Showing posts with label NAIAS. Show all posts
Showing posts with label NAIAS. Show all posts

Lexus reveals new GS F model at 2015 North American International Auto Show


Throaty rumbles and nimble handling aren’t just for sport coupes. Meet the all-new 2016 Lexus GS F performance sedan.  It is not a standard luxury sedan or track car. The GS F rolled into the North American International Auto Show today with a growl, four doors and enough cabin space to comfortably accommodate five adults.

The GS F sports sedan, which combines a luxury cruiser with the handling of a sports car, is the latest vehicle to join the company’s high-performance “F” lineage that began in 2008 with the IS F sedan, then the fabulously exotic LFA in 2012, and just last year, the RC F coupe. Based on the mid-size GS luxury sedan, the GS F should not be confused with the GS 350 F SPORT. The GS F builds upon the GS 350 F SPORT with a comprehensive set of upgrades that re-engineer the car. From its engine, to its driveline, suspension and overall tuning that optimizes its reflexes, the GS F is an entirely new animal to the Lexus showroom.

“The cars with the ‘F’ designation are meant to generate a very positive feeling when you’re behind its steering wheel, to be something that’s fun to drive no matter who is driving or where it’s being driven,” said Yukihiko Yaguchi, GS F chief engineer. “With the GS F, we wanted to make a special car that not only would exceed the expectations of the most discerning driving enthusiast, but also something that most people can enjoy. In that way, the GS F embraces the virtues of sound, response and power, the cornerstones of the Lexus ‘F’ brand.”

Along with all the sporty touches, the GS F retains a luxurious feel, thanks partly to the high-grade Alcantara trim on the doors, on the center console and above the instrument panel. An analog clock adds a touch of class to the already elegant dashboard that features a 12.3” central video monitor controlled by the Remote Touch Interface on the center console. The GS F offers the optional 17-speaker Mark Levinson Premium Audio system that will satisfy the most demanding of audiophiles, but when drivers want to listen to the music provided by the engine, they can simply change the drive mode to “Sport” or “Sport S+” to engage the Active Sound Control. The Active Sound Control system is similar to the one found in the RC F but is enhanced with rear speakers. All occupants can enjoy the driving experience complete with robust exhaust note

Infiniti reveals Q60 Concept in Detroit


Infiniti today revealed its Q60 Concept, the precursor to a premium sports coupe that will go into production in 2016. The exhilarating concept was unveiled during Infiniti's press conference at the 2015 North American International Auto Show in Detroit this morning.

Showing a sweeping, angular exterior that underlines its power and performance intentions, the two-door coupe in concept form hints at the captivating dynamics that await premium customers.
Q60 Concept was introduced by Roland Krueger, President of Infiniti Motor Company, Ltd., in his first appearance representing the company on an auto show stage.

"One look and it is clear: Q60 Concept is a strong statement from Infiniti designers that the exhilaration is real," said Krueger. "Design is a key driver for developing a strong brand. Q60 Concept is another building block in Infiniti's quest to refresh its portfolio with a strong and consistent design language. And in 2016, we will launch a new model heavily inspired by the Q60 Concept."

Infiniti has indicated the expansion of its portfolio into smaller premium vehicles such as the upcoming production Q30, while also showing a tantalizing vision for a full-size sedan in the form of the Q80 Inspiration concept in Paris last October. The striking Q60 Concept signals Infiniti's plans to bolster offerings in the middle of the product lineup.

On the outside, the Q60 Concept boasts a road-hugging stance etched out by sharp character creases and deep recesses in the body side. The hallmark Infiniti headlamp gives the coupe a high-tech stare, with fine fiber optics like the lines of the iris radiating from the pupil.
Inside, the high-quality finishes are seen and felt in the smallest detail, from the handcrafted leather-wrapped instrument panel and steering wheel to the premium leather and quilted stitching of the seats.
Living up to its sports car image, the Q60 Concept showcases superior power from the next-generation 3.0-liter V6 engine with direct injection and twin-turbocharging – part of a new family of lighter, smaller, more efficient and more powerful engines.


With its striking design, sure sense of performance, and painstaking finish to the last detail, the Q60 Concept paves the way for Infiniti's premium sports coupe to come.


BMW i3 Samsung Galaxy Gear App Overview Video



I'm heading off to NAIAS in a few hours to cover the show for InsideEvs and one of the things I'll be doing there is meeting Horatiu Boeriu of BMWBLOG and Samsung to review and discuss their new partnership with BMW and the BMW i3 Samsung Galaxy Gear App. The above Samsung TV video shot at CES in Las Vegas last week gives an overview of the features. Hopefully I'll get more info on the partnership at the show. You can enjoy this video for now.