Lexus tweaks IS F, RX, for 2011

One is the volume-selling mainstay of the Lexus brand, the other is the hero car in the range -- and both have been upgraded for 2011.

The RX SUV, which is one of the more popular models in the Lexus range and only outsold by the IS 250 sedan, is now available through Lexus dealers with an upgraded on-board safety system, Advanced Pre-Collision Safety. A system that can apply brakes in the event that the driver doesn't respond to an obstacle in the path of the vehicle, the Advanced PCS system relies on forward-looking radar to monitor the road ahead of the vehicle.

Should the system establish that a collision with a vehicle in front is unavoidable, it will tension the seatbelts, prime the brakes and emit an audible alarm to alert the driver. If the driver doesn't respond the system applies the brakes autonomously to reduce the impact speed and corresponding level of injury to the vehicle's occupants.

The system comes bundled in the RX models with USB connectivity in the audio system (controllable through the infotainment system interface). In addition, all RX variants now feature a 12V power outlet below the centre console.

"RX has a solid foundation in innovation. It debuted Hybrid to the world, introduced Lexus Remote Touch, and now it adds the Advanced Pre-Collision Safety system to its suite of onboard technology," said Lexus chief executive, Tony Cramb.

"Furthermore, refinements to navigation systems and on-board entertainment systems for the RX range only make it easier and more enjoyable to drive."

Cramb has also announced a minor upgrade for the brand-building V8-powered sedan, the IS F.

"Upgrades to IS F coincide with the introduction of the IS 350 and IS 250 F Sport, and lift what is already a truly impressive vehicle," he said.

"The changes to IS F deliver greater compliance during everyday driving -- but also greater performance for those times when owners take their Lexus to the track.

"IS F and our F Sport models will play an increasingly important role in solidifying Lexus' performance credentials."

For 2011, the upgrade IS F is now Euro 5-compliant, but offers 300kW/500Nm output for an acceleration time to 100km/h of 4.8 seconds. The revised model can be identified by a series of interior and exterior revisions. Externally, the IS F features new daytime running lights, blacked-out headlight lenses, a dark metallic engine cover and an additional colour option, Starlight Black.

Inside, the IS F is now fitted with a new instrument binnacle, which recalls the look of the company's LFA supercar. Major instruments (speedo, tacho) and the shift indicator, have been relocated for improved readability. The tachometer, which now resides in the centre of the binnacle, features an integrated rev indicator that lights up in three stages: 5000rpm, 5500rpm and between 6200 and 6550rpm.

Extra support in the driver's seat is complemented by a revised steering wheel, which provides better grip and feel, according to the company. Buyers can now specify a new orange/black leather trim option to go with the (standard) dark carbon-fibre centre console inserts that are introduced with the upgrade model.

Probably the biggest news in the updated IS F is the new suspension set-up, which has resulted in better ride quality and greater high-speed stability, the latter courtesy of new rear camber settings. Front and rear spring and damper rates have been recalibrated and the bushes in the rear suspension arms and anti-roll bar have been modified.

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