Al-Futtaim Motors, the exclusive distributor of Lexus in the UAE, has announced the arrival of the 2012 models of its hybrid models – LS600h and CT200h, further accentuating Lexus strengths as a car maker with an eye on the future.
The two models- though designed to suit different needs and cater to different customers - find commonality in their potent mix of technology, sustainability and luxury. Both hybrid cars have won rave reviews in the UAE and the world over through their demonstration of quality, refinement and driving pleasure.
Saud Abbasi, General Manager Al-Futtaim Motors Lexus, said, “Lexus is leading the way in making hybrid technology mainstream. In pursuit of continuously delivering on the Lexus Promise, Lexus has moved beyond being defined by the heritage of luxury. This pursuit yielded Lexus Hybrid Drive, the world’s most advanced powertrain. In the UAE, we were the first to launch a full hybrid vehicle through the LS600h. This shows our determination to be pioneers in offering performance-savvy customers vehicles that do not compromise on luxury or comfort.”
He continued: “In its second model year, the CT200h demonstrates Lexus’s commitment to appeal to the young fun seeking customers who do not compromise on quality. With the introduction of new F-sport styling cues for exterior and interior, the car will have a greater appeal among the younger drivers.”
Characterised by a fun-to- drive appeal the new 2012 full hybrid CT200h features F-sport styling, new leather seat options, Bluetooth connectivity, and enhanced audio system with 10 speakers. The 2012 Lexus CT 200h see the Mercury Gray replacing Dark Gray as an exterior colour option.
The Lexus CT 200h’s 1.8 litre full hybrid powertrain produces performance levels equivalent to a 2 litre petrol engine. Drivers can tap into the vehicle’s full dynamic potential through a choice of driving modes which deliver distinct driving moods - dynamic or relaxing. This is demonstrated through the instant power boost delivered by the electric motor. Strong performance is not compromised by the delivery of low fuel economy and emissions; the Lexus Hybrid Drive powertrain actually enhances driving performance.
The presence of different driving modes transform both the driving style and cabin mood by modifying control of the hybrid system, vehicle stability control and electric power steering. Sport mode offers direct response and quick acceleration while the Eco mode combines emphasized fuel efficiency with relaxed driving. The instrument panel back lighting automatically shifts from hybrid blue to red when the sport mode in engaged and the hybrid power metre is replaced by the rpm display. At low speeds, up to 40kmph, Lexus CT 200h is capable of operating in electric only mode, using battery power alone while generating zero CO2 along with zero NOx emissions.
Essential to this compact full hybrid’s sporting driving experience is its highly focused driver’s cockpit. It features a low driver’s seat with enhanced lateral and lumbar support and a sporting, wide grip steering wheel. The sophisticated cockpit is designed to lessen the need for physical movement and enhance the driver’s line of vision by featuring two distinct zones – an information filled display zone and a function controlled operation zone featuring the remote touch system.
Despite the compact package, the CT 200h does not compromise interior roominess. Its long, wheelbase offers front and rear seat passenger accommodation that is amongst the most spacious in the segment. The cabin combines superior ergonomics with hand-crafted, premium quality materials to create an outstanding driving environment. The extensive use of metallic finishes and dark, soft touch materials reinforces the luxury experience.
Both CT200h and LS 600h are capable of operating in electric-only mode or with a combination of the gas engine and electric motor. Lexus hybrid technology allows electric-mode-only operation when certain conditions are met at low speeds or stop-and-go driving conditions, reducing fuel consumption and noise.
While maximizing the power, Lexus hybrid vehicles release nearly 70 % fewer smog-producing emissions than their conventional gasoline-only counterparts.
Abbasi further explained: “Lexus Hybrid cars were designed to operate in a wide range of temperatures and driving conditions, from desert heat to sub-zero cold. Even when it comes to battery life, a common concern among hybrid customers, the Lexus Hybrid Drive system’s durability is impressive. Lexus hybrid batteries are designed to operate for the full life of the vehicle itself. Even more impressive is the motor's ability to act as a high output generator. When the vehicle is coasting or the brakes are applied, the electric motors function as generators, capturing kinetic energy that would normally be lost as heat through the brakes and transforming it into useable electricity to recharge the batteries”
Being the first full hybrid vehicle to be introduced in the GCC, LS600h provides the highest level of performance, technology and luxury in the LS line. The LS 600h L hybrid powertrain system uniquely combines a 5.0-liter V8 gasoline engine with two powerful electric motors and a large-capacity battery pack. The hybrid powertrain generates a peak combined output rating of 438 horsepower and can effortlessly accelerate the LS 600h L from zero-to-60 mph in just 5.5 seconds. Mid-range acceleration is even more impressive. The system's electric motor is capable of delivering maximum torque on demand and is most beneficial during passing manoeuvres. The LS 600h L can accelerate from 50-70 mph in just 3.5 seconds.
Based on the long-wheelbase LS chassis, the flagship sedan LS600h provides the highest level of comfort and convenience features in the LS series. Standard features include rear seat with ottoman massage, Lexus voice navigation system,19 speaker Mark Levinson audio, Rear Seat Entertainment System, Intelligent parking assist -IPA- Bluetooth and hands free calling.
For theatre-level entertainment, the LS 600h L features a standard 19-speaker 450-watt Mark Levinson® Reference Surround Sound audio system.
Adding to the driver and passenger comfort are the semi-aniline leather seats with multiple power adjustments including four way lumbar support for the driver and two way lumbar support for the front seat passenger. A world first feature is the unique new pelvic support design which cushions and supports the back in an S-shaped posture position for improved comfort in the rear seats. The right rear passenger seat features a fully retractable ottoman that reclines and comes equipped with an advanced massage system.
The LS 600hL boasts a host of features that combine simple operation and comfort. Four separate climate control zones allow independent temperature, airflow mode, and air speed adjustment not only for the driver and front passenger, but for passengers in the left and right rear seats as well. This is one of the world’s most advanced climate systems; equipped with infrared sensors, it reads the temperature of a passenger’s upper and lower body, as well as the seat, and uses the information to subtly adjust the air conditioning.
Abbasi further added: “Through its power packed hybrid models Lexus is successfully erasing the common misperception that hybrid vehicles compromise power in order to deliver superior performance. On the contrary, customers now understand that through the sophisticated Lexus hybrid drive, they can expect a better performance, enhanced quietness, fuel efficiency and greater emissions control.”
