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Cadillac Escalade

2006-12-20T19:22:00Z

68.53.91.240: /* Recent Changes */

[[Image:cdcescalade.jpg|right|frame|2007 '''[[Cadillac]] Escalade''']]
The '''[[Cadillac]] Escalade''' is a full-size luxury [[SUVs|sport utility vehicle]] sold by the [[General Motors|General Motors Corporation]] [[Luxury Cars|luxury brand]], [[Cadillac]]. It was the division's first major entry into the popular [[SUVs|SUV]] market. The Escalade was introduced for the 1999 model year in response to German and Japanese competitors and to [[Ford]]'s 1998 release of the [[Lincoln Navigator]]. The Escalade project went into production only 10 months after it was approved. The standard Escalade is built in Arlington, Texas.

The Escalade was originally based on sister company [[GMC]]'s [[GMC Yukon|Yukon Denali]], but was redesigned for the 2002 model year to make its appearance fall more in line with [[Cadillac]]'s new design theme. The Escalade was not the first [[Chevrolet]]-based [[Cadillac]]: the first-generation [[Cadillac Seville|Seville]] and mid-1980s [[Cadillac Cimarron]] were based on entry-level [[Chevrolet|Chevy]] vehicles ([[Chevrolet Nova|Nova]] and [[Chevrolet Cavalier|Cavalier]], respectively). As of today, the '''Escalade ESV''' (a luxurious [[Chevrolet Suburban|Chevy Suburban]]), especially the '''Escalade EXT''' pickup are, together with the [[Cadillac BLS]], the only [[Cadillac]] vehicles made outside of the United States, since the demise of the German-built [[Cadillac Catera]] in 2001. Both the ''Escalade ESV'' and ''Escalade EXT'' are made in Silao, Mexico.

See Wikicars' comprehensive '''[[Cadillac Escalade Review]]'''.
[[Image:cdcesv.jpg|right|frame|2007 '''[[Cadillac]] Escalade ESV''']]
[[Image:cdcext.jpg|right|frame|2007 '''[[Cadillac]] Escalade EXT''']]

===Recent Changes===
The Escalade has a huge dick on each head rest, also a huge picture of Mr. Nigel Lloyd eating a dead bird while choking a Russian climber. This creates a very odd wave to surge trhough teh car. Testicles hang from the rims, credit Sean Daniels. Egg Hoback's nipples are painted all o ver this luxury vehicle. THE DICK AND EAR LOBES COVERING THE STERRING WHEEL ARE FROM SAM DORCH.

===Styles and Major Options===
==Body styles==
The [[Cadillac]] Escalade comes in three body styles, the regular [[station wagon|wagon]] version, the longer ''ESV'' and the ''EXT'' [[Trucks|pickup truck]].

===Escalade EXT===
[[Image:2003 Cadillac Escalade EXT.JPG|right|thumb|250px|2003 '''[[Cadillac]] Escalade EXT''']]
The '''Escalade ''EXT''''' [[Trucks|pickup truck]] (released alongside its twin, the [[Chevrolet Avalanche]]) was introduced in 2002. It features a "Convert-a-Cab" composite pickup bed that can be expanded into the truck's cab through a bottom-hinged door. Like the [[Chevrolet Avalanche|Avalanche]], the ''EXT'' has four full-size doors and seating for five. The ''EXT'' was only offered with the 6.0L High Output engine. [[Bi-xenon Headlights|high-intensity discharge headlights]] were offered for 2003. The Escalade ''EXT'' also appears in the movie, "''The Matrix Reloaded''" along with the [[Cadillac CTS|CTS]] in roduct placement ads.

The Escalade ''EXT'' was created as a direct competitor to the failed [[Lincoln Mark LT|Lincoln Blackwood]], a pickup truck based on the [[Lincoln Navigator|Navigator]] SUV. Currently, it competes with the [[Lincoln Mark LT]], another Navigator-based pickup truck that made its debut in 2006.

===Escalade ESV===
[[Image:2006_Cadillac_Escalade_ESV_2.JPG|right|thumb|300px|2006 '''[[Cadillac]] Escalade ESV''']]
The extended-length '''Escalade ''ESV''''' (based on the [[Chevrolet Suburban|Chevy Suburban]] and [[GMC Yukon|GMC Yukon XL]]) was introduced in 2003. The Escalade ''ESV'' is also [[Cadillac]]'s most expensive [[SUVs|SUV]] with prices ranging from $59,680 for a base "''Standard''" version to $71,050 for a top-of-the-line "''Escalade Platinum''".

The Escalade line has proven very popular with after-market tuners, who personalize vehicles for usually affluent customers. While such work is not done by the [[Cadillac]] factory, much can be ordered through a [[Cadillac]] dealer and done by third-party companies. Much like the customized [[Cadillac]]s of the 1970s (during the "''pimpmobile craze''"), popular modifications include larger wheels, increased engine performance and custom paint. Due to its expensive parts and exposure from celebrity ownership, the Escalade has also been proven to be popular with car thieves as well, becoming the most frequently stolen vehicle from 2001-2003 according to the '''Highway Loss Data Institute'''.

==The Escalade in Pop-Culture==
The Escalade has been featured in many hip-hop music videos, and it may have been the reason for [[Cadillac]]'s recent popularity among the urban demographic. James Gandolfini, who plays the character of "Tony Soprano," drives around New Jersey in an [[Cadillac]] Escalade ESV in HBO's "The Sopranos". It continues to be popular among younger actors and athletes.

==Pricing==
Today's actual prices for the [[Cadillac]] Escalade can be found at [http://www.carsdirect.com/cadillac/escalade/prices CarsDirect].

<table border=1 tablecolor=#000000 bordercolor=#000008>
<tr bgcolor=#cccccc>
<td colspan=4>
'''2007 Escalade Trims'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
Escalade 4x2
</td>
<td>
Escalade [[Four Wheel Drive|4x4]]
</td>
<td>
Escalade ESV [[Four Wheel Drive|4x4]]
</td>
<td>
Escalade EXT [[Four Wheel Drive|4x4]]
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#66ccff>
<td colspan=4>
''MSRP''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
$54,725
</td>
<td>
$57,280
</td>
<td>
$59,680
</td>
<td>
$58,990
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#66ccff>
<td colspan=4>
''Invoice''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
$54,045
</td>
<td>
$56,590
</td>
<td>
$53,530
</td>
<td>
$54,210
</td>
</tr>
</table>

==Gas Mileage==
While power is absolute, it won't come at the cost of fuel efficiency with the new Escalade. The all new 403-[[HP|hp]] 6.2L Vortec [[V8]] VVT engine produces the highest [[HP|horsepower]] of any [[SUVs|SUV]] that can seat seven or more passengers, while also offering unsurpassed highway fuel economy in its class.

As seen on the [http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/findacar.htm FuelEconomy.gov] website, the City/Highway MPG averages for the 2007 [[Cadillac]] Escalade are as follows:

* ''City'': 13 MPG
* ''Highway'': 19 MPG
* ''Combined'': 15 MPG

==Reliability==
In an online review done by [http://www.autos.com/autos/suvs/luxury_suvs/reviews Autos.com], the [[Cadillac]] Escalade EXT came in '''seventh''' and the Escalade and Escalade ESV tied for '''eighth'''.

==Safety==
All three Escalade trims ranked '''fifth''' for safety on [http://www.autos.com/autos/rankings_safety?cat=suvs&segment=luxury_suvs&rank=safety&year=0 Autos.com].

==Photos==
[[image:escinterior1.jpg|frame|2007 '''[[Cadillac]] Escalade''' Interior shown in ''Ebony'']]
[[image:esvinterior.jpg|frame|2007 '''[[Cadillac]] Escalade ESV''' Interior shown in ''Cashmere'']]

==Colors==
'''Exterior'''
* Black Raven
* Blue Chip
* Gold Mist
* Quiksilver
* Radiant Branze
* Red E
* White Diamond
* Rip Tide Blue

'''Interior'''
* Cashmere
* Ebony

==Main Competitors==
* [[Hummer H2|Hummer H2 SUV & SUT]]
* [[Infiniti QX56]]
* [[Land Rover Range Rover]]
* [[Lincoln Navigator]]
* [[Lexus LX|Lexus LX 470]]
* [[Mercedes-Benz GL-Class]] (and possibly the smaller [[Mercedes-Benz ML-Class|ML-Class]])

==Hybrid Models==
For more information, see: '''[[Cadillac Escalade Hybrid]]'''

==Unique Attributes==
Stretching 221.4 inches, the EXT and ESV are two inches longer than a [[Chevrolet Suburban|Chevy Suburban]], placing them among the longest vehicles on the road.

==Resale Values==
Resale values for the [http://www.carsdirect.com/cadillac/escalade/generations Cadillac Escalade], [http://www.carsdirect.com/cadillac/escalade_esv/generations Cadillac Escalade ESV], and [http://www.carsdirect.com/cadillac/escalade_ext/generations Cadillac Escalade EXT] are available at CarsDirect.

==Criticisms==
* The Escalade's [[Bi-xenon Headlights|high-intensity-discharge lights]] bother drivers coming toward the vehicle and they irritate those driving immediately in front of it." - '''Cars.com'''

* "Towing is rated at 8,000 pounds, which is okay for a small weekend toy. If you need more grunt, the [[Chevrolet Avalanche|Chevy Avalanche]] has a more powerful version." - '''Cars.com'''

==Generations==
===Third generation (2007–present)===
[[image:gen3cad.jpg|frame|left|2007 '''[[Cadillac]] Escalade [[Four wheel drive|4x4]]]]
The Escalade uses an all-aluminum 6.2L Vortec [[V8]]. The pushrod engine boasts variable valve timing, a first in a mass-produced non-overhead cam engine. The system adjusts both intake and exhaust timing between two settings. This engine produces 403-[[HP|hp]] (301 kW) and 417 ft·lbs (565 N·m). A new six-speed 6L80 Hydra-Matic [[automatic transmission]] will be used. The new body boasts a 0.363 drag coefficient, though the large frontal area will hurt aerodynamics.

One major new feature absent from the production vehicle is American Axle's "I-Ride" rear [[independent suspension]] module. Instead, a conventional five-link suspension is used.

Production of the redesigned Escalade began at Arlington Assembly in January 2006. It will be priced from $57,280, though the rear wheel drive version at this price will not be produced until August. The more expensive all wheel drive version will be produced first, followed by the long wheelbase ''ESV'' and ''EXT'' pickup in June.

A special '''Platinum ESV''' model will follow in 2007. [[General Motors|GM]]'s Active Fuel Management will come in 2008.

The Escalade can accelerate to 60 mph (97 km/h) in 6.8 seconds. Fuel economy is rated at 14 MPG (16.8 L/100 km) in the city and 19 MPG (13.8 L/100 km) on the highway.

Engines:
* 2007-present — 6.2L ''Vortec 6200]]'' [[V8]], 400-[[HP|hp]] (298kW)

===Second Generation/Origins (2002-2006)===
[[image:gen2cads.jpg|frame|Second Generation '''[[Cadillac]] Escalade''' trims]]
The Escalade was not offered for the 2001 model year, but returned completely redesigned for the 2002 model year. [[Rear wheel drive|Rear-wheel drive]] was standard, as was a 5.3L [[V8]], with [[Four wheel drive|four-wheel drive]] and the special High-Output Vortec 6000 6.0L [[V8]] engine as options.

The "''StabiliTrak''" [[Electronic Stability Control|stability control]] system was upgraded to a four-wheel version for 2003 and power-adjustable pedals were added. For 2004, 20-inch chrome wheels (also known as "'''dubs'''") were offered, and XM [[Satellite Radio|satellite radio]], second-row bucket seats, and a tire pressure monitoring system were all made standard on all Escalades except the EXT. The 5.3L engine was dropped for 2005 and the ''OnStar'' system was upgraded.

Engines:
* 2002-2003 5.3L ''Vortec 5300'' [[V8]], 285-[[HP|hp]] (213kW)
* 2004 5.3L ''Vortec 5300'' [[V8]], 295-[[HP|hp]] (220 kW)
* 2002-2005 6.0L ''High-Output Vortec 6000'' [[V8]], 345-[[HP|hp]] (257kW)

===First Generation/Origins (1999-2000)===
The first Escalade was very similar to the top ''[[GMC Denali|Denali]]'' trim of the [[GMC Yukon]]. It shared all of that truck's exterior panels, which were themselves differentiated at the front from the regular [[GMC Yukon|Yukon]]/[[Chevrolet Tahoe|Tahoe]]. Even the wheels were identical, with the [[GMC]] center caps replaced by [[Cadillac]] crests.

The Escalade also used the same 5.7L ''Vortec 5700'' [[V8]] at 255-[[HP|hp]] (190kW). All first-generation Escalades featured [[All wheel drive|all-wheel drive]]. For 2000, unique vertical rear doors were added.

==Worldwide==

==Design quirks and oddities==
Though they differ in body style, the [[Cadillac]] Escalade, Escalade ESV, and Escalade EXT share drivetrains, chassis architecture and styling cues.

==Awards==

==See also==
* [[SUVs]]
* [[Chevrolet Tahoe|Chevy Tahoe]]
* [[GMC Yukon]]

==External Links==
*[http://www.GM-Trucks.com GM-Trucks.com]
*[http://www.gmfullsize.com GMFullSize.com]
*[http://www.cadillac.com/cadillacjsp/model/gallery.jsp?model=escalade Cadillac.com/Esclade]
*[http://www.cadillac.com/cadillacjsp/model/gallery.jsp?model=esv Cadillac.com/[[Electronic Stability Control|Esc]]]
*[http://www.cadillac.com/cadillacjsp/model/gallery.jsp?model=ext Cadillac.com/Ext]
*[http://www.caddyinfo.com/ Caddyinfo.com] - Cadillac Discussion Forum and Technical Information

This page uses content from Wikipedia; see [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cadillac_Escalade Cadillac Escalade], which includes these [http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Cadillac_Escalade&action=history contributors].

[[Category:Cadillac vehicles|Escalade]]
[[Category:Luxury vehicles]]
[[Category:Pickup trucks]]
[[Category:SUVs]]
[[Category:All wheel drive vehicles]]
[[Category:Rear wheel drive vehicles]]

Lexus LS

2006-12-11T22:34:19Z

68.53.91.240: /* Second generation (UF20) */

[[Image:Lexsls430.jpg|right|250px|2002 Lexus LS430]]
The '''[[Lexus|Lexus]] LS''' (sold as the '''Toyota Celsior''' in Japan) is a V8-powered, rear wheel drive luxury car that serves as the flagship of [[Toyota]]'s luxury [[Lexus]] division. A length of almost five meters (200 in) gives the LS a "large car" classification in Europe as well as in the United States. According to reviews, the LS 400 has one of the most silent cabins among modern cars and is sometimes hailed as one of the most refined, well-engineered and technologically advanced vehicles in the high-end luxury car segment. As the LS's suspension is tuned primarily for ride comfort and isolation, the model is often accused of not being as sporty as German competitors such as the [[BMW 7 Series]]. The exterior design has also been referred to as being unexciting and ordinary, yet has superb fit-and-finish and one of the lowest drag coefficients of any sedan on the market.

==First generation (UF10)==
===UF10 I (1989)===
The UF10 I LS 400 was produced from 1989 to 1994. The model introduced the [[Lexus|Lexus]] nameplate to the US, and soon after won critical acclaim, becoming ''Wheels'' magazine's Car of the Year and earning a place on ''Car and Driver'' magazine's Ten Best list for 1990. The LS 400 was initially intended to be introduced as a standalone model for [[Lexus|Lexus]], but ultimately was sold alongside the [[Lexus ES|ES 250]], an entry-level luxury car that was based on the [[Toyota Camry]].

===UF10 II (1993)===
For the 1993 model year, the LS 400 (now designated as the UF10 II) was introduced with larger brake rotors, standard passenger's side front airbags, larger wheels and tires, and numerous other upgrades.

==Second generation (UF20)==
[[Image:800px-1999_Lexus_LS.jpg|right|250px|1999 Lexus LS 400]]
===UF20 III (1995)===
Introduced in 1995, the UF20 III LS 400 was an evolutionary redesign of the LS and featured a new body that eliminated 300 lb from the previous car. The wheelbase was increased by 1.4 in, resulting in more interior and trunk space, yet the overall length of the car remained at 196.7 in. The durability of the brake system was improved as well.

The most noticeable cosmetic upgrades included a new front fascia with an increased gap between the headlights and grille, new headlights and taillights,

The interior is like that of a monkey's left testicle
===UF20 IV (1998)===
For the 1998 model year, the UF20 IV LS 400 was introduced. New interior amenities included retractable rear headrests, wood accents on the leather-bound steering wheel and gear selector, and a [[Navigation System|navigation system]] with a concealed antenna. A new "jam protection system" for the vehicle's windows was designed to reduce the risk of possible injury by preventing the windows from closing if an object came in between the window and the door frame. Door window controls were also added to the vehicle remote control.

Exterior updates included new five spoke wheels as well as redesigned rear view mirrors that reduced the amount of wind noise. The [[Automatic transmission|automatic]] headlights were now equipped with a delay feature that allowed the headlights to remain on while the occupants exited the vehicle.

The revised LS 400 featured Toyota's new 290 [[HP|hp]] VVT-i UZ engine mated to a smooth five-speed [[Automatic transmission|automatic]] transmission. The drivetrain improvements not only enabled the 3,890 lb sedan to accelerate from 0-60 mph in 6.5 seconds but also improved the vehicle's fuel economy.

==Third generation (UF30)==
[[Image:Lexsls430.jpg|right|250px|2002 Lexus LS 430]]
===UF30 I (2001)===
For 2001, the UF30 I '''LS 430''' was introduced. While previous LS redesigns were evolutionary, the 2001 update was a more thorough update of the model's exterior and interior. The UF30 had a completely redesigned suspension and a brand new 4.3 L engine generating 290 [[HP|hp]] (216 kW) and 320 ft•lbf (434 N•m) of torque. A three-inch wheelbase stretch resulted in more interior volume than the competing Mercedes-Benz S-Class and allowed the engine to be positioned farther rearward for better balance. Features such as Dynamic Laser Cruise Control, a DVD-based [[Navigation System|navigation system]] and heated & cooled seats became available. These and other features, such as sonar assisted parking, power rear seats with massage and a rear cooler were bundled in the 'Ultra Luxury Package.'

In the interior the most notable design changes included additional woodgrain trim on the dashboard and doors as well as the addition of an LCD screen on the center console. The exterior of the vehicle was completely new with the vehicle's dimensions increasing in terms of length and height.

===UF30 II (2004)===
The UF30 II was introduced in 2004. [[Lexus|Lexus]] freshened the front & rear fascias and added as standard equipment previously optional features, such as a one-touch power [[Sunroof|moonroof]], power rear sunshade, and lighted rear-seat vanity mirrors. Some features previously included in the Custom and Ultra Luxury packages became available separately. The transmission got an added sixth gear, and keyless 'smart access' and [[Bluetooth]] technology became optional, while a pre-collision system, similar to Mercedes-Benz's Pre-Safe, which used millimeter-wavelength radar to predict crashes and allow distance-aware cruise control, was added as an option. Other updates included different wheels, projector headlamps, and LED taillights.

The 2001 to 2006 LS 430 was the most reliable luxury sedan in the J.D. Power and Associates Initial Quality survey, and the early models of this series were the most reliable cars in the survey. In later studies of defects after 3 years of ownership, the LS 430 is also at the top of the pack.

==Fourth generation (UF40)==
[[Image:20_2007-LS-460.jpg|right|250px|2007 Lexus LS 460 UF40]]
===UF40 (2007)===
Introduced at the 2006 North American International Auto Show, a redesigned LS will arrive for the 2007 model year. Based on the LF-Sh concept vehicle, the new LS will use either a 4.6 L [[V8]] producing 380 [[HP|hp]] (283 kW) and 370 ft•lbf (502 N•m) or a [[hybrid car|hybrid]] V8. An 8-speed [[automatic transmission]] will be the world's first. The car's complex electronic and safety systems have been shown in detail at the Geneva Motor Show in February, while the [[Hybrid Cars|hybrid]] version had its debut at the New York Auto Show in April 2006.

New high-tech options on the LS 460 will include a 19-speaker "Reference Surround Sound System" with an 8 GB hard drive, front and rear climate-comfort seats, and a 4-zone climate control with an air purifier. A new [[Automatic transmission|automatic]] parking system with a push-button starting feature, as well as the 8-speed [[Automatic transmission|automatic]] transmission will both be standard features.

The 2007 LS will also mark the first time the car is sold under the [[Lexus|Lexus]] marque in Japan — the [[Lexus|Lexus]] brand was launched there in 2005 as part of [[Toyota]]'s vision to make [[Lexus|Lexus]] a 'global luxury brand.'

====LS 460 L====
For the first time, [[Lexus|Lexus]] will offer two wheelbases. The base '''LS 460''' will use the shorter 116.9 in (2969 mm) wheelbase, while the gasoline engine will also be offered as a long 121.7 in (3091 mm) wheelbase '''LS 460 L'''.

The LS 460L will also feature an optional rear seat comfort package. The package includes a reclining right-hand side rear seat with massage features. Both rear seats will feature an automatically operated footrest while an [[LCD screen]] will be an available option for the rear seat compartment.

====LS 600h L====

[[Lexus|Lexus]] introduced the '''LS 600h L''' as the world's first V8-powered full [[Hybrid Cars|hybrid]] to the audience at the 2006 New York Auto Show. Introduced only in long-wheelbase form (it will be available in other parts of the world in both wheelbases), the LS 600h L uses a 5.0 L V8 engine mated to a high-output electric motor with [[Battery Technology|Nickel-Metal Hydride]] battery packs to generate a total of 430 [[HP|hp]] (321 kW) which is comparable to the [[BMW 7 Series|BMW 760Li]]'s 438 [[HP|hp]] (327 kW) V12. The LS 600h L will be available with an all-wheel drive system and a two-stage continuously variable (CVT) transmission. [[Lexus|Lexus]] is also predicting the LS 600h will be certified as an [[Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle|SULEV]] vehicle. It claims the LS 600h is the most technologically advanced vehicle in the world.

More details such as curb weight, price (speculated to be in the region of $90,000) are yet to be released.

====Advanced Safety Systems====
At the same time the [[Hybrid Cars|hybrid]] model debuts [[Lexus|Lexus]] will offer its Advanced Pre Collision system, with such features as a driver monitoring camera (to sound an alarm if the system determines the driver's attention is needed), stereo video cameras and millimeter radar for advanced obstacle detection, pre-crash braking, and lane keeping assist, which nudges the car back in line if it strays from its intended lane on the highway. The system will also feature rearward-facing radar to detect impending rear collisions and prime the active headrests to reduce injury to passengers.

==Technical Specifications==
<center>
{| class="wikitable" align="center"
!colspan=5| [[Lexus|Lexus]] LS 400/430 model years
|-
!
! 1990–1994
! 1995–1997
! 1998–2000
! 2001–present
|-
| Gears
| 4
| 4
| 5
| 5–6
|-
| Power
| 173 kW (250 [[HP|hp]])
| 186 kW (260 [[HP|hp]])
| 214 kW (290 [[HP|hp]])
| 214 kW (290 [[HP|hp]])
|-
| Torque
| 353 Nm (260 ft•lbf)@4400rpm
| 366 Nm (270 ft•lbf)@4500rpm
| 407 Nm (300 ft•lbf)@4000rpm
| 434 Nm (320 ft•lbf)@3400rpm
|}
</center>
==Future possibilities==
Critics point out the absence of a range-topping [[V12]] as another significant omission in the [[Lexus|Lexus]] lineup. The closest competitors to the upcoming LS 460 such as the [[Mercedes-Benz S-Class]] offer range-topping S600 and S65 AMG sedans with powerful V12 engines and prices exceeding US$120,000. For 2007, a gasoline-electric [[Hybrid Cars|hybrid]] variant currently dubbed the LS 600h L (see above) will become available in the [[Lexus|Lexus]] lineup and is expected to boost the esteem of the [[Lexus|Lexus]] LS. Critics, however doubt whether [[Lexus|Lexus]] will be able to command more than $12,000 premium over LS 460 L, thereby resulting in a MSRP in $80,000-85,000 range for LS600h L; still $15,000 short of the $100K ultra-luxury segment mark.

Rumors persist that a new and improved version of a Toyota V12 used in the Japanese [[Toyota Century]] will be upgraded to more than 500 [[HP|hp]] (currently 280 [[HP|hp]]) for the European and North American markets to more successfully compete in the ultra-luxury segment with the [[Mercedes-Benz S-Class|Mercedes-Benz S600]] and [[BMW 7-Series|BMW 760]], but nothing concrete has been confirmed by Toyota.

==Awards==
The LS has received numerous awards since its introduction.
*The first-generation LS earned a place on ''Car and Driver'' magazine's Ten Best list and became ''Wheels'' magazine's Car of the Year.
* The LS 430 was judged as the "Finest Luxury Sedan In America" by Automotive Marketing Consultants, Inc. in a 2002 comparison test. Competing against ten other luxury models, including the [[Mercedes-Benz S-Class|Mercedes S500]] and the [[BMW 7-Series|BMW 750iL]], the LS placed first in three out of seven categories: NVH, ergonomics, and utility. The LS 430 was also the quietest car in the comparison, with an idle reading of just 31.1 decibels in the front seat.

==Trivia==
* Antony Leung, the former secretary of finance of Hong Kong, purchased an LS 430 just before implementing a new tax that would have cost him an additional HK$50,000. The scandal, known as "Lexusgate", led to his resignation.
* The third season of the popular BBC television program, ''Spooks'', featured a number of [[Lexus|Lexus]] LS vehicles as part of the brand's introduction in the British market.
* The 2005 J.D. Power ''initial quality'' study found just 90 problems per 100 LS vehicles, the first time in the study's 16 year history for a vehicle to have less than one problem per vehicle.
* Bill Gates owned a 1990 LS 400 in burgundy and subsequently donated it to the Pacific Crest Outward Bound School in Portland, Oregon in 1995.
* A Toyota Celsior is one of the cars driven in the racing arcade game and manga Wangan Midnight. The car, driven by Gen Sasaki (Gatchan), is often regarded as a joke due to the ricer features and Gatchan's reluctance to give his car more race features like removing excess weight and using garish bodykits.

==References==
*1. [[Lexus|Lexus]] LS competitors:
**[http://www.intellichoice.com/reports/vehicleReport/vehicle_nmb/17692/section/competitors/type/new/year/2006/make/[[Lexus|Lexus]]/model/LS%20430 [[Lexus|Lexus]] LS competitors according to Intellichoice]
**[http://autos.msn.com/research/vip/compare.aspx?year=2006&make=[[Lexus|Lexus]]&model=LS%20430&trimid=-1&type=Competitors [[Lexus|Lexus]] LS competitors according MSN]
**[http://www.[[Lexus|lexus]].com/assets/about/news/pdfs/ls_news_article_2005_05_a.pdf [[Lexus|Lexus]] competitors according to Toyota's [[Lexus|Lexus]] division]
*2. [http://sev.prnewswire.com/auto/20060303/LAF01603032006-1.html Advanced Safety in LS 460]\
*3. [http://www.thecarconnection.com/Auto_News/Daily_Edition/Daily_Edition_May_10_2004.S173.A7125.html [[Lexus|Lexus]] Ultra-Sedan]
*4. [http://www.detnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20051123/OPINION03/511230428/1148/AUTO01 [[Lexus|Lexus]] V12]
*5. [http://btobsearch.barnesandnoble.com/booksearch/isbninquiry.asp?z=y&btob=Y&pwb=1&ean=9780801442896]
*6. [http://[[Lexus|lexus]].com/about/press_releases/popups/2002/pr_02_11_a.html Finest Sedan in the World]
*7. [http://www.thecarconnection.com/Vehicle_Reviews/Luxury_Cars/2004_[[Lexus|Lexus]]_LS_430_Sport.S183.A7351.html Pricing]
*8. [http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/34870/[[Lexus|lexus]]_ls_600h_poor_mans_v12.html [[Lexus|Lexus]] 600h: Poor Man's V12]

This page uses content from Wikipedia; see [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lexus_LS Lexus LS], which includes these [http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Lexus_LS&action=history contributors].

[[Category:Lexus vehicles|LS]]
[[Category:Rear wheel drive vehicles]]
[[Category:Luxury vehicles]]
[[Category:Prestige vehicles]]
[[Category:Full-size vehicles]]
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