LEXUS DOWNTOWN BLOG

Meet the Refreshed 2023 Lexus UXh

The Lexus UX made its initial debut at the end of 2018 and was praised for offering high-class luxury in a smaller package — which is ideal for driving around the streets of Toronto. Now in its fifth model year, Lexus is introducing the crossover solely as a hybrid via the all-new 2023 Lexus UXh.

This refreshed Lexus UXh features a similar overall look as its predecessor, but with an edgier design that focuses on sharp lines and the model’s nimble performance. If you opt for the UXh F SPORT, you’ll get to choose from six new two-tone paint options that give the vehicle an Obsidian (black) roof.

Inside, you’ll find uncompromising luxury in the form of power-adjustable front seats and dual-zone automatic climate control. A new Palomino seat colour joins existing Black and Birch on non-F SPORT models while the sportier version of the UXh continues to offer bold Circuit Red or Black.

Technology has also been updated in the 2023 UXh. All grades are equipped with the Lexus Interface multimedia system. This comes with innovative features like Destination Assist, Drive Connect with Cloud Navigation, and an Intelligent Assistant that responds to the “Hey Lexus” prompt. Other available tech includes convenient amenities like wireless smartphone connectivity and two Bluetooth® profiles.

In addition to entertaining technology, safety was a focus for the new UXh. The Lexus Safety System+ 2.5 is standard and includes helpful tech like a Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian and Bicycle Detection, Automatic High Beam, All-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Tracing Assist, and Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist and Road Edge Detection.

This is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the amazing updates on the 2023 Lexus UXh. You can learn more when you contact us or when you visit our team at Lexus Downtown in Toronto.

How to Enjoy Fall in Downtown Toronto

Are you looking for ways to make the most out of fall in Toronto? Look no further, as our team at Lexus Downtown has put together this helpful list of exciting things to do in the city.

Enjoy delicious food

Toronto’s culinary scene is vast and many local restaurants and bistros offer seasonal menus to capitalize on the flavorful fruits and vegetables that appear in fall. Whether you’re craving a pumpkin brew, a unique take on pizza, or a cozy mug of hot chocolate, you’ll find something for everyone’s tastes in the city.

Go on creepy adventures

If you love all things Halloween, Toronto offers a long list of exceptionally haunting events and locations for bone-chilling fun! You can head out to a club for a themed Halloween pub crawl, costume party, and more. Meanwhile, Canada’s Wonderland Halloween Haunt runs from Sept. 23-Oct. 30 this year and promises “unforgettable thrills, horrors, and monster encounters.”

Get out in nature

One of the best parts about fall is its often incredible weather. With mild temperatures and plenty of sunny days, you can explore the city comfortably and even head just outside of the city limits to appreciate some fall foliage. Take the whole family to High Park or Riverdale Farm for a day packed with fun.

Whatever you plan to do this fall in the city, we hope you have a wonderful time. The next time you stop by and see us at Lexus Downtown, tell our team all about it!

Lexus Reveals All-New 2023 RX

The RX has been a vital part of the Lexus lineup for nearly 25 years. This luxury crossover has been revamped for 2023, with a host of thrilling updates that we’re excited to share with you.

Performance

Customization is key when it comes to performance, as the new Lexus RX will offer four redesigned powertrains — three of which are electrified. The standard one is a 2.4-litre turbo engine that focuses on torque. There will also be a fourth-gen hybrid system that works with a 2.5-litre engine for optimal efficiency. The exciting F SPORT Performance grades utilize a DIRECT4 drivetrain to give the RX ideal traction and acceleration. Details for the RX plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain will be released at a later date.

Safety

The standard system on the 2022 RX will be the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, which comes with helpful features like:

Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Intersection Support, and the new Motorcycle Detection
All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control with new Curve Speed Management
Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
Emergency Driving Stop System

Advanced Park

One of the outstanding highlights that we’re especially excited for includes Advanced Park. This innovative feature expands support for parallel parking with forward-facing parking support.

New Grades

The 2023 Lexus RX arrives with new grades, Ultra Luxury and F SPORT, totaling seven for the upcoming model year.

Premium
Luxury
Ultra Luxury
Executive
F SPORT 1
F SPORT 2
F SPORT 3

To order your 2023 Lexus RX or if you just want to know more about this intriguing vehicle, contact our team or visit us at Lexus Downtown in Toronto, Ontario.

Lexus Introduces Refreshed 2023 UX

2023 Lexus UX | Toronto, ON — Photo credit: http://media.lexus.ca/

For those seeking a sporty SUV that’s ideal for the city, the Lexus UX is a top choice. For 2023, the UX has received enhancements for its performance, safety, and multimedia.

Thrilling performance

To align with the brand’s carbon-neutral future, the UX is only available with a hybrid powertrain. But that doesn’t mean the SUV is without exciting performance updates. In fact, thanks to newly developed tires, noise and vibration has been significantly reduced to create a serene cabin.

The UX 250h AWD F SPORT model has also been upgraded through its style and dynamics via expanded package options. These add-ons offer everything from performance dampers to an Active Variable Suspension for smoother driving.

Advanced tech

The 2023 UX offers the latest Lexus Interface multimedia system, which can be had with an available large, higher-resolution 12.3-inch touch-screen display. The cabin has been altered for maximum functionality, including an expanded and LED-lit wireless charging space.

Another highlight of this Lexus multimedia system is the new Voice Assistant, which can be used by saying “Hey Lexus” for voice-activated commands. The latest UX will come with standard Connected Services like 24/7 Enhanced Roadside Assistance, Vehicle Health Reports, and more.

Superior safety

Along with the features that make the UX fun to drive, this sporty SUV is also safe. The 2023 UX is equipped with the Lexus Safety System+ 2.5, which includes a host of preventative safety technologies. Highlights include a Pre-Collision System, Lane Tracing Assist, and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control.

To learn more about the 2023 Lexus UX 250h AWD, contact our team at Lexus Downtown in Toronto, Ontario!

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.