GS69

Lexus Delays LF-A & GS-F; Redesigned RX & Small-SUV on the Way
While the rest of the market moves away from the SUV segment, Lexus has been enjoying increasing sales of the RX crossover and its large GX and LX SUVs. While dealers are hoping that its passenger cars see an update, which are starting to look pretty outdated, redesigns for the brands sedans are still a couple of years away.

In the near feature, Lexus will debut a redesigned RX next year along with a decicated hybrid model to debut at the 2009 Detroit Auto Show.

The Lexus IS sedan won’t see a redesign until 2012, however a coupe/convertible are expected to arrive in the spring of 2009 as a 2010 model. The ES redesign will come in 2011 as a 2012 model and a hybrid model will carry the V6 from the RX400h. LS will get a redesign in 2013.

As for high-performance F versions - the Lexus GS-F which was supposed to carry on the torch from the Lexus IS-F has been put on hold until the economy improves. The GS lineup is expected to get redesign in 2011 which should give Lexus enough time to make a decision.

The production version of the Lexus LF-A has also been delayed. It was supposed to arrive this year but insiders say that the model isn’t hitting performance targets to be priced as a $160,000+ performance car. Not to mention launching a six-figure sports car at a time like this may be suicidal for Lexus. Sources say that Lexus will most likely wait until 2010 or early 2011.

Lexus is also planning a small-crossover - a Toyota RAV4 version for Lexus. The small-crossover will compete with the BMW X3 and GLK and will arrive as a 2013 model.

dunnojack

that's ok.

nothing a turbo/supercharger, new suspension, bodykits can't fix.

flipside909

Yeah but how much are you willing to spend to make an S/C or Turbo kit work properly?

Mixman

This was the right decision by Lexus as their isn't much of a market for the GS-F now......hell there isn't much demand for the GS's period.

All Lexus needs is a sports option on their models, like Infiniti offers. Maybe for $3K extra, better brakes, better suspension, larger wheels and a modest body kit. That will help the brand more, without costing Lexus a whole lot more money.

I8ABMR

dude as long as they re-do the RX. That thing is busted as hell. same design since...... well way to long. It has to be from the late 90's. Ugly, old,and FWD. NEXT!!!!!

EyeKutr

iTrader: (5)

Actually the rx has looked the same since the 04 model year, and is a hot seller. It will be FWD in the next generation as well.

The G Man

I am sure Lexus wasnt in a hurry to change the RX, since its the best selling Lexus model. Sometimes when you change a design, it can be for the worst, just look at BMW and their whole line of ugly cars.

dunnojack

i think you can make the RX look like a Pontiac Aztek, and it will still sell like hotcakes.

The G Man

Well, I wouldnt go that far, the Aztek was a pretty ugly car

boaclub923

i'm not that crazy about redesigning RX,
but seriously, they should at least put smart-key function on that car!!
RX is still using keys!! that's the reason why i choose GS over RX

beercity

Sad to read this about the GS... but agree, it's the right thing to do with this economy... not like they're going to be selling them in Europe. Just wish they'd come out with performance F parts for the GS.

SNiiP3R

iTrader: (3)

Most likely we'll see a GS-F model after 2011, because there is no point for Lexus to make GS-F in 2010 if in 2011 GS will get redesigned. So, it makes sense to delay the release of GS-F. The 4th Gen will have GS-F in GS line up I think.

Stormforge

IMHO, 4th gen GS-F will come out only if the US economy improves. With the sub-prime credit crunch worsening and no end in sight, it will take years before the US economy can get out of this mess. It doesn't make financial sense to bring out an F model if the demand for your product is sliding.

valgs350

iTrader: (1)

LOL

BMW still uses a key, you put the key in and then push the button, lol

RX is a nice car and a reason I like Lexus is cause you buy a $40,000 car and never have to worry about a new style for 6-7 years!

whlkev

maybe on the lower end models, but the 7 series has the comfort entry, which is the same as the keyless from Lexus

I think BMW's push start design is to avoid key battery running out and you can't start the car, even though Lexus says you can start the car with battery on very low, but CL members have reported saying they can't start the car at all until they've replaced the batteries

and 6-7 years redesign? isn't that kinda the same for a lot of makers? BMW e46 3 series ran from 98-2005