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2007 New Model Guide: Lexus Cars, Trucks and SUVs

2007 LEXUS NEW CAR MODEL GUIDE

LexusThe line of luxurious performance machines by Lexus, elite upscale label from Toyota of Japan, features elegant sedans, sporty coupes and rugged yet refined sport-utility vehicles. For 2007 Lexus debuts a new treatment for the LS series of full-size luxury sedans and from the GS series of premium sports sedans spins off the world's first gas-electric hybrid performance car. Also new in 2007 is the next generation of designs for the ES series of mid-size Lexus sedans.

Lexus LS Series
2007 Lexus LS Series

A new flagship for Lexus in 2007 bears a new badge -- LS 460 -- in recognition of a larger engine. The 4.6-liter V8 hits 380 hp and mates to an automatic transmission featuring eight (yes, eight!) speeds. Further, Lexus casts a new long-wheelbase version riding on a platform with 121.7-inch wheelbase. That's the realm of limousine comfort for rear seat passengers. The stretched LS 460L offers reclining rear seats with retracting footrests, along with individual DVD-based video screens. And for preventive safety the options include a Pre-Collision System packaged with Emergency Steering Assist and Lane-Keeping Assist.

Lexus ES Series
2007 Lexus ES Series

The sole Lexus sedan in front-wheel-drive (FWD) format expands in size and scope for a new generation in 2007 under a new name -- ES 350. The tag reflects a larger powertrain from a 3.5-liter aluminum V6 which climbs to 272 hp through a six-speed automatic transaxle. Body styling is new too with crisp aerodynamic lines. And the passenger compartment expands with a two-inch increase in wheelbase length and a one-inch boost in width. Soft leather hides, glossy hardwoods and gleaming metals decorate the space with extensive appointments plus electronic controls on tap.

Lexus GS Series
2007 Lexus GS Series

Two high-performance rear-wheel-drive (RWD) sports sedan stuffed with high-tech mechanical hardware divide into editions based on engine size. GS 430 gets the Lexus 4.3-liter V8 with VVT-i (variable valve timing with intelligence) to make 290 hp. GS 350 totes a robust new direct-injection 3.5-liter V6 with VVT-i for 303 hp. Both plants use a six-speed automatic with sequential manual shifter. But GS 350 adds optional all-wheel-drive (AWD) traction for Snow Belt states. An adaptive variable suspension is aboard and more computerized controls than most other production cars. New paint chips include Starfire Pearl, Obsidian and Black Sapphire.

Lexus GS Series Hybrid
2006 Lexus GS Series Hybrid

Lexus steers the Hybrid Synergy Drive (HSD) concept into new territory with the creation of a 2007 GS 450h sports sedan. Not only is this the world's first hybrid (gas/electric powertrain) high-performance sports sedan, it's the quickest Lexus yet -- capable of running from a stand-still start to 60 mph in only 5.2 seconds. The GS 450h promises fuel economy marks as frugal as a small four-cylinder engine. Yet the sum of this car's gas-powered V6 engine and on-board electric

Lexus SC Series
2007 Lexus SC Series

The two-seat sports car from Lexus can convert from a hardtop coupe to daring convertible with push-button ease. With the top raised, the SC 430 carries an arching profile that looks energetic up front but retro in the rear with a roly-poly rump. With the hardtop in the trunk, it seems fluid and fast like a racy roadster. A six-speed sequential-shift automatic links to the aluminum 4.3-liter V8, which nets 288 hp. Lexus lines the sports car with gear for safety and performance (including new knee air bags), as well as electronic displays and lavish appointments.

Lexus IS Series
2007 Lexus IS Series

These compact-class sports sedans resemble high-strung rally cars and act like road-hugging touring sedans. V6 engines define models. A 2.5-liter V6 netting 204 hp drops into IS 250, with options for RWD or AWD traction. The 3.5-liter V6 goes to IS 350 for 306 hp. IS 250 brings a six-speed manual transmission or optional six-speed sequential-shift automatic with paddle-shifters. VSC (vehicle stability control) applies to IS 250, but IS 350 scores VDIM (Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management) equipment. And the optional new X Package adds a sport suspension, sport pedals and illuminated scuff plates plus a lip spoiler.

Lexus LX Series
2007 Lexus LX Series

A full-size Lexus SUV carries luxurious fittings of an elite sedan and the muscular assets of a heavy-duty off-road warrior. The vast passenger compartment accommodates eight on three tiers of seats. And those cushy appointments: Soft leather and wood trim, power-everything, and premium Mark Levinson audio. The optional navigation system uses a Bluetooth wireless connection and a bumper camera for reverse video views. Power stems from a strong V8 with VVT-i valve controls to muster 268 hp. The four-wheel-drive (4WD) system has a center differential with limited-slip capacity to distribute engine torque to front or rear wheels.

Lexus GX Series
2007 Lexus GX Series

A mid-size Lexus SUV also packs the big Lexus V8 worth 263 hp through a five-speed automatic. The leather-lined cabin provides three tiers of seats for seven. A permanently-engaged 4WD system on GS 470 includes a center differential with limited-slip capacity. Lexus innovations extend to active traction control (ATC), adaptable variable suspension (AVS) and downhill assist control (DAC). Options encompass a Mark Levinson DVD audio and backseat video entertainment kit, while the Sport edition brings smoked bezel headlamps and dark graphite finish for 17-inch alloy wheels with a variable suspension labeled Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS).

Lexus RX Series
2007 Lexus RX Series

A crossover SUV from Lexus rises from the FWD platform of a car. It provides a luxurious five-seat passenger compartment and a rear cargo bay. Many safety systems are in place, including curtain-style air bags tucked above front and rear side windows. The cabin piles on premium gear like power seats, mirrors and windows. RX 350 gains the 3.5-liter VVT-i Lexus V6 for a power boost to 270 hp through an electronic automatic transaxle. Options list leather upholstery, a navigation system with Bluetooth and voice activation, the Mark Levinson DVD audio and a backseat video entertainment system.

Lexus RX Hybrid
2007 Lexus RX Hybrid

The hybrid SUV has the zip of a V8 but miserly fuel economy. Its HSD powertrain teams a 3.3-liter V6 gas engine with two electric motors -- one to turn the front wheels and another working accessories and recharging batteries. Total output reaches 268 hp. The HSD controls all energy produced by these plants and applies it through an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (CVT). For optional AWD, a third electric motor drives rear wheels as the HSD varies torque front and rear depending on traction conditions. New Premium and Premium Plus Packages are available for 2007.

RE INFORMATION FROM LEXUS]