlet and space to store tablets and other electronic devices. Additional interior comfort and convenience features include push-button start, power tilt and telescoping steering, power sunroof, tri-zone automatic climate control, and Bluetooth®3 HandsFreeLink®. The standard 10-speaker ELS® audio system includes HD radio™, XM radio, Pandora® interface, USB connectivity, and an auxiliary jack. The RLX with Technology package is equipped with a 14-speaker Acura/ELS® Studio premium audio system. The Krell Audio and Advance grades receive an ultra-premium, 14-speaker, Krell audio system that sets a new benchmark for high-fidelity sound in a luxury vehicle. Chassis Technology Whether on a serpentine mountain pass, congested city street, or cramped airport parking deck, and in all weather conditions, the RLX with Precision All-Wheel Steer™ (P-AWS™) is designed to deliver an unprecedented level of handling precision and control in a two-wheel drive luxury sedan. Working in concert with Vehicle Stability Assist® (VSA®) with Traction Control, and Agile Handling Assist dynamic braking system, P-AWS™ provides enhanced vehicle stability, maneuverability, and control. The RLX's handling performance is further elevated by its new double-wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension system with Amplitude Reactive Dampers, and new high-output, belt-type electronic power steering. All RLX models have 4-wheel disc brakes with high-friction pads and a 4-channel anti-lock braking system (ABS), along with new Hydraulic Brake Boost that improves brake pedal feel. New Electric Parking Brake with Automatic Brake Hold, and high-efficiency Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) are additional firsts for Acura. New Direct-Injected i-VTEC® V-6 with VCM The 2014 RLX is powered by an all-new, 3.5-liter, direct-injected SOHC i-VTEC® V-6 engine with Variable Cylinder Management™. Rated at 310 horsepower, the engine delivers exceptional drivability, with more than 90-percent of its peak 272 lb.-ft. of torque available from 2000 rpm to 6600 rpm. Variable Cylinder Management with 3-cylinder and 6-cylinder operation works in concert with the VTEC valvetrain to deliver superb cruising efficiency. The engine is mounted to a lightweight and rigid aluminum front subframe using a vibration-canceling Active Control engine Mount (ACM) system. The new engine is mated to a reengineered Sequential SportShift 6-speed automatic transmission with revised gearing, an intuitive selector and steering-wheel-mounted shift paddles. A driver-selectable Sport mode provides more aggressive shift points and more pronounced engine braking during deceleration, along with manual operation. AcuraLink® Connectivity System The RLX is equipped with the next-generation AcuraLink® cloud-based connected car system, delivering a comprehensive array of media, convenience, and security services via embedded two-way communications and web-enabled devices. AcuraLink® leverages the Aha™ by Harman cloud-based interface to provide users with thousands of customizable cloud-based news, information and media feeds. Next-generation AcuraLink® also delivers an array of available, subscription-based, security and convenience features, such as AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic™ featuring freeway traffic and, for the first time, surface street traffic information; airbag deployment notification; stolen vehicle tracking; remote locking and unlocking; security alarm notification; and 24-hour personalized concierge services. Advanced Safety, Visibility, and Driver Assistive Technology The RLX offers a bevy of leading-edge safety technologies, including standard Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), seven smart-deploying airbags including a driver's knee airbag, and Acura's next-generation Advanced Compatibility Engineering II (ACE II) body structure. The RLX is anticipated to earn top-level safety ratings, including a 5-star NCAP Overall Vehicle Score2. The RLX is also expected to join the Acura TL sedan in earning an IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+ rating, including a GOOD rating in the stringent new IIHS small overlap frontal crash test. The RLX also offers a comprehensive list of advanced visibility and driver-assistive technologies, including the standard Expanded View Driver's Mirror and Multi-View Rear Camera with Dynamic Guidelines, along with available Lane Keeping Assist (LKAS) system, Collision Mitigation Brake (CMBS) system, Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow, Blind Spot Information (BSI), and front and rear parking sensors. Additional details on key advances and technologies for the all-new 2014 RLX: Class leading interior space based on the RLX's longer wheelbase and efficient packaging. At 196.1 inches, the RLX is similar in length to the outgoing RL, but it has a two-inch longer wheelbase and is nearly two inches wider, placing the new RLX well above the norm in the mid-luxury class. The flagship RLX sedan has up to three inches more rear legroom than competing models, including the BMW 535i, Lexus GS350 and Audi A6. Extensive use of lightweight materials includes the application of strength steel to 55 percent of the body, and the intensive use of aluminum-for the front fenders, hood, steering hangar beam, front and rear bumper beams, front subframe, and all-new "hybrid" front and rear door panels (steel inner structure mated to aluminum outer skin). The RLX weighs in at 3,933 pounds. Static bending and torsional body rigidity are up 52 percent and 46 percent, respectively. Jewel-Eye™ LED headlights (an Acura first) LED lamps enhance the RLX's modern and distinctive appearance while providing outstanding light distribution and improved down-the-road illumination. Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™ offers a wide range of search options including local search functionality and AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic™ for both highways and surface streets. Agile Handling Assist (an Acura first) uses active braking to help the driver smoothly and easily trace the desired line through a curve with smaller steering inputs. Electric Parking Brake (an Acura first) provides one-touch parking brake activation. Automatic Brake Hold (an Acura first) maintains the vehicle's position when the driving or parking brake are released until the throttle is depressed. Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow (an Acura first), allows the RLX to independently maintain a set following distance in low-speed traffic situations, including stop and go traffic, and to initiate vehicle braking when necessary. Forward Collision Warning (FCW) uses a camera mounted in the upper portion of the windshield to detect vehicles ahead of the RLX and audibly and visually alert the driver when it determines a frontal collision with a detected vehicle is possible. Lane Departure Warning (LDW) uses the same windshield-mounted camera to detect lane markings on the road and alerts the driver if the vehicle is wandering from a detected lane. Front seatbelt e-pretensioners use electronic control to reduce belt tension under normal driving conditions, while also enabling automatic belt tensioning in hard cornering maneuvers or in the event of a collision. Multi-angle rearview camera with dynamic guidelines uses dynamic guidelines that reflect steering wheel inputs on the display to aid in backup maneuvers. Capless fueling (an Acura first) eliminates the fuel cap and improves ease of fueling.

By William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com January 15, 2013 The last full-size FWD sedan Kia sold was the Amanti back in 2009. Four years later, Kia is giving the full-size FWD sedan another chance with the introduction of the Cadenza at the Detroit Auto Show. The Cadenza's exterior styling is a blend of athletic lines, Kia ubiquitous front grille, angular headlights, wraparound LED taillights, and dual oval exhaust tips. Peel back the skin and you'll the Hyundai Azera underpinnings, starting with the 3.3L V6 producing 293 horsepower and 255 pound-feet of torque, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission to the front wheels. The Cadenza rides on a sport-tuned suspension with MacPherson struts up front and a multi-link rear configuration. Stepping inside the Cadenza, you're surrounded by wood trim and leather. Standard features will include navigation with SiriusXM traffic updates, Kia's UVO entertainment system, an 8-inch touch-screen, a backup camera, an Infinity premium stereo, Bluetooth connectivity, 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat, dual-zone automatic air conditioning, and keyless entry with push-button start. The new Cadenza arrives this spring. Source: Kia Album: 2014 Kia Cadenza 6 images 0 comments William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. Press Release is on Page 2 KIA MOTORS AMERICA ANNOUNCES NORTH AMERICAN DEBUT OF THE 2014 CADENZA AT NORTH AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL AUTO SHOW Sophisticated and Elegant, Cadenza Represents the Most Technologically-Advanced Kia ever offered in the U.S. market - Luxurious appointments, advanced technology and stunning European-inspired design boldly announce Kia's entry into the premium-car segment - Cadenza sedan is expected to go on sale in the second quarter of 2013 DETROIT, Jan. 15, 2013 – Kia Motors America (KMA) today unveiled the all-new 2014 Cadenza premium sedan, the most technologically-advanced vehicle Kia has ever introduced in North America. The long-anticipated announcement today at Cobo Hall during the 2013 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) confirmed Kia's intentions to enter into the premium-sedan segment. The Cadenza expands KMA's lineup of inspiring and award-winning vehicles while moving the brand up-market with an impressive list of premium standard and optional equipment, including Advanced Smart Cruise Control (ASCC), Blind Spot Detection (BSD) and Lane-Departure Warning System (LDWS). The Cadenza is expected to arrive in Kia retail showrooms in the second quarter of this year, and pricing will be announced closer to the vehicle's on-sale date. "Since the introduction of the range-topping Optima SXL last year, we have seen an increasing number of customers in our retail outlets looking for a sedan with even more upscale amenities and technology," said Michael Sprague, executive vice president of marketing & communications, KMA. "The Cadenza is the new flagship for Kia in the U.S. market, and when it goes on sale later this year, it will introduce a number of advanced systems that promise to set a new standard in the premium segment." With its distinctive front fascia and swept C-pillars, the Cadenza's taut European design language is evident. That it's propelled by Kia's most powerful V6 engine further announces its intentions to provide an invigorating driving experience. Inside, unparalleled premium appointments for five occupants strike the ideal balance between sport and luxury. Combining these elements with technology that, until now, has never been offered on any Kia vehicle in the market, the Cadenza quickly rises to the lofty elevation of being the brand's most advanced U.S. product. Sophisticated Features and Technology Offered in one opulently equipped trim level, the Cadenza takes in-car technology and premium features to an entirely new level. Standard features include an advanced navigation system with SiriusXM Traffic™ and UVO eServices, displayed on a high resolution 8-inch touch screen. Further enhancing driver assurance is a standard back-up camera and warning system, as well as a premium 550-watt Infinity® 12-speaker audio system including rear surround speakers and subwoofer. The Cadenza's standard equipment level is on par with many premium brands and boasts standard leather seat trim, dual-zone automatic climate control with rear seat ventilation, Smart Key keyless entry with push-button start, 10-way power adjustable driver's seat and Bluetooth® wireless technology. Two option packages are offered: The Premium Package and the Technology Package. Check the box for the Premium Package and receive a full-length panoramic sunroof with power retractable sunshade, HID headlamps with adaptive front lighting system (AFLS), 7-inch TFT LCD instrument cluster, premium Nappa leather seats, a memory enabled 12-way ventilated driver's seat with seat cushion extension for unsurpassed comfort, heated front and rear outboard seats, heated steering wheel with power tilt and telescoping steering column, as well as a power rear sunshade for enhanced comfort and privacy. Stepping up to the Technology Package adds sleek 19-inch alloy wheels, electric parking brake and Advanced Smart Cruise Control (ASCC), which maintains a set distance to the vehicle ahead and can bring the car to a full stop if necessary. The package also includes water repellant hydrophobic windshield, a radar-based Blind Spot Detection system (BSD) and a Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS) that provides audible and visual alerts to the driver should they inadvertently veer into another lane without using the turn signal. European Design Evokes Premium Sport-Sedan Elegance Penned under the watchful eye of Peter Schreyer, Kia's global chief of design, the Cadenza's broad shoulders, contoured hood, large wheels and wide stance give it a strong and grounded appearance. The striking design has a distinctive sport-sedan form, as if the car would be equally comfortable on the Autobahn or carving through the Swiss Alps. The aggressive "Tiger Nose" front fascia instantly speaks to Kia's brand identity. Flanking the grille are quad headlights that nestle deeply behind crystalline lenses. The lower fascia is wide, lending to the Cadenza's imposing stance, and chrome trim accents around the fog lights and grille add to the vehicle's premium presence. LED positioning lights and available HID headlights provide additional European sophistication. Perhaps best enjoyed in profile, the Cadenza's silhouette is at once strong and elegant. The vertical nose is imposing; the long hood is sensuously sculpted to meet the swept-back windshield. The greenhouse curves gracefully to the C-pillar and is surrounded by a tasteful chrome bezel that flares upward at the rear door, effectively creating a beautiful glass droplet. Beginning just aft of the front-door cutline is a chiseled indentation that sweeps upward, seamlessly transitioning into the tail lights. Classic chrome accents adorn the lower portions of the doors and the treatment continues into the rear fascia. The 19-inch alloy wheels offered in the Technology Package resemble a jet turbine and add to the Cadenza's athletic stature. Moving to the rear of the vehicle, the standard LED taillights sit high on the deck and are designed to cut across a large portion of the vehicle, lending to the Cadenza's broad stance. The twin oval tail pipes accentuate the Cadenza's sporty and elegant design. The interior of the Cadenza envelops its occupants in a premium environment complete with soft leather upholstery and tasteful accents of wood and chrome. Ambient lighting and horizontally positioned switch gear radiates an uncluttered and sophisticated aesthetic. An elegant analog clock centered between the center stack buttons lends a classic feel. The center console is angled toward the driver for optimized control, and an available large seven-inch high-resolution TFT LCD screen in the gauge cluster showcases a wide range of vehicle information including turn-by-turn navigation and infotainment. Elegant chrome bezels surround the HVAC and audio controls, air vents and the standard push-button start. Standard Bluetooth, wood-trim door inserts, one-touch automatic up/down power front windows and power-folding heated outside mirrors with integrated turn signal indicators all enhance the Cadenza's premium image. Engaging Driving Experience The Cadenza is equipped with Kia's most powerful V6 engine ever. The smooth-revving 3.3-liter utilizes gasoline direct injection (GDI) technology that improves performance while maintaining fuel efficiency. Power is seamlessly transferred to the front wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission that includes a Sportmatic manual shift mode and paddle shifters flanking the leather and wood-wrapped steering wheel. The GDI powerplant produces 293 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 255 lb.-ft. of torque at 5,200 rpm. The advanced all-aluminum engine features dual continuously variable valve timing for improved fuel economy and performance, a maintenance-free timing chain, a three-step variable induction system for enhanced torque, and is designed to run on regular unleaded gasoline. During durability testing, the engine is run 300 continuous hours at redline under full load then for an additional 20 hours at 10 percent above redline under full load. To maximize driver engagement and performance, the Cadenza features a sport-tuned fully independent suspension with a McPherson strut setup in front and a multilink rear design. The Cadenza rides on standard 245/45R-18 tires while 245/40R-19 tires are included with the Technology Package. To further enhance performance and safety, while reducing NVH, 60 percent of the body structure is strengthened through the utilization of High Tensile Steel (HTS), which helps improve torsional rigidity. HTS is produced through a 1,650 degree hot-stamping process, designed to toughen steel. Further reducing the Cadenza's NVH is an extensive list of noise reducing technologies, including a hydraulic transmission mount, optimally tuned damper on the rear cross member and specially designed wheels (the multiple fins help reduce wind noise at highway speeds).

By William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com January 15, 2013 After revealing the exterior and interior last week, Lexus provided more information on the IS today at the Detroit Auto Show. The IS will come with two different engines; a 2.5L V6 (IS 250) and 3.5L V6 (IS 350). Lexus hasn't released any performance figures, but has said that the 2.5L will come with a six-speed automatic and the 3.5L will have an eight-speed. There is also a new hybrid model, but that will be for the time being for Europe and Japan. Under the skin, the new IS features a multi-link rear-suspension design and steering from the larger GS. Rigidity has also been improved by the use new bonding methods and additional welds. F-Sport models get unique suspension and steering tuning for better handling. The IS' interior features a mix of LF-A (instrument cluster), GS, and CT (center stack). The interior also features a new 60/40 rear seat, omplimentary weather and traffic information, and the optional Lexus Remote Touch infotainment system. The new IS arrives at Lexus dealers later this summer. Source: Lexus Album: 2014 Lexus IS 13 images 0 comments William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. Press Release is on Page 2 All-New 2014 Lexus IS Sport Sedan Makes World Premiere at the North American International Auto Show DETROIT (Jan. 15, 2013) – Lexus today unveiled the all-new 2014 IS sedan at the North American International Auto Show. IS will be available in rear- and all-weather drive versions of the IS 250 and IS 350, a further evolution of F SPORT available across the entire model range, and for Europe, Japan, and select international markets, the IS 300h, the first IS to feature Lexus Hybrid Drive. Driving performance isakey selling point in the sport sedan segment. In conjunction with a bold new design including the Lexus spindle grille, the all-new IS has been painstakingly engineered to have excellent dynamic capabilities to provide an exceptionaldriving experience. "I adopted an entirely different approach to the development of the all-new IS," said Junichi Furuyama, IS chief engineer. "Specifically, it was to make an entertaining driving experience a major premise behind all aspects of performance. "The conventional approach involves developing each individual aspect in the hope that they will combine to offer an engaging driving experience. By contrast, development of the new IS flipped this process on its head, first establishing the pleasurable driving experience owners desire, and then developing the individual performance elements to support it." Every aspect of the IS has been engineered with a renewed focus on engaging performance, agile handling, accurate response to driver input and highly communicative feedback. "The IS has always been precise and fun to drive," said Mark Templin, Lexus group vice president and general manager. "The all-new IS kicks it up a notch with true sport sedan driving dynamics, state of the art onboard technologies, and an all-new design that makes it look fast even when it's standing still." Incorporating several Lexus-first features and technical innovations, the IS showcases an interior design with all the refinement and quality expected of a Lexus, plus a focused driver's environment, a significant improvement in rear seat comfort and spaciousness, and a larger, more convenient trunk. Engine/Transmission Rear- and all-weather drive versions of the IS 250 are powered by a 2.5 liter V6 gas engine. The IS 350 features a 3.5 liter V6 gas engine. The IS 300h, which will be available in Europe, Japan,and select international markets, will employ the Lexus Hybrid Drive powertrain, based on a newly developed 2.5L Atkinson-cycle engine. IS adopts the Drive Mode Select system which offers up to four switchable driving modes- ECO, NORMAL, SPORT and SPORT S+ (S+ available on IS 350 only) - to optimize vehicle systems to suit the driver's preferred combination of fuel economy, comfort, performance and handling characteristics. The IS 350 RWD features the eight-speed, Sport Direct Shift (SPDS) automatic transmission from the IS F high performance sedan with quicker shifts, full torque converter lockup and throttle blips in manual mode. The new IS is the first Lexus model to adopt G force Artificial Intelligence (G-AI) control in Sport mode. This system automatically selects the optimal gear and downshift pattern in response to G force, and maintains the selected gear through a corner. Chassis/Body/Suspension/Brakes Driving enjoyment was at the heart of the new IS development program, and every aspect of the new Lexus sedan's driving dynamics has been carefully engineered to that end. New, laser screw welding and adhesive body bonding techniques, along with additional spot welding, have increased overall body rigidity. This enhances stability and also allows for a more comfortable ride without compromising handling agility. The double wishbone front suspension system has been revised, offering a twenty percent increase in sway rigidity. The rear adopts a new multi-link suspension system from the GS. Fine tuning has resulted in outstanding grip performance and excellent response to steering inputs. Separate mounting of the spring and shock absorber maximizes trunk space. Steering feel and feedback is key to an enjoyable driving experience, and the new IS benefits from a steering gear box based on that of the GS sedan, incorporating a variety of tuning techniques. The structure and rigidity of each gear box component has been revised to create a smoother and more accurate steering feel with enhanced input response and greater driver feedback. F SPORT IS F SPORT models not only benefit from exclusive, exterior and interior design features, but also genuine dynamic enhancements. Both the front and rear suspension systems and the Electric Power Steering (EPS) are exclusively tuned for F SPORT, enhancing handling performance. An Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) system is tuned for F SPORT models, while Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS) is also available on IS 350. F SPORT models announce their presence with an exclusive spindle grille that incorporates a bolder insert design. The bottom corners of the front bumpers feature aerodynamic detailing to provide enhanced brake cooling. Unique 18-inch wheels feature a Y-spoke design inspired by the LFA. On board, drivers will receive vehicle information from an innovative driver's meter cluster with a moving center ring, inspired by the LFA. Interior trim detailing includes an F SPORT steering wheel and shift knob, and aluminum pedals and scuff plates that include the Lexus logo. Exterior Design The overall dynamic shape of the body emphasizes the wide flare of the wheel arches to give the new IS a broad, powerful stance. In profile, the strong horizontal beltline shows off the large rear tires and its low center of gravity. The exterior design includes a new, powerfully articulated headlamp cluster design with Lexus' trademark,L-shaped Daytime Running Lights (DRL) located independently below. Interior Design The clean, horizontal theme of the interior is bisected by the strong upward sweep of the center console, creating an ergonomically ideal environment. The newly designed driver's seat offers greater comfort and better lateral support. Both the seat hip point and the angle of the new, LFA-inspired steering wheel have been lowered and steering reach adjustment has been increased, creating a driver focused seating position. To better accommodate passengers, the new IS wheelbase is nearly three inches longer, providing a more comfortable cabin and increased trunk capacity. The extended wheelbase and a thinner front seat design results in three inches more knee room for rear passengers. New to the IS are standard, lockable 60:40 split/folding rear seats. Refined materials throughout the cabin are complimented by a high quality analog clock with surface-emitting illumination. The climate control system incorporates Lexus-first electrostatic switches, which enable vehicle occupants to adjust temperature settings with the touch of a finger. All IS models are equipped with the next generation, Lexus Display Audio or Remote Touch-controlled Navigation multimedia systems. Both multimedia systems provide industry-first complimentary real-time traffic and weather information delivered without a subscription through HD™ Radio Technology. The new steering wheel is the first on a Lexus to coordinate multimedia system control with both the meter cluster and center console displays. Safety/Security The 2014 IS has 10 airbags standard, including rear seat side airbags. Available safety and security features include an Automatic High Beam (AHB) headlamp system, a Lane Departure Alert (LDA) system, a Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) and a Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) system. The AHB headlamp system maximizes visibility at night by automatically switching to low beams when its camera detects the lights of either an oncoming or preceding vehicle. An LDA system helps prevent unintended lane changes by alerting the driver when the vehicle deviates from its lane without the operation of the turn signal. The BSM uses rear mounted radar to detect vehicles in adjacent lanes that are not visible in the outer door mirrors. The RCTA system employs the BSM radar to alert the driver to approaching vehicles when backing out of a parking space. The all-new Lexus IS will go on sale in mid-2013.