Autoblog Canada http://ca.autoblog.com Autoblog Canada http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/favicon-v5.png Autoblog Canada http://ca.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/ Chris Shunk, Sam Abuelsamid and Dan RothThe podcast by the people who obsessively cover the auto industry. <![CDATA[Lexus LFA Donut Day celebration stars stunning Pro Golfer Natalie Gulbis]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/07/donut-day-lexus-lfa-stunt-drifting-natalie-gulbis-golf/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/07/donut-day-lexus-lfa-stunt-drifting-natalie-gulbis-golf/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/07/donut-day-lexus-lfa-stunt-drifting-natalie-gulbis-golf/#comments Filed under: , , , ,



After watching Chevy unleash a video of its mighty Camaro ZL1 in honour of National Donut Day, we had a funny feeling we'd see a few more so-called celebration videos turn up today. Although the supercharged 6.2L Camaro ZL1 can certainly put on a memorable smoke show, Lexus planned to top that with its awesome V10-powered LFA and beautiful LPGA Pro Golfer Natalie Gulbis behind the wheel.

The empty parking lot serves as the perfect place for the bright yellow LFA to 'celebrate,' as Gulbis gladly throws down a freshly-baked order of delicious LFA donuts and proves she sure isn't shy when it comes to laying down a little rubber for the cameras.

Click here to watch the Donut Day drift video for yourself.

Gallery: Lexus LFA Quartet: Chicago 2012

Continue reading Lexus LFA Donut Day celebration stars stunning Pro Golfer Natalie Gulbis

Lexus LFA Donut Day celebration stars stunning Pro Golfer Natalie Gulbis originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Fri, 07 Jun 2013 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> burnoutdonut daydriftingdrifting videolexuslexus lfalexus lfa driftinglexus lfa nurburgring editionLPGAnatalie gulbisPro golfstunt driving Fri, 07 Jun 2013 17:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20603923/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/06/07/donut-day-lexus-lfa-stunt-drifting-natalie-gulbis-golf/20603923/article-detail.xml 20603923 http://www.blogcdn.com/ca.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/lfa-drift_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/ca.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/lfa-drift.jpg <![CDATA[Top 10 best convertible cars of 2013]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/04/top-10-new-convertibles-cars-of-2013/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/04/top-10-new-convertibles-cars-of-2013/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/04/top-10-new-convertibles-cars-of-2013/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , , , , ,



With the hot temperatures and loads of sunshine finally here, there's no better way to enjoy the open road than behind the wheel of one of these Top 10 new convertibles this summer. There's always been something special about the instant feeling of freedom, fun and adventure that comes with owning and driving a convertible, cabriolet or roadster.

If you're looking to replace your current drop top or perhaps planning to join the convertible club as an avid sun-seeker, we've rounded up our Top 10 favourite new convertibles for 2013. Our choices are based on several key factors including each convertible's popularity, overall value and the amount of fun they are to drive (oh, and of course some of our own personal preferences too).

Click here to countdown the Top 10 new convertible cars of 2013, as we tried to include a few picks to suit whatever your budget may be from high-priced to practical. Also hit the jump to watch a video of a Chevy Camaro SS convertible drag racing a Ford Mustang GT convertible to see who wins!

Gallery: Top 10 celebrity cars and rich stars who drive cheap and ugly cars

Continue reading Top 10 best convertible cars of 2013

Top 10 best convertible cars of 2013 originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Tue, 04 Jun 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013best convertiblebest convertible 2013buying convertiblecabriocabrioletconvertiblenew convertibleroadstertop 10top 10 convertibles Tue, 04 Jun 2013 12:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20572123/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/06/04/top-10-new-convertibles-cars-of-2013/20572123/article-detail.xml 20572123 http://www.blogcdn.com/ca.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/camaro-vert-1370359806_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/ca.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/camaro-vert-1370359806.jpg <![CDATA[Fast & Furious star Paul Walker checks out used Lexus LFA at Willow Springs]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/29/fast-and-furious-star-paul-walker-checks-out-used-lexus-lfa-at-wil/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/29/fast-and-furious-star-paul-walker-checks-out-used-lexus-lfa-at-wil/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/29/fast-and-furious-star-paul-walker-checks-out-used-lexus-lfa-at-wil/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,

Paul Walker Lexus LFA

For most vehicles, eclipsing the 48,000 km (30,000-mile) mark isn't much to celebrate. With modern vehicles fully capable of sailing right past the 400,000 km (around 250,000-mile) line with just basic, regular maintenance, the wee 48k is as common as coffee.

But that's not the case for supercars like the Lexus LFA. The limited-production machines are more likely to be museum pieces than commuter cars. That's what makes the fact that Lexus has not one, but two LFA models with over 48,000 km (30,000 miles) on the clock so special. Paul Walker recently met the dynamic duo out at Willow Springs Raceway.

Walker seems impressed with the two supercars after hammering around the Streets course, saying the ultra rare, high-mileage LFA examples feel as quick and sturdy as they did when the left the factory. Lexus says the cars have both only received their equal shares of regular maintenance. Catch the video of both cars on track below along with a few words from Walker.

Continue reading Fast & Furious star Paul Walker checks out used Lexus LFA at Willow Springs

Fast & Furious star Paul Walker checks out used Lexus LFA at Willow Springs originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Wed, 29 May 2013 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> lexuslexus lf-alexus lfapaul walkervideowillow springs Wed, 29 May 2013 14:15:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20587695/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/29/fast-and-furious-star-paul-walker-checks-out-used-lexus-lfa-at-wil/20587695/article-detail.xml 20587695 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/paul-walker-lexus-lfa-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/paul-walker-lexus-lfa-628.jpg <![CDATA[Sweetie Girl Racing delivers Mother's Day driving experience at Canadian Tire Motorsports Park]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/23/sweetie-girl-racing-delivers-advanced-driving-experience-at-cana/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/23/sweetie-girl-racing-delivers-advanced-driving-experience-at-cana/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/23/sweetie-girl-racing-delivers-advanced-driving-experience-at-cana/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , , ,



What better way to spend Mother's Day than at the Driver Development Track at Mosport (aka Canadian Tire Motorsports Park) The team at Sweetie Girl Racing (SGR), rolled out all the stops and hosted a fantastic, fun and highly informative drivers training day. Despite the rain, cold, sleet, and ever-changing conditions on that faux-spring day, smiles and delighted faces were all around as family members, friends and instructors cheered on the visible progress of all those enrolled.

The day started out with a classroom session where everything from body position, racing lines, car control, tires and just about anything that anyone would need to know about driving on a track was discussed. There was a wide range of enrolled drivers, ranging from freshly licenced 17-year-old drivers to those who have had 40-plus years of experience. The idea of the day was to illustrate that any driver could benefit from this kind of advanced driving experience. The variety of cars on track were just as varied as the drivers' experience levels. Ford, Mazda, Volvo, BMW, Porsche, Subaru, Toyota, Mitsubishi, Lexus and even an exotic GT40 were all represented, respectively.

Click here to view the full story and photo gallery from the event.

Continue reading Sweetie Girl Racing delivers Mother's Day driving experience at Canadian Tire Motorsports Park

Sweetie Girl Racing delivers Mother's Day driving experience at Canadian Tire Motorsports Park originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Thu, 23 May 2013 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> canadian drivingcanadian tire motorsport parkddtdriver developmentdriver trainingdriver training programdriveteqmosportracing schoolsweetie girl racingtrackday Thu, 23 May 2013 11:15:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20574168/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/23/sweetie-girl-racing-delivers-advanced-driving-experience-at-cana/20574168/article-detail.xml 20574168 http://www.blogcdn.com/ca.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2013-sgr-ddt-may-337-1368816289_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/ca.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2013-sgr-ddt-may-337-1368816289.jpg <![CDATA[Lexus LFA owner gets town to remove speed bump]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/lexus-lfa-owner-gets-town-to-remove-speed-bump/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/lexus-lfa-owner-gets-town-to-remove-speed-bump/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/lexus-lfa-owner-gets-town-to-remove-speed-bump/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,

2012 Lexus LFA supercar at sunset

What do you do if you have enough money to buy a Lexus LFA but can't get the car safely to your house? Get local government involved, of course. Rune Berge Vik, of Stavanger, Norway, did just that after he bought a Lexus LFA (the only LFA in the Nordic region according to tv2.no) last year only to find out that it could not clear a speed bump in his neighborhood.

To remedy the situation, Vik got in touch with his city, which had the speed bump removed. Talk about your tax dollars hard at work. On the other hand, it's commendable that the man actually uses his supercar as a daily driver, and besides, doesn't a street-legal car have the right to access said public streets?

Click through to watch an LFA attack the racetrack.

Gallery: Lexus LFA Nurburgring Package: Geneva 2011






Continue reading Lexus LFA owner gets town to remove speed bump

Lexus LFA owner gets town to remove speed bump originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Fri, 17 May 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2012 lexus lfalexuslexus lfalocal governmentspeed bumpspeed hump Fri, 17 May 2013 16:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20574119/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/17/lexus-lfa-owner-gets-town-to-remove-speed-bump/20574119/article-detail.xml 20574119 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/01-2011-lexus-lfa-review-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/01-2011-lexus-lfa-review-opt.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Lexus LS 600h L]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/2013-lexus-ls-600h-l-quick-spin-review/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/2013-lexus-ls-600h-l-quick-spin-review/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/2013-lexus-ls-600h-l-quick-spin-review/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

2013 Lexus LS 600h L - front three-quarter view

I have spent the last seven days driving the Starfire Pearl (read: white) 2013 Lexus LS 600h L you see here. And after roughly 800 kilometres (500 miles) of errand-running, highway-cruising, commuting and people-schlepping, I can safely say this: I don't get it.

The LS hybrid is a nice car. It's comfortable, has every amenity you'd ever want in a luxury boat, and with its freshened appearance for 2013, it looks modern, integrating the company's new spindle grille into an overall package that's elegant. None of this is bad news. But let me explain why I still cannot wrap my head around the overall LS 600h L package, below.

Continue reading 2013 Lexus LS 600h L

2013 Lexus LS 600h L originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Fri, 17 May 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 lexus ls600h2013 lexus ls600hllexuslexus hybridlexus lslexus ls hybridlexus ls600hlquick spinquickspin Fri, 17 May 2013 12:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20573856/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/17/2013-lexus-ls-600h-l-quick-spin-review/20573856/article-detail.xml 20573856 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/001-2013-lexus-ls-600h-l-quick-spin628opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/001-2013-lexus-ls-600h-l-quick-spin628opt.jpg <![CDATA[Top 5 celebrity cars you can actually afford]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/23/top-5-celebrity-cars-you-can-actually-afford/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/23/top-5-celebrity-cars-you-can-actually-afford/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/23/top-5-celebrity-cars-you-can-actually-afford/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,



Have you ever wanted to live the lavish lifestyle of your favourite Hollywood celebrity just to see what it would feel like? Well don't worry if buying million dollar homes, private jets and exotic cars isn't in your current family budget, because we're going to show you the Top 5 celebrity cars you can actually afford to drive.

Believe it or not, it won't cost much to roll around town in the exact same cars as Cameron Diaz, Tiger Woods, Leonardo DiCaprio, Sarah Jessica Parker, Orlando Bloom, Eva Mendes, Jennifer Lawrence, Julie Bowen or Stacy Keibler. According to the new car experts at Unhaggle.com, driving the same car as the star studded line up mentioned above starts at just under $20,000 and if you follow Unhaggle's advice you can even get the best deal on your new celebrity-endorsed ride by saving thousands of dollars through the site's Unhaggle price discounts.

Click here to get the inside scoop on the Top 5 celebrity cars you can actually afford to buy and be sure to watch the video below on the Top 5 most expensive celebrity cars too.


Gallery: Top 10 Cheapest Cars in Canada

Volkswagen Jetta - $14,990Honda Fit DX - $14,580Smart fortwo coupe - $14,400Toyota Yaris hatchback CE - $14,250Mazda2 - $14,095

Continue reading Top 5 celebrity cars you can actually afford

Top 5 celebrity cars you can actually afford originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Tue, 23 Apr 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> affordable celebritybest celebrity carscelebcelebritycelebrity carscelebrity stylecheap carcheapest carcheapest celebrityhollywoodstars Tue, 23 Apr 2013 15:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20547674/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/23/top-5-celebrity-cars-you-can-actually-afford/20547674/article-detail.xml 20547674 http://www.blogcdn.com/ca.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/ndc2mjaznduzo2012-fiat-500-lounge-1366742619_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/ca.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/ndc2mjaznduzo2012-fiat-500-lounge-1366742619.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Lexus LS460 F-Sport AWD]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/22/2013-lexus-ls460-f-sport-awd-review/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/22/2013-lexus-ls460-f-sport-awd-review/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/22/2013-lexus-ls460-f-sport-awd-review/#comments Filed under: , , ,

Gary Approved

2013 Lexus LS460 F-Sport AWD

There's a guy that goes to my gym who can't get enough of the Lexus LS - let's call him Gary. Gary's the guy - you've probably got one at your gym, or coffee shop, or some other public but quasi-social location - who talks to everyone he meets. Sit next to him on the rowing machine or run by him on the track, and he's almost certainly going to bend your ear for a minute or 20. Gary is in his mid-60s, a business owner, and the super-proud owner of a 2013 Lexus LS.

Not being a shy man, Gary will be the first one to tell you that he didn't do much comparative shopping (he "drove by" the BMW dealership, and looked at a 7 Series "on the computer"). Being a satisfied former owner of multiple Lexus RXs, there was probably only a tiny statistical chance that Gary wouldn't end up in an LS when it came time for him to treat himself to the tricked out luxury car that he'd wanted for a long time. Still, when I found myself chatting with Gary about his new LS, right after I had spent a wintry week in the 2013 LS460 F-Sport AWD, I figured that he'd have some light to shed on the car.

Without substantively quoting the man (I was on the rowing machine; how often do you bring a writing pad to the gym?), here are the main things that drew Gary to the LS: He's a Lexus owner, as discussed, first and foremost. He likes the brand, has had great experiences with other products, and considers the local dealer a friend who will give him "the hookup." Gary described both the engine and the ride of the LS as being "smooth" or "so smooth" at different times during our conversation, mentioning that the car was really fast, as well. Most of his praise though, was aimed at the styling of the LS, which Gary thought was beautiful inside and out. His one criticism lay with "all those gadgets" in the car, which, I was told, he mostly didn't screw around with. Based on some commenter feedback I've gotten on my last few car reviews, I think that a large portion of our audience would identify with Gary's succinct (if sometimes oblique) style of vehicle evaluation. We're talking to his people.

Continue reading 2013 Lexus LS460 F-Sport AWD

2013 Lexus LS460 F-Sport AWD originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Mon, 22 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 lexus ls2013 lexus ls 460 f sportfeaturedlexuslexus 460lexus lslsreviewreviews Mon, 22 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20546818/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/22/2013-lexus-ls460-f-sport-awd-review/20546818/article-detail.xml 20546818 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2013-lexus-ls460-f-sport-review_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2013-lexus-ls460-f-sport-review.jpg <![CDATA[Lexus ES350 confirmed for US production starting in 2015]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/20/lexus-es350-confirmed-for-kentucky-production-starting-in-2015/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/20/lexus-es350-confirmed-for-kentucky-production-starting-in-2015/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/20/lexus-es350-confirmed-for-kentucky-production-starting-in-2015/#comments Filed under: , , , ,



Following Thursday's report, Toyota has confirmed that production of the Lexus ES will move to its Georgetown, KY assembly plant starting in 2015. To accommodate the extra 50,000 units of capacity that the ES represents, Toyota will be investing US$360 million in the plant and hiring 750 new workers.

In the previous report, sources stated that the state of Kentucky had offered Toyota as much as US$146.5 million to move ES production to the Georgetown facility.

The press release, posted below, specifies that only the ES350 will be built in Kentucky, so it's likely that the ES300h hybrid will continue to be built in Japan - where all ES models have been built since the car was introduced in 1989. Toyota's Georgetown plant, which currently builds the Toyota Camry, will also be getting an expansion to its engine plant to produce more four-cylinder engines at a cost of $30 million and will create an additional 80 jobs.

Continue reading Lexus ES350 confirmed for US production starting in 2015

Lexus ES350 confirmed for US production starting in 2015 originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Sat, 20 Apr 2013 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> georgetown kentuckylexuslexus eslexus es350made in americatoyota motor manufacturing kentucky Sat, 20 Apr 2013 17:30:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20545793/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/20/lexus-es350-confirmed-for-kentucky-production-starting-in-2015/20545793/article-detail.xml 20545793 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/2013-lexus-es-350-review_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/2013-lexus-es-350-review.jpg <![CDATA[Top 10 Best Interiors of 2013, Asian automakers take 7 of 10 spots]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/16/wards-10-best-interiors-released-asian-automakers-take-7-of-10/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/16/wards-10-best-interiors-released-asian-automakers-take-7-of-10/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/16/wards-10-best-interiors-released-asian-automakers-take-7-of-10/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , , , , ,



Step inside just about any new car these days and you'll quickly see that vehicle interiors have become a pretty nice place to spend some time in. For the third consecutive year, WardsAuto sat in each and every new vehicle that had received redesigned or updated interiors, and it has now named its top 10 Best Interiors.

Judges look at everything from design and fit-and-finish to comfort, safety and technology. Some of the standout selections include budget cars like the Chevrolet Spark and Kia Forte all the way up to more expensive luxury sedans like the Cadillac XTS and Lexus GS450h. An interesting note here is that WardsAuto praises Cadillac for its CUE infotainment system while Consumer Reports generally lambasts the system. Asian automakers definitely won the contest for nicest interiors as the list is comprised of five Japanese automakers and two South Korean, with Toyota and General Motors in a dead heat with the most number of cars on the list with two each.

Click here for the full list (in alphabetical order) and scroll down for a press release from WardsAuto for its 10 Best Interiors of 2013.


Gallery: Top 10 Cheapest Cars in Canada

Volkswagen Jetta - $14,990Honda Fit DX - $14,580Smart fortwo coupe - $14,400Toyota Yaris hatchback CE - $14,250Mazda2 - $14,095

Continue reading Top 10 Best Interiors of 2013, Asian automakers take 7 of 10 spots

Top 10 Best Interiors of 2013, Asian automakers take 7 of 10 spots originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Tue, 16 Apr 2013 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 10 best interiorsacuraacura rdxcadillaccadillac xtschevroletchevrolet sparkhyundaihyundai santa fe sportkiakia fortelexuslexus gs450hmazda6nissannissan pathfinderramram 1500ram 1500 laramie longhorntoyotatoyota avalonwards auto Tue, 16 Apr 2013 15:45:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20542209/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/16/wards-10-best-interiors-released-asian-automakers-take-7-of-10/20542209/article-detail.xml 20542209 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/cadillac-xts-interior_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/cadillac-xts-interior.jpg <![CDATA[Top 10 most fuel efficient cars of 2013]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/10/top-10-most-fuel-efficient-cars-of-2013/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/10/top-10-most-fuel-efficient-cars-of-2013/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/10/top-10-most-fuel-efficient-cars-of-2013/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,



Let's face it, car buyer's in today's consumer conscious crowd are far more interested in hearing fuel economy figures than horsepower numbers when it comes to choosing a new car. With gas prices still on the rise and more drivers on the road these days, several car manufacturers have remained focused on producing more fuel efficient cars in order to quickly capitalize on the gas sipping, money saving trend towards them.

Trusted financial advice website, Kiplinger recently announced its own list of what they consider the most fuel efficient cars of 2013. Although we agree with many of their top picks, we also noticed a few obvious choices didn't quite seem to make the cut. It should also come as no surprise to learn Toyota claimed five of the top 10 fuel efficient spots on Kiplinger's list, as the eco-minded automaker continues to lead the way with its popular hybrid technology being sprinkled throughout its vehicle line-up.

Scroll down to watch Kiplinger's video on the Top 10 most fuel efficient cars of 2013 and click here to learn which cars will help you save the most money at the pumps... if you ever have to stop at one, that is.


Gallery: Top 10 Cheapest Cars in Canada

Volkswagen Jetta - $14,990Honda Fit DX - $14,580Smart fortwo coupe - $14,400Toyota Yaris hatchback CE - $14,250Mazda2 - $14,095

Continue reading Top 10 most fuel efficient cars of 2013

Top 10 most fuel efficient cars of 2013 originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Wed, 10 Apr 2013 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 10 besteconomicelectricelectric vehiclefuel economyfuel efficientfuel efficient carshybridtop 10 Wed, 10 Apr 2013 11:30:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20535478/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/10/top-10-most-fuel-efficient-cars-of-2013/20535478/article-detail.xml 20535478 http://www.blogcdn.com/ca.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/01-2012-toyota-prius-c-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/ca.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/01-2012-toyota-prius-c-fd.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Lexus GS450h [w/video]]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/09/2013-lexus-gs450h-review-video/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/09/2013-lexus-gs450h-review-video/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/09/2013-lexus-gs450h-review-video/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,

An Unlikely Star in the Lexus Stable

2013 Lexus GS450h

Think about Lexus for a second. Odds are your gray matter is busy regurgitating images of the company's middle-aged RX crossover or possibly the midsize ES sedan. As the volume movers for Toyota's luxury fleet, the two are the default ambassadors for everything with an italicized L pinned to the grille, and that's a damned shame. As the 2013 GS450h is so willing to point out, Lexus engineers are busily crafting models that offer drivers more than a safe luxury choice.

As the master of fuel-sipping battery propulsion, Lexus has brought the impressive width of Toyota hybrid engineering to bear on the GS450h. The result is a vehicle that manages to sneak its hybridness by you with buttery acceleration, stone quiet operation and brakes that don't feel like you're trying walk around the house in Velcro socks. The drivetrain doesn't feel the need to beat you over the head with its battery pack or announce to the neighborhood that you're saving the world one whispery kilometre at a time. Both driver and passengers get to enjoy a luxury car that just so happens to be a hybrid instead of the other way around.

There's no denying just how striking the GS has become outside. For all the ridicule Lexus endured for its new Predator-maw corporate look, the design snatches eyeballs quicker than a cross Master Pai Mei. Up front, the nose manages to look fresh without straying into garishness, though Lexus designers are walking a fine line here. While the LED daytime running lamps are a bit derivative, we love the complex and sculpted lower valance. Like other hardware in the Lexus toolbox, the GS gives you plenty to look at head on.

Continue reading 2013 Lexus GS450h [w/video]

2013 Lexus GS450h [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Tue, 09 Apr 2013 12:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 lexus gs450hfeaturedlexuslexus gslexus gs450hlexus hybridreviewreviewsvideo Tue, 09 Apr 2013 12:02:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20535114/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/09/2013-lexus-gs450h-review-video/20535114/article-detail.xml 20535114 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2013-lexus-gs450h-review_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2013-lexus-gs450h-review.jpg <![CDATA[Lexus to debut small hybrid CUV at 2014 Geneva Motor Show]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/07/lexus-to-debut-small-hybrid-cuv-at-2014-geneva-motor-show/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/07/lexus-to-debut-small-hybrid-cuv-at-2014-geneva-motor-show/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/07/lexus-to-debut-small-hybrid-cuv-at-2014-geneva-motor-show/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,



Following rumours that Lexus has been working on a small crossover to slot below the RX (pictured), Automotive News Europe reports that the production-ready CUV will bow at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show next March. Later this year, Lexus will preview this new crossover by way of a concept car at the Tokyo Motor Show in November.

According to the report, this new crossover will be a hybrid, and will ride on the smaller architecture that underpins the Toyota RAV4. Specific details have not been confirmed, but AN states that the entry-level CUV will be powered by the same 2.5-litre gasoline-electric drivetrain found in the Lexus ES 300h. Since Toyota will evidently be taking the time to hybridize the platform, we can't help but assume that it will eventually build a second-gen RAV4 EV.

Either way, with the small luxury CUV segment heating up, Lexus is likely smart to offer a player in this space. Until now, there has not been a Lexus crossover below the RX, and this new model will compete with other new players in the class including the BMW X1 and Audi Q3.


Gallery: 2013 Toronto Auto Show - Top 10 Fuel Friendly Debut

Continue reading Lexus to debut small hybrid CUV at 2014 Geneva Motor Show

Lexus to debut small hybrid CUV at 2014 Geneva Motor Show originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Sun, 07 Apr 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> autoshow2013genevageneva 2014geneva motor showlexuslexus crossoverlexus rxtokyotokyo 2013tokyo motor show Sun, 07 Apr 2013 18:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20532393/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/07/lexus-to-debut-small-hybrid-cuv-at-2014-geneva-motor-show/20532393/article-detail.xml 20532393 http://www.blogcdn.com/ca.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/img8474_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/ca.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/img8474.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota may return to F1 under Lexus banner]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/03/toyota-may-return-to-f1-under-lexus-banner/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/03/toyota-may-return-to-f1-under-lexus-banner/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/03/toyota-may-return-to-f1-under-lexus-banner/#comments Filed under: , , , ,



A new report in from the website Club Lexus claims to have insider knowledge about a return to Formula One racing by Toyota, this time under the auspices of the Lexus brand. Toyota competed in F1 from 2002 through the 2009 season. That final year saw the team return competitive, if inconsistent in results, but the larger economic woes in the automotive market caused a decision to pull the plug.

Now, citing recent interviews with Toyota executives and insider sources, Club Lexus says that the move to re-enter F1 for the 2014 season is "all but finalized." The choice to go with the Lexus nameplate over Toyota makes some sense, too, considering the success that rival Infiniti has had in recent years through its partnership with Red Bull Racing. Further, the emerging Lexus identity as a performance car builder, with a strong background in hybrid vehicles could help the F1 move resonate with buyers.

A few technological factors and formula changes within F1 offer some credence to the Lexus rumour, too. F1 will increase the available capacity of KERS from 60kW to 120kW, a change that theoretically benefits the hybrid-savvy Toyota. What's more, 2014 will see a switch from the current 2.4-litre V8 engines to 1.6-litre turbocharged V6s. A Lexus team that goes racing in 2014 will be on a level playing field with the rest of the grid then, with all teams adjusting to and continuing to develop the new engines.

Scroll down to watch a recap of Toyota in Formula 1.

Gallery: GPRM Toyota GT86 GT4 Race Car






Continue reading Toyota may return to F1 under Lexus banner

Toyota may return to F1 under Lexus banner originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Wed, 03 Apr 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> f1formula onelexuslexus f1lexus formula 1toyotatoyota f1toyota formula 1 Wed, 03 Apr 2013 09:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20528151/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/03/toyota-may-return-to-f1-under-lexus-banner/20528151/article-detail.xml 20528151 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/toyota-return-formula-one-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/toyota-return-formula-one-628.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Lexus IS F]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/29/2013-lexus-is-f/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/29/2013-lexus-is-f/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/29/2013-lexus-is-f/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

2013 Lexus IS F - white - front three-quarter view

Sometimes fortune really smiles on even shiftless car-reviewing Dutchmen like myself, I must admit. I had come into Austin, TX the week before I was supposed to meet up with the good people at Lexus, who had graciously invited me to drive the 2014 IS. I flew in early because Austin is a pretty good place to eat, as well as being a place that my wife doesn't live. Let me say that a nicer way... while my stunningly attractive wife pretty much represents all things good and light in this world, she does occasionally shoot me a sideways glance when I dig in for my fifth breakfast taco. Thankfully, I leave most of my good sense and information about the effects of high-calorie diets on lifespan at home with Molly when I come to Texas, so I can better focus my laser-like attention on car reviews and TexMex. You guys are worth it.

Aside from all the tacos, I was also lucky to be visiting town the weekend before South By Southwest really kicked off in earnest, because it was that Sunday that my good old buddy John, and my new old buddy Pat, were headed up to the Circuit of the Americas to see the first ever SCCA Majors event there. It was lucky that I had planned to be out at CotA, which is east of Austin, because that made it slightly easier for a very nice woman named Marcia to bring me a 2013 Lexus IS F from Houston, roughly 240 km (150 miles) away.

Marcia brought me the IS F to replace another press car, which was having mechanical troubles; I didn't ask for the fire-breathing IS but when it was offered up I figured I couldn't do much better as a warm up for the 2014 IS program I was about to go on. See, lucky right?

Hit the jump to read our driving notes and full impressions of the 2013 Lexus IS F.


Gallery: 2012 Lexus IS F Review



Continue reading 2013 Lexus IS F

2013 Lexus IS F originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Fri, 29 Mar 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 lexus is-fcircuit of the americaslexuslexus is-fquickspintacodeli Fri, 29 Mar 2013 15:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20517196/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/29/2013-lexus-is-f/20517196/article-detail.xml 20517196 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/2013-lexus-is-f-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/2013-lexus-is-f-628.jpg <![CDATA[Lexus LF-LC approved for production]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/28/lexus-lf-lc-approved-for-production/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/28/lexus-lf-lc-approved-for-production/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/28/lexus-lf-lc-approved-for-production/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Lexus LF-LC concept - front three-quarter view, maroon

On the sidelines of a press drive for the 2014 Lexus IS, the company's vice president of marketing in the US told Ward's Auto that the honchos in Japan have approved the Lexus LF-LC concept for production. He wouldn't offer any other details on how the luxury coupe might be transformed into a vehicle for the buying masses, and that has led to a bag full of speculation.

The show car was hybrid-powered and rear-wheel drive, a beautifully executed stab by Toyota designers in Newport Beach at redefining Lexus, but even with the concept, the point was to keep it "within reach for premium buyers." The report says the odds are on limited production and higher pricing than Lexus' "mainstream products," and other sites have speculated on what kind of powertrain it might end up in showrooms with.

GT Channel posits that the LF-LC will be the inspiration for a coupe in the Lexus LS price bracket with a choice of either the 4.2-litre V8 or the hybrid powertrain from the LS 600h, further speculating it will be called the LC 550 and cost more than $100,000. It then says that there would be another coupe created beneath that one to replace the SC 430. Lexus Enthusiast, however, calls those "warmed-over rumors" and says that the marque probably won't deviate from its engine-capacity-naming scheme - labeling a car with a 4.2-litre V8 an LC 550. Nor does it think Lexus will use the letters LC after the company has trademarked "RC" in the US and Australia.

Time will sort the rumours from the truth, but we can probably start to admit that we're looking forward to it. Scroll down to watch video footage of the LF-LC on the show floor at the Detroit Auto Show.

Gallery: Lexus LF-LC Blue Concept


Continue reading Lexus LF-LC approved for production

Lexus LF-LC approved for production originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Thu, 28 Mar 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> autoshow2013lexuslexus conceptlexus lc 500lexus lc 550lexus lf-lclexus rclf lclf-lclf-lc conceptlf-lc photos Thu, 28 Mar 2013 14:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20522235/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/28/lexus-lf-lc-approved-for-production/20522235/article-detail.xml 20522235 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/lexuslf-lcproduction_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/lexuslf-lcproduction.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Lexus IS350 F-Sport]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/25/2014-lexus-is350-f-sport-first-drive-review/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/25/2014-lexus-is350-f-sport-first-drive-review/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/25/2014-lexus-is350-f-sport-first-drive-review/#comments Filed under: , , ,

Is A New Kind Of Lexus Hiding Under That Radical Skin?

2014 Lexus IS350 F-Sport - front three-quarter view with trees

When the now-outgoing Lexus IS generation was launched back in 2006, the company would not have been wise to bring the compact luxury sedan to be driven by journalists to a track like Driveway Austin Motorsports. Taking along a BMW 335i for comparison loops would have proved an ill choice as well.

Our own Jonathon Ramsey found the current-generation Lexus IS250 to be fairly nimble over a tightly wound autocross course, when he drove it back-to-back with the prototype version of this 2014 IS a few months ago. Our track for testing the fully realized version of the IS350 F-Sport meanwhile - again with the 2013 version along for competitive driving - was on a circuit designed to string together recreations of some of the best tracks in the world. Laguna Seca, bits of the Nürburgring and sections inspired by Imola and Ferrari's Fiorano test track all make for a far more enticing road course than you'd expect to find plunked down in a nondescript area a few miles east of downtown Austin. Critically, this environment highlighted what strides Lexus has made in the sport sedan race with its new IS.

As a general statement, the new IS350 acquitted itself well when driven with pace on the aggressive track. The performance, and much higher level of driver satisfaction when compared with the old car, is down to a few significant revisions: a new eight-speed transmission, a stiffer body structure and a greatly revised power steering system.

Continue reading 2014 Lexus IS350 F-Sport

2014 Lexus IS350 F-Sport originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Mon, 25 Mar 2013 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 lexus is2014 lexus is350 f-sportfeaturedfirst driveFirstDrivelexuslexus islexus is350lexus is350 f-sport Mon, 25 Mar 2013 11:57:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20516761/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/25/2014-lexus-is350-f-sport-first-drive-review/20516761/article-detail.xml 20516761 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/2014-lexus-is-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/2014-lexus-is-fd.jpg <![CDATA[Could this Lexus CT 200h be the Ultimate Connected Car?]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/21/could-this-lexus-ct200h-be-the-ultimate-connected-car/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/21/could-this-lexus-ct200h-be-the-ultimate-connected-car/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/21/could-this-lexus-ct200h-be-the-ultimate-connected-car/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,



Car connectivity is a pretty big deal these days, as today's consumers are constantly searching for the latest and greatest ways to stay connected on the go and easily integrate various electronic devices.

The satin aluminum coloured Lexus CT 200h you see here is anything but ordinary, as the talented crew at Five Axis worked closely with electronic giant Pioneer to transform this hybrid hatchback into a full blown demo car to display at the annual Consumer Electronics Show (CES).

The tech-obsessed team at Pioneer wanted to build the connected vehicle around their new iPhone 5 connectivity solution, as its been specifically designed for all of us left hanging after upgrading to Apple's latest phone. And what better way to show everything off than create the "Ultimate Connected Car," complete with a custom widebody conversion and an awesome chest-pounding stereo system?!

Click here for a closer look at the full photo gallery and then hit the jump to watch the official video and see the specs for yourself.


Gallery: Lexus CT 200h F Sport

Continue reading Could this Lexus CT 200h be the Ultimate Connected Car?

Could this Lexus CT 200h be the Ultimate Connected Car? originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Thu, 21 Mar 2013 19:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> CESconnectivityconsumer electronics showCT 200h HybridCt200hFive AxisFive Axis EditionFive Axis Edition LexusHybridiPhoneiPodlexuslexus ct 200hLexus CT 200h HybridpioneerPioneer Electronicsvideo Thu, 21 Mar 2013 19:15:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20497887/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/21/could-this-lexus-ct200h-be-the-ultimate-connected-car/20497887/article-detail.xml 20497887 http://www.blogcdn.com/ca.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/ct-200h-quarter-small-4in-1363896011_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/ca.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/ct-200h-quarter-small-4in-1363896011.jpg <![CDATA[Watch the legendary Lexus LFA reach the end of the line]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/20/watch-legendary-lexus-lfa-reach-end-of-the-line/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/20/watch-legendary-lexus-lfa-reach-end-of-the-line/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/20/watch-legendary-lexus-lfa-reach-end-of-the-line/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,



They say all good things must come to an end, although we still wish it wouldn't apply to the loss of the legendary Lexus LFA supercar (which recently ended exactly two years after initial production began).

Luckily, a MotorTrend film crew was granted access to the LFA factory in Japan just weeks before the last Lexus was set to roll off the assembly line, as they gathered an amazing look at the impressive production and testing facility while still in full swing.

The video goes behind-the-scenes with designers, test drivers, engineers and even a few of the 170 hand-picked assembly line workers who handle parts manufacturing, assembly and painting for the LFA project.

Toyota's Lexus division officially built the very last LFA a few months ago at the company's Motomachi production facility and as we reported, the last LFA (#500) ever built was even dressed in rare Nürburgring Edition guise to mark the special occasion.

Click here to watch the video and meet the people responsible for bringing the stunning supercar to life.


Gallery: 2012 Lexus LFA

Continue reading Watch the legendary Lexus LFA reach the end of the line

Watch the legendary Lexus LFA reach the end of the line originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Wed, 20 Mar 2013 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> documentaryfactoryfilmjapanLexusLexus LF-Alexus lfalexus lfa nurburgring editionLFAproductionvideo Wed, 20 Mar 2013 14:15:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20509856/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/20/watch-legendary-lexus-lfa-reach-end-of-the-line/20509856/article-detail.xml 20509856 http://www.blogcdn.com/ca.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/lexus-lfa-1_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/ca.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/lexus-lfa-1.jpg <![CDATA[Dealer service satisfaction rises, Lexus and GMC are tops]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/17/dealer-service-satisfaction-rises-lexus-and-gmc-are-tops/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/17/dealer-service-satisfaction-rises-lexus-and-gmc-are-tops/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/17/dealer-service-satisfaction-rises-lexus-and-gmc-are-tops/#comments Filed under: , , ,



During the economic downturn, many car dealerships counteracted their slowing income by focusing on things that would set them apart from competition - things like the quality of customer service they provide. When the economy picked up and more sales and service followed, many also first invested those funds back into the business, improving their dealership facilities and service centers.

It looks like those investments are paying off, as J.D. Power and Associates' latest Customer Service Index Study shows that overall consumer satisfaction with dealer service has increased to 797 (on a 1,000-point scale), up from 787 in 2012 and 29 points higher than the score in 2011. The study also finds that people are more satisfied with the service they get at dealerships compared to independent service providers, despite the much higher average out-of-pocket cost per visit (US$118 vs. US$44).

Note, however, that this study only looks at how people are treated by a dealer's service department during the first three years of ownership (the survey is based on responses from 91,000 owners and lessees of 2008 to 2012 model year vehicles), so we're talking about the experience had when bringing a car in for repair or maintenance work, most likely under warranty. In fact, maintenance work is increasing in share and accounted for 77 per cent of service visits (up from 72 per cent in 2012 and 63 per cent in 2011). This helps explain why customer satisfaction has also risen, since a properly maintained car is one that's less likely to require a dealer visit for an unexpected repair.

Of the automakers, Lexus again ranks highest in customer satisfaction for dealer service for the fifth consecutive year with a CSI score of 862. What might surprise you is that GMC is the highest-scoring mass market brand, with a CSI score of 819. Scroll below to see the rest of the rankings and pour over more data from the study.

Continue reading Dealer service satisfaction rises, Lexus and GMC are tops

Dealer service satisfaction rises, Lexus and GMC are tops originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Sun, 17 Mar 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> car repairscar servicecsicustomer servicecustomer service indexgmcjd powerjd power and associateslexus Sun, 17 Mar 2013 16:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20504452/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/17/dealer-service-satisfaction-rises-lexus-and-gmc-are-tops/20504452/article-detail.xml 20504452 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/lexus-jd-power-consumer-service-satisfaction-01_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/lexus-jd-power-consumer-service-satisfaction-01.jpg -1 2