As of the time this article was written, the world has been treated to a lineup of supercars and hypercars offering astonishing performance that defies imagination.
However, the author argues that none of these models can rival the sound of the V10 engine in the Lexus LFA.
Yes, even though this model has long since ceased production in 2012, the quality of the engine and exhaust soundtrack, reminiscent of a Formula 1 machine, remains difficult to match.
If you find that white noise isn’t helping you sleep soundly, you might want to try an alternative that’s perfect for petrolheads: listening to the sound of the Lexus LFA engine!
Toyota quietly uploaded a three-hour video on the Toyota Times YouTube channel, featuring uninterrupted pure sounds of the Lexus LFA.
For the information of our readers, the Lexus LFA is powered by a 5.2-liter V10 engine, the 1LR-GUE, capable of producing up to 552 hp and 480 Nm of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission.
The Lexus LFA Nürburgring Edition, meanwhile, features a retuned engine that generates 563 hp, with a gear shift that is 0.05 seconds faster, along with aerodynamic enhancements more suited for track use.
At the same time, Lexus sought Yamaha’s assistance to further tune the engine, exhaust, and intake systems, resulting in a soundtrack that is hard to replicate by any manufacturer.
As someone who appreciates this unique genre of “music,” we hope Toyota can provide recordings of the fantastic engine sounds produced in the past, such as the six-cylinder 2JZ-GTE, the sole V12 1GZ-FE used in the second-generation Toyota Century, and, of course, the legendary 4A-GE engine.
Bonus: The soundtrack of the Lexus LFA roars on the test track!
With over one million units sold, the Lexus ES continues to have a dedicated fan base in the Chinese market.
The seventh generation of this luxury sedan from Japan has been updated for the second time, following its first facelift in 2021.
Officially revealed at the 2024 Guangzhou Auto Show, the Lexus ES showcases cosmetic changes, particularly in the front and rear design.
The LED matrix headlights have been reworked, now featuring a double boomerang graphic, while the front spindle grille adopts a design inspired by the Lexus RX model.
Moving to the rear, the LED taillights have also been updated with a dual L-shaped graphic, accompanied by a full-width horizontal light bar that aligns with current trends.
Inside the cabin, the Lexus ES now employs a 14-inch infotainment screen, replacing the original 12.3-inch screen, and is complemented by two knobs for climate and media controls.
The gear shift knob has also been redesigned, alongside new trim and upholstery options.
The Lexus ES continues to offer the same engine options as the pre-facelift model, with the ES 200 variant featuring a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter engine producing 170 hp.
Meanwhile, the ES 300h variant is powered by a 2.5-liter hybrid engine that generates a total power output of 215 hp.
The seventh generation of the Lexus ES has been on the market since 2018, and the arrival of this second facelift model is seen as a way to keep the offering fresh for several more years before the introduction of a new generation model.
There are rumors that Lexus plans to launch a fully electric sedan for the next-generation ES model.
Lexus Malaysia has officially launched its first electric SUV, the Lexus RZ 450e 2024, in the local market.
Offered in limited units, the Lexus RZ450e comes with a single Luxury specification, featuring dual electric motor setup as standard.
The front motor is capable of producing 204 hp/266 Nm of power, while the rear motor delivers 109 hp/169 Nm. Overall, the Lexus RZ 450e can generate up to 308 hp of power, driving the all-wheel-drive DIRECT4 system.
The 71.4 kWh battery pack allows for a driving range of up to 440 km on a full charge, supporting 11 kW AC charging with a full charging time of 6.5 hours, or fast DC charging up to 150 kW (shortened to 30 minutes).
Notable features in the Lexus RZ 450e include MacPherson/Double Wishbone suspension system, Electronic Power Steering (EPS), 20-inch aluminum wheels, Bi-AHS LED projector headlights with adaptive high-beam function, L-Bar design taillights, exterior and interior e-Latch door handles, and Lexus Spindle grille at the front.
The cabin is equipped with a 7-inch TFT instrument cluster screen, a 14-inch infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support, Ultrasuede-wrapped seats with eight-way driver and passenger adjustments, synthetic leather-wrapped steering wheel, three-zone air conditioning, and shift-by-wire gear selector buttons.
During your journey, you will be accompanied by music from the Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound system with 13 available speakers.
In addition to passive safety features such as 7 airbags, ABS, Brake Assist, Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control System (TCS), and more, the Lexus RZ 450e is also equipped with the Lexus Safety System+ which includes features like:
• Pre-Collision System (PCS)
• Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC) with Stop & Go and Curve Speed Reduction functions
• Lane Keeping System (LKS) with Lane Tracing Assist (LTA) and Lane Departure Alert (LDA) functions
• Adaptive High-Beam System (AHS)
There are also two Lexus-specific features, Lexus Parking Assist Monitor and Lexus Teammate Advanced Park with Surround Panoramic View Monitoring (PVM) function.
The starting price of the 2024 Lexus RZ 450e is RM429,888.
First Drive Impression
During a test drive session offered for the Lexus LBX 2024 the other day, we were also given the opportunity to experience driving this electric SUV ourselves.
Our first impression is that the Lexus RZ 450e can be considered as an alternative if you are not interested in getting a German-made electric SUV in the same price range.
The acceleration performance offered by the Lexus RZ 450e is also what you would expect from an SUV with a dual electric motor configuration.
It may not be as aggressive as electric cars tuned for performance, but it is sufficient for you to outpace any fossil fuel-powered car at traffic lights.
Based on highway driving, you can feel that the NVH level of the Lexus RZ 450e is comfortable.
However, the 308 hp power output is not balanced with suspension tuning suitable for winding roads, and you can feel the body roll of this 2-ton SUV as the front end leans out of corners.
The writer understands that the Lexus RZ 450e is not a high-performance F-Sport SUV, so these weaknesses can be forgiven, as similar feelings were also experienced when the writer test drove a German-made electric SUV before this.
Not much can be shared at this time due to the very short test drive period. More information will be reviewed if there is an opportunity to test drive the Lexus RZ 450e in the future.
This may very well be the smallest and most affordable Lexus ever offered in the market for a new Lexus car.
Despite featuring characteristics typically associated with everyday cars, the 2024 Lexus LBX still offers its own identity to become part of the renowned Japanese luxury vehicle family.
Recently, we were given the opportunity to experience firsthand the first drive of the LBX crossing the Selangor-Pahang state border.
Although the distance given was quite short, the designated route included the necessary ingredients for us to evaluate the driving experience of the Lexus LBX on real roads, rather than just circling around exhibition centers.
Here are our five discoveries:
1. Toyota Platform, but with Identical Lexus Exterior Design
This is the first Lexus model to use the TNGA-B platform, making the Lexus LBX a ‘non-identical twin’ to the European market Toyota Yaris Cross crossover model.
While the dimensions of the LBX are not much different from the Yaris Cross, the LBX looks more imposing on the road with more prominent shoulder structures, followed by the aerodynamic spindle grille.
Moreover, the LBX’s appearance is more elegant and compact; the wheel arch protectors are more rounded compared to the angular design of the Yaris Cross.
For the rear design, the LBX features a sleeker tail lamp structure connected by a horizontal LED bar. The L Lexus logo has been replaced with the word L E X U S.
The shape of the LBX’s side mirrors actually reminds the writer of another more expensive Lexus model that shares the three-letter naming format, the Lexus LFA.
2. Three-Cylinder Inline Hybrid Engine
As standard, the Lexus LBX is equipped with a three-cylinder inline engine (code M15A-FXS) paired with a hybrid system.
The engine alone produces 90 hp and 120 Nm of torque, while the electric motor contributes 93 hp and 185 Nm, with a total output of around 136 hp.
Many may be skeptical about a three-cylinder engine, but the Proton X50 enthusiasts likely have long discarded that feeling. If you don’t believe it, check which model dominates the right lane of the highway apart from the low-power Perodua models.
Despite having only a three-cylinder inline engine, for us who experienced driving the LBX the other day, we can say the response provided is very satisfying.
You can enjoy a fun acceleration moment when the car moves away from a toll booth or when the traffic light turns green at intersections.
The power delivery is always there when needed at low speeds, aided by the efficiency of the eight-speed eCVT transmission that ensures the front wheels follow the driver’s direction.
Similar to any Toyota (and Lexus) hybrid model, the Lexus LBX also has an EV mode to allow the crossover to move without using any fuel at low speeds.
3. Simple Suspension Setup, but Suitable for Malaysian Roads
As standard, the Lexus LBX is fitted with MacPherson struts in the front and a torsion beam in the rear.
It is somehow similar to B-segment crossover models in the market.
Nevertheless, the tuning of the LBX suspension system makes it enjoyable to push through winding routes, like the ‘high-speed favorite circuit of many,’ the KL-Karak Expressway.
Throughout the drive, this small SUV feels stable and grips every corner, with body lean occurring when pushed aggressively.
For regular driving, the body roll produced is quite minimal, making it suitable and comfortable for those who do not fancy spirited driving.
Most importantly, the steering response itself is very obedient to every driver input, and it is what the writer expects from a Lexus after testing larger and more expensive models before – the Lexus ES, Lexus RX, and Lexus NX.
To delve further, we need to borrow this LBX again for a more comprehensive review. In short, the LBX is one Lexus that is enjoyable to drive!
With a chassis, engine, transmission, and suspension system that work in harmony, the writer is looking forward to testing the MORIZO RR variant, which comes with a more special recipe – the three-cylinder inline pulse of the GR Yaris and manual transmission!
Hopefully, Lexus Malaysia will consider this variant in the future.
4. Tazuna Concept for the Driver
Similar to any Lexus model in the market, the Lexus LBX prioritizes the Tazuna concept in the driver’s cockpit design.
In this section, Lexus has minimized the presence of function buttons and only focused on essential operation buttons, aiming to maximize the driver’s focus on the road.
The 12.3-inch digital cluster screen offers easily readable information, similarly to the 9.8-inch central screen that also supports connections to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
When the writer holds the steering wheel, it offers an indescribable feeling, as if it’s designed for those who appreciate and enjoy driving a Lexus.
The front seats are also quite comfortable and can hold the driver firmly throughout the drive, aided by the power-adjustable function.
Unfortunately, the front passenger seat only has manual adjustments. This isn’t a big issue, as it is still comfortable when sitting next to the driver.
The NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness) aspect of this crossover is also very good, with minimal vibrations, reduced wind noise, and tire roar that seeps into the cabin.
Let’s not pretend that the engine noise isn’t audible; it still exists, but a more aggressive growl only occurs when the accelerator pedal is pressed firmly to the floor. Even then, it’s not as loud as one might imagine.
5. Lexus LBX, suitable for whom?
One thing that makes the LBX less suitable for family use is the fairly cramped rear seats.
This situation may be influenced by the somewhat bulky structure of the front seats, resulting in limited legroom for rear passengers.
It might be suitable for small children, or adults with the physique of teenagers.
The cargo area provides a space of 315 liters, large enough to accommodate daily necessities.
So, if the LBX isn’t suitable for family use, who is it more suitable for?
For us, it might be considered as a second car used specifically for urban purposes by those who do not prioritize space, or given to children and young wives who are just starting to learn driving.
Its small size, along with its ease of driving, makes the Lexus LBX a luxurious car worth considering.
At the end of the day, not everyone wants a large luxury car, right?
For the Malaysian market, the Lexus LBX is sold starting from RM238,888 and is available in two variants, Premium and Luxury.
Say hello to the 2024 Lexus LBX, a compact SUV freshly launched for the Malaysian market.
The Lexus LBX (Lexus Breakthrough X-over) is positioned as the entry-level Lexus vehicle designed for younger consumers and those seeking a vehicle that caters to an active lifestyle.
It is the first Lexus vehicle built on the global TNGA-B platform, meaning it shares the same platform as the Yaris Cross model in the European market.
The Lexus LBX is designed based on the Lexus Next Chapter Design approach, retaining the signature Lexus identity with a more casual and relaxed character.
At the front, the Lexus LBX features a frameless spindle grille structure that is more aerodynamic, along with a single projector headlamp unit with Auto High Beam function integrating cornering lamps and LED daytime running lights (DRL).
The LBX’s bold appearance is also heightened by its wide shoulder structure, complemented by a sleek rear lamp design connected by a thin LED bar.
For the Malaysian market, the Lexus LBX is only offered with a 1.5-liter hybrid electric powertrain (code M15A-FXE), producing a high output of 136 hp and 185 Nm of torque paired with an 8-speed eCVT transmission. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h is around 9.2 seconds.
The Lexus LBX’s cabin adopts the Tazuna concept approach where the layout of the dashboard and controls are positioned around the driver to create a more focused driving space. Available features include a 12.3-inch digital cluster screen (7 inches for the Premium model), a 9.8-inch center screen, support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound audio system with 13 speakers (6 units for the LBX Premium).
The Lexus LBX also benefits from comprehensive safety features, thanks to the Lexus Safety System+ which includes Pre-Collision Warning, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Tracing Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Road Sign Assist, Safe Exit Assist, Lexus Teammate Advanced Park, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, and Blind Spot Monitoring System.
There are two variants offered for the Malaysian market, namely Premium and Luxury, with prices starting from RM238,888.
Several months after the concept model was revealed, Lexus Japan has officially offered the fast-paced crossover model, LBX MORIZO RR, to the Land of the Rising Sun market.
This high-performance subcompact SUV is powered by the inline-three G16E-GTS 1.6-liter turbo engine from the hot hatch GR Yaris, boasting around 300 hp @ 6,500 rpm and 400 Nm @ 3,250-4,600 rpm.
Buyers there are also given the option to obtain the LBX MORIZO RR model with a manual iMT six-speed transmission, or an automatic Direct-Shift eight-speed transmission with the ability to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in just 5.2 seconds.
Contributing to a more sporty driving dynamic is the all-wheel drive (AWD) system, the use of Response-Enhancing Damping Structure (REDS) components on the front lower arms, and an upgraded braking system.
At the same time, Lexus has also improved the NVH aspect to differentiate it from the donor model (Yaris Cross TNGA).
In terms of dimensions, the Lexus LBX MORIZO Edition retains the length (4,190 mm) and wheelbase (2,580 mm), but is wider by 15 mm and lower by 10 mm compared to the standard model.
The aggressive appearance of the LBX MORIZO RR is enhanced by the redesigned front bumper, side skirts, body-colored fender flares, and a set of 19-inch forged rims.
The cabin space is characterized by a pair of sports seats, aluminum pedals, Alcantara finishes, and red contrast stitching.
Reservations for the Lexus LBX MORIZO RR model have already opened in the Japanese market, with a starting price of ¥6,500,000 (RM194,007).
Lexus Japan also offers the limited edition MORIZO RR “Bespoke Build”, with production limited to only 100 units.
Unlike the standard LBX MORIZO RR, this Bespoke Build variant can be customized with various options for cabin colors and finishes, as well as the exclusive option of MORIZO yellow brake calipers.
The Lexus LBX MORIZO RR Bespoke Build is much more expensive, with prices starting from ¥7,200,000 (RM214,900), where eligible buyers will be selected through a lottery system.
Lexus Malaysia recently announced the arrival of the all-new electric SUV, the Lexus RZ 450e 2024, for the local market, offered in a single Luxury variant only.
Reservations for this model are now open, with a starting selling price of RM429,888 on the road without insurance.
Here is a brief overview of the specifications of the Lexus RZ 450e Luxury electric SUV:
Dual electric motor configuration
The Lexus RZ 450e comes equipped with two electric motors as standard, comprising a front motor with 201 hp/266 Nm and a rear motor with 107 hp/169 Nm.
Altogether, the Lexus RZ 450e is capable of producing a power of up to 308 hp that drives all wheels through the DIRECT4 propulsion system. It includes three driving modes: Confidence, Control, and Comfort.
Range of 440 km
The Lexus RZ 450e comes with a 71.4 kWh battery pack allowing for a range of 440 km on a full charge (WLTP data). The lithium-ion battery can be charged using AC charging up to 11 kW, or rapid DC charging up to 150 kW.
“Seamless E-Motion” Design
Despite sharing the same e-TNGA platform as the Toyota bZ4X, Lexus has used its own design approach to make the RZ 450e model more premium in appearance. The powerful exterior character is the result of the “Seamless E-Motion” design concept inspired by the cheetah.
The iconic Spindle grille structure found on any Lexus vehicle has been replaced with the BEV Spindle Body for the RZ model. There are six color options offered for the Malaysian market, including Sonic Copper, Sonic Chrome, Graphite Black Glass Flake, Sonic Quartz, Sonic Iridium, and the new Aether Metallic color.
Tazuna Concept Cabin Space
Similar to the latest Lexus models, the Lexus RZ 450e cabin also adopts the Tazuna concept where all driving control buttons are focused on the steering wheel. It features an 8-inch digital cluster screen, a 14.0-inch infotainment screen intentionally positioned towards the driver, a head-up display (HUD) screen, and the Mark Levinson Premium surround sound system with 13 speakers.
Among other features are the Lexus Climate Concierge, nanoe™ X air filtering system, 64-color cabin lighting, and a Tsuyasumi-designed center console that delivers a glossy charcoal effect. The Lexus RZ 450e also prioritizes the use of eco-friendly materials, for example, seats made of Sustainable Grayscale Utrasuede and door panel trims made of recycled PET material.
Lexus Safety System (LSS+)
As standard, the Lexus RZ 450e comes with the third-generation Lexus Safety System (LSS+) safety features, including various world-class functions, along with the Lexus Teammate Advance Park assistance, surround-view camera, and 12 ultrasonic sensors.
According to Lexus Malaysia, the Lexus RZ 450e Luxury will only be offered in limited units, with each owner being covered by a five-year unlimited mileage manufacturer’s warranty, as well as an eight-year unlimited mileage warranty for the battery system, extendable for two years.
JUST in case you didn’t know, JAOS or JApan Offroad Service, has been producing and selling off-road parts since its inception back in 1985.
Perhaps due to its broad experience in the off-road segment, Lexus has decided to join forces with JAOS to develop a very interesting concept model for the 2024 Tokyo Auto Salon. Introducing, the Lexus GX 550 Overtrail JAOS version.
To begin with, JAOS has enhanced the durability and ruggedness of Lexus’ premium off-road SUV by deploying a front bumper guard and a 4 mm-thick aluminum skid plate underneath the bumper.
Additionally, the JAOS-spec GX 550 Overtrail is also equipped with matte black fender guards, steel tubular side steps, as well as a full set of mudguards that come with EVA flaps and aluminum plates.
Its robust tough appearance is further reinforced with a Battlez Lift Kit suspension system which includes titanium springs and adjustable dampers. The chunky fenders are matched with equally chunky Toyo Open Country A/T III tyres wrapped around 18-inch Tribe Cross rims.
Also included is a 1,250 mm x 1,400 mm aluminum roof rack, as well as LED lights on the front bumper guard.
Lexus has not stated whether this concept model received a powertrain upgrade, but more horsepower may be the last thing the GX 550 needs. This is because, in its standard version, the GX 550 already offers a healthy output of 349 hp and 650 Nm.
Its off-road credentials are further cemented by a host of features including 4WD, Torsen limited-slip differential, rear locking differential, Multi-Terrain Select (MTS), Crawl Control, Downhill Assist Control (DAC), and 3D Multi-Terrain Monitor.
Lexus is attempting to steal some attention in the high-performance electric SUV market by introducing the special model RZ450e F Sport Performance.
It is actually the actual production version of the RZ Sport Concept model that was previously showcased at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2023.
Lexus utilized the expertise of aerobatic pilot Yoshihide Muroya to develop up to 17 aerodynamic components for this RZ450e model.
These include carbon fiber wings, followed by turning vanes on the sides using aircraft aerodynamic technology. In addition, the RZ450e also features a hood, roof, as well as front and rear spoilers made from carbon fiber.
The driving aspect relies on the expertise of racer Masahiro Sasaki, where the SUV suspension system has been retuned before being fitted with 21-inch ENKEI aluminum rims at all four corners.
Lexus uses a combination of black, silver white called Hakugin, and blue accents for the exterior. Meanwhile, the cabin carries a combination of black and blue on the dashboard, Ultrasuede-wrapped seats, synthetic leather-wrapped steering wheel, aluminum sports pedals, and F Sport Performance scuff plates.
In Japan, the Lexus RZ450e comes with a setup of two electric motors, each producing 204 PS/266 Nm (front) and 109 PS/169 Nm (rear), as well as a 71.4 kWh battery pack.
Prices start from 11,800,000 yen (RM379,132) with only 100 units of the RZ450e F Sport Performance slated for production. Each eligible buyer will be notified by their respective dealers on February 22, 2024.
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