Section Contents:
- Most mechanicals are taken directly from the 156, with some influence from the slightly more modern 147 147 147 in the double wishbone front suspension setup and the multilink rear system.(More...)
- Active safety : ABS braking in 1978 (acts to reduce braking distances and improve stopping control; co-developed with Bosch); traction control and Electronic Stability Program (ESP) in 1995 (improves driver control during difficult road conditions); and Brake Assist (provides full braking power during emergency stops).(More...)
Most mechanicals are taken directly from the 156, with some influence from the slightly more modern 147 147 147 in the double wishbone front suspension setup and the multilink rear system. [1] A different multi-link front suspension, expressly developed for the LS 600h/LS 600h L, is standard, while an optional Active Stabilizer Control system for the air suspension provides further stability during high-speed maneuvering.
[6] New standard safety features included front side air bags, traction control (TRAC), Vehicle Stability Control, and a window jam protection system.
[6] A backup camera, Lexus Pre-Collision System (which used millimeter-wavelength radar to predict crashes), and related Dynamic Radar Cruise Control were new options. A power moonroof and power rear sunshade, both former options, became standard.
[6]
High-tech options on the new Lexus LS include a 19-speaker Mark Levinson Reference Surround Sound System, sonar-based Lexus Intuitive Park Assist, Gracenote, and a 30 GB HDD with room for 2,000 songs.
[6] The long wheelbase LS 600h L is equipped with Lexus Hybrid Drive, featuring a 5.0 L 2UR-FSXE V8 engine mated to a high-output electric motor with nickel-metal hydride battery packs. This system generates an output of 438 hp (327 kW), comparable to V12 sedans such as the BMW 760Li BMW 760Li (which also produces 438 hp, but the systems total potential power output is 610hp.
[6] Image:Lexus LS 600h L powertrain cutaway.jpg UVF46 Lexus Hybrid Drive system.
[6] The new LS also contains the world's first eight-speed automatic transmission. The car's complex electronic and safety systems were shown in further detail at the Geneva Motor Show in February 2006, while an all-wheel drive all-wheel drive hybrid version, the LS 600h L, made its debut at the New York Auto Show in April 2006.
[6] The new LS also introduces the latest in Lexus technology, including the first production eight-speed automatic transmission automatic transmission automatic transmission and an automatic parking system.
[6] Features specific to the LS hybrids include the first production LED headlight systems in the United States of America, a leather-trimmed dash, two-tone leather, additional wood trim, and multi-zone climate control with infrared body temperature sensors.
[6]
The comprehensive active safety feature on the Lexus LS, the Lexus Pre-Collision System (PCS), now utilizes millimeter-wavelength radar, stereo cameras, and infrared night vision projectors to prevent accidents. This system, called "Pre-Crash" internationally, includes an obstacle detection and warning system with the first automotive implementation of an image processing chip capable of identifying vehicles, pedestrians, and lane markers in real time.
[6] The Rear Pre-Crash system, the first active rear collision safety feature in an automobile, utilizes trunk-mounted obstacle detection and warning systems to react in anticipation of an emergency.
[6]
Safety and security. In 2007, Auto Bild recognized the LS 460 Pre-Collision system with its 2007 Innovation Prize, finding that its active safety features surpassed the rival Mercedes-Benz S-Class.
[6] New interior amenities included retractable rear headrests, additional wood accents on the steering wheel and gear selector, and a GPS -linked, hard-disk drive based navigation system with a concealed antenna.
[6] Standard amenities include a power open/close trunk, heated steering wheel, backup camera, navigation system, XM NavTraffic in the U.S., Bluetooth, semi-aniline leather interior, and heated/cooled power memory rear seats.
[6]
Interior updates in the UCF30 II LS 430 included the fourth generation Lexus navigation system, Bluetooth, knee airbags, and lighted rear-seat vanity mirrors.
[6] The fifth generation HDD-based Lexus navigation system features XM NavTraffic, a real-time traffic monitoring system with dynamic rerouting (in the U.S., and similar systems elsewhere).
[6]
The Homelink wireless control system and trip computer modernized the cabin, and adaptive cruise control was an option. For added convenience and security, the headlights were equipped with a programmable delay feature which allowed them to remain illuminated as the occupants exited the vehicle (or if a door was left ajar).
[6] The stability/traction control system, Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM), incorporates ECB, electric brake force distribution, Vehicle Stability Control, and also the available Adaptive Variable Suspension and Variable Gear Ratio Steering systems. VDIM integrates these systems to improve vehicle responsiveness to driver input and prevent loss of control.
[6] The Emergency Steering Assist system acts to minimize body roll and improve vehicle responsiveness in sudden maneuvers. This system reduces the steering gear ratio and prompts the suspension to adopt stiffer settings, helping make emergency maneuvers more stable and controlled.
[6] If the system detects a potential collision, the Emergency Steering Assist and brake assist systems will activate, increasing effectiveness in emergency maneuvers and stopping.
[6]
When activated, the LDW system will issue an audiovisual warning and apply a brief corrective steering response when veering motion is detected. The LK system (activated when the adaptive cruise control is engaged) will actively provide continued steering inputs to return the LS to its proper lane.
[6] The third generation LS received positive reviews from the press. Reviewers such as AutoWeek and Edmunds.com praised the LS 430 for its engine performance and smoothness, while its navigation and premium audio systems also received high ratings.
[6] In the U.S., the Driver Monitoring System will debut on the LS 600h L sedan.
[6] Image:LS driver monitoring system.PNG Diagram of the LS Driver Monitoring System.
[6]
A new torque-activated powertrain control system made throttle adjustments based on vehicle speed, engine r.p.m., and pedal position.
[6] Available options were an air suspension (used to raise or lower the vehicle), a Nakamichi premium sound system, and an integrated cellular telephone with hands-free capabilities.
[6] Adjustments were made to the vehicle's suspension and power steering system to improve handling.
[6]
Passive safety features include eight standard airbags (up to eleven with upgraded rear seats), passenger detection systems, front and rear crumple zones, three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters, and a reinforced steel body.
[6] A special-order "Executive Class Four-Seat Package" on the LS 460 L includes a rear seat DVD entertainment system with ceiling fold-down LCD screen, fixed center console with a swivel tray table, and a passenger-side shiatsu and shoulder massaging ottoman seat.
[6] Porsche went right to the point with the new Cayenne, going straight from the current 2006 model to the new 2008 version and skipping 2007 entirely. Porsche calls the 2008 model the'second generation', however it is more of a technology transfusion, with many aspects including the interior and 4wd system remaining virtually identical.
[2] The 2008 Cayenne V6 will start at $44,295, making it the lowest price Porsche available. This has a normally aspirated 8-cylinder engine with an unusually high 12.5:1 compression ratio. A dry-sump lubrication system improves efficiency, while Porsche's VarioCam Plus variable timing extends the power band.
[2] Winkler also said that the system is designed to work with all of the engines in the Cayenne lineup. This means a hybrid Cayenne Turbo could be possible.
[2]
The drag coefficient is 0.35 Cd and all models get a power lift gate and a tire pressure monitoring system.
[2] The hybrid will only be mated to the all wheel drive system and won't be offered in any other models.
[2]
The main rival for the Cayenne would be the Land Rover Range Rover Sport. Edmunds.com thinks, "For maximum performance, the Porsche earns the podium as its acceleration, braking and handling can't be beat." The Porsche is faster in both acceleration and top speed than the equivalent Rover and gets better mpg. All this performance and capability come with Porsche's tradition of being expensive, particularly when fitted with options. The backseat and the cargo area are small for this class.
[2]
In 2005, a new infrared night vision feature was introduced (improves visibility during nighttime conditions). Despite the popular misconception, the S-Class was not the first car fitted with ABS braking technology, although some credit can be given for popularizing this now largely standard feature (ABS was initially an option on most models of the W126 S-Class).
[3] The W116 was larger on the outside than the W108/W109 series it replaced, but had similar interior capacity, as the additional bulk was driven by new theories on car safety and occupant protection in a crash. It was one of the first cars to be available with ABS, a driver's airbag airbag airbag supplemental restraint system, or a turbo diesel engine.
[3] Starting in 1975, the W116 was upgraded with a new fuel injection system in order to comply with revised exhaust emission standards in European markets. A slight power reduction was a result of this update, but in 1978, a series of further engine upgrades restored original performance levels under the new fuel injection systems.
[3]
Although the top of range Mercedes-Benz 450SEL 6.9 of the previous generation was not directly replaced, the W126 carried forward the hydropneumatic suspension of the 6.9 as an option on the 500SEL. A new cruise control system was offered as well.
[3] A navigation system with center console-mounted screen display was introduced, along with the COMAND input control system. Other options included keyless entry and ignition, a radar-controlled Distronic cruise control system and a cylinder shut-off system called Active Cylinder Control.
[3]
PRE-SAFE integrates multiple active and passive safety features for a "safety net" approach to vehicle safety by attempting to prevent accidents; if accidents do occur, PRE-SAFE aims to reduce occupant injury. In the latest version of this pre-collision system, PRE-SAFE will prime the brake assist system, lock the doors to prevent accidental opening during the accident, adjust the seats, close the windows and sunroof, and tighten seatbelts during certain types of collisions.
[3] At the Detroit Auto Show in 2006, Mercedes unveiled the Ocean Drive concept, a convertible based on the W221 S-Class. There has since been speculation that this vehicle might see production. Other design features include Mercedes-Benz's "Airscarf" system, which debuted on the SLK roadster and circulates hot air around the seats and occupant necks.
[3] As the foremost model in the Mercedes-Benz lineup, the S-Class has debuted many of the company's latest innovations, including advanced safety systems, drivetrain technologies, and interior features.
[3] Early W220s were recalled for issues with the trunk spring and the hydraulic fuel line; there were no recalls for the 2005 or 2006 model years. In 2002 Mercedes introduced the world's first preemptive safety system on the W220 with its first iteration of Pre-Safe.
[3]
Notably, the S-Class introduced the first airbag airbag supplemental restraint systems, seatbelt pretensioners, and electronic stability control.
[3] The 4MATIC all wheel drive system was introduced to the North America North America market S-Class for 2003. Consumer Reports classified the W220 model's reliability as "poor," its lowest rating, and declared it one of the "least reliable luxury cars."
[3]
New technological features on the W221 include an infrared night vision feature and the latest Mercedes-Benz pre-collision system.
[3] In the cabin, additional courtesy and reading lamps, along with heated seats and a more advanced climate control system, added to the luxurious interior environment.
[3]
The Dual Pump Rear Differental operates the front wheels during normal conditions then transfers power to the rear wheels when needed automatically without the driver engaging the system.
[5] Despite the power increase, the new CR-V retained the fuel economy of the previous model, thanks in part to the engine's i-VTEC system.
[5]
Active safety : ABS braking in 1978 (acts to reduce braking distances and improve stopping control; co-developed with Bosch); traction control and Electronic Stability Program (ESP) in 1995 (improves driver control during difficult road conditions); and Brake Assist (provides full braking power during emergency stops). [3] In 1973, Mercedes-Benz introduced the W116 line, the first to be officially called the S-Class. The arrival of the W116 saw the introduction of much improved passive safety into the vehicle design, with features such as anti-lock brakes and a strengthened vehicle occupant shell.
[3]
Sedan de Ville was priced at $13,847, and now had the unique option of an available automatic shoulder belt system - the first offered on a GM vehicle.
[7] The new power plant featured a closed-loop digital fuel injection system, free-standing cast-iron cylinders within a cast-aluminum block, and was coupled with a 4-speed automatic-overdrive transmission. Other engine options included the Buick V6 V6 or Oldsmobile's diesel V-8.
[7] The interior gained a new dashboard design that hid the passenger airbag seams and new door panels with front side-airbags and the availability of OnStar system.
[7]
Sales fell quickly, however, and only 600 systems were sold for 2004. It was dropped in September of that year with just 145 units installed in 2005 vehicles before its demise. DeVilles are also a popular conversion chassis, most commonly as limousines and hearses, however the Lincoln Town Car Lincoln Town Car is more commonly used as a limousine chassis due to its rear wheel drive and body on frame architecture, which provides a more rigid chassis for a long car.
[7] The DeVille's Raytheon night vision system was particularly notable. It was the first thermal imaging night vision system offered as original equipment by an auto manufacturer. It was introduced in the 2000 model and sold well with over 7,000 buyers.
[7]
