Lexus e-Latch Door System Is Some Next-Level Tech
By Brett Foote

A new take on an old problem.

 

Pointless and just extra points of failure. The fact it still has mechanical backup means it's not even going to fully reduce costs, I guess it improves packaging?

I can't wait to see this trap people in cars.

 

The soft touch door on my 4Runner is pointless too

 

I would disagree, that system is amazing. I absolutely love being able to just set the door closed and have it silently finish closing. It also prevents people from slamming the doors and is a massive wow factor.

 

Soft touch doors I love. I constantly close the doors without enough force to close them, because these cars are so tight. Soft touch doors keep me from having to go back and re-close the doors.

Electronic door latches though, I just don’t get it…

 

It makes sense for flush door handles like we see on many EV's, but for the standard setup like the current Lexus models, it makes very little difference. It's almost like Toyota is overreacting to criticisms others have made over the years of their vehicles "not having enough tech" and now have a useless piece of technology just for the sake of saying they have it. Same with the yoke.

 

Personally I think flush door handles are more trouble than they’re worth too

 

At least they have a purpose, for better aero and cleaner looks. Can't say the same about the Lexus door handles which look almost no different from standard handles.

 

Did Lexus look at Tesla and say, we have to copy that because Tesla?

 

Next level tech?? Cadillac has had this for like 20 years on a lot of their cars.

I do like soft close doors, but I almost wish they'd be like soft close cabinets, let me swing it and then it should catch and slowly guide it shut.

 

Flush handles that need to pop out are gimmicky and unnecessary, but those like on the VW ID.4 and BMW iX are nice. Smooth on the surface but still have a door cup type area where the pad actuator is and you still pull the door open regularly without having to contort your hand in a weird way like so many of the flip out levers.

 

100% agree. Long term means problems. What about cold weather where they might freeze over.

great write up





I think this is why they went with them.

 

Give me a standard looking door handle any day. Some things don’t need to be improved.

 

I kinda like the e latch where the handle is fixed like on this Lexus.

 

I’ve experienced that system in the Lincoln Aviator. I just don’t get it.