Lexus learns from BMW example, plans to make more changes, more often to lineup

[NFS4]

MARK RECHTIN | Automotive News
Posted Date: 2/2/05

PALM SPRINGS, Calif. -- Lexus executives are admitting they can learn something from BMW.

Typically, when Lexus redesigns a vehicle, it makes changes to the sheet metal and upgrades the engine simultaneously. BMW, on the other hand, alternates the timing of sheet metal and powertrain changes. That way, there always is something relatively new about the vehicle.

Lexus executives have taken note of this approach and will apply it where possible, said Lexus General Manager Denny Clements at a press event here.

"We don't need to do everything at once," Clements said. "We should have something newsworthy every year, and not just the paint color and headliner."

The new approach will be applied first to the redesigned 2006 Lexus GS sedan. At launch, it will use a carryover 4.3-liter V-8 engine, as well as a new 3.0-liter V-6 base engine. But Toyota has applied for trademarks for the names "GS 460" and "GS 350," which could indicate midcycle displacement increases.

"We want to keep our cars relevant, fresh and exciting, not just alive," said Andrew Coetzee, vice president of product planning for Toyota Motor Sales U.S.A. "We are not going to let our powertrains just sit on the shelf."

The changes may not happen at typical times, either. In the case of the ES 330 sedan, Lexus waited just 18 months from the launch of the ES 300 to replace the engine.

Lexus also is looking at off-the-shelf technology to add every model year.

Said Clements: "If I can get a five-speed automatic up to a six-speed or can get all-wheel drive or a derivative, then I'll get it."

 

[sygyzy]

What are some examples of this? My coworker says that everytime BMW reintroduced a car (like the 3 series), they changed everything (engine and chassis).

 

[NFS4]

Originally posted by: sygyzy
What are some examples of this? My coworker says that everytime BMW reintroduced a car (like the 3 series), they changed everything (engine and chassis).

E46 was introduced in '99 I think with carryover 2.8 and 2.3 liter engines. The next year, it got the 3.0 and 2.5. The next year it was facelifted (I think that's the correct sequence).

 

[FlyLice]

NFS4 I like how you bring random car news to ATOT. It's quite refreshing. Thanks bro.

 

[boyRacer]

Originally posted by: FlyLice
NFS4 I like how you bring random car news to ATOT. It's quite refreshing. Thanks bro.

Hey, you have something on your nose.

 

[z0mb13]

Originally posted by: NFS4

Originally posted by: sygyzy
What are some examples of this? My coworker says that everytime BMW reintroduced a car (like the 3 series), they changed everything (engine and chassis).

E46 was introduced in '99 I think with carryover 2.8 and 2.3 liter engines. The next year, it got the 3.0 and 2.5. The next year it was facelifted (I think that's the correct sequence).

yes this is correct

another example is how the current 5 series still uses the old 3.0 and 2.5 liter engines like those found in the 3 series and older 5 series (with the exception of 545)

I bet the 530 will be using the new 3.2 liter engine which will be in the new 330

 

[NFS4]

Originally posted by: z0mb13

Originally posted by: NFS4

Originally posted by: sygyzy
What are some examples of this? My coworker says that everytime BMW reintroduced a car (like the 3 series), they changed everything (engine and chassis).

E46 was introduced in '99 I think with carryover 2.8 and 2.3 liter engines. The next year, it got the 3.0 and 2.5. The next year it was facelifted (I think that's the correct sequence).

yes this is correct

another example is how the current 5 series still uses the old 3.0 and 2.5 liter engines like those found in the 3 series and older 5 series (with the exception of 545)

I bet the 530 will be using the new 3.2 liter engine which will be in the new 330

Actually I think imy statement was wrong slightly (BMW and their damn naming sequences). I believe that the E36 had a 2.5 liter inline-6, but was still called the 323i. I always miss that

 

[z0mb13]

Originally posted by: NFS4

Originally posted by: z0mb13

Originally posted by: NFS4

Originally posted by: sygyzy
What are some examples of this? My coworker says that everytime BMW reintroduced a car (like the 3 series), they changed everything (engine and chassis).

E46 was introduced in '99 I think with carryover 2.8 and 2.3 liter engines. The next year, it got the 3.0 and 2.5. The next year it was facelifted (I think that's the correct sequence).

yes this is correct

another example is how the current 5 series still uses the old 3.0 and 2.5 liter engines like those found in the 3 series and older 5 series (with the exception of 545)

I bet the 530 will be using the new 3.2 liter engine which will be in the new 330

Actually I think imy statement was wrong slightly (BMW and their damn naming sequences). I believe that the E36 had a 2.5 liter inline-6, but was still called the 323i. I always miss that

yep both 323 and 325 uses the same 2.5 liter engine. but in the 323 the exhaust system is changed or whatever...

 

[m4ch0dude]

Now that I think about it, it looks like a pretty good idea for any car manufacturer. I just hope they dont start making cars that look like the new BMW's.

 

[RichieZ]

Originally posted by: z0mb13

Originally posted by: NFS4

Originally posted by: sygyzy
What are some examples of this? My coworker says that everytime BMW reintroduced a car (like the 3 series), they changed everything (engine and chassis).

E46 was introduced in '99 I think with carryover 2.8 and 2.3 liter engines. The next year, it got the 3.0 and 2.5. The next year it was facelifted (I think that's the correct sequence).

yes this is correct

another example is how the current 5 series still uses the old 3.0 and 2.5 liter engines like those found in the 3 series and older 5 series (with the exception of 545)

I bet the 530 will be using the new 3.2 liter engine which will be in the new 330

Yes the 2006 E60 will be getting the same engine as the E90 330, they are doing a midyear change in march?