2015 Lexus F Sport at ICAR Montreal

MONTREAL- It’s not every day a performance carmaker takes you to a racetrack and, after a short description of the cars, says “have at it” and lets the cars do the talking.

But that’s just what Lexus Canada did recently to demonstrate the prowess of its F Sport lineup.

F Sport is to Lexus what M Sport is to BMW and S-line is to Audi. In short, it is the brand’s performance division that takes all its expertise and leading edge technology and puts it into a package for the discerning owner.

F Sport derives its name from the Fuji track in Japan where Lexus does a lot of its testing. The shape of the badge is a stylized version of the track layout itself.

Lexus brought 10 cars to the ICAR track in Montreal that is located on the former Mirabel airport.

Lexus spokesman, Romaric Lartilleux, said F Sport provides levels of performance that drivers appreciate, as well as the levels of luxury and precision assembly Lexus buyers expect.

RELATED: 2015 Lexus CT 200h F-Sport Review

But by far the biggest attraction of F Sport, he said, is the knowledge of Toyota/Lexus long-term reliability.

With starting prices, there were two rear-drive RC 350 F Sports ($57,650), two all-wheel-drive RC F 350 F Sports ($54,600), one GS 350 AWD F-Sport Series 2 ($57,850), two IS 350 AWD F Sport Series 3 and no less that three RC F Performance Package models ($81,650).

Lartilleux said Lexus now offers an F Sport version on all its vehicles, including SUVs, with the exception of the ES 350, the only front-drive model.

All the “350” models share a 3.5-litre DOHC V6. On the IS and GS, there is 306 hp and 277 lb/ft of torque. On the RC models there is a slightly different 307 hp and 276 lb/ft, while the mighty RC F has a 5.0-litre DOHC V8 with 467 hp and 389 lb/ft.

All these cars are packed with driver aids, many undreamed of a decade ago, starting with standard S+ Mode that alters throttle and steering response with the twist of a rotary knob on the centre console.

Each is equipped with AVS (Adaptive Variable Suspension) on all but the RC F. The S+ Mode also stiffens the suspension in concert with the throttle and steering.

Also F Sport standard is VDIM (Vehicle Dynamic Integrated Management), which is a highly complex from of stability control that keeps it planted regardless of what it is being asked to do.

For example, if you brake suddenly on pavement where the grip is different on the left and right sides of the car, the steering will sense this and maintain stability so you don’t slew left or right.

If you notice the AWD RC 350 AWD costs less than the RWD RC 350, that’s because only it and the RC F come with an eight-speed automatic transmission with steering wheel mounted paddle shifters.

RELATED: 2015 Lexus NX 200t Review

The RC F gets an exclusive torque vectoring differential (TVD) that samples grip at the rear wheels and transfers torque to the inner or outer wheel as needed.

Perhaps the most serious of the F Sports is the RC 350 RWD that adds to the eight-speed trans, S+ Mode and VDIM with three extra features starting with Variable Gear Ration Steering (VGRS) that adjusts the steering gear feel in relation to speed. At low speeds the gearing is low for easier parking, but than tightens for faster driving and cornering inputs.

Next is Dynamic Rear Steering (DRS) that works with the electric power steering to measure and apply steering torque added to the agility.

Added to that is Lexus Dynamic Handling (LDH) that uses computers for the optimum steering angles for all four wheels, that makes for more precise steering inputs working the DRS and VGRS for the best ride and response you can get in a Lexus.

As noted, the event took place at ICAR, which is a concrete barrier lined track on the old airport Mirabel runways.

In the rain, the concrete was very slippery and the painted lines even more so. Coupled with that was the fact wet concrete pavement and barriers are basically the same colour, making some of the corners look the similar.

And while the corners looked the same, what awaited on the other side could be a hairpin or entrance to a straight, so throttle, transmission and suspension response were crucial to making the corner or making a hash of it.

Most of the drivers there were much faster than me, so I tried to keep out of their way; but I have to say the RC 350 RWD was a joy to drive in the rain.

I did have a few “moments” with it as I was going in too fast and had to back off. But, with all the driver aids, I didn’t spin, which would have happened otherwise.

As for the big RC F, well this is a car that transcended the rest on acceleration alone and with the most marvelous V8 exhaust note.

After two hours, the event came to an end, but I came away with a new understanding and appreciation of what Lexus F Sport is trying to accomplish.

RELATED: 2015 Lexus RC 350 AWD Review

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Porsche Panamera GTS And Panamera GTS Sport Turismo Arrive Packing 453 HP

Could the middle Porsche trim actually be the best one?

The Porsche Panamera is a car with a very broad spectrum of power. At one end, the base Panamera produces 330 horsepower from a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6. At the other, the Turbo S E-Hybrid pumps out a whopping 680 hp from a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, which is mated to an electric motor. But what if the base Panamera is simply too slow, and you don't have $190,000 to spend on the Turbo S E-Hybrid?

Well, now there are two new Panamera models that will be perfect for you. Introducing the Panamera GTS and Panamera GTS Sport Turismo.

These new GTS models are exactly what we expected them to be, a nice middle ground between the Panamera S and the Panamera Turbo. Both versions of the GTS are powered by the same 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 found in the Turbo, but detuned to produce 453 hp and 457 lb-ft of torque. This may be less than the 550 hp produced in the Turbo but it is 20 hp more than the last generation Panamera GTS.

Both cars send power to the Porsche Traction Management (PTM) all-wheel-drive system through an eight-speed PDK transmission. The sprint to 60 mph takes just 3.9 seconds for both cars, with the GTS reaching a top speed of 181 mph and the GTS Sport Turismo 179 mph.

As always, the GTS trim offers standard features that are only optional on the S trim. These include dynamic chassis systems with three-chamber air suspension, unique design elements, Sport Chrono package, and Alcantara interior trim.

Other standard gear includes a Sport Exhaust with blacked-out tailpipes, and 20-inch Panamera Design wheels, while optional goodies range from a GTS Interior package to a head-up display with multiple configurations.

Porsche says the new GTS models are available to order now starting at $128,300 for Panamera GTS and $134,500 for the GTS Sport Turismo (excluding $1,050 for delivery). Expect to see them arrive in dealerships in the second half of next year.

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Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo Gets Stylish Carbon-Fiber Upgrade

Even the floor is made entirely of Alcantara.

This year’s Geneva Motor Show saw the premiere of TechArt’s GrandGT Supreme, a luxurious styling package for the Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo with a striking appearance and a lavish, all-leather interior. Now, the German tuner has unveiled a sportier alternative: the GrandGT Selective, featuring a lovingly handcrafted interior and extensive use of carbon fiber applied to the exterior.

On the outside, the GrandGT Selective features an assortment of carbon fiber attachments including an aero hood, side mirrors, and rear panel. Additionally, the tuner has also added carbon-coated highlights such as a front apron, rear apron, extensions, front splitter, diffuser and air outlet panel. All these elements combine to give the German wagon a more aggressive appearance.

Rounding off the exterior enhancements are titanium tailpipes with carbon fiber coating, 22-inch alloys with blue brake calipers and black TechArt lettering, and two-tone paintwork combining matt black paint with high-gloss riviera blue accents. The result looks spectacular.

The exterior’s eye-catching color scheme has been applied to the lovingly detailed cabin too, as the GrandGT Selective adopts a 2+2 bi-color Alcantara interior in black and Riviera Blue. The blue accents feature more prominently on the driver’s side. Elsewhere, the doors have fine decorative stitching in Riviera Blue, while the dashboard top and the side center console is covered with matching Alcantrara. The black Alcantara headliner has a Riviera Blue central stripe echoing the exterior and even the floor is made entirely of Alcantara.

Like the GrandGT Supreme, the GrandGT Selective benefits from the TechArt Techtronic Powerkit for the Panamera Turbo. As a result, the 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8’s output has increased from 550 hp 640 hp, while peak torque has risen from 568 lb-ft to 664 lb-ft. These modifications enable the Panamera Sport Turismo to sprint from 0-62 mph in 3.4 seconds and top out at 190 mph. TechArt isn’t done with the Panamera just yet either, as the tuner will be showcasing a new power kit for the Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid at the Essen Motor Show in December.

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Techart Bringing Stunning Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo To Geneva

Modified outside and under the hood, it's the interior that appears to have received the most attention.

Set for a world premiere next week at Geneva is this Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo tuned by German-based Techart. Techart calls it the GrandGT Supreme styling package, specifically for the Panamera Sport Turismo. Styling wise, it dramatically enhances the car’s presence, starting with a set of 22-inch wheels with the entire car painted in gorgeous racing green. Also added is a Techart sport exhaust system with titanium and carbon fiber tailpipes. But it’s the interior that’s received the most attention.

Techart’s in-house team of expert craftsman developed an un-embossed Nappa leather with a smooth and natural texture that covers the entire interior, including the footwell and door panels. The leather has been vegetable-tanned so that it’s free of chromium. Also take note, in the included photos, of some of the finer details, such as the handmade multi-color stitching and customized Techart sport steering wheel. Under the hood lies the Panamera Turbo’s 4.0-liter bi-turbo V8 whose output has been increased from 550 hp to 640 hp. This engine upgrade also reduces 0-62 mph time to just 3.4 seconds and 0-124 mph in 8.3 seconds.

In addition to the Panamera Sport Turismo GrandGT Supreme, Techart will also display a modified 911 GT3 and 911 Turbo, both with all sorts of carbon fiber accessories, along with range of tuned Macans. We'll have full coverage starting next week straight from Geneva, so stay tuned.

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Here’s What’s New For The 2019 Acura MDX Sport Hybrid

Acura has announced pricing details and options for its luxury hybrid SUV flagship.

While the all-new 2019 Acura RDX stunned us at New York with its bold new design, the latest MDX is not an entirely new model. Instead, the MDX has been mildly updated for the 2019 model year to keep it fresh until the all-new model arrives next year. After revealing the MDX A-Spec appearance package, Acura has announced pricing details and options for the MDX Sport Hybrid.

Arriving in dealers on August 1, the 2019 Acura MDX Sport Hybrid starts at $52,800 excluding the $995 destination charge. That makes it $1,500 more expensive more than the conventional MDX SH-AWD with Technology package, though it does come with adaptive dampers as standard and an extra 31 horsepower.

For the 2019 model year, Acura has introduced four new exterior color options for the hybrid SUV, including new Gunmetal Metallic and three new premium colors: Majestic Black Pearl, Performance Red Pearl and Canyon Bronze Metallic, as well as a new interior wood trim. Other enhancements include driver and front-passenger 4-way power lumbar support (up from 2-way), authentic Desert Olive Ash wood highlights, high-contrast seat and door panel stitching, and matching wood center console trim for Advance Package models.

Technology and Advance trims include unique interior trim, exterior badging and stainless steel sport pedals. Technology Package models have seating for seven, while the range-topping Advance Package incorporates a 6-passenger interior configuration with second-row captain's chairs and a large second-row center console in place of a three-occupant bench seat.

The hybrid powertrain remains unchanged, however, with a 3.0-liter VTEC V6 paired with three electric motors delivering a combined output of 321 hp and 289 lb-ft of torque. As standard, you get a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission with paddle shifters providing fast gear changes while improving fuel efficiency. Speaking of which, Acura claims the 2019 MDX Sport Hybrid achieves 26/27/27 mpg (city/highway/combined).

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2018 Acura RLX Sport Hybrid Review

The Acura RLX has been around since 2013 – but rather than replacing it soon, for 2018 the RLX gets a host of upgrades to its styling and finishing touches to keep it fresh. But some things remain the same, like the RLX Sport Hybrid, that uses technologies derived from the NSX supercar to create a hybrid sedan with the efficiency benefits of electricity, and the performance benefits too. All-wheel drive, all-wheel steering, a few extra gear ratios, and three electric motors – the similarities drive suggestions that this may be the closest thing you could get to a four-door NSX.

Interior

Large entryways both front and rear aid ingress and egress to the RLX Hybrid – particularly for rear passengers. Inside, the rear passengers will find plenty of space, with leg and head room on par for the segment. Redesigned front seats feature high-contrast stitching and piping, and are comfortable and supportive, though the low dash impedes knee space for drivers with longer legs. The interior now has the option of a new Espresso interior color scheme. Cargo capacity loses a few cubes compared to the non-hybrid RLX, sitting at 11.6 cubic feet compared to the standard model’s 14.9 cu ft.

The dual-screen infotainment and control systems are complex and unintuitive. One screen features touch controls; the other requires controls via a controller input. The lack of actual buttons to handle climate control is once again a problem that seems to plague Acura and Honda models.

Driving (Ride and Handling)

The Hybrid RLX features Acura’s alphabet-soup all-wheel drive – SH SH-AWD – Sport Hybrid Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive system shared with the NSX supercar. Two of the three electric motors operate independently on each rear wheel to actuate genuine torque vectoring with individual wheel speeds. The vectoring mitigates understeer and sharpens turn-in; both initial and mid-corner when directional changes are required. Additionally, grip levels are impressively high – though they’re needed more so thanks to the increased weight of the RLX Sport Hybrid.

Though the sportier of two models, the RLX Sport Hybrid offers a suppler ride than its non-hybrid sibling. The additional weight settles the car nicely, but the suspension remains firm enough to offer decent support and good rebound damping over broken surfaces. There is still some wallow through corners, though, where rival cars are more steady and lean-resistant. It’s an average handler in segment, and the lack of steering feedback doesn’t inspire confidence.

Performance (Engine and Transmission)

Under the hood and driving the front wheels of the Acura RLX Sport Hybrid, you’ll find a 3.5-liter V6 generating 310 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. But it’s paired with three electric motors – two on the rear wheels and one attached to new Honda-developed 10-speed automatic gearbox – that bump the combined outputs up to 377hp and 341 lb-ft. Acura are quiet about performance figures for the Hybrid, but with the FWD model springing 0-60mph in 5.8 seconds, the RLX Sport Hybrid should achieve sub-5 seconds thanks to the all-wheel drive system and electric torque boost.

Equipment and Safety

The RLX can be had in either a Technology Package or Advance Package trim – both of which are exceptionally specced. The Technology Package includes heated front seats, keyless access, and electronic tilt and telescopic adjustment on the steering wheel, while the Advance Package adds ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, and power rear sunshades. From a safety perspective, all models feature blind spot monitoring, ABS with EBD, adaptive cruise, lane keep assist, and automated emergency braking with heads up warning earning the RLX a 2017 IIHS Top Safety Pick status.

Verdict

The added electric boost and the torque vectoring technology it brings make the RLX an adept handler, but it isn’t really a four-door NSX Still, it’s well equipped at a decent price – and it’s worth a look at if you fancy tech and comfort above brilliant driving dynamics.

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Here’s What’s New For The 2019 Acura MDX Sport Hybrid

Acura has announced pricing details and options for its luxury hybrid SUV flagship.

While the all-new 2019 Acura RDX stunned us at New York with its bold new design, the latest MDX is not an entirely new model. Instead, the MDX has been mildly updated for the 2019 model year to keep it fresh until the all-new model arrives next year. After revealing the MDX A-Spec appearance package, Acura has announced pricing details and options for the MDX Sport Hybrid.

Arriving in dealers on August 1, the 2019 Acura MDX Sport Hybrid starts at $52,800 excluding the $995 destination charge. That makes it $1,500 more expensive more than the conventional MDX SH-AWD with Technology package, though it does come with adaptive dampers as standard and an extra 31 horsepower.

For the 2019 model year, Acura has introduced four new exterior color options for the hybrid SUV, including new Gunmetal Metallic and three new premium colors: Majestic Black Pearl, Performance Red Pearl and Canyon Bronze Metallic, as well as a new interior wood trim. Other enhancements include driver and front-passenger 4-way power lumbar support (up from 2-way), authentic Desert Olive Ash wood highlights, high-contrast seat and door panel stitching, and matching wood center console trim for Advance Package models.

Technology and Advance trims include unique interior trim, exterior badging and stainless steel sport pedals. Technology Package models have seating for seven, while the range-topping Advance Package incorporates a 6-passenger interior configuration with second-row captain's chairs and a large second-row center console in place of a three-occupant bench seat.

The hybrid powertrain remains unchanged, however, with a 3.0-liter VTEC V6 paired with three electric motors delivering a combined output of 321 hp and 289 lb-ft of torque. As standard, you get a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission with paddle shifters providing fast gear changes while improving fuel efficiency. Speaking of which, Acura claims the 2019 MDX Sport Hybrid achieves 26/27/27 mpg (city/highway/combined).

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2018 Acura MDX Sport Hybrid Review

The Acura MDX Hybrid is a strong offering in the luxury mid-sized SUV sector and its hybrid drivetrain both enhances economy and performance levels. For 2018 the MDX Hybrid now offers an updated infotainment system.

What’s it like inside?

The interior of the MDX Hybrid is well up to the class standards, it features high quality materials and a very well-built cabin with seating for 7 occupants. Some cheap bits of plastic trim seem out of place but most of the controls and switchgear impart a feeling of solidity and quality.

The front seats are superbly comfortable and perfect for longer trips, the second row still offers decent head and legroom with similar levels of comfort. The third row is tighter than in most competitors and is best suited for occasional use. Both rear rows are foldable (60/40 for the second row and 50/50 for the third row) to add to the already decent cargo space.

How does it drive?

The MDX Hybrid is a big departure from the usual uninspiring handling dynamics inherent in most hybrids. It feels sharp and agile through a set of corners and thanks to its standard all-wheel drive setup, has plenty of grip when the road conditions get slippery. Pure electric motoring is possible at city speeds and the transition between the gasoline and electric powerplants is seamless.

The ride is firm but offers decent bump absorption over most surfaces, the standard adaptive dampers offer driver selectable settings to soften the ride over rough pavement. The all-wheel drive system is road-biased without some of the off-road options such as hill descent control that rivals offer, but the raised ride-height should make the MDX more than capable in most casual off-road excursions.

What about the performance?

The Acura MDX Hybrid is fitted with a 3.0-liter V6 which combined with three electric motors pushes out 321 horsepower and 289 lb-ft of torque. Both higher figures than the gasoline powered version and performance figures are better too.

The Hybrid MDX is all-wheel drive only and is available with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, it completes the 60mph benchmark sprint in around 6.5-seconds which is very good for the this segment and the pick-up from standstill feels strong thanks to the assistance of the electric motors.

Another benefit over the gasoline powered MDX are significantly enhanced fuel economy figures, especially if you spend the majority of your time in stop-start traffic. City driving averages out at 26mpg while highway trips see you get 27mpg. The 3.5-liter gasoline engine offers 18/26 mpg.

What are my options?

There are two trim options to choose from in the Hybrid MDX.

The Technology trim offers a number of notable items such as power front seats with heating and memory function, leather interior, multi-zone climate control, power adjustable steering wheel and a power liftgate.

LED headlights, sunroof and an adaptive suspension are also included as are an updated infotainment system with dual screens, navigation, integrated smartphone capability, Bluetooth, USB ports and a 10-speaker premium audio system.

Safety systems include adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, rear-cross traffic alert, forward collision and lane departure warning as well as autonomous braking.

The Advance Trim adds Sports seats with enhanced leather trim and ventilation for the front row, heated second row seats, surround camera system and parking sensors and LED fog lights.

The Verdict

The Acura MDX is an accomplished mid-sized luxury SUV, a high-quality interior, excellent driving dynamics and strong performance place it near the top of its class. Add the hybrid drivetrain however and the MDX becomes even more compelling, economy and performance levels receive a welcome boost and the all-wheel drivetrain enhances handling even further.

It may not be the class leader in all segments but the few flaws it has aren’t enough to take away from the fact that the Acura MDX Hybrid is one of the best sporting hybrid SUVs on the market.

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5 Improvements That Could Make The Acura TLX A Perfect Sport Sedan

The TLX isn't perfect, but we think we could change that.

The old Acura TL was a very good car, especially in Type S trim or with the latter 3.7-liter V6 with SH-AWD and optional six-speed manual transmission. Acura replaced the TL (and the TSX) with the new TLX, and we don't think that the new car has captured the magic of its predecessor. Acura has been in a rut for a few years now, but based one what the company revealed at Detroit, we think that this slump may be ending soon. The TLX has the potential to be a great car, and we have five changes that we think would make it perfect.

Bring Back the Type S

We've argued that bringing back Type S models would be a great way to improve the brand. Acura has concurred, announcing that it will finally bring back Type S models with an all-new engine. The most powerful TLX model uses a 3.5-liter V6 with 290 hp. The new Type S models will utilize a twin-turbo V6 that will be exclusive to the Acura brand. Not much else is known about this new V6, but we'd love to see around 400 hp to make it competitive with Infiniti's twin-turbo V6. Acura needs a performance model to show that the NSX is still related to other models in some way. Type S models won't just improve the TLX, but the entire Acura brand.

Offer A Manual

Along with a Type S model, we would love for Acura to offer the TLX with a manual transmission. The TLX is currently offered with an eight-speed dual-clutch on four-cylinder models and a nine-speed automatic on V6 models. Even though we love manuals, we are firm believers that not every car on the market would be better with a stick shift. The TLX is not one of these cars. Acura and Honda build some of the best manual transmissions on the market, and we would love to see the TLX offered with one. The Honda Accord is still offered with a manual, but Acura no longer has any manual transmissions in its lineup. We'd like to see that changed.

Make The A Spec More Performance-Oriented

While we eagerly await the arrival of new Type S models, the sportiest TLX available is the A Spec trim. Unfortunately, the A Spec only adds more aggressive styling, bigger wheels, and some interior upgrades. The A Spec package only costs $2,900, but it is far from a real performance model. Acura has plans to offer more A Spec models that will sit between standard and high performance Type S models. We'd like to see Acura ape what Lexus does with its F Sport models and give the A Spec models suspension and handling upgrades that offer some performance improvements over the standard cars.

All-New Infotainment System

We aren't too fond of Acura's current infotainment system, which combines two display screens. The system is a bit cumbersome to use, but luckily Acura has an improvement at the ready. Acura revealed a prototype version of the RDX SUV at Detroit, which showed off an all-new infotainment system. This system replaces the second touchscreen with a Lexus Enform-style touch pad. We assume that this new interior will eventually trickle down to the TLX, which will be a nice improvement.

Introduce A Coupe

Our final change would be the introduction of a coupe variant of the TLX. Acura hasn't had a two-door model since the old CL and RSX went out of production. We think that a TLX Coupe could plug the gap in the market left when Honda discontinued the Accord Coupe. An Acura coupe would have likely eaten into Accord Coupe sales, which would no longer be an issue. We'd recommend reviving the old CL name and aligning it to the current lineup by calling this new model the CLX.

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Porsche Taycan Sport Turismo Spied As Porsche Confirm Production

What's better than an all-electric Porsche? An all-electric Porsche wagon.

As we look forward to Porsche's first ever electric car, the Taycan, hitting the road, spy shots with ever decreasing amounts of camouflage provide a better idea of what the production model will look like.

We expect the Taycan to arrive in many different flavors and body styles, as previewed by the Mission E Cross Turismo Concept. Now, our spy photographers have captured photos of the prototype version of the Taycan wagon, which will likely adopt the Sport Turismo name used on the Panamera. The Taycan Sport Turismo will likely arrive soon after the standard Taycan in 2019 and offer a bit more usability in the trunk.

Unlike the Mission E Cross Turimso, they Taycan Sport Turismo looks like it will have a normal ride height, rather than a raised, SUV-like profile. Of course, a lifted off-road-oriented Taycan could arrive as a later model.

Today, Porsche confirmed that as the Mission e Cross Turismo was so well received it was green-lighting it for production.

The Taycan is expected to arrive with various levels of power, ranging from 400 to 600 horsepower in Taycan Carrera, Taycan Carrera S, and Taycan Turbo trims, though the most potent model will include 600 hp and a 310-mile range. All-wheel-drive is expected to be standard, though a cheaper RWD model may come later on. There is also a small possibility that the Taycan will be rear-wheel-drive from the start and offer AWD as an option.

Like the Panamera Sport Turismo, the Taycan Sport Turismo will offer increased luggage space and rear passenger headroom due to its higher roof line. It's difficult to tell based on the spy shots but we'd assume the standard Taycan will have only four seats while the Sport Turismo will add a middle seat in the rear.

We don't know if the Taycan Sport Turimso will arrive alongside the standard car but this prototype does look just as production-ready as the other Taycans we've seen, so it may not be long before we see the production version.

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