LEXUS DOWNTOWN BLOG

Lexus Unveils All-Electric RZ SUV

It’s no surprise that the automotive industry is going electric. Lexus recently introduced the brand’s first-ever battery EV — the Lexus RZ — in a move toward a more sustainable future.

“We believe that Lexus, an established luxury automaker, should continue pursuing the creation of exciting cars while respecting nature and the global environment to achieve a carbon-neutral society,” said Takashi Watanabe, chief engineer, ‘Lexus Electrified’, Lexus International.

Of course, the new Lexus RZ features many signature design elements from the luxury brand. In the front is an updated version of the iconic spindle grille, having been revamped to accommodate a BEV body structure. The interior is spacious and airy while showcasing Lexus’s attention to detail with the SUV’s materials and design.

The new Lexus RZ will be equipped with the advanced Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 of driver-assist features to ensure a secure drive. When it comes to efficiency, Lexus estimates that the 2023 RZ can go up to 360 km on a single charge. However, official numbers won’t be released for a while yet.

The 2023 Lexus RZ is expected to go on sale toward the end of this year. Keep in touch with our team at Lexus Downtown in Toronto, Ontario, to know when you can reserve your new electric SUV!

Downtown Toronto’s Top Shopping Destinations

Whether you’re traveling from outside the city or just heading toward an area you don’t visit often, you may find yourself looking for something to do in Toronto. When you visit us at Lexus Downtown and want to explore while your vehicle is being serviced, consider these top shopping destinations.

Queen Street

One of the trendiest shopping spots in the city is Queen Street, where you’ll find a blend of retro and chic locations. Along this street are a variety of cafes and restaurants, with local art adorning the walls, as well as fun places like antique stores and record shops.

Chinatown

For a taste of the East, stop by Chinatown in Old Toronto. As one of the largest Chinatown areas in North America, there are endless options for clothing, jewelry, trinkets, and even household items. Not to mention, you’re sure to find tasty snacks at one of the many restaurants.

St. Lawrence Market

Less than 3 km from our dealership is St. Lawrence Market. This indoor area is two stories high and hosts various specialty food vendors on the first floor and a gallery upstairs. The weekend is when you’ll find a farmer’s market (Saturdays) and antique dealers (Sundays).

Are you familiar with any of these locations in Toronto? Which spots do you recommend for shopping in our area? Let us know the next time you stop by and see us.

Lexus Wins Residual Value Honours from J.D. Power

Lexus UX Wins Residual Value Honours from J.D. Power | Toronto, ON

The J.D. Power 2022 Canada ALG Residual Value Awards were recently announced and multiple Lexus models were recognized while Lexus was named a top brand in the premium segment.

These awards are meant to showcase a vehicle’s value through its ability to hold the highest percentage of its manufacturer’s suggested retail price for three years (for premium models). This is calculated by considering the total cost of ownership as well as the quality, reliability, and features available on the models.

When it comes to the model-level Residual Value Awards, three Lexus vehicles stood out to ALG, an automotive division of J.D. Power: IS, GX, and UX. The flagship IS sedan was the Premium Midsize winner for the second consecutive year while the GX took the Premium Midsize Utility category, also for the second year in a row. However, the newest model of this group — the Lexus UX — won the Premium Subcompact Utility category for the third consecutive year.

Along with analyzing individual models, ALG assessed all mass market and premium brands and awarded two auto brands with the honours. Lexus was named the top premium brand for the second year in a row.

It’s exciting to see Lexus get recognized for creating high-quality vehicles. If you want to know more about the award-winning Lexus lineup, contact our team at Lexus Downtown in Toronto, Ontario.

Lexus Reveals All-Electric RZ 450E

Not too long ago, Lexus unveiled an exciting look at a new vehicle that’s headed to its lineup. The Lexus RZ 450E is an all-electric compact crossover that is expected to go on sale later this year as a 2023 model.

RZ 450E

The new RZ 450E is the first EV from Lexus and shares the e-TNGA platform with the Toyota bZ4X and the Subaru Solterra. However, with the Lexus nameplate, this crossover EV is slated to be the most luxurious of the three. Even though electric vehicles don’t require grilles for engine cooling, the new Lexus EV still features the trademark spindle grille that you’ll find on other Lexus models.

Design

Other design elements you can see from the sneak peek images shared by Lexus include character lines in the doors, a floating roof, a rear brake light that extends across the rear, and an overall aerodynamic design.

Range

According to Autoweek, the 2023 Lexus RZ 450E is expected to have a 72.8-kWh battery pack and dual motors. Additionally, while official range numbers haven’t been shared, the new model is likely to reach a range of close to 250 miles based on similar vehicles. However, EPA estimates won’t arrive until the RZ 450E arrives later in the year.

Our team at Lexus Downtown in Toronto, Ontario, is eager to learn more about this thrilling new EV, and we’ll be sure to keep you up to date as Lexus fills in more details.

High-Performance IS 500 RWD Joins Lexus IS Series

Over the last 20 years, the Lexus IS has been the standard when it comes to luxury sedans. This powerful car is going to the next level in 2022 with outstanding performance upgrades, including a couple of new IS RWD models.

The 2022 Lexus IS lineup includes the IS 300 AWD, IS 300 RWD, IS 350 AWD, and the IS 500 RWD — all of which can be expanded upon with special equipment. The standard Lexus IS 300 RWD comes with a 2.0-litre engine mated to an eight-speed Sport Direct Shift automatic to generate 241 horsepower. To add more flair to this model, the IS 300 RWD F SPORT 1 adds exclusive F SPORT wheels, design elements, and gauge cluster as well as premium features like heated and ventilated front seats, rain-sensing wipers, and auto-dimming exterior mirrors.

Next up is the all-new Lexus IS 500 RWD that packs a punch with its 5.0-liter V8 engine that delivers 472 horsepower and 394 lb-ft of torque. This model houses the same Sport Direct Shift transmission and is available in two configurations: IS 500 RWD F SPORT PERFORMANCE and IS 500 RWD Launch Edition.

The Lexus IS 500 RWD F SPORT PERFORMANCE model features triple LED headlamps, 19-inch Enkei H/P wheels, a 17-speaker Mark Levinson® sound system, heated outside mirrors, a heated steering wheel, a driver’s seat memory system, and a parking support brake. But the performance aspect of this car is especially alluring with its Torsen limited slip differential and Dynamic Handling Package.

For the ultimate luxury driving experience, choose the IS 500 RWD Launch Edition, which is a limited production model. It comes with a special Launch Edition start-up animation as well as an exclusive two-tone black and grey ultra-suede interior, an exclusive Incognito paint finish, and 19-inch forged dynamic handling BBS wheels.

To learn more about the 2022 Lexus IS, contact our team or visit us at Lexus Downtown in Toronto, Ontario.

Lexus Partners With Marvel for “Eternals” Ad Spot

Marvel released one of its biggest films of the year, Eternals, in November. The superhero film grossed $75.5 million USD in just three days and has earned more than $300 million USD worldwide. In an exciting partnership with Lexus, one of the film’s stars is seen in an ad promoting the Lexus IS 500 F SPORT.

Teaming Up with Marvel

“There’s a natural synergy between Marvel Studios and Lexus. We both go all-in to deliver amazing experiences,” said Vinay Shahani, Lexus vice president of marketing. “We’re incredibly excited to team up with Marvel Studios’ Eternals to showcase our very own superhero, the first-ever V8 IS 500, which ushers in a new Lexus F SPORT Performance Line.”

Kumail Nanjiani

In the two-minute ad spot, Kingo (Kumail Nanjiani) is shown driving a Cloudburst Gray IS 500 F SPORT — swerving around destruction and debris. While navigating the city, Kingo receives texts and phone calls from his teammates Cersei and Sprite, urging him to help. But Kingo is insistent on finding the perfect parking spot for the V8-powered car. After saying “no” to a spot below some menacing pigeons and being foiled by a double-parked SUV, Kingo parks the appealing vehicle in an empty lot and runs into the city to assist his fellow Eternals.

On top of this ad campaign, the Lexus LS 500 and NX both made appearances in the Eternals film. If you haven’t seen it yet, keep an eye out when you watch! To learn more about the first-ever V8 IS 500 F SPORT, contact our team at Lexus Downtown in Toronto.

Lexus Introduces All-New 2022 LX 600 SUV

The all-new 2022 Lexus LX 600 has arrived, and it offers the peak of luxury combined with the off-road prowess you want available at a moment’s notice. This large flagship SUV is expected to appear on dealership lots in the first quarter of 2022. Until then, get to know more about this redesigned model.

Performance

With its new GA-F platform, reduced overall weight, and updated engine, the LX is more capable than ever. Under the hood is a twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 rated at 409 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. Thanks to Electric Power Steering, the new Lexus LX offers worry-free off-road performance. Meanwhile, the Active Height Control suspension provides a smooth ride on the road by adjusting the height of the SUV through shock absorbers.

Exceptionally Refined

Outside of performance, the 2022 Lexus LX is also exceptionally refined — inside and out. The spindle grille has been revised to make a statement as you arrive. In the back, the word “LEXUS” is spelled out between the taillights, replacing the standard “L” logo and giving the SUV a more modern look. For a sportier appearance, you can choose the first-ever LX F SPORT model that includes 22-inch forged aluminum wheels, an F mesh design spindle grille, interior design elements, and more thrilling performance features.

Interior

Inside, the updates come in the form of comfort. Across the lineup, you can choose a five-seat three-row configuration or a seven-seat three-row setup for the interior. New this year is the third row’s ability to fold flat into the floor to open up more cargo room. An additional update is with the VIP Executive model that offers a four-seat configuration with footrests for the two rear seats.

These are just some of the highlights of the all-new 2022 Lexus LX. To learn more, contact our team of associates at Lexus Downtown in Toronto, Ontario.

Lexus Introduces Appealing RX “Moonlight Edition”

Lexus RX 350 Moonlight Edition, Toronto, ON

The iconic Lexus RX is attractive all on its own. But if you’re looking to upgrade its style even further, the new “Moonlight Edition” is designed to elevate this popular SUV’s appeal.

“The RX series Moonlight Edition models prove that unattainable beauty can, in fact, be obtained,” said Martin Gilbert, director of Lexus in Canada. “They offer everything Canadian Guests expect in a Lexus RX — the exquisite blend of uncompromising refinement, luxurious features and amenities, powerful yet intuitive technologies, and inspiring performance — plus something magical and alluring to make each journey special.”

For 2022, a limited production of the Lexus RX Moonlight Edition will be available on both the RX 350 and RX 450h configurations. Exterior design elements include a black-out grille, wing mirrors, and front/rear splitter as well as 20-inch black alloy wheels and unique black accents. Inside, the NuLuxe seats come in a special black/birch combination with light grey stitching and black matte walnut trim.

When you order the RX Moonlight Edition, you will also receive an exclusive gift set that is inspired by Tsukimi — the Japanese moon festival that takes place every autumn. The gift set includes a custom Lexus tea set, complete with a special blend of tea, and a portable telescope to help you explore the night sky on the go.

The 2022 Lexus RX is available now at Lexus Downtown in Toronto, Ontario. Contact our team for more details on the new RX Moonlight Edition.

Get to Know the 2022 Lexus RX Series

2022 Lexus RX | Toronto, ON

The wait is over. Presenting the utmost refinement in a midsize luxury SUV, the 2022 Lexus RX series arrives with superior sophistication and style. The 2022 RX is available with a gas or hybrid powertrain and comes in a variety of luscious colour combinations to match your lifestyle.

“The RX series established the luxury SUV segment and has become our all-time most popular model, and when you experience the RX it’s easy to appreciate why,” said Martin Gilbert, Director of Lexus in Canada. “With a choice of two- and three-row models, both offered with a choice of conventional gasoline or advanced self-charging hybrid models, there’s an RX for every guest looking for an SUV that makes every journey as enjoyable as the destination.”

What’s New For 2022?

To offer even more customization, new exterior colours have been added to the RX, including Nori Green Pearl, Grecian Water, Cloudburst Grey, and Iridium. On the inside, supple Glazed Caramel semi-aniline leather seat trim replaces Noble Brown.

Key Features On The 2022 Lexus RX

It’s hard to choose the “best” features of the new RX when the entire vehicle has been carefully crafted for excellence. But some of the highlights include the hand-stitched leather dash, heated and ventilated front seats, the Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, and the many available packages that add even more high-end features to the RX.

Another exciting development is the “Moonlight Edition” for both the RX 350 and RX 450h configurations. This limited production model adds an even sleeker look to the 2022 RX with Eminent White Pearl or Caviar (black) exterior paint, 20-inch black alloy wheels, and other black exterior accents.

Experience the luxury of the 2022 Lexus RX today. This premium mid-size SUV is on sale now at Lexus Downtown in Toronto, Ontario.

Top Autumn Car Care Tips | Toronto, ON

As the season changes from summer to autumn, it’s important to keep track of your vehicle’s many components to ensure they last a long time. Take a moment to inspect your car for the following issues and if you notice anything out of the ordinary, don’t hesitate to bring it to Lexus Downtown.

Exterior

Before getting into your Lexus, do a walk-around to check its exterior parts. See if all of the lights are working, including the headlights, high beams, and brake lights. Check the windshield wipers for any cracks, tears, or rust. Finally, inspect the tires for any issues and see if the tread is at a reasonable level. If it’s not, your car could have a hard time gripping the roads when they get slick.

Interior

You don’t want to get inside of a cold car just for the air vents to blow cool air at you. Even though we haven’t encountered winter weather just yet, it’s still good practice to check to ensure that the heat does, in fact, work. If not, you’ll need to bring your vehicle to our service department for repair.

Under the hood

Open the hood of your vehicle and do a quick visual scan to check for anything unusual like hoses or belts out of place. If you think something looks odd, contact our service team for advice. You’ll also want to check the levels of all fluids, including oil, power steering, transmission, brake, and wiper fluid.

For all of your autumn car care needs, contact our team at Lexus Downtown in Toronto, Ontario.