Aerodynamics's or Not?

Reply Subscribe

Thread Tools

Search this Thread

Aug 8, 2012 | 01:38 PM

GRPFAN

Thread Starter

Pole Position

Joined: Nov 2011

Posts: 396

Likes: 1

From: Wisconsin

Aerodynamics's or Not?

When I took my 2012 RX 350 in for the 5000 mile check-up, I got talking to the service writer about why Lexus removed features that were on other earlier models.

Example:
I ask:
Why don't Lexus add side moldings to prevent parking lot dents on the 3rd generation models?
I ask is it because of style?
Other car company's are not adding them either.

His reply was:
For the same reason they don't add cross bars on the roof racks anymore unless you add them yourself, To improve the aerodynamics for better gas mileage.

Do you buy into that?

Aug 8, 2012 | 01:46 PM

hypervish

Lexus Test Driver

Joined: Aug 2009

Posts: 5,723

Likes: 114

From: NJ

Yes, it's true. But, it may not improve it a lot. I believe Edmunds did some testing and concluded that it yields a 1% improvement in fuel economy. But, it really varies per vehicle.

Aug 8, 2012 | 02:48 PM

dctex99

Lead Lap

Joined: Mar 2012

Posts: 571

Likes: 6

From: California

Quote:

Originally Posted by hypervish

Yes, it's true. But, it may not improve it a lot. I believe Edmunds did some testing and concluded that it yields a 1% improvement in fuel economy. But, it really varies per vehicle.

The sad thing is that many of us are STUCK with these $259 crossbars; have to figure out how to remove them and pitch them....and will probably recover $2 worth of gas savings!!!!

Aug 8, 2012 | 05:49 PM

RXSF

CL Community Team

Joined: Aug 2006

Posts: 12,481

Likes: 198

From: San Francisco, CA

I think regarding the cross bars, its more wind noise than fuel economy. Also cars tend to look better without the side moldings.

Aug 8, 2012 | 06:39 PM

dctex99

Lead Lap

Joined: Mar 2012

Posts: 571

Likes: 6

From: California

Quote:

Originally Posted by RXSF

I think regarding the cross bars, its more wind noise than fuel economy. Also cars tend to look better without the side moldings.

I wish someone would tell my local Lexus dealer the moldings don't look good!! Oh wait; he puts them on everyone that hits the ground and marks them $795!!!! The 1% that complain he can rip them off and trash them having made so much on others. I guess it is part of living in a retirement area where some old people just write a check and drive away!!

Aug 8, 2012 | 07:28 PM

VVRX

Pole Position

Joined: Mar 2012

Posts: 285

Likes: 1

From: CA

Quote:

Originally Posted by RXSF

I think regarding the cross bars, its more wind noise than fuel economy. Also cars tend to look better without the side moldings.

I think that most people would agree except that in my case the crossbars are an absolute must if you carry skis like I do and have the moldings for that added protection.

Aug 8, 2012 | 07:38 PM

RXSF

CL Community Team

Joined: Aug 2006

Posts: 12,481

Likes: 198

From: San Francisco, CA

^^ i agree, if you need the cross bars, then you need them. Mine were added for some odd reason when I special ordered my awd RXh. I guess they just wanted to make a few extra bucks