Lexus water repellent glass helps drivers battle rain
Did you know some Lexus vehicles have a rain-fighting feature called water-repellent glass?
Cars from SEMA Show part one
Every year in November, Las Vegas hosts the Speciality Equipment Market Association (SEMA) trade show, an industry-only event that draws over 130,000 individuals largely made up of automotive parts manufacturers, retail store buyers and media from 130 countries.
Automakers also come out in full force displaying unique, souped-up creations that are the result of unique collaborations with aftermarket performance companies and celebrities. Some brands, like Toyota and BMW, use the opportunity to show off factory-tuned vehicles. OpenRoad was at SEMA 2014 and below we bring you part one of some of the best-of-show examples.
Lexus
A lot of people are talking about one of the newest entries into the luxury compact crossover market: the 2015 Lexus NX. Offered as both a 200t with a Lexus-first 2.0-litre turbo motor and new six-speed automatic, as well as a 300h with Lexus Hybrid Drive featuring a 2.5-litre Atkinson gasoline engine mated to a new CVT transmission, all models are all-wheel drive.
As if the 200t isn’t enough of a looker already, Los Angeles tuners 360 Elite Motorworks got their hands on one and had it painted in a bespoke and retina-tingling “Molten Pearl” bright orange colour. This custom NX is outfitted with a full Artisan Spirits body kit, RS-R Sports coilover suspension, and gigantic gloss black HRE P104 wheels that are a full three inches bigger than the standard 17-inch alloys, wrapped in grippy Toyo Proxes T1R sport tires. Performance modifications are kept modest with a custom intake and exhaust.
Toyota
The Camry recently received a complete redesign for 2015. The face of the car now looks much more aggressive, keeping inline with the exterior changes found on the Corolla and Yaris. Like the NX, the Camry is available with a conventional gasoline engine (four cylinder/V6) or a four-cylinder hybrid.
Making a little more than the 268 horsepower from the stock V6, Toyota lifted the covers off a Camry that was quickly revealed to be an 850-horsepower tube-frame dragster sitting underneath a deceptively normal shell. The powerplant was borrowed from a Tundra full-size pickup truck: a 5.7-litre V8 with a TRD supercharger and a wet nitrous system added for good measure. Equipped with beefy 335/30/18 drag racing tires, the Camry-from-Hell is expected to do the quarter mile in 9.8 seconds.
Scion
Because of its affordable price point, balanced front engine, rear-wheel drive configuration and handsome looks, the Scion FR-S has proved very popular with the young tuner set since its release two years ago.
Scion put a call out to car customizers to put their own spin on the coupe, and Jeremy Lookofsky of Cali’s Cartel Customs responded with his targa top version. Sprayed in a proprietary “Azzuro California Blue” colour, this FRS has a two-tone scheme with a removable black targa roof sitting overtop of a widened all-metal body. Other enhancements include 19-inch wheels, centre-exit exhaust system, GReddy turbo kit, Wilwood brakes and KW coilovers.
In part two of SEMA 2014, we’ll be checking out some showstoppers from the Euro camp.
Lexus NX luxury crossover joins OpenRoad lineup
On Oct. 9, OpenRoad Lexus in Richmond dimmed the lights and unveiled their newest compact luxury crossover, the NX200t F Sport.
From Toyota Prii to Mazda2s: A look at available fuel-efficient vehicles
With gas prices approaching $1.50/litre in Metro Vancouver this summer, the topic of fuel-efficient transportation is on a lot of people’s minds. Fortunately, with modern technology many manufacturers are able to squeeze more performance out of small engines, like Mazda with their subcompact Mazda2, or offer gas-sipping hybrids such as Toyota and their extensive lineup of legendary Prii (yes, that is the official Prius plural term). For the consumer, that means there is something to suit virtually every taste and budget. Below is a look at what’s currently available on the market.
Mazda2
Fuel consumption*: 8.0 L/100 km city, 6.7 highway (manual)
Estimated annual fuel cost*: $1,625
The 100 horsepower produced by the Mazda2’s 1.5-litre engine might not seem like much, but with an impressive power-to-weight ratio and a manual transmission option, expect a lot of fun in the corners as you row through the gears. It’s quite well equipped for its class as well, with standard power door mirrors, locks and windows, MP3-capable head unit, USB inputs and 15-inch wheels. The car will undergo a complete change for the 2015 model year.
Honda Fit
Fuel consumption: 8.3 L/100km city, 6.4 highway (automatic)
Estimated annual fuel cost: $1,638
In its second generation and about to enter a third, the Honda Fit has been a popular choice for a wide demographic from budget-conscious students to families looking for an additional car. Like the Mazda2, the engine is also a 1.5-litre but makes slightly more power at 117 hp and 106 lb-ft of torque. Despite its sub-compact form factor, the Fit can still carry plenty of stuff with 585 litres of storage space behind the rear seats. Fold them down and the hatch will swallow up 1,622 L of cargo.
Lexus CT 200H
Fuel consumption: 5.5 L/100 km city, 5.8 highway (CVT)
Estimated annual fuel cost: $1,196
Paving the way for entry-level luxury hybrid vehicles to come, Lexus launched the CT 200H a few years back giving consumers the option of being eco-friendly while enjoying upscale features. Refreshed for this year, the front fascia gets the “Spindle Grille” as found on other models across the lineup, the rear spoiler has been redesigned, and the speakers now include bamboo-fibre components. The hatchback is powered by a 1.8 L Atkinson Cycle four-cylinder engine coupled with an electric motor making 134 net hp.
Toyota Prius
Fuel consumption: 4.7 L/100 km city, 4.9 highway (CVT)
Estimated annual fuel cost: $968
There can be no discussion of fuel-friendly vehicles without the mention of the Toyota Prius. Available in Canada since 2000, it now comes in four configurations (standard, plug-in hybrid, the smaller “c” and the “v” station wagon) and tops the Natural Resources Canada list for best in-class fuel efficiency year after year. Utilizing Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive technology, it has the same powerplant as the CT 200H that shifts smoothly between gasonline engine and electric motor.
There are just some examples of what you can expect when you walk into any OpenRoad Auto Group dealership in the Lower Mainland, with more on the way! For a full list of vehicles, visit openroadautogroup.com/new-cars.
* Based on the 2014 Natural Resources Canada Fuel Consumption Guide with revised federal testing methodology.
The 2014 Lexus IS performed
On July 28th, OpenRoad Lexus Richmond held a 2014 Lexus IS performance event in Richmond, BC. Always looking for a fresh and fun way to showcase the latest from Lexus, OpenRoad teamed up with 4 performance driving instructors to put the 2014 IS250 and IS350 through their paces. And the performance was amazing!
Over 160 guests attended and rode shotgun in the passenger seat as the professional drivers raced around a technical course at a secret track location in Richmond. The course was 3-4 minutes in length and was driven at high speeds. The cars and passengers were put through slalom, high speed corners, fast straight-aways and emergency braking situations.
Each guest had the opportunity to ride in the RWD and AWD IS250 and 350 models. For comparison the 2013 IS250 was also taken out on the track. From the 2013 to 2014 model year, Lexus has made some major improvements to the exterior design styling, ride handling, seat comfort, interior legroom and cargo space, and a very well-executed interior cabin design.
Thanks to everyone for coming out, and we hope to see you all in the driver’s seat at for a test drive at OpenRoad Lexus Richmond.
If you have any photos or videos from the event please share them on our Lexus Richmond Facebook page – thanks!
2014 Lexus IS
2014 Lexus IS
The 2014 Lexus IS is now available at OpenRoad Lexus Richmond’s showroom with a new design, enhanced performance and vast list of upgrades and technology.
The redesigned exterior styling of the car features the signature Lexus spindle grille found across most current Lexus models. Standard on the 2014 IS are HID headlights and an aggressive separate L-shaped LED daytime running lights.
The new IS will be offered in two formats: the IS 250 with a 2.5L V6 and the IS350 with a 3.5L V6 with each variant available in both rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive. The rear-wheel-drive IS350 comes with the same 8-speed automatic transmission found in the high performance IS-F. The 2014 IS also borrows technology from the Lexus GS with the same multilink rear suspension and electric power steering system. The F-Sport package is available for all models providing the added benefits of recalibrated steering, retuned suspension and a special instrument cluster inspired by none other than the Lexus LFA supercar.
Beyond the fresh new design and performance dynamics, the new IS features a fully updated cockpit. The wheelbase has been extended by 3 inches, providing greater cabin space for rear passengers. This new interior boasts luxury cues from the new GS and LS models while adding a hint of sport. As an industry first, every model of the new IS features a multimedia system with complimentary real-time traffic and weather information.
To schedule a test drive today, please call Chris or Darrell (Sales Managers) at 604-901-4713.
Reviews:
“…with the all-new 2014 Lexus IS sedans, the Germans should be looking over their shoulders.” – Costa Mouzouris, The Car Guide
“The new IS is noticeably more precise in its response to steering inputs and handles transitional change much better that the others [Mercedes C350 and BMW 335i] – and the outgoing version.” – Matt Bubbers, Sympatico Autos
“Studies show that eye contact must be held for about 8.2 seconds for that “love at first sight” feeling to occur. When initially looking into the redesigned LED headlights of the IS sedan, I can honestly say that my lust for it occurred a little sooner.” – Alexandra Straub, Auto123.com
OpenRoad Lexus Richmond Grand Opening Video Coverage
Enjoy our video coverage:
OpenRoad Lexus Richmond officially opened the doors to its new $18 million dealership, designed to be as luxurious as it is sustainable.
Located at 5631 Parkwood Way in Richmond, B.C., the almost 70,000 square foot facility – featuring the largest indoor showroom in Canada – achieved LEED® Silver Certification in the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED®) Green Building Rating System.
With over 1100 in attendance in Lexus’ flagship dealership in Canada, guests enjoyed tastings by World renowned chef Tojo while being served drinks by Sapparo & Mission Hill. With such an extravagant facility, entertainment was definitely up to par with the building with fire breathers, a live jazz band, a Taiko performance, authentic Japanese Art, and the revving of the legendary Lexus LFA engine by OpenRoad’s CEO, Christian Chia.
For pictures & event coverage of this event:
http://go.orag.co/lexus_grand_opening
OpenRoad Lexus Richmond Grand Opening Celebrations
OpenRoad Lexus Richmond officially opened the doors to its new $18 million dealership, designed to be as luxurious as it is sustainable.
Located at 5631 Parkwood Way in Richmond, B.C., the almost 70,000 square foot facility – featuring the largest indoor showroom in Canada – achieved LEED® Silver Certification in the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED®) Green Building Rating System.
With over 1100 in attendance in Lexus’ flagship dealership in Canada, guests enjoyed tastings by World renowned chef Tojo while being served drinks by Sapparo & Mission Hill. With such an extravagant facility, entertainment was definitely up to par with the building with fire breathers, a live jazz band, a Taiko performance, authentic Japanese Art, and the revving of the legendary Lexus LFA engine by OpenRoad’s CEO, Christian Chia.
For pictures & event coverage of this event:
http://go.orag.co/lexus_grand_opening