Every year, many people’s favorite part of the Super Bowl are the commercials. Year after year, it seems like more and more automotive-related commercials are being aired. For 2012, the Super Bowl XLVI didn’t disappoint, with a range of funny car commercials. Check them all out below:

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Chevy Sonic “Stunt Anthem”

Hyundai Veloster Turbo – “Cheetah”

2012 Acura NSX – “Transactions” (Jerry Seinfeld)

Chevy Silverado – “2012″ (The one Ford asked Chevy not to air)

Cars.com – “Confident You”

2012 Honda CR-V – “Matthew’s Day Off” (aka “Honda’s Ferris Bueller Commericial”)

2012 Audi S7 – “Vampire Party”

2012 Toyota Camry – “It’s Reinvented”

Hyundai Genesis Coupe – “Think Fast”

2012 Kia Optima Big Game – “A Dream Car. For Real Life.”

Cadillac ATS – “Green Hell”

Suzuki Kizashi – “Sled” (with 50 Cent)

2013 Lexus GS – “Beast”

Fiat 500 Abarth – “Seduction”

Chrysler – “It’s Halftime in America”

2012 Volkswagen Beetle – “The Dog Strikes Back”

Bridgestone – “Performance Football”

2012 Toyota Camry – “Connections”

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A quick look at the top 10:

10. Police in the Netherlands have a hand-built Spyker C8. The Spyder Roadster uses a V-8 Audi 4.2 Liter power plant to push this cruiser to its limits in terms of speed and handling. However, it doesn’t quite have the same curb appeal as:

9. Lamborghini Gallardo. Two vehicles in London’s Metropolitan Police have been used since 2005 and 2006 as publicity, provided by Lamborghini. Often referred to as the Yellow Gallardos they bear the yellow and blue markings and are fitted with a small light bar. They are not however, used as part of the department’s regular cruiser force.

8. There’s not much that can be said about the Mini Cooper version of a police car, other that their power plant and sturdy frame can take them many places that traditionally sized police cars can’t go.

7. For luxury, the Lexus IS Humberside features a 5 Liter V-8 with a top speed of 168 miles per hour, although it could be faster except for the electronic governor limits. The extra communications equipment and computers in the vehicle has not slowed it down any and aids officers in their pursuit of the ne’er do wells.

6. Not many crooks can take their eyes off a Porsche Carrera S, especially when it’s flashing red and blue lights in their rear view mirror. This cruiser was used in Germany to attempt to promote car safety as well as some of the illegal methods car lovers use to outfit their vehicles.

5. With many car companies developing show vehicles, putting together police cars, Ferrari wasn’t left out of the loop with its 612 Scaglietti HGTS. The special cruiser, housing the V-12 four-seat vehicle was part of its 60^th anniversary parade through the United Kingdom.

4. When Sussex police get together with young drivers and talk about road safety, the youngsters pay more attention with the police show up in their Lotus Exige. Showing up in such as vehicle often gets the youngsters’ attention and allows the police to address road safety issues.

3. The Mitsubishi Evo-X Lancer offers more than just performance and power. Its image plays a strong part in disturbing crime on the Yorkshire streets in the United Kingdom. The sight of the vehicle is often enough to eliminate the need for a high-speed chase.

2. Only one U.S. vehicle, the Chevrolet Camaro is considered one the coolest police vehicles, but this one, built on a Camaro SS frame, a local car shop built this vehicle for the Haltom City, Texas department and has a muscle-car influence in the community.

1. The number one coolest police car is the 225-mile per hour V-12 housed in a Mercedes CLS Brabus Rocket. It was built for a safety campaign in Germany, but it still causes excitement when it is seen at motor shows around the world.

The Article is a contribution by John Smith; John has a passion for cars and technology, he often looks out for new and innovative technology. His great knowledge makes him an avid writer as well. Visit his site Aanbesteding politievoertuigen and politie aanbesteding.

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Leave it to Lexus to deliver me a convertible as soon as it’s too cold to put the top down. Of course, I did anyway, for the sake of testing. Despite looking like an idiot with the the top down, both windows up, and the heat on full blast, I had to experience the car in full so I could report it to you, faithful Automoblog readers. Okay now, top up for the rest of the test.

The nice thing about retractable hardtops is when the top is up, it looks and drives like a standard coupe, and provides (almost) the same amount of protection from weather and road & wind noise. If you want a convertible, it seems like it’s the way to go. Of course, they aren’t without their downsides. First, they’re heavy – the IS 250C is about 400 lbs heavier than its fixed-roof sedan cousin. They’re also expensive, and the not-so-pliable aluminum roof takes up extra space when it’s folded up in the trunk. A lot of extra space, actually. To put the top down, you have to open up the trunk and move a cargo cover into the right spot first, reducing cargo room from a decent 10.8 cubic feet to a measly 2.4. Once everything’s in place, it’ll take 20 seconds for the top to fold back and into that 8.8 cubic ft.

The Lexus IS-series hasn’t changed their styling in a few years, which isn’t a bad thing – it’s a good-looking car. The IS-C lacks some of the sharp lines of the fixed-roof IS and replaces them with a stretched ass-end, throwing some proportions out of order for the sake of the folding top. It’s still a good-looking car, but looks awkward from certain angles. If you’ve always wanted a two-door Lexus IS though, it’s the only way to get one. I would like to see a proper IS Coupe one of these days, preferably via the IS-F. If you’re looking for something a little sportier, you can add plenty of F-Sport options to the IS, including 19-inch alloy wheels and tires, and a big brake kit.

While inside, you’ll get the typical Lexus treatment – a beautifully designed interior, comfy leather seats, steering wheel audio and cruise controls with power tilt/telescope, four power windows, Lexus’ 8-speaker audio system with Bluetooth and USB input, and plenty of other Lexus-y standard features. Our tester came with the Luxury Package, which adds HID headlights, heated & cooled front seats, nicer leather, wood trim, front memory seats, rain-sensing wipers, illuminated door sills, and a power one-touch front seat slide & fold, which I found to be more awkward than useful. Those extras tack on $3,055 onto the base $41,060 for the IS 250C. We also had the navigation system with backup camera and park assist, which added up to another $3,000 or so. A couple other accessories and our total was up to $48,192 after delivery. The touch-screen nav is still the old antiquated unit we’re used to in Lexuses, lagging quite far behind the German competitors in technology and ease of use.

The 2012 Lexus IS-C comes in two main flavors – the 250C that we drove, which comes standard with a 6-speed manual (or $1,170 more for the 6-speed auto,) and a small, 2.5-liter V6 that puts out 204 hp. That’s the one we drove, and while it’s not necessarily lacking in power, I feel like it could use a bit more. If you’re like me, you’d step up into the IS 350C, which is equipped with their 3.5-liter V6, producing a more gutsy 306 hp. Of course, you’re sacrificing a few MPGs with 102 more horsepower, but not as much as you’d think; the 250C gets 21/30 mpg, the 350C gets 19/27. Interestingly, if you opt for the manual transmission, you’ll actually see a decrease in economy – it will get you 19/28 mpg.

The Lexus IS platform is RWD, which makes for a more pleasant driving experience than an equivalent FWD. Driven aggressively, it can even be fun, although the 350C will be better suited for that than the 250. While the regular IS sedan can be had with an AWD option, the IS-C is available only in RWD, which makes sense, given it’ll likely be driven in warmer climates. Given its drop-top nature, Lexus, as you may expect, did a good job keeping down the noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) characteristics, keeping true to their reputation. When they turned the sedan into a convertible, Lexus engineers changed the suspension to better dampen the ride, and added plenty of sound absorption and insulation materials to keep the NVH numbers down pretty damn close to the sedan’s.

So what are your alternatives? My top picks in this segment are the Audi A5 Cabriolet (soft-top) and BMW 3-Series (hard-top.) Other good choices: Infiniti G37 Convertible, Volvo C70 T5, and Mercedes E-Class Cabriolet. If price is a concern, the BMW and Mercedes will set you back a bit more than the others, in general.

Overall, the 2012 Lexus IS 250 C is a nice ride, and a decent choice in this (seemingly overpriced) segment, with a high-class interior, comfortable ride, and fun-to-drive demeanor.

Before you Buy

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In the early part of the 2000s, Lexus was the revered luxury automobile benchmark winning over customers with premium comfort and technology. However, the past several years have seen the Toyota-backed luxury car division fall from good graces. Following the release of 2011 United States sale results, the Lexus brand continues a descent downward in their reputation for modern luxury car prestige. Selling 198,552 vehicles total in 2011, Lexus saw its unit sales drop by roughly 14.5 percent over 2010. An even more troubling for Lexus cars and crossover vehicles is the sale losses compared to the 2007 calendar year. Distressing for their passenger cars, Lexus has seen their product demand plunge almost by one-half to 101,181. Despite the debut of a redesigned GX 460 and two new cars debuting for 2012 model year (the CT 200h and the GS 350), the passion in the Lexus division is still lacking in a competitive luxury car market.

A reputation damaged by the Toyota company’s accelerator issue of 2009, Lexus also lost favour with luxury car buyers with questionable new vehicle styling. Looking for chance to gain enthusiasm for the luxury division, the purebred supercar Lexus LFA vaulted the stylized ‘L’ badge to the front covers of many auto magazines. Produced for a limited run of 500 vehicles at an American list price of over $375,000, the 552-horsepower LFA has little chance to provide a sizable billboard to Lexus’ brand vehicles.

In mid-December, teaser images of an exciting new design concept have given the Lexus loyalists an early Christmas present. Serving a taste of what would be a show car ahead of the 2012 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, a close shot of the front headlamp housing and air intake was released ahead of a second picture detailing some exquisite interior contours. With a week ahead of the Detroit automotive exhibit, the Lexus LF-LC breaks cover as a hybrid-propelled sport coupe concept.

An aggressive design assertion, this 2012 show car is the Lexus division’s latest exercise with the LF Series design studies that has been intimately attached to look of future production products. Presented in bright red, the Lexus LF-LC radiates a Ferrari-like silhouette. Sporty yet romance, the premium sport coupe LF-LC concept car wears a wide front end that emphasizes Lexus design cues in a most embellished manner. A big, chrome mesh grille features an inward bodywork points. A 2+2 sport coupe design, the LF-LC concept vehicle wears a glass roof that angles down to the fastback rear window.

The LF-LC will be a showcase for a yet to be determined hybrid gasoline-electric powertrain. Being a performance application, the electric propulsion system in the Lexus LF-LC will likely be configured around providing a power boost over the gasoline engine rather than supply fuel saving. For Lexus, their four available production hybrid vehicles in 2012 is one area positively defining the luxury division. Lexus stands at the forefront in the premium category with hybrid or electric vehicle technology use while other competitors like Mercedes-Benz and BMW have only been dipping their toes in the electrified car market.

When the Lexus LF-LC hybrid sports coupe concept debuts physically, there will be a lot of attention on the other innovations brought forward in the design study. In the time that will follow the 2012 North American International Auto Show, it will be interesting to see how Lexus adapts the lessons gained in the LF-LC concept.

Information and photo source: Toyota Motor Corporation

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Next year’s North American International Auto Show looks like it will be hosting a lot of exciting launches. The show begins in just a few weeks; after New Years we should see some heavy leaking of launches prior to the show.

Lexus and Acura are both slated to bring coupe concepts, providing an interesting contrast at the two cars. Lexus has already released a teaser image of the headlight area of their as-yet-unnamed concept. It appears to be a very aggressive design for Lexus, using more surfacing and aggressive themes than ever. Lexus is heralding it as a vision for the future of the brand. Still, it is a concept, not a production vehicle. Some were disappointed at the watered-down production GS.

It isn’t clear is if the concept coupe is just a design study or if it previews a production car. The SC430 is the only remotely similar thing Lexus has offered in recent years, and it is a lackluster product that has been in need of replacement for a long time.

The interior of the concept looks exquisitely crafted from the image. There is a lounge-like design making use of large swaths of leather and wood panels. While we’ve yet to see the rest of the inside, what is there looks gorgeous. Hopefully its an indication of what is in store for future Lexus models.

Exterior design is where Lexus needs to focus on though, especially if it intends to attract a younger audience. IS is our favorite Lexus, but we think it could use a dose of aggressiveness next time around. Due to its target market, Lexus is likely to be more daring with that car than say the ES, LS or even the recently-introduced GS. Maybe this concept will offer an indication of what to expect. Its long-running United States crown taken, recent moves indicate that Lexus is preparing a new market offensive. Stiff competition is always good for buyers, who have a better selection of top-notch vehicles to choose from than ever.

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Its decade-long sales crown in the United States being stolen (and resoundingly so), Lexus has recognized it needs a change in its product lineup. For years Lexus has held an allure being the reliable luxury manufacturer – you know, the relentless pursuit of perfection. But recalls and bad press have tattered that image somewhat, along with a generally lackluster product line. For Lexus the shining star of the lineup has been the rear-wheel drive IS.

The first efforts of a new era for the company (so they say) were said to be the new GS sedan. It debuted a bit more bold design, with a spindle grille, and more importantly what Lexus is billing as an engaging driving experience. We’ll have to drive it to see for ourselves, but the indications are that it is a big improvement over its predecessor in that regard. The GS, we thought, was the future of Lexus styling.

A new concept coming at the Detroit show could preview an even bolder direction though, one we could see on models like the IS. In fact, the IS is where we are most likely to see styling risks taken. Do you think they are going to take any on the Camry-based ES? Probably not…

A teaser has been released that only shows a bit of the front-end area. It looks cool, but its just one part of the car…and it is a concept after all. No indication on how much this will influence production cars. What Lexus needs is a bold, engaging design strategy that will make people want to be seen in their cars.

A reputation for reliability just isn’t cutting it right now, especially with the free maintenance and attractive lease deals being offered by the competition. Can Lexus find its way? Right now they are at a low point in their product cycle. Once the GS, new IS and ES are all out we could see sales rise significantly. Whether they can fix underlying problems with their brand though remains to be seen.

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Lexus made waves with the new GS luxury sedan when they opted for exclusive V-6 power. The GS 350, launched at Pebble Beach Concours d’ Elegance, would only offer a V-8 engine in the yet-to-be-released GS-F high-performance variant.

It is a pretty bold move, but it follows a trend of engine downsizing. The competition nearly all continue to offer V-8 engines in their mid-size cars however. Today Lexus is taking the downsizing trend even further with a GS 250 model. The IS 250 has always been known as a base model variant, and the moniker comes to the GS as well. They must really be planning the GS to count for a lot of volume.

The car has been introduced in China, at the International Automobile Exhibition in Guangzhou. The GS 250 follows two other trim levels already released, the standard GS 350 and GS 450h hybrid. 250 means a 2.5-liter V-6, putting out just 209 horsepower and 187 pound feet of torque. Those figures result in a decidedly un-luxury-like 8.6-second 0-62 mph time. The GS 250 is paired with a close-ratio six-speed automatic transmission and, like the other cars, is available with Lexus’ line of F Sport accessories (pictured).

For now Lexus says that the 250 will be sold in China, Japan and Europe. North America is interestingly lacking from that list. Could it be they opt to keep this one an international-market car only?

Given Lexus’ more upmarket status here in the U.S and a potential conflict with the IS 250, that could be the case. The question will be what they do with the next-generation rear-wheel drive IS. BMW has moved to a base-model four-cylinder with the new 3-Series, and word on the street is that other competitors such as the Cadillac ATS will be following. Lexus has seen a hesitance to have turbocharged engines though. We just want to see the V-8 powered GS-F sports sedan already….

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The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show in Las Vegas is ramping up. SEMA is the biggest auto show for aftermarket companies to introduce new products. Surprisingly, Lexus has used the show as a platform to introduce the new GS 350 F Sport. It follows a unique debut strategy for the GS that has largely bypassed the traditional launch shows. For instance, the GS 350 first appeared at Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance in August.

The F-Sport is a package primarily about appearance, the latest in a line of packages that aims to provide more visual aggressiveness. This isn’t a GS-F, and we know, that’s what you’re really looking forward to. That car will ditch the GS’ 306 horsepower V-6 for a V-8 with considerably more power. The GS 350 F-Sport builds on what initial tests have said is an already engaging driving experience with the standard rear-wheel drive GS.

Underneath the skin, the F-Sport includes new bushings, a firmer adaptive suspension, beefier anti-roll bars and larger front brake discs up. Those larger discs hide behind new 19-inch alloys, which are the largest to ever be fitted to a Lexus production sedan.

Visuals on the F-Sport are all-important; and the question is are they an improvement? We definitely think so; the GS is a good-looking sedan that blows away the previous car. F-Sport turns up the heat without being too over-the-top. The GS-F will serve that purpose (hopefully).

The F Sport is differentiated by a new mesh front grille, redesigned fascia with bigger air vents, a new rear bumper with diffuser and a lip spoiler. Inside, a new power sports seat is the biggest substantive change. The seat is 16-way and is equipped with power side bolsters, side support, four-way lumbar and an adjustable seatback – “a Lexus-first.” Aluminum trim, perforated leather, aluminum pedals and a black headliner round out the changes to the interior.

The F Sport is available with two new exclusive colors, Liquid Platinum (pictured) and Riviera Red, which features glass flakes in the paint. Both paints use special processes developed by Lexus engineers. Starfire Pearl, Nebula Gray Pearl and Obsidian black are also available. The F Sport will be available on rear- and all-wheel drive GS models, starting with the GS model. Stay tuned for pricing info. Until then, check out our gallery below.

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What is up with Lexus lately? The company is indicating a new focus on performance and engaging driving characteristics. The GS is supposed to be one of the first fruits of that effort. Emblematic of a change in focus is the recent news that LFA Nurburgring Edition took the record for best time at the track by a production car. It was set by a factory driver from Lexus, and it stands at 7:14.64, an impressive figure by any right.

Lexus is using experience from creating the LFA and putting it into its performance lineup that as-of-yet only includes the IS-F. That car will soon be joined by the V-8 powered GS-F, a car many of us are looking forward to.

While the idea has been thrown around by Hirokazu Koga, general manager of the Lexus Development Center, the LS is a vehicle you might never expect to wear the F badge. It seems antithetical to its nature, but stranger things have happened.

Via Autoblog, an LS was spotted testing at the ‘Ring, and not just any LS, mind you – one looking much more sporty than we’ve ever seen it. The LS being tested has a full body kit with side skirts, a beefier front fascia, and an altered hood and grille. First thought would be that its an aftermarket company, but Autoblog says that it isn’t the case.

What exactly is going on isn’t clear though; it could be Lexus testing for the GS-F’s engine, or a one-off concept at an upcoming autoshow to gauge reaction. Or, it could be that it is indeed an LS F in the works. That would be pretty dramatic; even BMW doesn’t offer an M version of the 7-Series. Currently, Mercedes-Benz has the market for mainstream super sedans all to itself with the S63. Let us know what you think, and head over to Autoblog to check out the spy shots gallery.

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Lexus took the wraps off its GS 350 sedan at Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance last month. It isn’t wasting time introducing the rest of the lineup though. Sometimes manufacturers spread out launches longer to create interest; Lexus is ditching that strategy.

After releasing some teasers of the F performance model of the GS, which is coming for the first time. Lexus has chose Frankfurt to introduce the new GS 450h. With the GS 450h, Lexus, as with the previous-generation car, ignores its usual naming convention that includes engine size in the moniker. Why not just call it GS 350h? Go figure. Like its standard counterpart, the GS 450h is powered by a 3.5-liter V-6. In this application though, it is running the Atkinson-cycle. Lexus says it is the first “world’s first premium performance sedan to be equipped with a V6 Atkinson cycle gas engine and two-motor hybrid system, in a front engine rear-wheel drive vehicle.”

Combined with a high-output electric motor, the setup makes 338 horsepower and Lexus isn’t revealing how much torque. Electric engines are known for their torque, so we would imagine its an impressive figure. Interesting why they aren’t bragging on that. The GS 450h is capable of operating under purely electric power, and it has five modes: Normal, Eco, Sport S, Sport S+ and EV. 0-60 arrives in 5.6 seconds, versus 5.7 seconds for the standard car.

The GS 450h’s number is down versus the previous generation models 0-60 time of 5.4 seconds. However, efficiency is said to have been improved by more than 30 percent; official mileages estimates from the EPA will be arriving later.

With that, there is only one model left to reveal, the GS-F. The GS-5 also happens to be the most anticipated, and the only GS model powered by a V-8. Lexus has made a bold move paring the GS lineup down to only V-6 power in its standard cars. Most of the competition offers V-8 engines on their mid-size sedans, but that could change as the overall market is moving toward increased efficiency.

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The Lexus we’ve been hearing about most lately is the new GS, and rightfully so. The GS is a mainstream product that Lexus hopes will greatly increase its market share in the mid-size luxury segment.

Before that though, the LFA super car was the center of attention for a long time. Now, news of a record-breaking Nurburgring run is shifting the spotlight back.

The Nurburgring is one of the world’s toughest tracks and a pretty universally-accepted measurement of a vehicle’s capabilities. Almost every performance model is tested on the track, and increasingly more production cars run the ‘Ring.

For those looking for better handling characteristics in cars across the board, that is indeed a good thing. Thanks to its prominence, Lexus released a special edition Nurburgring version of its LFA super car.

The front-engined LFA has received criticism for not having enough sense of occasion to match its $375,000 price tag, as well as not turning in a world-beating specifications. Lexus is looking to counter that with what looks to be a record breaking run. The news was reported by Lexus Enthusiast via the Twitter account of Lexus Europe and EVO magazine writer Chris Harris.

The run was undertaken by Lexus driver Akira Iida, who posted a time of 7 minutes and 14 seconds. That is good enough to break the standing record for a vehicle produced currently by a mainstream manufacturer, and the fourth or fifth all-time fastest lap at the track. Vindication? Could be. The Porsche 911 GT2 RS has held the record since April 2010 with a time of 7 minutes and 18 seconds.

We’d like to see what Ferrari could pull off at the track with a factory-sponsored driver. Would be interesting. For now, this isn’t official. But if true you can expect an official confirmation and possibly video coming very soon. No doubt about it, this is something Lexus will want to crow about.

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The current-generation Lexus GS hasn’t caught sold as well as Lexus had hoped. While other models in the company’s stable (such as the ES and RX) have historically done extremely well, the GS just didn’t connect with consumers.

Instead, those looking for a rear-wheel drive luxury sedan have turned to chief competitors, Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz more than ever before (particularly the latter two). As such, those manufacturers are squarely in Lexus’ targets this time around. But, to reach a new buyer base there needs to be compelling product.

Lexus has always had the rational side of the equation figured out – reliability, resale value, and the like. But what about the emotional factors that drive a lot of expensive purchases?

Lexus cars have never been known for their engaging driving experience. They are looking to change that though with a new GS, set to debut next month at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance.

One of the ways to generate more excitement is new models geared toward enthusiasts – think LFA as the most extreme example, but also the IS-F sedan. Following those lines, a GS Coupe is an interesting possibility for this segment, and it is one that Lexus is looking at. Ben J. Mitchell, Lexus product planner told Inside Line he’s for it: “I’d like to do a coupe….we’re really trying to increase the emotional qualities of our brand. We want to emphasize exterior styling and dynamics.”

Lexus is undergoing a “fairly active study of coupe opportunities.” We think the project makes a lot of sense – a sports coupe that wasn’t in the ridiculous price range of the LFA could help attract a different kind of clientele, if done right. In fact, a coupe variant for the next-generation IS makes a lot of sense as well (maybe even more so). We’ll see what becomes of this. Clearly though, Lexus is intent on stepping up its game, and that is good news for everyone.

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Lexus hasn’t been having the best time in its history lately. The brand has experienced problem after problem over the past few years – whether with recalls by parent company Toyota, the “unintended acceleration” issues and most recently the Japanese tsunami and earthquake.

This year the brand is poised to lose its billing as the largest seller of luxury cars in the United States – and by a big margin. Some say the problems were in the making before these issues came up though, due to an aging lineup and aging customer base.

Lexus is looking to turn that around though with more exciting and engaging models. The GS is supposedly the first example of a renewed emphasis on product from Lexus – one we’ll see as soon as next month, according to AutoGuide.

We’ve got somewhat of a look at the production GS already, thanks to the LF-Gh concept that debuted at the New York International Auto Show. The new GS will be getting a much bolder design language than the previous car. The previous-generation GS was a flop, never reaching large percentages of market share against competitors like the BMW 5-Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class and Audi A6.

This time around, Lexus wants to make a bigger dent in the market. The mid-size luxury sedan market is relatively high-volume, and given the prices of entry, very profitable as well.

Debuting the car at Pebble Beach makes sense given its prestigious nature and what Lexus is trying to convey with the GS. Given that it is a rumor for now and not official yet, AutoGuide reached out to Lexus for comment. Lexus communications manager Ming-Jou Chen made a statement, saying: “We haven’t made any announcements……but it wouldn’t be a bad idea to keep an eye out during Pebble Beach.”

Sounds like as good of a confirmation as any at this point. The GS is an example of the future of Lexus and how seriously it intends to compete. Beset by problems and flagging sales, the GS needs to be successful. We’ll see if it has the goods to do just that next month.

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Even in the least positive times, an auto show and the creations inhabiting the festivity can indulge us with optimism for what the future. Through complexities occurring on Japan after the earthquake and tsunami has left only a bleak present state for Toyota automobile production. A much needed treat to a forward look, the Japanese auto company’s Lexus brand is putting on a brave face revealing the latest merger of luxury and performance. Presented with teaser images last week on Automoblog.net, the Lexus LF-Gh Hybrid is presented in full glory in time for its world debut at the 2011 New York International Auto Show.

Expected to project a strong representation for what the upcoming Lexus GS sedan, the 192.5 inch long and 73.6 inch wide LF-Gh design concept overcomes the mundane image of current model vehicle. Allowed to break loose with “a clean sheet of paper“, Lexus Design Division of Toyota implants their impression of the future premium sports sedan in every line carved on the LF-Gh Hybrid. Enacting some sportier styling traits derived from the Lexus IS production model, the concept sedan is realized first for an intimidating front end where Lexus design DNA is given a sharper intent. The side profile of the Lexus LF-Gh Hybrid concept is graceful yet shaping allows emphasis on the sport sedan’s wheels. Chrome-plated 20-inch wheels, the performance rims relays the LF-Gh Hybrid’s aggressive desires with class.

The center grille is placed inside an X-like contour with an illuminated Lexus badge glowing blue for added presentation. Shining bright with LED lighting, headlamps, taillights and fog lights also casts a battle against darkness while using the minimum amount of energy. The Lexus LF-Gh’s daytime running lights and taillights artistically incorporate the letter ‘L’ within the LED flow.

Inside, the Lexus concept car shows off a sedan-like cabin consisting on high-quality leather. A perfect grand touring landscape, the LF-Gh Hybrid’s interior supplies the driver with the richest experience. Meter panel instruments are clearly viewed by the motorist with the promise of intuitive operability. The addition of an analog timepiece is shown off in a regal 3-D display.

Composed as a rear-wheel drive sport sedan concept, the Lexus LF-Gh Hybrid accomplished performance look is to be accompanied by a significant powertrain. A rolling concept car, specific information on propulsion has been revealed in relations to the Lexus LF-Gh Hybrid only to affirm it optimizes a gasoline-electric powertrain. There would likely be few complaints if the current GS 450h’s 3.5 liter gasoline engine with two electric motors setup were maintained on an upcoming production model. It would make the premium sport sedan even more presentable if Lexus improves on the 340 horsepower performance of the 2011 GS 450h.

A hot-selling luxury car brand in the United States, the concept car’s uncovering at the New York International Auto Show is not a surprise. Besides the production interruption of vehicle manufacturing in Japan, Lexus’ first quarter of 2011 is particularly tough on the division in United States sales. As of the end of March, Lexus is trailing competitors Cadillac and Infiniti in overall vehicle sales for the first 3 months of 2011. An ever-evolving premium sedan segment, recent entrants such as the Hyundai Genesis as well as the redesigned BMW 5 Series have upped the stakes in the vehicle category. Targeted as a mid-level sport sedan, the Lexus LF-Gh Hybrid hints to being a great equalizer in the making.

Information and photo source: Toyota Motor Sales USA

Related posts:

1. Lexus LF-LC Hybrid Sports Coupe Concept Revealed
2. The Lexus CT 200h Compact Hybrid is Coming to the States
3. Lexus Teases LF-GH Concept Ahead of NYIAS

Lexus isn’t known for a daring styling language or engaging driving experience. Instead, Lexus has made a name for itself offering quiet and composed luxury. In other words, not terribly exciting. That has been a winning recipe however, as evidenced by Lexus’ rein at the top of the sales charts since 2000.

The past few years have seen some signs that consumers are looking for something different though – this year Mercedes-Benz and BMW are ahead in sales. Lexus models like the IS and IS F have aimed to offer a more sporting character, but the rest of the Lexus lineup hasn’t followed suit.

Lexus is looking to change that with its lineup of next-generation vehicles. The current GS Sedan, while rear-wheel drive, is dated and uncompetitive with the crop of mid-size luxury sedans. Given it is such a high volume segment, it is imperative that Lexus step up its game.

The New York International Auto Show is later this month, and Lexus is showing off a new LF-GH concept that aims to show the styling future of the Lexus brand. It also gives us a good hint of what to expect for the next-generation GS. The teasers show the rear taillight and front headlight. And surprise – we like what we see. Could this be what Lexus needs to turn up the excitement and create a defining design language for itself? We’ll find out soon enough when the car debuts at the New York show.

Related posts:

1. Detroit 2012: Lexus Teases Concept Previewing Bolder Design
2. The Lexus LF-Gh Hybrid Concept Car Exposed
3. Lexus LF-LC Hybrid Sports Coupe Concept Revealed