The New 911 Turbo

The New 911 Turbo

Efficiency demands performance.

Make a lot out of very little. Optimize the relationship between cost and benefit. In short: Efficiency demands performance. That was the principle of the first 911 Turbo in 1974 and it remains true today. The 911 Turbo principle is even more powerful, efficient and desirable than ever before.
Reference: http://www.porsche.com/usa/

After all the waiting, Porsche has finally taken the wraps off of the 2010 Porsche 911 Turbo, which will make its debut at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show next month in Coupe and Cabriolet form.

So – let’s get right down to the details you’re waiting to hear. Power comes from a 3.8L flat-six boxer engine, which has direct-fuel injection technology, a new expansion intake manifold and Porsche’s turbocharger with variable turbine geometry. All that allows for 500-hp, 20 more horsepower than the outgoing model. Maximum torque is increased by 15 for a total of 516 lb-ft, when equipped with the optional Sport Chrono Package Turbo.

When combined with Porsche new PDK 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, the 2010 911 Turbo goes from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.2 seconds and keeps going to a top speed of 194 mph. Even with all that performance, the 2010 911 Turbo reduces CO2 emissions by almost 18 percent while improving the mpgs (official mpg figures will be released by the EPA at a later date).

Sales of the 2010 911 Turbo Coupe and Cabriolet will begin in January 2010 with prices starting at $132,800 and $143,800 respectively.

Press Release:

Porsche continues to create more from less; greater driving dynamics, lower fuel consumption

ATLANTA – August 7, 2009 – Porsche has traditionally put great emphasis on the efficiency of its cars, but the new flagship 911 will give a whole new meaning to its high performance label: while its acceleration, braking and handling capabilities make it a true super sports car, it will go about its business with a thriftiness that is equally remarkable and by no means the norm in its class.

Combining technological innovations with clear-cut refinement for an even greater dynamic driving experience, Porsche AG will present its new flagship, the new 2010 Porsche 911 Turbo at the Frankfurt Motor Show September 17-27, 2009 in both Coupe and Cabriolet form.

The new Turbo features the first entirely new engine in its storied 35-year-history. The new flat-six boxer engine now displaces 3.8 liters and delivers 500 bhp, an increase of .2 liters and 20 bhp from the previous model. Direct Fuel Injection (DFI), a new expansion intake manifold first seen on the GT2 and Porsche’s exclusive turbocharger system with variable turbine geometry (VTG) lead the innovations. Maximum torque is up by 15, to 516 lb. ft. when equipped with the optional Sport Chrono Package Turbo.

The Sport Chrono Package Turbo allows the 2010 911 Turbo to accelerate from 0-60 mph in 3.2 seconds when combined with the new, highly acclaimed Porsche-Doppelkupplung, or PDK seven-speed transmission. Also included in the Sport Chrono Package Turbo is Porsche’s innovative dynamic engine mounts. Introduced earlier this year on the 2010 GT3, the new mounts utilize magnetic fluid that automatically adjusts for comfort or sport, depending on the driving conditions. Top track speed is 194 mph for both the Coupe and the Cabriolet models.

This combination of technology and evolution ensures an unprecedented standard of efficiency and performance.

The new 911 Turbo reduces CO2 emissions by almost 18 per cent compared to its predecessor while using significantly less fuel. Official EPA fuel economy figures are not yet available.

A new, optional three-spoke steering wheel with gearshift paddles as an alternative to the standard steering wheel with its proven shift buttons is also available for PDK equipped Turbos. Mounted directly on the steering wheel, the right paddle is for shifting up, the left paddle for shifting down.

Porsche Torque Vectoring (PTV) can now enhance the standard Porsche Traction Management (PTM) all-wheel drive and Porsche Stability Management (PSM). This new optional system includes a mechanical limited slip differential and actively distributes power between the rear wheels, making the car even more agile and precise in corners for an even higher level of driving pleasure.

The 2010 Turbo Coupe and Turbo Cabriolet go on sale January 2010. U.S. pricing is $132,800 and $143,800 respectively.

- By: Omar Rana

Reference: http://www.egmcartech.com/

Specifications

General Information
Vehicle Type:	2-door coupe, production car
Price:	$132,800
Miles Per Gallon:	--/-- mpg
Drivetrain
Configuration	Rear Engine/AWD
Engine:	Twin-Turbo Flat-6
Displacement:	3800 cc
Horsepower:	500 bhp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:	480 lb-ft @ 1950 rpm
Max RPM:	---- rpm
Transmission:	7-Speed PDK
Dimensions
Weight:	3461 lbs
Height:	--.- in
Length:	---.- in
Width:	--.- in
Wheelbase:	--.- in
Track:	f: --.- / r: --.- in
Performance
0-60 mph:	3.4 sec
0-100 mph:	--.- sec
Quarter Mile:	--.- sec @ --- mph
Top Speed:	194 mph
Lateral Acceleration:	.--g
Braking, 60-0 mph:	--- ft
Slalom Speed:	--.- mph
Nürburgring Lap Time:	--.- minutes

Reference: http://www.fast-autos.net/

Subaru Introduces All-New 2010 Legacy at New York International Auto Show

• Roomiest Legacy Ever with New Level of Comfort, Quiet and Refinement
• Bold New Design Stands Apart from Mainstream Midsize Sedans
• New 6-speed Manual and CVT Transmissions for Legacy 2.5i Models
• 2.5GT Models Gain 265-hp Turbo Engine and 6-Speed Transmission
• New Legacy 3.6R Models Featuring More Powerful 6-Cylinder Engine
• Learn more at www.subaru.com/2010legacy.

NEW YORK, March 31, 2009 - Subaru of America, Inc. today announced that the all-new 2010 Legacy^® sedan will debut at the New York International Auto Show, providing a bolder design language in a larger midsize package. The 2010 Legacy, whose predecessor is renowned for its sporty handling and reliability, now features a longer wheelbase, almost four inches of extra rear seat legroom and a new powertrain lineup featuring the new Subaru Lineartronic™ CVT (continuously variable transmission).

The 2010 Legacy is built on a new platform that increases room and comfort while preserving the agility and fun-to-drive spirit of the previous model. New powertrains and new suspension design combine with proven Subaru safety technology to deliver a unique offering in the midsize segment. As are all Subaru models, every Legacy is equipped as standard with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, an invaluable performance- and safety-enhancing system that sets Legacy apart among midsize sedans. All-wheel drive is rare in the midsize segment, and only Legacy makes it standard.

The Legacy line for 2010 will offer three levels of performance. Legacy 2.5i models -- 2.5i, 2.5i Premium and 2.5i Limited -- are powered by a revised 170-hp 2.5-liter 4-cylinder Boxer engine (with available PZEV rating) and equipped with a new standard 6-speed manual transmission or the new Lineartronic™ CVT. Both transmissions help to improve acceleration, response and fuel economy.

The Legacy 2.5GT models make a leap in performance for 2010. Both the 2.5GT Premium and 2.5GT Limited models are powered by a new 265-hp turbocharged / intercooled Boxer engine. The new engine features a unique turbocharger that is mounted below the engine. This new location not only contributes to smooth turbocharger response and improved emissions, but also lowers the cars center of gravity. In the Legacy 2.5GT models, this high-performance engine is mated with a new 6-speed manual transmission. Designed for the discerning enthusiast, the Legacy 2.5GT models are equipped to challenge some of the best names in the sport sedan field.

Three new Legacy 3.6R models the 3.6R, 3.6R Premium and 3.6R Limited offer a sophisticated blend of performance and comfort. All are powered by a new 256-hp 3.6-liter 6-cylinder Boxer engine matched to a 5-speed electronic automatic transmission. Compared to the 3.0-liter 6-cylinder engine it replaces, the more powerful 3.6 has the same external size and uses regular-grade fuel, rather than premium as the 3.0 required.

Bold Design Statement in the Midsize Arena

The 2010 Legacy, while rivaling midsize segment leaders in roominess, stands apart with a bold, high-tech look. The Subaru badge centers the new grille, which features a squared off lower edge. Character lines arc from the grille and form power bulges on the hood and taper off into the A-pillar. The sleek silhouette incorporates a larger greenhouse, and a shorter deck gives the vehicle a sporty look. Powerful wheel arches echo the power running through the Symmetrical AWD System. A range of new wheel cover- and alloy-wheel designs also debut on the 2010 Legacy, with the 2.5GT models featuring 18-in. alloy wheels and low-profile tires. A functional hood scoop directs air to the engine-mounted intercooler.

Besting Midsize Benchmarks

Built on an all-new platform, the 2010 Legacy offers roominess comparable to mainstream midsize sedans, with a focus on usable space and long-distance driving comfort. The wheelbase grows to 108.3-in., a 3.2-in. increase over the previous Legacy. The 2010 Legacy provides nearly four inches of additional rear legroom, which is enhanced by the scalloped back design of the new front seats.

The new Legacy is 3.2-in. higher and 3.6-in. wider than the previous model, yielding gains in head, shoulder and hip room. The 2010 Legacy offers more total passenger room (103 cu. ft.) than many competitors. The new-generation Legacy also offers one of the largest trunks (14.7 cu. ft.) in the segment a significant achievement considering that the cars design requires packaging a rear differential and drive axles. Overall vehicle length is up by just 1.4-in. (now 186.4 in.), but overhang dimensions are reduced compared with the previous model.

The 2010 Legacy interior is not only more spacious than before, but takes another step up in refinement from an already-praised design in the previous model. The sporty four-dial instrument panel is augmented in all Legacy models by a multi-information display with trip computer located in the center of the dashboard. Richer looking appointments and details abound, including a sporty 3-spoke steering wheel (leather-wrapped in all but the base 2.5i). A new electronic parking brake with an electronic Hill Holder System -- eliminates the traditional parking brake handle, freeing up space in the center console.

Confident, Agile Handling and Safety for any Road or any Weather

The new Legacy improves crash-worthiness and provides a stiffer platform for a smoother, quieter ride but retains the crisp handling and balance Subarus are known for. Legacy 2.5i and 2.5i Premium models feature 16-in. wheels (alloy on Premium); the 2.5GT models are exclusively equipped with 18-in. alloy wheels with 225/45R18 tires. The 6-cylinder Legacy 3.6R models have 17-in. alloy wheels with 225/50R17 tires.

All Legacy models for 2010 are equipped as standard with Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC), which combines stability and traction control capability. All 2010 Legacy models are equipped with a standard 4-wheel disc Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD). Additionally, Subarus Brake Assist safety system is available on all models.

MacPherson-type strut front suspension is mounted to a new engine cradle, and the engine is attached to the cradle using new hydraulic mounts. The new cradle uses high-strength steel and is designed to also enhance frontal crash protection. A new double-wishbone rear suspension, mounted to a sub frame, replaces the previous multi-link configuration to provide improved ride, stability and handling. The enhancement of body rigidity and the new suspension design help to reduce levels of noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH). Increased wheel travel and optimized suspension geometry also contribute to improved ride comfort.

New Level of Comfort and Convenience in All Models

Standard comfort and available amenities are increased across the Legacy line for 2010. The base 2.5i model, for example, features standard steering wheel audio and cruise control buttons, a 65/35 split fold-down rear seat, new electronic parking brake, automatic lights-on function, ambient overhead console lighting and an available iPod jack. The all-new electronic Hill Holder System holds the vehicle in place until the driver applies the throttle to pull away from a stop. Previous versions of this system only held the car for a few seconds.

Legacy Premium models add more amenities, including an 8-way power drivers seat with power lumbar support adjustment and drivers auto up/down window. The Premium models also offer additional comfort and convenience options, including a harman-kardon^® audio system, a power moonroof, and the All-Weather Package that adds heated front seats and mirrors and a windshield wiper de-icer.

The Legacy Limited models feature leather upholstery, dual zone automatic climate control and a 4-way power front passenger seat. The Limited models exclusively offer an available voice-activated GPS navigation system with an 8-in. LCD display and rear-view backup camera, hands-free Bluetooth^® connectivity and streaming Bluetooth audio.

Revised 2.5-liter Boxer Engine with New 6-Speed Manual or CVT

The 2010 Legacy 2.5i models are powered by a revised 2.5-liter 4-cylinder Boxer engine, teamed for the first time to a new 6-speed manual transmission or the available new Lineartronic™ CVT. The CVT is standard in the Legacy 2.5i Limited, where it is also equipped with a manual mode and steering wheel paddle shifters.

The 2.5-liter engine, which is available as PZEV-certified, is modified for 2010 to improve performance, responsiveness, and economy. The engine delivers 170 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 170 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 4,000 rpm. The i-Active Valve Lift System (AVLS) ensures a broad torque curve and smooth response at all engine speeds, while also helping to improve fuel efficiency. All Legacy models for 2010 feature a larger fuel tank, now 18.5 gallons vs. 16.9 gallons in the previous model, to extend driving range.

Whether teamed to the new 6-speed manual transmission or the Lineartronic™ CVT, the roomier 2010 Legacy provides quicker acceleration and lower fuel consumption than comparable 2009 Legacy models. Either transmission helps make the Legacy more responsive in everyday driving.

Subaru has adopted a chain-type CVT, the worlds first longitudinally mounted CVT system for AWD production vehicles. It employs smaller pulley cores, which helps make the unit compact and can help provide better fuel efficiency compared to belt-type CVTs. Unlike a conventional automatic transmission, which uses fixed gear ratios, a CVT provides infinite variability between the highest and lowest available ratios with no discernable steps or shifts. The CVT continuously and smoothly adapts to performance demand, helping to keep the engine in its most efficient operating range.

Because a CVT does not shift gears, the driver enjoys smoother performance in all driving situations. The selectable manual mode of the Lineartronic™ CVT uses six pre-selected steps to allow the driver to shift manually using steering wheel paddle controls.

Legacy 2.5GT: 265 Turbocharged Horses

The new-generation Legacy 2.5GT models get a significant boost in performance from the revised 2.5-liter turbocharged / intercooled engine (based on the Impreza WRX engine) teamed to a new standard 6-speed manual transmission. Notably, the new 6-speed is more than 50 pounds lighter than the 6-speed unit used in the 2009 Legacy 2.5GT spec.B.

A larger turbocharger increases boost, and a new exhaust uses a low-density catalyst for reduced backpressure. To improve weight distribution and help lower the center of gravity, the turbocharger is now mounted below the engine. With 265 horsepower and 258 lb.-ft. of peak torque (compared to 243 hp and 241 lb.-ft. in the previous 2.5GT models), the 2010 Legacy 2.5GT models can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in under six seconds.

3.6-liter H6 Engine: Premium Performance with Regular-Grade Fuel

The new 3.6-liter H6 engine replaces the previous 3.0-liter H6, yet features the same external dimensions thanks primarily to a unique shortened connecting rod design. As a result, this larger-displacement and more powerful engine maintains its excellent low center of gravity. The 3.6 Boxer engine produces 256 horsepower and 247 lb.-ft. of peak torque, compared to 245 hp and 215 lb.-ft. of torque for the previous 3.0-liter engine. Active Valve Control System (AVCS) variable valve timing on both the intake and exhaust valves optimizes power delivery across the engines speed range while helping to reduce emissions.

Not only does the 3.6 engine offer greater performance than the previous 3.0-liter unit, but does so using regular-grade fuel compared to premium required in the 3.0. The specially tuned five-speed automatic transmission, combined with the greater torque output of the new engine, helps make the Legacy 3.6R models more responsive when driving in hilly areas by significantly reducing hunting between gears.

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive A Key To Brand Identity

Subaru offers three different Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive systems in the 2010 Legacy line, each tailored to the engine and type of transmission. In Legacy 2.5i models equipped with the 6-speed manual transmission, the AWD system uses a viscous-coupling locking center differential to distribute power 50/50 front to rear. Slippage at either set of wheels will send more power to the opposite set.

Legacy 2.5i models equipped with the Lineartronic™ CVT use an electronically managed continuously variable transfer clutch to actively control power distribution in response to driving conditions.

Legacy 3.6R models exclusively feature advanced Variable Torque Distribution (VTD) All-Wheel Drive with a 5-speed automatic transmission. A planetary center differential works with an electronically controlled continuously variable hydraulic transfer clutch to manage power distribution. The VTD system normally sends more power to the rear wheels to enhance handling agility, and it continuously adjusts power distribution in response to driving and road conditions.

The Subaru Safety Story

The Legacy, like all Subaru models, has consistently earned top scores in government and insurance industry crash tests. The 2010 Legacy is designed to further raise the safety quotient. Subarus Ring-Shaped Reinforcement Frame safety structure, proven over a decade in all Subaru models, again forms the foundation for crash protection and occupant safety in the new-generation 2010 Legacy. A new engine cradle design improves front impact safety, and the 2010 Legacy features greater use of high-strength steel.

The 2010 Legacy models include as standard equipment front seat side impact air bags and side curtain air bags that offer additional head protection for front and rear occupants. Intelligent dual-stage deployment front air bags use sensors to detect the presence and weight of a front passenger and also the drivers distance from the steering wheel. The system determines front air bag deployment strength for optimal occupant protection.

New in the 2010 Legacy, high-strength front seat frames provide enhanced protection against whiplash injury in a rear-end collision. With the entire seat optimized for a rear-end collision, Subaru replaced the previous active front head restraints with a more comfortable design.

About Subaru of America, Inc.

Subaru of America, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. of Japan. Headquartered in Cherry Hill, N.J., the company markets and distributes Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive vehicles, parts and accessories through a network of nearly 600 dealers across the United States. Subaru makes the best-selling All-Wheel Drive car sold in America based on R.L. Polk & Co. new vehicle retail registration statistics calendar year-end 2007. In addition, Subaru boasts the most fuel-efficient line-up of all-wheel drive products sold in the market today based on Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) fuel economy standards. All Subaru products are manufactured in zero-landfill production plants and Subaru of Indiana Automotive Inc. is the only U.S. automobile production plant to be designated a backyard wildlife Habitat by the National Wildlife Federation.

Specs from subaru.com

Reference: subaru.com

2010 Lexus HS 250h

Lexus Stages World Debut of the 2010 HS 250h - the World's First Dedicated Luxury Hybrid at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit

Lexus today revealed the 2010 HS 250h, the world’s first dedicated luxury hybrid vehicle, at the North American International Auto Show. This year’s show marked the 20^th anniversary of the debut of the first Lexus vehicles, the LS 400 and ES 250. The cars were introduced at the NAIAS in 1989. The HS 250h will be Lexus’ fourth hybrid and is expected to offer the best combined fuel mileage of any luxury vehicle in the U.S. It also will be the first Lexus to utilize carbon-neutral Ecological Plastic materials in a new futuristic cockpit and interior design, helping the car to be 85% recyclable.

A welcomed addition to Lexus’ entry-luxury sedan lineup, the HS 250h fits nicely between the IS luxury sport sedan and the ES luxury sedan. Research has shown that more than 60 percent of entry-luxury car buyers would have considered a hybrid if available, and the HS will provide these consumers with a viable purchase option.

Equipped with Lexus’ first four-cylinder gas engine, the 2.4-liter Atkinson-cycle powerplant is part of the latest Lexus Hybrid Drive System, which generates 187 total system horsepower. The highly efficient Atkinson-cycle engine, made possible by the Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) system, allows the expansion/power stroke to be longer than the compression stroke so that combustion energy can be more effectively used for production of engine power. The HS 250h sedan’s expected fuel efficiency will be more than 30-percent better than the most fuel-efficient model currently in the Lexus lineup, while earning a SULEV emissions rating utilizing regular 87-octane gasoline. Among the technologies adopted in the 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine are cooling piston oil jets; an optimized balance shaft rate for improved noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) characteristics; and a hot-air venting system mounted behind the radiator.

Like the all-new 2010 RX 450h hybrid utility vehicle that made its debut in November, the HS 250h will include a new system designed to improve efficiency. The exhaust heat recovery system reduces engine warm-up time, thus allowing it to stop earlier, more often, and for longer periods. A windshield with infrared-ray (IR) reduction properties, which helps keep the interior more cool, has been adopted in order to decrease the amount of air conditioning needed to lower the cabin temperature. In addition to the exhaust heat recovery system and the IR windshield, available power-saving LED headlamps also contribute to improved fuel efficiency and emissions.

The all-new HS 250h sedan’s 0.27 drag coefficient (Cd) makes it among the most aerodynamic in its class. Airflow management over the exterior, below the under floor and through the air passages was extensively examined. A unique gull-wing-shaped roof-panel design reduces mass and overall vehicle height, thus reducing drag and improving fuel efficiency. The front spoiler, rear spoiler, rear under spoiler, and diffuser fins all reduce turbulence. Smooth A-pillar shape and the optimized angle and curvature of the bumper side panels also reduce wake turbulence, as does the increased taper of the fender side panels. The under-floor covers have been optimally positioned for reduced drag, while airflow restriction in the engine compartment has been lowered by optimizing the air-duct profiles around the radiator.

Aerodynamic design has also contributed to decreased wind noise. A smoother transition between windshield (complete with a sound-insulating inner layer) and roof line has improved air flow and reduced turbulence.

As is appropriate for the first dedicated luxury hybrid vehicle, the HS 250h includes proactive adoption of plant-based, carbon-neutral "ecological plastics" or bio-plastics in specific interior areas. Ecological plastic emits less carbon dioxide during a product’s lifecycle than plastic made solely from petroleum. Among the areas of utilization will be an industry-first use in luggage-trim upholstery. Other areas are the cowl-side trim, door scuff plate, tool box area, floor-finish plate, seat cushions, and the package tray behind the rear seats. Overall, approximately 30-percent of the interior and luggage area is covered with ecological plastic. Over the estimated lifecycle of the vehicle, the HS 250h will have approximately 20-percent fewer carbon-dioxide emissions as a result of utilizing the Ecological Plastic trim pieces.

Like all Lexus hybrid models, significant time was spent in developing the HS 250h with optimized NVH characteristics. Dynamic dampers at each engine-mounting point reduce noise and vibration, resonators improve intake air noise, and optimized exhaust flow reduces exhaust sound. Special coatings dampen both engine and road noise, while improved seals around doors, hood and fenders reduce wind-noise penetration into the cabin. Vibration has been reduced by improving the shape and thickness of the suspension-mounting points. In addition, power-window speed controllers have been adopted from the LS luxury sedan, which insure a slower, soft closing rate.

The HS 250h chassis design provides an outstanding ride and comfort with the decreased NVH required by a Lexus hybrid. The MacPherson strut front suspension is designed to achieve both straight-line and braking control, and a positive steering feel. A double-wishbone rear suspension provides excellent maneuverability, control and comfort with a low spring mount that contributes to better packaging and superior cargo space. Coil springs, anti-roll bars and shock-absorber rebound springs are utilized front and rear. The HS 250h will have uniquely designed standard 17- and optional 18-inch wheels.

The rack-and-pinion steering system utilizes a brushless Electric Power Steering (EPS) motor on the steering column, which provides improved steering feel, a reduction in harsh feedback, and better emissions by not draining engine power like conventional hydraulic systems.

The EPS is an integral part of an available lane keep assist system, a new driver-assist that adds smooth steering torque to help the vehicle stay in the center of the lane. The amount of assisted torque is dependant on a lane-marker detection camera. It includes a lane departure warning feature that is designed to detect possible lane departure; it then gives the driver an audible warning and provides feedback via the steering wheel to encourage corrective action.

The HS is slightly longer than the IS and is taller than both the IS and ES. It also has a greater couple distance (distance hip to hip between front and rear passengers) than any other vehicle in its class other than the ES. The contoured front-seat backs also add to increased rear-seat legroom.

The HS features a unique advanced cockpit and an interior design that emphasizes innovation and craftsmanship. The uniquely stylish cabin has standard leather-trim seats, a moonroof, Lexus premium audio systems, and a new standard multi-media package. The media features include Bluetooth^® technology, integrated satellite radio (subscription required), voice recognition, and USB iPod connectivity controlled via steering-wheel controls or a display screen. A high-contrast multi-information display, located in the instrument panel’s hybrid system indicator gauge, is controlled via steering-wheel-mounted controls, allowing the driver to easily control various functions and information.

Another key element of the modern interior is Lexus’ new available Hard Disk Drive (HDD) Navigation System, which features a retractable navigation screen that is positioned well back and up front in the dash. The positioning helps improve visibility and reduce driver eye movement. Similar to the new RX, the HS system features the all-new "Remote Touch" controller that is both intuitive and ergonomic and allows for easy use of the Navigation System. The controller is positioned on the center console and is as natural to the driver’s hand as a computer mouse. It can also be customized to the desired level of haptic feedback.

The Navigation System also includes a new casual-speech voice recognition feature. This allows drivers to give more flexible, conversational commands for easier access and control of the audio, climate and navigation functions. Also included are XM^® NavTraffic^® and NavWeather^TM, along with XM Sports and Stock information.

Also helping to reduce driver eye movement is an optional Heads-up Display (HUD). The HUD uses high-intensity LEDs to make the display bright enough to be read even in direct sunlight.

A class-leading 10 airbags will be standard on the all-new HS 250h as well as active front head rests, which help passengers in case of certain types of rear-end accidents. The HS also will feature Lexus’ Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) system and optional Pre-Collision System with Dynamic Radar Cruise Control.

An available wide-view front monitor helps the driver to check hard-to-see areas. Using a camera mounted in the front grille, the monitor provides a 190-degree front view on the Navigation screen with the push of a button on the steering wheel.

The HS 250h will also offer Lexus’ next generation telematics systems, Lexus Enform and Safety Connect. Safety Connect will provide automatic collision notification, stolen vehicle location, 24/7 emergency and roadside assistance.

Lexus Enform’s Destination Assist features operators who will help drivers look up points of interest such as shopping centers or other business locations like Zagat-rated restaurants, and then wirelessly send directions directly to the vehicle’s navigation system.

Lexus Enform’s eDestination service will allow customers to pull up multiple points of interest on any computer and send them directly to the car’s navigation system. This innovative new feature will allow drivers to send a total of 200 destinations at a time to their vehicles.

The all-new 2010 HS 250h will reach dealerships nationwide in late summer.

Reference: lexus.com

2010 HS 250h PRELIMINARY SPECIFICATIONS

	2010 HS 250h
Total Hybrid System Horsepower	187 hp
Engine	2.4-liter 4-cylinder
Transmission	Electronically Controlled Continuously Variable Transmission
Seating Capacity	5
Width (inches)	70.3
Height (inches)	59.3
Overall Length (inches)	184.8
Wheelbase (inches)	106.3
Driven Wheels	FWD
Wheels	17x7.0 w/ P215/55R17 or 18x7.5 w/ P225/45R18 (Optional)
Emissions Rating	SULEV

Reference: lexus.com