NEW camera-controlled...
NEW camera-controlled computer system unveiled by Mercedes to plot likely path of another vehicle or pedestrian outside car. If it calculates that collision seems likely, brakes will be applied.
The news should bring...
The news should bring festive cheer to Lexus bosses, who"ve lost out on the massive UK oil-burning market - particularly company car sales of models such as the IS. This newcomer will go head-to-head with high quality rivals such as the Audi A4 TDi and BMW 330d.
The new diesel"s high-pressure fuel-injection system is similar to that found in Fiat Multijet oil-burners. It will deliver excellent performance, with a power output topping 160bhp and a torque figure of at least 350Nm.
Combined with the Lexus"s excellent rear-wheel-drive chassis and slick six-speed manual transmission, it promises to be a match for other sporting diesel saloons in this sector. A top speed of more than 140mph and a 0-60mph time of around eight seconds is expected.
The IS220d is slated to make its public debut in the spring, coming to the UK next autumn. Base models should start at around í‚á£25,000.
Lexus had previously indicated that it was working on its own range of diesels, so sharing engine technology with Toyota signals a change of priority. Instead, the prestige marque has been concentrating its efforts on the innovative hybrid technology, which will first appear in the RX450h off-roader (shown in image) within the next few months. This uses an efficient petrol unit with regenerative electric motors to provide power to all four wheels. The result - in theory, at least - is petrol engine refinement and performance, diesel economy and low emissions.
The hybrid system will appear later on next year in the next mid-sized GS saloon, badged GS450h. It"s also likely to be offered in the luxury LS, instead of a diesel alternative.