​Something became immediately apparent when I recently took a look at Lexus’s current model line-up, and that is they’re trying very hard to add some excitement to their brand. After Lexus released the fantastic LF-A supercar its image changed forever, the only problem is that the LF-A was made in limited numbers and was very expensive.  But armed with a new design language and some newfound mojo, Lexus have tried to include some of that magic to some of their more affordable models, and one of them happens to include this new IS 200t Sport. 

Having been around since 2011, the biggest problem that the Lexus CT 200h had was that it was a bit too inconspicuous.  However, with black metallic paint, dark 17-inch wheels, and now carrying Lexus’s spindle grille, the CT 200h’s new look has brought it out from obscurity to decent-looking hatch.  So, if the CT 200h was so obscure, what compelled people to actually buy one?  To answer that you will have to look at the Toyota Prius. 

Lexus has given a preview of their new RC Coupe, which will debut at the Tokyo Motor Show in a few weeks’ time.

The new RC Coupe borrows some styling traits from the LF-LC concept car, and it will come as either an RC 350 or an RC 300h. The RC 350 is powered with either a 3.5-litre V6 engine, while the RC 300h hybrid will come equipped with a 2.5-litre engine.

With 2012 just days away from ending, we can only hope that 2013 will have as many exciting new cars as this year did.  Here is a gallery of 22 cars that made a good first impression.  Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. 

The new Lexus LF-CC concept is a preview of a mid-size coupe arriving in the near future – revealed today ahead of its Paris Motor Show unveiling.

The LF-CC also gives design cues for other future Lexus models, with its spindle grille being one the biggest standout features.  Another unique design feature is the use of three-piece LED projector headlamp units, rather than a more traditional one-piece covered unit.  Lexus also say that the shape of the front wings channels air into the engine bay and brakes.

After several years of prototypes and test mules howling their way around several race tracks in the world, the final production version of the Lexus LFA has officially shown itself in the metal. 

The LFA's exterior design has stayed extremely faithful to the concept versions that have been on display at various motorshows in the world.  A futuristic design has been favoured over a traditional Italian-esque design.  The LFA is also of a front-engine rear-wheel drive layout, rather than a mid-engine and rear wheel drive.  With that said, a 4.8l V10 that revs to 9000 rpm, does the job of propelling this supercoupe.  The engine is good for 552 bhp @ 8700 rpm, while torque is rated at 480 nm @ 6800 rpm.  The V10 then channels its grunt through a six speed manual gearbox operated by steering wheel paddle shifters, and is able to get the LFA from 0-62 mph in 3.7 sec and onto a top speed of 202 mph.

Other key aspects include a drag coefficient 0.31, and a kerb weight of around 1480 -1580 kg.  Twenty inch BBS wheels wrapped around in Bridgestone tyres are standard, while carbon ceramic disc brakes have the task of slowing the LFA down, which measure 390mm at the front (with 6 piston aluminium callipers) and 306mm at the rear (four pot callipers).  The all carbon-fibre LFA will go on sale with a price tag of £336,000 (368,000 Euros) at its UK launch, with a limited production run of only 500 cars.

It has only been a few hours since detailed information about the LFA has been released, but it already seems that people in the car enthusiasts community have decided what stands out the most about this car. Its engine.  Have a click on the video below, and surely you will agree.