2011 Lexus ES 350

Re-rating the ES 350 to use regular unleaded brings a power loss of 4hp & 6lb.ft of torque, but the savings at the pump are sure to make up for such a minor decrease. Even more than that, it’s a smart move as more and more cars move into direct competition with Lexus’ best selling sedan.
For the full details on the 2011 ES 350, I’ve included the press release after the jump.

Lexus ES 350 Continues to Symbolize Luxury and Style

• Lower Cost of Ownership with Regular Fuel
• Standard 10-Way Power Front Seats and Leather Trim Provide Interior Oasis
• Standard  Brake Override System

After amenity upgrades and styling enhancements last year, the Lexus ES 350 cruises into the 2011 model year using 87-octane regular fuel.  2011 ES 350 customers will continue to enjoy a smooth and quiet ride as the cost of ownership is reduced.  With the new fuel recommendation of 87-octane gasoline, the ES 350 generates 268 horsepower and has EPA fuel economy estimates of 19 miles per gallon in the city and 27 on the highway.  ES 350 will be enrobed with one new exterior color, Deep Sea Mica, which replaces Black Sapphire Pearl.

Engine/Transmission/Drivetrain/Performance
The ES 350′s aluminum 3.5-liter V6 produces 268 horsepower at 6,200 rpm and 248 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 downshift response.

Chassis/Body/Suspension/Tires/Brakes
The 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 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.  The VSC cut-off switch 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
The ES 350 received a brake override system as an additional measure of consumer confidence mid-2010 model year beginning with vehicles produced in January 2010.  The braking system enhancement automatically reduces engine power when the brake pedal and the accelerator pedal are applied simultaneously under certain driving conditions.

A reinforced front- and rear-structure passenger compartment forms the foundation for passive safety in the ES 350.  In addition to dual-stage front airbags and front seat-mounted side airbags, the Lexus Supplemental Restraint System includes rear seat-mounted side air bags, 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 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 ES 350. Standard leather-trimmed seating is available in three colors.  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.  An 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.  Heated exterior mirrors help melt away morning fog or frost, while rain-sensing windshield wipers help the driver see more clearly.

Convenience details abound throughout the ES 350, including illuminated front cup holders and an interior lighting system.  An illuminated entry system lights the interior foot wells and the exterior with puddle lamps.  The auto-dimming rearview mirror features an integrated digital compass.

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.  In addition, when the system recognizes one of the two key fobs, it adjusts the seats, mirrors and steering wheel based on the driver settings associated with that particular key fob.   The standard HomeLink® transmitter can control compatible garage-door openers and home-security devices. Using the Lexus Memory System feature, the driver can 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, iPod®/USB connectivity, Bluetooth® hands free phone capability and music streaming, and an integrated XM Radio receiver (complimentary 90-day trial subscription included).  When connected to the USB port, the iPod can be controlled through the audio system or steering wheel controls, while information such as names for the artist are displayed.

Luxury Options
The customer can “layer” luxury in the 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 Ultra Luxury Package includes a panorama glass roof; perforated semi-aniline leather-trimmed seating; double-contrast stitching for the seats, console and door trim; 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.  Vehicles with the Ultra Luxury Package also have an exclusive Black and Saddle interior.

The available touch-screen Lexus Navigation System with rear back-up camera 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 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 optional Mark Levinson® Premium Audio System is available in conjunction with the navigation system. This leading-edge design uses 10 channels of amplification with 300 watts total output at only 0.1 percent Total Harmonic Distortion (THD). The system plays through 14 speakers in a 7.1-channel surround sound speaker architecture. The Mark Levinson system can play conventional CDs and DVDs, and MP3-formatted CDs. DVD movies can be viewed on the navigation system’s color seven-inch touch screen when the parking brake is engaged.

The Lexus ES 350 also offers a telematics system, Lexus Enform® with Safety Connect®, available by subscription.  Complimentary one-year trial subscriptions are included on all purchases of new Lexus vehicles equipped with these features.  Safety Connect is standard on all vehicles while Lexus Enform with Safety Connect is on all vehicles equipped with the optional Navigation system.  The Lexus Enform and the Safety Connect response centers operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—every day of the year.

Lexus Enform vehicles are factory ready for subscriptions to a variety of innovative XM services including XM NavTraffic®, XM NavWeather™ and  XM Sports and Stocks services.  XM services require separate XM subscriptions. The XM Sports and Stocks service is included with an XM Radio subscription.  All XM services offer complimentary 90-day trial subscriptions.

Exterior Design
The ES 350’s elegance is reflected in its distinct front fascia that features arrowhead-shaped headlamps, integrated fog lamps, and chrome grille and grille surround.  Chrome body side molding further underscores the car’s refined character and demonstrates its dynamic design.  The arrowhead shaped design motif is also echoed in the large tail lamps.  Side mirrors with integrated turn signals accent the ES 350’s classy exterior.

Interior Design
Built on a 109.3-inch wheelbase, the midsize 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 ES 350, with bright, clear Optitron® gauges, premium wood, as well as polished metal and leather accents that echo prestige-luxury models.

Warranty
All new Lexus vehicles come with a 48-month/50,000-mile basic limited warranty with roadside assistance for 48-months/unlimited miles. Powertrain and restraint system coverage is provided for 72 months/70,000 miles. Corrosion perforation protection is covered for 72 months, regardless of mileage.

2011 Lexus CT Hybrid

Lexus says the CT uses Toyota's MC platform, same as Prius, but has a shorter wheelbase and "was highly modified in various areas. Engineers worked to improve driving dynamics with double-wishbone rear suspension, performance dampers and extensive use of high tensile strength sheet steel and aluminum."

A double-wishbone suspension lets the tires follow the road much better than the solid rear axle common among smaller cars. Performance dampers — shock absorbers — in this case mean stiffer. And the high-strength steel and aluminum lower the weight.

So, plenty of right thinking and right stuff.

But CT lacked a rip-snortin' factor: no push-you-back-in-the-seat acceleration, even using the sport mode that improves response at the expense of gas mileage.

On the other hand, flogged hard, the CT still managed a worthy 39.6 miles per gallon in the 'burbs.

Considering the rising price of gas, fuel economy seems to be what everyone wants to talk about these days. During our recent trip to theNew York auto show, we saw automakers rolling out many new and redesigned models aimed at maximizing fuel efficiency.
And it wasn’t just the traditional economy-type cars being touted. Mercedes showed off its A-Class concept a small three-door hatch designed to compete with sportier luxury compacts such as the Mini Cooper and Volvo C30. BMW also debuted its all-electric ActiveE, based on the small 1 Series coupe.
These introductions beg the question: Is there a market for a premium, fuel-thrifty small car? Lexus thinks so. Our Lexus CT 200h (“h” is for hybrid) is a compact hatchback about the size of an Audi A3. The CT offers luxury amenities not found even on the high-end Prius, such as power seats. It shares the Prius’ 1.8-liter, four-cylinder engine coupled to an electric motor and a nickel-metal-hydride battery. It’s safe to assume that Toyota hopes Prius owners might consider the CT when they’re thinking of trading up from their car.

 While it seems Lexus scored on hitting its fuel economy numbers (some drivers reported observing 40 mpg+), so far the CT 200h hasn’t lived up to the brand’s hallmarks of delivering a quiet, relaxing and luxurious driving experience. Nor is it particularly sporty.

Fifth hybrid model in the Lexus lineup a 1.8-liter gasoline engine that works with an electric motor, battery and generator. The system has a total power of 134 hp (100 kW) and is for 2011 Lexus CT-200h Hybrid to accelerate 0-60 mph [96 km / h] in 9.8 seconds. The manufacturer claims that the hybrid model EPA-estimated value of 43 mpg city and 40 mpg on the highway, using regular 87-octane gasoline.
Standard on all 2011 Lexus CT-200h Hybrid Includes smart access with pushbutton start / stop and touch sensors on the outside of the front door handles, leather steering wheel, six speaker audio system with CD player and Bluetooth, integrated satellite radio (with complimentary 90-day trial), USB / iPod connectivity, 17-inch alloy wheels and dual zone automatic air conditioning. 2011 Lexus CT-200h F-Sport  Hybrid is also equipped with a standard eight airbags supplementary restraint.
2011 Lexus CT-200h Hybrid Optional features will be sixth-generation navigation system with rearview camera, moonroof, heated seats and premium sound package that the Lexus Premium Sound system with 10 speakers and six-CD changer, Homelink, and electro-chrome rear view mirror with compass underwater covers.

2011 Lexus CT200H Hybrid

The 2011 CT Hybrid is a 4-door, 5-passenger wagon, available in two trims, the 200h and the 200h Premium.

Upon introduction, both trims are equipped with a standard 1.8-liter, I4, 134-horsepower, hybrid engine that achieves 43-mpg in the city and 40-mpg on the highway. A variable speed automatic transmission with overdrive is standard.

The 2011 CT Hybrid is all-new for 2011. 
Lexus ballyhoos CT's base price, which by Lexus standards is, indeed, low. But if you want your new CT equipped to Lexus standards, plan to spend a little more.
Offered in base and Premium trim, the base CT has all the safety stuff (eight air bags, traction and stability control, brake override and more) and a few perks (heated mirrors, tilt/telescope wheel, power driver's seat, keyless entry/start, dual-zone climate, Bluetooth, six-speaker CD with satellite radio), but it also has vinyl seats and no sunroof. And you can't gussy it up much, unless you consider Premium Floor Mats a big upgrade, because there are no factory options to speak of on the base car.
To get access to those, you've got to go to the $31,775 Premium model, which adds heated front seats and a sunroof.
That's what we drove, but ours was loaded with options: boffo 10-speaker audio, leather, navigation, back-up camera, Lexus Enform personal assistance service and more. And that explains why our car cost 22 percent more than the $29,995 base price we were enthused about.
But, hey, it was equipped like a Lexus.
It is, however, powered like a Toyota.
Under its skin, CT 200h is a Prius, sharing Prius's basic platform and its hybrid hardware: CVT automatic transmission, 1.8-liter gas I-4, nickel-metal hydride battery pack and electric motor. Like Prius, CT's total system horsepower is a modest 134.
On the road, it's the slick suspension and quick steering that please — certainly not CT's straight-line acceleration, which is about 10 seconds from zero-to-60.
Anyway, it's fuel economy where CT really shines, earning EPA ratings of 43 city/40 hwy — wildly impressive by luxury-car standards, though lower than Prius's 51/48. For that, blame CT's slightly heavier curb weight, its slightly less-aero body and its stickier, more-aggressive tires, which contribute to the nice handling manners.
Drivers have the option of four drive modes: EV (pure electric; low-speed/short-distance); Eco (maximum mpg); Normal; and Sport (better throttle response).
In just under 300 miles of mixed city/hwy driving, we registered 43 mpg.
Room is fine front, OK in back, where head room is good but leg room is close.
Worth noting: the marvelous mouse-like controller for the car's various systems. Located on the center console, it falls easily to hand and, if you've used a computer mouse, it's utterly intuitive.
Go easy on options and — if you're not in a hurry — CT 200h is a fine, affordable and frugal gateway into the Lexus family.
Fifth hybrid model in the Lexus lineup a 1.8-liter gasoline engine that works with an electric motor, battery and generator. The system has a total power of 134 hp (100 kW) and is for 2011 Lexus CT-200h Hybrid to accelerate 0-60 mph [96 km / h] in 9.8 seconds. The manufacturer claims that the hybrid model EPA-estimated value of 43 mpg city and 40 mpg on the highway, using regular 87-octane gasoline.
Standard on all 2011 Lexus CT-200h Hybrid Includes smart access with pushbutton start / stop and touch sensors on the outside of the front door handles, leather steering wheel, six speaker audio system with CD player and Bluetooth, integrated satellite radio (with complimentary 90-day trial), USB / iPod connectivity, 17-inch alloy wheels and dual zone automatic air conditioning. Hybrid is also equipped with a standard eight airbags supplementary restraint.
2011 Lexus CT-200h Hybrid Optional features will be sixth-generation navigation system with rearview camera, moonroof, heated seats and premium sound package that the Lexus Premium Sound system with 10 speakers and six-CD changer, Homelink, and electro-chrome rear view mirror with compass underwater covers.