Unique Cars | Comfortable for Future Cars | New Cars

Unique cars are hard to find. But they do exist. Here are some of unique cars you should know:

1. Ford FPV GT
Ford FPV GT claims as the most powerful Australian-made car. Engine: Five-litre supercharged V8. 335kW power @ 5750rpm. 570Nm torque @ 2200-5500
rpm. Dimensions: 4970mm long, 1868mm wide, 1453mm high. Price: $71,290 prices $71,290

2. Rolls-Royce Phantom EWB
Rolls-Royce Phantom EWB claims as the longest car. Rolls-Royce Phantom EWB shares largest engine with $1,355,000 convertible version that is most expensive car. Engine: 6749cc V12. 338kW power @ 5350rpm. 720Nm torque @ 3500rpm. Dimensions: 6090mm long, 1990mm wide, 1640mm high; 2670kg. Rolls-Royce Phantom EWB prices $1,250,000.

3. Mazda MX-5
Claim: Only true sports car under $50,000 (or $70,000)
Price: from $44,265
Engine: 1998cc, four-cylinder. 118kW power @ 7000rpm. 188Nm torque @ 5000rpm
Dimensions: 4020mm long, 1720mm wide, 1245mm high; 1135kg

4. Mini Clubman
Claim: Only station wagon under 4m
Price: from $34,400
Engine: 1598cc four-cylinder. 88kW power @ 6000rpm. 160Nm torque @ 4250rpm
Dimensions: 3937mm long, 1683mm wide, 1426mm high; 1145kg.

5. Suzuki Alto GL
Suzuki Alto GL claims as the Lowest-priced car, smallest engine, lowest power.
Suzuki Alto GL has engine: 996cc, three-cylinder. 50kW power @ 6000rpm. 90Nm torque@ 4800rpm. Dimensions: 3506mm long, 1600mm wide, 1470mm high; 880kg. Suzuki Alto GL prices $11,790.

An American built Excalibur sports car modelled on a classic 1929 Mercedes-Benz SSK, sold for an unprecedented $89,000 at Shannons Melbourne Spring Auction on September 4 following a fierce battle amongst telephone and floor bidders.

Lexus HS 250h (2010) has been revealed by Lexus at the Detroit Auto Show. As had been announced by the Japanese manufacturer, the 2010 Lexus HS 250h is the world’s first dedicated luxury hybrid vehicle.

Powered by a 2.4-liter Atkinson-cycle powerplant and the latest generation Hybrid Drive System, 2010 Lexus HS 250h may develops a total of 187 hp. The new model’s powerplant also features Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) which gives a more efficient combustion energy to engine power conversion.

The engine of the 2010 Lexus HS 250h is coupled with an Electronically Controlled Continuously Variable Transmission.

2010 Lexus HS 250h has a futuristic exterior and interior design which features carbon-neutral Ecological Plastic materials.

2010 Lexus HS 250h will be available in showroom in late summer this year. Unfortunately, the company doesn’t provide more information about 2010 Lexus HS 250h price.

Press Release
Lexus revealed the 2010 HS 250h, the world’s first dedicated luxury hybrid vehicle, at the North American International Auto Show. The HS 250h will be Lexus’ fourth hybrid and the most fuel-efficient vehicle in its lineup. It also will be the first Lexus to utilize carbon-neutral Ecological Plastic materials in a new futuristic cockpit and interior design.

A welcomed addition to Lexus’ entry-luxury sedan lineup, the Lexus HS 250h fits nicely between the IS luxury sport sedan and the ES luxury sedan. Research has shown that more than 60 percent of entry-luxury car buyers would have considered a hybrid if available, and the HS will provide these consumers with a viable purchase option.

Equipped with Lexus’ first four-cylinder gas engine, the 2.4-liter Atkinson-cycle powerplant is part of the latest Lexus Hybrid Drive System, which generates 187 total system horsepower. The highly efficient Atkinson-cycle engine, made possible by the Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) system, allows the expansion/power stroke to be longer than the compression stroke so that combustion energy can be more effectively used for production of engine power. The HS 250h sedan’s expected fuel efficiency will be more than 30-percent better than the most fuel-efficient model currently in the Lexus lineup, while earning a SULEV emissions rating utilizing regular 87-octane gasoline. Among the technologies adopted in the 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine are cooling piston oil jets; an optimized balance shaft rate for improved Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH) characteristics; and a hot-air venting system mounted behind the radiator.

Like the all-new 2010 RX 450h hybrid utility vehicle that made its debut in November, the Lexus HS 250h will include a new system designed to improve efficiency. The exhaust heat recovery system reduces engine warm-up time, thus allowing it to stop earlier, more often, and for longer periods. A windshield with infrared-ray (IR) reduction properties, which helps keep the interior more cool, has been adopted in order to decrease the amount of air conditioning needed to lower the cabin temperature. In addition to the exhaust heat recovery system and the IR windshield, available power-saving LED headlamps also contribute to improved fuel efficiency and emissions.

The all-new HS 250h sedan’s 0.27 drag coefficient (Cd) makes it among the most aerodynamic in its class. Airflow management over the exterior, below the under floor and through the air passages was extensively examined. A unique gull-wing-shaped roof-panel design reduces mass and overall vehicle height, thus reducing drag and improving fuel efficiency. The front spoiler, rear spoiler, rear under spoiler, and diffuser fins all reduce turbulence. Smooth A-pillar shape and the optimized angle and curvature of the bumper side panels also reduce wake turbulence, as does the increased taper of the fender side panels. The under-floor covers have been optimally positioned for reduced drag, while airflow restriction in the engine compartment has been lowered by optimizing the air-duct profiles around the radiator.

Aerodynamic design has also contributed to decreased wind noise. A smoother transition between windshield (complete with a sound-insulating inner layer) and roof line has improved air flow and reduced turbulence.

As is appropriate for the first dedicated luxury hybrid vehicle, the Lexus HS 250h includes proactive adoption of plant-based, carbon-neutral “Ecological Plastics” or bio-plastics in specific interior areas. Ecological Plastic emits less carbon dioxide during a product’s lifecycle than plastic made solely from petroleum. Among the areas of utilization will be an industry-first use in luggage-trim upholstery. Other areas are the cowl-side trim, door scuff plate, tool box area, floor-finish plate, seat cushions, and the package tray behind the rear seats. Overall, approximately 30-percent of the interior and luggage area is covered with Ecological Plastic. Over the estimated lifecycle of the vehicle, the HS 250h will have approximately 20-percent fewer carbon-dioxide emissions as a result of utilizing the Ecological Plastic trim pieces.

Like all Lexus hybrid models, significant time was spent in developing the Lexus HS 250h with optimized NVH characteristics. Dynamic dampers at each engine-mounting point reduce noise and vibration, resonators improve intake air noise, and optimized exhaust flow reduces exhaust sound. Special coatings dampen both engine and road noise, while improved seals around doors, hood and fenders reduce wind-noise penetration into the cabin. Vibration has been reduced by improving the shape and thickness of the suspension-mounting points. In addition, power-window speed controllers have been adopted from the LS luxury sedan, which insure a slower, soft closing rate.

The Lexus HS 250h chassis design provides an outstanding ride and comfort with the decreased NVH required by a Lexus hybrid. The MacPherson strut front suspension is designed to achieve both straight-line and braking control, and a positive steering feel. A double-wishbone rear suspension provides excellent maneuverability, control and comfort with a low spring mount that contributes to better packaging and superior cargo space. Coil springs, anti-roll bars and shock-absorber rebound springs are utilized front and rear. The Lexus HS 250h will have uniquely designed standard 17- and optional 18-inch wheels.

The rack-and-pinion steering system utilizes a brushless Electric Power Steering (EPS) motor on the steering column, which provides improved steering feel, a reduction in harsh feedback, and better emissions by not draining engine power like conventional hydraulic systems.

The EPS is an integral part of an available lane keep assist system, a new driver assist that adds smooth steering torque to help the vehicle stay in the center of the lane. The amount of assisted torque is dependant on a lane-marker detection camera. It includes a lane departure warning feature that is designed to detect possible lane departure; it then gives the driver an audible warning and provides feedback via the steering wheel to encourage corrective action.

The HS is slightly longer than the IS and is taller than both the IS and ES. It also has a greater couple distance (distance hip to hip between front and rear passengers) than any other vehicle in its class other than the ES. The contoured front-seat backs also add to increased rear-seat legroom.

The HS features a unique advanced cockpit and an interior design that emphasizes innovation and craftsmanship. The uniquely stylish cabin has standard leather-trim seats, a moonroof, Lexus premium audio systems, and a new standard multi-media package. The media features include Bluetooth® technology, integrated satellite radio (subscription required), voice recognition, and USB iPod connectivity controlled via steering-wheel controls or a display screen. A high-contrast multi-information display, located in the instrument panel’s hybrid system indicator gauge, is controlled via steering-wheel-mounted controls, allowing the driver to easily control various functions and information.

Another key element of the modern interior is Lexus’ new available Hard Disk Drive (HDD) Navigation System, which features a retractable navigation screen that is positioned well back and up front in the dash. The positioning helps improve visibility and reduce driver eye movement. Similar to the new RX, the HS system features the all-new “Remote Touch” controller that is both intuitive and ergonomic and allows for easy use of the Navigation System. The controller is positioned on the center console and is as natural to the driver’s hand as a computer mouse. It can also be customized to the desired level of haptic feedback.

The Navigation System also includes a new casual-speech voice recognition feature. This allows drivers to give more flexible, conversational commands for easier access and control of the audio, climate and navigation functions. Also included are XM® NavTraffic® and NavWeatherTM, along with XM Sports and Stock information.

Also helping to reduce driver eye movement is an optional Heads-up Display (HUD). The HUD uses high-intensity LEDs to make the display bright enough to be read even in direct sunlight.

A class-leading 10 airbags will be standard on the all-new HS 250h as well as active front head rests, which help passengers in case of certain types of rear-end accidents. The HS also will feature Lexus’ Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) system and optional Pre-Collision System with Dynamic Radar Cruise Control.

An available wide-view front monitor helps the driver to check hard-to-see areas. Using a camera mounted in the front grille, the monitor provides a 190-degree front view on the Navigation screen with the push of a button on the steering wheel.

The Lexus HS 250h will also offer Lexus’ next generation telematics systems, Lexus Enform and Safety Connect. Safety Connect will provide automatic collision notification, stolen vehicle location, 24/7 emergency and roadside assistance.

Lexus Enform’s Destination Assist features operators who will help drivers look up points of interest such as shopping centers or other business locations like Zagat-rated restaurants, and then wirelessly send directions directly to the vehicle’s navigation system.

Lexus Enform’s eDestination service will allow customers to pull up multiple points of interest on any computer and send them directly to the car’s navigation system. This innovative new feature will allow drivers to send a total of 200 destinations at a time to their vehicles.

Lexus RX350 which previously was unavailable for the for Japanese market has been launched.

Lexus RX350 features an Active Torque Control system that optimizes torque to the front and rear wheels. Lexus RX350 is powered by a V6 3.5-liter engine coupled with a six-speed automatic transmission and an all-wheel-drive system.

Alongside with the launching of Lexus RX350, Lexus also announced the Lexus RX450h which will be available from April this year.

Lexus RX450h is powered by the Toyota Hybrid System II with a motor speed reduction device and E-Four. Lexus RX450h has a V6 3.5-liter engine developing 249 PS at 6,000 rpm and 317 Nm of torque at 4,800 rpm and a front motor with an output of 167 PS and 335 Nm of torque.

Lexus RX350 price for Japanese market will starts at 4.6 million yen, while Lexus RX450h price will starts at 5.7 million yen.

Both RX models are the latest versions of the RX, which was previously unavailable in Japan. Next-generation crossovers that merge the luxurious ride and comfort of a sedan with the functionality of an SUV, they offer, at the highest levels, the environmental and safety performance demanded of 21st-century luxury vehicles. They are based on the concept of providing the superior excitement and driving comfort characteristic of a Lexus vehicle.

The new arrivals include such features as an advanced hybrid system with a V6 gasoline engine, the E-Four (electric four-wheel drive) system for outstanding driving and environmental performance, as well as a unique “dual-zone cockpit” that allows the driver to concentrate on driving. Other top-class features create a dynamism that sets the vehicles apart from other SUVs while providing a strong sense of safety and satisfaction.

The exterior design, based on the Lexus design philosophy L-finesse, combines a powerful wide-track stance with the sophistication characteristic of a Lexus vehicle.

The front consists of a single, solid form from the hood to the bumper. The exterior frame of the front grille extends to the headlights, which have the unique Lexus “arrowhead” profile.
The fender and wheel arch merge with the body to express a powerful form.
The cabin, which provides ample interior and cargo space, features quarter pillars with unique lines and side windows with optical molding, while the chrome-plated under-door molding draws in the lower part of the body and expresses high quality.
The smooth and simple door handles feature touch sensors.
At the rear, the fender projects outward and then merges into the bumper, while clear-lens horizontal taillights create a silhouette that projects stability. In addition, the adoption of a roof spoiler with a retractable rear-window wiper creates a clean look and excellent rear vision for the driver.
The front grill, front bumper, LED headlights, 19-inch aluminum wheels, and other unique design features—as well as the use of the exclusive “Lexus hybrid blue” on the symbol marks, the headlights, and the combination taillights—serve to express the RX450h’s advanced hybrid nature. “Quartz White Crystal Shine”, a color that appears to change depending on angle, lighting conditions and the position from which it is viewed, is exclusive to the hybrid model.

*Created by combining “leading-edge” and “finesse” design concepts

A unique cockpit delivers superb visibility and creates an environment that allows the driver to concentrate on driving, while the interior design conveys a sense of openness.

The HDD (hard disk drive) navigation system features a center-console-mounted “Remote Touch” interface that allows easy remote control of on-screen functions.
The white organic electro-luminescence (EL) multi-information display, the first of its kind in the world, boasts high contrast and outstanding visibility from a wide angle, and a multi-information switch for displaying and switching between various types of information.
A heads-up display allows the driver to view a variety of information such as speed, lane information, and various warnings without the need for excessive eye movement.
The multi-adjustable, electric driver’s and front-passenger seats, equipped with a cushion-length-adjustment function, provide proper support regardless of the occupant’s height.
The distinctive design of the double-wishbone rear suspension provides five percent more cargo volume and easier loading.
*As of December 2008, according to TMC research

The RX450h is equipped with an advanced Lexus Hybrid Drive system and the E-Four system, which incorporates the first Lexus V6 3.5-liter engine that runs on the Atkinson cycle. Combined with a new inverter with excellent cooling performance to raise fuel efficiency, the result is the power of a 4.5-liter engine but with environmental performance that is one of the best in its class in the world.

The Atkinson cycle engine delays intake and compression timing to generate a high expansion ratio with low compression, thereby limiting pumping loss during intake.
An exhaust-heat recovery system reduces engine warm-up time.
A cooled exhaust-gas recirculation (EGR) system brings the pressure in the intake manifold close to atmospheric pressure, thereby reducing piston pumping losses and improving fuel economy.
The power control unit inverter element has a dual-side cooling structure, resulting in substantial size and weight reduction of the unit and increased torque.
The RX450h features a switch-engaged Eco-drive Mode that prioritizes fuel efficiency by aligning driving force with accelerator use and by putting the air conditioner into a low energy consumption mode.

The RX350 combines a V6 3.5-liter engine with a six-speed automatic transmission. The all-wheel-drive model features an Active Torque Control system that optimizes torque to the front and rear wheels depending on driving conditions, such as vehicle speed and road surface, achieving both excellent fuel efficiency and responsive handling.

Efforts were made to reduce CO2 emissions by improving fuel efficiency. The RX450h has a fuel efficiency of 16.8 km/l according to the JC08 test cycle of the Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport (MLIT) and is one of the first vehicles to meet the 2015 Japanese fuel-efficiency standards. (Under the old 10-15 test cycle, the RX450h has a fuel efficiency of 18.8km/l. The two-wheel drive RX350 has a fuel economy of 9.7km/l under the 10-15 test cycle.) All Lexus RX models have emission levels 75% lower than the 2005 standards under the MLIT’s Approval System for Low-emission Vehicles and all vehicles qualify for incentives under the Japanese government’s Green Taxation System.

Eco-VAS (Eco-Vehicle Assessment System)—Toyota’s original comprehensive environmental impact assessment system—was used to achieve an overall reduction in environmental impact from the vehicle. Environmental targets were set at the initial vehicle development stage and a life-cycle assessment was carried out to achieve a reduction in air contaminants and CO2 from the vehicle throughout its life, from production and use to disposal.
A review of the materials, processing methods and adhesives used for interior parts resulted in a reduction in the amount of volatile organic compounds used, thereby reducing the sometimes discomforting odors emitted from such compounds and also meeting relevant voluntary industry standards.

A new trailing-arm double-wishbone rear suspension was developed to achieve responsive handling and cruising stability along with an exceptionally comfortable ride.

An auto-leveling function ensures vehicular stability through precise control regardless of the number of occupants or amount of cargo. In addition, electronically controlled air suspension employing a height-control system allows three heights to be selected according to particular driving conditions.

When cornering, the RX450h’s electric active-stabilizer-suspension system operates motors located in the center of the stabilizers to maintain a proper banking angle, providing a highly responsive feel and a smooth ride.

The exceptionally aerodynamic design contributes to cruising stability and excellent fuel efficiency.

Surface-level-difference between the headlights, windshield, and body have been minimized and the outer mirrors have been shaped to optimize air flow.
The adoption of a rear spoiler and a flatter underfloor—particularly the use of plastic covers on components beneath the body and the rear lower arm—reduce air resistance.
The use of rectifier fins to adjust air flow below the body contributes to outstanding handling and cruising stability at high speeds.

Safety features were adopted in line with the Integrated Safety Management Concept, which aims to create vehicles that do not cause accidents.

Side monitors that greatly expand field of vision (compared to earlier systems) are standard on all models. The monitors enhance safety by enabling the driver to clearly view the area near the left side of the vehicle and avoid obstacles that may lie within the turning radius.
Standard on all vehicles is the Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management system, which integrates control of drive power, steering and braking to achieve ideal handling performance and high-active safety performance.
The Pre-Collision System uses millimeter-wave radar to recognize possible frontal collisions. The front-passenger and driver-seat seatbelts (Pre-crash Seatbelts) retract in anticipation of the collision, while the Pre-Crash Brake Assist system decelerates the vehicle to reduce collision damage.
A total of 10 airbags—including dual stage Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) airbags that match the speed of airbag inflation to the front-end collision force and SRS knee airbags—surround and protect occupants.
Front-seat active headrests that shift to a position to lessen stress on the neck and reduce the risk of whiplash injuries from a rear-end collision come standard.

Lexus has made announcement that the Lexus L-finesse will be premiered in the art exhibition at Milan Design Week this year.

Lexus L-finesse crystallized wind exhibition is a combination of Japanese contemporary art, architecture, and also design elements.

Lexus L-finesse is specially designed piece of acrylic furniture and will be included with an acrylic replica of the full-size Lexus LF-A super sports concept.

Sou Fujimoto - a Japanese artist who received numerous awards for the contribution of design and architecture has signing the exhibition for Lexus L-finesse this year.

Lexus will return to the Milan Design Week this year with an art exhibition entitled ‘Lexus L-finesse - crystallized wind -’, a combination of Lexus L-finesse design philosophy and the very finest in contemporary art, architecture and design elements from Japan.

The exhibition will take place in Milan’s Museo della Permanente art gallery from 22 to 26 April as part of the world’s largest design exhibition, the Salone del Mobile di Milano.

Ground-breaking Japanese architect Sou Fujimoto will interpret the Lexus design philosophy ‘L-finesse’ through a dynamic installation that brings together space, sound and lighting.

“Crystallized wind is the result of a conceptual interpretation of the underlying principles of L-finesse design”, explains Sou Fujimoto.

“The term wind addresses not only the flow of wind, but also symbolises a flow or current in a greater sense. It is a new horizon where the natural and the artificial coexist in space. I wanted to find a way to give form to that which is formless: to take the flow of air and the passing of time and to represent them in such a way as to explain the essence of the duality of L-finesse. The result is an art form that represents movement yet stillness, and the flow of time in a timeless environment.”

The Lexus exhibit will display an acrylic art piece based on the full-size Lexus LF-A super sports concept car and will also include a specially designed piece of acrylic furniture.

Lexus has participated in the Milan Design Week since 2005, using the platform to express the L-finesse message through different artists and fields. This year Lexus also aims to demonstrate the traditions and innovations of designs crossing each other.

“L-finesse design is much more than a surface approach and is certainly not confined to automotive design, we are trying to look much deeper than that, we use the Japanese influence in that way.” Said Wahei Hirai, Managing Officer of Design Center.

“That is also why we like to collaborate with leading artists and designers instead of just working with our own automotive designers. This way, we inspire each other and we can go much more in depth. However, even if we keep the same consistency at the same time we change the way we represent our design philosophy over the time.”