• EV, ECO and Normal drive modes for typical driving
• Sport drive mode for dynamic driving with enhanced steering feel
• Normal and ECO modes feature blue illumination and hybrid system indicator
• Sport mode provides red illumination and tachometer, plus less intrusive VSC and TRAC

Torrance, Calif. – Sept. 2, 2010 – The all-new 2011 CT 200h premium compact hybrid brings a contemporary, stylish flare to Lexus’ hybrid line-up. As the fifth Lexus hybrid, the CT 200h seamlessly blends its sporty and luxurious design with fun-to-drive features.

The CT 200h benefits from a new platform incorporating numerous, exclusively developed body, chassis and Lexus Hybrid Drive engineering applications designed to offer customers a choice of distinct driving modes: Sport, when the driver wants a more dynamic experience, or Normal, Eco, or EV to satisfy more typical day-to-day driving needs.

Supplementing the Normal drive mode of the new Lexus full hybrid compact’s seamless, Electronically-Controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (E-CVT), three drive modes may be selected to fit the driver’s needs or mood, while further improving either performance and dynamic ability, or driving efficiency, fuel economy and emissions.

EV, ECO and Normal drive modes place the emphasis on more relaxed driving, with particular attention paid to ride comfort, smooth acceleration and the minimization of NVH within the body, chassis and powertrain.

From start-up and at speeds of less than 25 miles per hour, the CT 200h can operate in EV mode for up to one mile driving under electric motor power alone. This unique driving mode is not available to drivers of mild hybrid vehicles, requiring the full hybrid technology of Lexus Hybrid Drive. With vehicle range dictated by battery charge, the EV drive mode allows for comfortable urban driving with minimal noise, and zero NOx and particulate emissions. Because the gas engine is switched off throughout its operation, the EV drive mode contributes to a significant reduction in the new Lexus’ overall fuel consumption.

In ECO mode, throttle response to aggressive accelerator pedal inputs is reduced and air-conditioning control optimized for improved fuel economy. Depending on driving conditions, the ECO mode can help customers adopt a relaxed driving style, and can achieve a perceptible reduction in fuel consumption.

Sport mode focuses on dynamic driving, maximizing the new CT 200h’s performance and steering feel. Engine revs are held higher, and throttle and Electric Power Steering (EPS) settings are modified to give a faster response to driver inputs. The system automatically governs the amount of steering assistance to offer more direct steering feedback and a more involving driving experience. In addition, Sport mode provides less intrusive operation of the Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control (TRAC) systems, allowing drivers to fully exploit the new Lexus full hybrid’s extended dynamic abilities.

The highly distinct characters available via the CT 200h’s Drive Mode Select function are further reinforced through changes to the driver’s instruments synchronized to driving mode selection. Backlit in hybrid blue for the EV, ECO and Normal drive modes, the instrument panel illumination automatically switches to red when the Sport mode is selected. Simultaneously, the hybrid power indicator changes to a tachometer.

With four standard drive modes offered as part of the Drive Mode Select function, CT 200h demonstrates a new hybrid attitude for luxury customers, which can simply be referred to as the Darker Side of Green.

2011 Lexus CT 200h – Hi-res. Images

• Only Dedicated Hybrid Vehicle in the Premium Compact Segment
• Expected to Lead the Class in Fuel Economy Numbers
• Standard Safety Features Include Eight Airbags

(2011 Lexus CT 200h preliminary Overview and Specs)

Originally launched in 2007, the new MAZDA2 was first introduced in Europe, Japan and Australia. Its launch created a unique offering in the B-car (subcompact) segment, especially through its distinguished design and outstanding driving performance. Since then, it has been highly acclaimed throughout the world, winning 48 automotive awards, including “Car of the Year” accolades in many markets, including Japan, New Zealand, Chile, Bulgaria and Greece. Notably, the MAZDA2 was selected as the “2008 World Car of the Year” (WCOTY) at the 2008 New York International Auto Show and has established a distinguished position in the B-Car segment. To date, total global sales have reached approximately 370,000 units in the three years since its introduction, and MAZDA2 is now recognized as one of the global models which symbolizes the essence of the Mazda brand. (2011 Mazda2 Overview)

Nissan North America, Inc. (NNA) today announced the start of order specification for the 2011 model year Nissan LEAF – the industry’s first 100-percent electric car for the mass market – for those customers who have placed a reservation online. Consumers will now be able to choose the color and trim level of their Nissan LEAF, bringing them one step closer to a tailpipe-, gas- and emission-free future.

The ordering process for Nissan LEAF will be prioritized based on when consumers submitted their original reservations online and by the consumer’s market. Over the next several weeks, reservation holders will begin to receive emails informing them how to submit an order. They will contact a dealer to negotiate their price and finalize the order for the purchase or lease of Nissan LEAF.

Once a consumer’s order has been agreed with a dealer it will be placed in sequence for production and delivery according to the consumer’s market. These future Nissan LEAF drivers will be informed of an estimated delivery timing upon completing the order process.

“Today Nissan moves one step closer to placing thousands of zero-emission electric cars on American roadways,” said Brian Carolin, senior vice president, Sales & Marketing, Nissan North America.
“As more than 80 percent of those customers placing a reservation are new to Nissan, we look forward to welcoming them as they embrace Nissan’s innovation and begin zero-emission driving.”

Nissan previously announced SV and SL trim introductory pricing for the 2011 Nissan LEAF on March 30. Today, the company is providing additional information to reservationists, including detailed factory and port installed options content. Currently, more than 18,600 people in the United States have made a reservation for the Nissan LEAF, drawing closer to the target of 20,000 reservations by December.

In preparation for the opening of the Nissan website for customer orders on Aug. 31 in California, Arizona, Tennessee, Washington and Oregon, the following specifications are being released:

MY 2011 Nissan LEAF SV: $32,780

MY 2011 Nissan LEAF SL: $33,720

Quick Charge Option: $700
Available with the SL trim, this charge port on the vehicle will allow for charging to 80 percent capacity in 30 minutes at compatible high voltage public charging stations.

Destination & Handling: $820

2011 Nissan LEAF – Hi-res. Images

Slated for launch in late 2010 in Japan, the United States, and Europe, Nissan LEAF ushers in a new era of mobility – the zero-emission era. The car is the embodiment of Nissan’s radical, transformative vision for the future and the culmination of decades of investment and research. (Nissan LEAF initial overview)

Key characteristics of the LEAF include:

1. Zero-emission power train and platform
2. Affordable pricing
3. Distinctive design
4. Real-world range autonomy – 160km (100 miles)
5. Connected Mobility: Advanced intelligent transportation (IT) system

Specifications are based on latest product information available at the time of release

• RX 450h Achieves EPA-Estimated Rating of 30 MPG Combined
• Available EV Mode Uses Electric Motors Only For Short Distances
• Versatility With All-Wheel or Front-Wheel Drive

The 2011 RX 450h defines design, engineering and luxury innovation in the hybrid luxury crossover segment. As Lexus’ best-selling hybrid model, the RX 450h smoothly moves into 2011 with several new exterior colors after the second generation was introduced in 2010. (2011 Lexus RX 450h Overview)

• Improved Suspension Provides More Driver Confidence
• Updated Electronic Power Steering Gives Driver Additional Control
• Torsen® Rear Differential Helps Provide Additional Traction

As the first production model to wear the brand’s “F” marquee, the Lexus IS F offers a thrilling, fun-to-drive experience. The Lexus IS F high-performance sport sedan races into 2011 with several interior updates including LED daytime running lamps, an improved suspension, and a new brake override system. (2011 Lexus IS F Overview)

Lexus Revises and Expands IS Sport Sedan Line for 2011

• All-New IS 350 All-Wheel Drive Model
• New F Sport Package for IS 250/350 Rear-Wheel Drive Model
• Revised Front Styling and Interior Trim

2011 Lexus IS 250 and IS 350 Overview

• Available in All-Wheel Drive and Front Wheel Drive Models
• 3.5L V6 Produces 275 Horsepower
• Standard New Brake Override System

The third-generation RX 350 continues to raise the bar for design, engineering and luxury innovation in the luxury crossover segment it created in 1998. After introducing the all-new RX 350 for the 2010 model year, the RX coasts into 2011 with a new brake override system and additional exterior colors. (2011 Lexus RX 350 Overview)

• EPA-Estimated Rating of 35 MPG Combined Using 87-Octane Fuel
• Innovative Driver-Inspired Cabin
• Ecological Plastics Illustrate Sustainable Luxury

Lexus brought the promise of sustainable luxury to the forefront of the auto industry when the world’s first dedicated luxury hybrid, the HS 250h, went on sale in August 2009. The HS 250h demonstrates innovative engineering and intelligent, driver-inspired design while offering excellent roominess and nimble maneuverability. Lexus’ first dedicated hybrid model cruises into the 2011 model year with several exterior color changes.

The luxurious color palette receives several modifications for 2011 as Satin Cashmere Metallic replaces Golden Almond Metallic, Deep Sea Mica replaces Black Sapphire Pearl, and Aurora White Pearl is discontinued.
(2011 Lexus HS 250h Overview)