Quiet, comfortable interior; luxury and technology features; acceleration and fuel economy.

Lexus ES 350 lease: Model Changes:

The luxurious, comfort-oriented Lexus ES 350 is essentially unchanged for 2008, save for the addition of two standard reading lamps to the interior.

Lexus ES 350 lease: Model Value:

With more than 100 onboard sensors to monitor the slightest change in the vehicle's path, the 2008 Lexus ES 350 is as intuitive as it is comfortable to drive. It also offers more interior room and safety features, and boasts a lower price tag, than most other vehicles in its class. Unlike its GS and IS stablemates that have a distinct performance focus, the front-wheel-drive ES emphasizes top luxury and technology. The car shares its platform and some of its components with the best-selling Toyota Camry but has enough styling differences and upgraded equipment to earn it a spot in the luxury class.

Lexus ES 350 lease: Model Overview:

The 2008 Lexus ES 350 comes as a single front-wheel-drive model with a 272-horsepower, 3.5L V6 and a six-speed automatic transmission. Lexus provides a large amount of standard equipment, including dual-zone automatic climate control with rear-seat ducts, 10-way power front seats, and steering-wheel-mounted controls for the audio system and trip computer. Other standard amenities include soft-tone LED interior lighting, lighted cup holders, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror with an integrated compass.A push-button start system with SmartAccess keyless entry is also standard, which allows the driver to enter and start the vehicle without ever removing the key fob from a pocket or purse.The ES comes with more available luxury features and high-tech gadgets than most cars in its price range. Most notable is the Lexus Pre-Collision System (PCS), which uses sensors from the dynamic radar cruise control to help anticipate an impending collision. If the PCS determines an unavoidable collision, it retracts the seatbelts, primes the brake assist feature, and can automatically apply the brakes to a degree if the driver does not react in time.To further ensure rider safety, eight air bags come standard on the ES including knee air bags for the driver and front passenger, front side air bags and full-length side curtain bags. Rear-seat side air bags are also available. The front air bags for both the driver and passenger can deploy with variable force, depending on the severity of the accident.Stability control comes standard on the ES 350, along with anti-lock brakes, integrated electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD), and brake assist.Several optional packages bring additional luxury and convenience features. The Premium Package adds leather seats, Bluetooth wireless capability, and memory functions for seat, mirror, and steering wheel adjustment. The Premium Plus package adds a driver's seat cushion extender, rain-sensing wipers, heated and ventilated front seats, while the Ultra-Luxury Package also includes the panorama glass roof, rear backup camera, perforated leather seating, a power rear sunshade, HID headlights, the navigation system, and wood and leather trim.Other standalone options include high-intensity discharge (HID) headlamps with an intelligent adaptive lighting system that swivels the headlamps into corners, heated and ventilated front seats, and a large panoramic glass roof. An available intuitive park assist feature uses ultrasonic sensors to detect objects ahead of or behind the vehicle, showing the distances in a dashboard display.A 300-watt, 14-speaker Mark Levinson audio system will appeal to audiophiles, with 10 channels of amplification and an especially low level of total harmonic distortion. Both this and the standard sound system will accept iPods and portable MP3 players, and both include a six-disc changer.

Lexus GS lease: Model Strengths:

Lively acceleration; impressive overall performance; sporty driving characteristics; high-technology safety and convenience equipment; available all-wheel drive (GS350).

Lexus GS lease: Model Changes:

For 2008, the Lexus GS gets minor appearance revisions inside and out. Outside, the front fascia, bumper, and lower intake have new styling, and the grille is now surrounded in chrome. Inside, the instrument panel gets a new brushed-aluminum surround, and door switches now are surrounded with wood trim. Light gray leather trim and dark gray wood trim are a new combination available through the model line, and the 450h now has an exclusive interior color, Black Opal Mica with blue highlights. All models get turn signals integrated into side-view mirrors. The 450h now also gets a VDIM cutoff switch to allow the driver to disengage the electronic stability control system.

Lexus GS lease: Model Value:

While Lexus's similarly sized ES sedan is oriented more for comfort, the 2008 GS line is configured for performance and sporty driving characteristics. All three models have impressive acceleration and well-rounded performance, and with all-wheel drive available on the GS350, it's a good alternative for those with serious winter weather. The GS -- especially in the 460 and 450h models -- is also a high-tech powerhouse, with many features, such as the Pre-Collision System, not widely found in its rivals. The GS450h also continues to stand out as unique model in the market, as a hybrid model with a distinct performance emphasis. It outpaces the V8, and even so, it has 30-percent better mileage, according to Lexus.

Lexus GS lease: Model Overview:

The 2008 Lexus GS comes in three different models, each distinguished by its power train. The Lexus GS350 is powered by a 303-horsepower V6 engine, while the GS460 has a 342-horsepower V8 engine. At the top of the range is the Lexus GS450h, which has a hybrid power train combining a 3.5L V6 with an electric motor system, to produce 340 horsepower altogether. The GS460 can accelerate to 60 mph in just 5.4 seconds, while the GS450h can get to 60 in 5.2 seconds. The Lexus GS350 has an available all-wheel drive system, but other GS models are rear-wheel drive. The AWD system normally sends 70 percent of engine power to the rear wheels but brings up to 50 percent of power to the front wheels when the conditions warrant. With a planetary-gear differential and wet multi-disc clutch, the torque transfer is very smooth. The GS450h model's hybrid power train is a so-called "full hybrid" system, meaning it can provide electric-only operation at low speeds for short distances to optimize fuel economy. The system recovers some energy to the battery pack, installed in the rear-seat area, when braking or decelerating. The hybrid model carries EPA fuel economy ratings of 22 mpg city, 25 highway. Standard on the GS460 and optional on other models is the Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) system, which brings four settings ranging from a softer, comfort-oriented mode to a "sport" mode for high-performance driving. On the GS460, there's also an Active Power Stabilizer system, controlled by electronic actuators, that reduces body sway for better control in hard cornering. All GS models feature standard VDC electronic stability control, but GS460 and GS450h models upgrade to the Lexus Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management system, which seamlessly integrates the long list of standard electronic safety and performance technology-including the anti-lock brakes, brake assist, electronic brake force distribution, and variable-ratio steering-together. The Lexus Variable Gear Ratio Steering on the GS460 is electrically operated, lighter, and more efficient than traditional systems, and it can change the ratio so that response is quick in parking maneuvers yet stable in highway lane changes. The Lexus GS460 also has an electronically controlled, "brake-by-wire" system that's backed up with a traditional hydraulic system. A Pre-Collision System (PCS) is optional. PCS uses radar sensors to detect obstacles in front of the car and, if it determines a collision is unavoidable, it retracts seatbelts, stiffens the suspension, primes the brake assist, and will automatically apply the brakes if the driver doesn't respond to warnings. Other standout technology functions on the GS include the Adaptive Front Lighting System, which swivels the headlight beams to better illuminate dark corners, and Intuitive Park Assist (IPA), which uses ultrasonic sensors to detect nearby objects during parking in the direction of steering. All GS models come with leather upholstery, ten-way-adjustable power seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, a power rear sunshade, and a ten-speaker sound system with a cassette player and six-CD changer. Both the Lexus GS460 and GS450h models come with heated and ventilated front seats, perforated leather upholstery, rear-seat side air bags, rain-sensing wipers, headlamp washers, and the IPA parking system. Interior appointments come in a variety of materials, including Walnut, Dark Gray, or Brown Bird's Eye Maple trim and a variety of leathers. Major options include a Mark Levinson Premium Audio system, with 330 watts, eleven channels, and the capability to play multi-format, multi-media CDs or DVDs on the included screen, and a DVD-based navigation system with Bluetooth hands-free interface.

Lexus IS lease: Model Strengths:
Seductive, purposeful styling; potent V8 power with 170 mph top speed; revolutionary eight-speed transmission; creature comforts; standard Lexus reliability.

Lexus IS lease: Model Changes:
The IS F, new for 2008, is the first performance car to come from Lexus and thus the first to wear the "F" label. It is the big, bad brother of the quite competent IS 250 and 350. The "F" in IS F means many things, among them a 5.0L V8 making 416 horsepower and 371 lb-ft of torque. It also means an advanced eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters, a sport-tuned suspension, muscular exterior bulges, a rear spoiler, and an aggressive fascia. From the back, there's no mistaking the purpose of the stacked dual exhausts on either side. The IS F carries a $56,000 price tag.

Lexus IS lease: Model Value:
With the introduction of the 2008 IS F, Lexus is taking the fight to the other lettered performance sedans of the world, namely BMW's M3, Mercedes-Benz's AMG C-Class, and Audi's S4 and RS4. Based on the already popular IS 350, the IS F brings with it attractive styling, incredible power, and immense performance. Additionally, its eight-speed Sport Direct-Shift automatic transmission is an industry first matched only by the eight-speed auto found in the Lexus LS.

IS Lexus lease: Model Overview:
Lexus has a well-founded reputation for building solid, quiet, reliable luxury cars that, while not dull, are by no means adventuresome. Apparently, the company has gotten bored with the status quo and has upped the ante considerably with the 2008 IS F.The IS F is based on the successful V6-powered IS 350, which itself is based on the company's GS platform-a chassis designed to accommodate a V8. And that's what Lexus has taken advantage of, inserting beneath the IS F's bulbous hood a 5.0L V8 derived from the 4.6L unit found in GS and LS models. Internally, the unit makes use of a forged crankshaft, titanium intake valves, and aluminum cylinder heads.In this guise, the engine puts out 416 horsepower and 371 lb-ft of torque, good to propel the car from 0 to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds, and on to a claimed top speed of 170 mph. All that power is put to the 19-inch rear wheels through an eight-speed transmission, which can be utilized as either a fully automatic unit, or as a Sport Direct-Shift manual with paddle shifters, which provides a seamless run through the gears. And, with its lowered stance and sport-tuned suspension, the IS F performs just as competently in the turns as it does on the straights.Outside, the IS F features bi-xenon HID headlights, integrated fog lamps, power mirrors, rain-sensing wipers, extended, ventilated front fenders, quad chrome exhaust tips, a rear spoiler, and special "F" badging.Inside, the IS F sacrifices nothing in the way of luxury. Standard features include a 13-speaker, six-disc, premium audio system, a power moonroof, power windows and locks, a power tilt and telescopic steering wheel, and heated, leather-trimmed front sport seats with 10-way power adjustability. Accents in aluminum and blue with "F" badging highlight the cabin.Seven optional packages are available, and each includes DVD navigation and a Mark Levinson Premium audio system, plus amenities like Intuitive Parking Assist, satellite radio, iPod connectivity, and special trunk and cargo features.Standard safety features include multiple front and side air bags, electronic traction and stability controls, four-wheel anti-lock brakes, and an anti-theft system. A pre-collision radar system is optional. The 2008 Lexus IS F returns 16 mpg city / 23 mpg highway.

2008 Lexus IS F lease: Model Strengths:

Terrific overall performance; plenty of luxury features and high-tech options; standard safety.

2008 Lexus IS F lease: Model Changes:

A new performance-oriented model called the IS-F, with more than 400 horsepower and a full roster of track-ready equipment, joins the Lexus lineup later in the 2008 model year. The rest of the IS sport sedans carry over to 2008 with only a few minor changes. Seats have been redesigned, and IS 250 AWD models now also get standard leather seats, with the front being heated. Door scuff plates and the outside mirror control get new illumination, a coin holder has been added, and the standard 17-inch alloy wheels get a new finish.

2008 Lexus IS F lease: Model Value:

The 2008 Lexus IS sport sedans bring the driving feel of a sports coupe, in a more practical four-door sedan body style, and have some available high-tech features that aren't offered by its head-on competitors. The IS 250 AWD model appeals to the more practical-minded, and the IS-F that's set to debut late in the model year may just win over some buyers who want a new track toy that's practical enough for everyday driving.

2008 Lexus IS F lease: Model Overview:

The Lexus IS comes in two primary models for 2008. The Lexus IS 250 has a 204-horsepower, 2.5L V6 engine, and the IS 350 comes with a 306-horsepower, 3.5L V6. Both engines have aluminum construction and variable valve timing for intake and exhaust, along with direct injection. There's also an IS 250 AWD model, which adds all-wheel drive; the other IS models have rear-wheel drive. The IS 250 has a standard six-speed manual gearbox with an optional six-speed automatic with paddle-shifters. The automatic is standard on the IS 250 AWD model and on the IS 350. The IS 350 has particularly strong acceleration; it can get to 60 mph in only 5.3 seconds. Electronic stability control, which helps restore vehicle stability by applying the brakes at individual wheels, is standard on the IS 250, while the IS 350 gets the more sophisticated vehicle dynamics integrated management (VDIM), which integrates all of the vehicles electronic management systems, such as the anti-lock brakes and electronic power steering system, for more seamless assistance in maintaining stability. Eight air bags are standard on the IS, and there's also an optional pre-collision system (PCS) that retracts front seatbelts and readies brake assist when it anticipates a collision with radar sensors. Other high-tech options on the IS include dynamic radar cruise control, which is packaged together with PCS, high-intensity discharge headlamps with an adaptive front-lighting system (AFS) to help illuminate into corners, and an intuitive park assist system for gauging the distance to adjacent vehicles. There's also a DVD-based touch-screen navigation system, a premium audio system with a six-disc changer and 13 speakers, or the top-of-the-line Mark Levinson premium surround sound system, which has 14 speakers, 300-watts, and ten amplifier channels and can play DVD movies when the vehicle isn't moving. The X Package brings a sport suspension, 18-inch alloy wheels, a front lip spoiler, and sport pedals to either of the models. A Premium plus Package brings perforated leather upholstery with heated and ventilated front seats. Also new late in the model year is the new high-performance IS-F. The model is the first of a new line of limited-volume performance vehicles from Lexus to carry the "F" designation and will have a new 5.0L V8 engine with more than 400 horsepower, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission with Sport Direct-Shift manual control, plus 19-inch forged BBS wheels, big Brembo brakes, plus special equipment inside and out. Lexus promises a 0-60 time of less than 4.9 seconds.

2008 Lexus IS sport leasing: Model Strengths:

Terrific overall performance; plenty of luxury features and high-tech options; standard safety.

2008 Lexus IS sport leasing: Model Changes:

A new performance-oriented model called the IS-F, with more than 400 horsepower and a full roster of track-ready equipment, joins the Lexus lineup later in the 2008 model year. The rest of the IS sport sedans carry over to 2008 with only a few minor changes. Seats have been redesigned, and IS 250 AWD models now also get standard leather seats, with the front being heated. Door scuff plates and the outside mirror control get new illumination, a coin holder has been added, and the standard 17-inch alloy wheels get a new finish.

2008 Lexus IS sport leasing: Model Value:

The 2008 Lexus IS sport sedans bring the driving feel of a sports coupe, in a more practical four-door sedan body style, and have some available high-tech features that aren't offered by its head-on competitors. The IS 250 AWD model appeals to the more practical-minded, and the IS-F that's set to debut late in the model year may just win over some buyers who want a new track toy that's practical enough for everyday driving.

2008 Lexus IS sport leasing: Model Overview:

The Lexus IS comes in two primary models for 2008. The IS 250 has a 204-horsepower, 2.5L V6 engine, and the IS 350 comes with a 306-horsepower, 3.5L V6. Both engines have aluminum construction and variable valve timing for intake and exhaust, along with direct injection. There's also an IS 250 AWD model, which adds all-wheel drive; the other IS models have rear-wheel drive. The IS 250 has a standard six-speed manual gearbox with an optional six-speed automatic with paddle-shifters. The automatic is standard on the IS 250 AWD model and on the IS 350. The IS 350 has particularly strong acceleration; it can get to 60 mph in only 5.3 seconds. Electronic stability control, which helps restore vehicle stability by applying the brakes at individual wheels, is standard on the IS 250, while the IS 350 gets the more sophisticated vehicle dynamics integrated management (VDIM), which integrates all of the vehicles electronic management systems, such as the anti-lock brakes and electronic power steering system, for more seamless assistance in maintaining stability. Eight air bags are standard on the IS, and there's also an optional pre-collision system (PCS) that retracts front seatbelts and readies brake assist when it anticipates a collision with radar sensors. Other high-tech options on the IS include dynamic radar cruise control, which is packaged together with PCS, high-intensity discharge headlamps with an adaptive front-lighting system (AFS) to help illuminate into corners, and an intuitive park assist system for gauging the distance to adjacent vehicles. There's also a DVD-based touch-screen navigation system, a premium audio system with a six-disc changer and 13 speakers, or the top-of-the-line Mark Levinson premium surround sound system, which has 14 speakers, 300-watts, and ten amplifier channels and can play DVD movies when the vehicle isn't moving. The X Package brings a sport suspension, 18-inch alloy wheels, a front lip spoiler, and sport pedals to either of the models. A Premium plus Package brings perforated leather upholstery with heated and ventilated front seats. Also new late in the model year is the new high-performance IS-F. The model is the first of a new line of limited-volume performance vehicles from Lexus to carry the "F" designation and will have a new 5.0L V8 engine with more than 400 horsepower, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission with Sport Direct-Shift manual control, plus 19-inch forged BBS wheels, big Brembo brakes, plus special equipment inside and out. Lexus promises a 0-60 time of less than 4.9 seconds.

2008 Lexus LS 460 leasing: Model Strengths:

Ultra luxurious and loaded with high-tech amenities; smooth, powerful V8; excellent interior ergonomics and comfort; strong value for the money.

2008 Lexus LS 460 leasing: Model Changes:

On the heels of a successful debut in 2007, the 2008 LS 460 incorporates few changes. The car is still available in either the base LS460 or the long-wheelbase LS 460 L model, and the L now offers an optional $2,985 Adaptive Variable Air Suspension package that constantly adjusts damping rates to provide the best possible blend of comfort and handling. The system is automatic or can be adjusted by the driver. The option also includes 19-inch wheels, upgraded brakes, and variable-ratio steering, which optimizes steering control based on the car's speed. A new color, Opaline Pearl, is available on both models. Base prices increased by $500 to $61,500 for the LS 460 and $71,500 for the LS 460 L.

2008 Lexus LS 460 leasing: Model Value:

The 2008 Lexus LS 460 and LS 460 L offer buyers the superb build quality of Toyota, the luxury and comfort of Europe's finest sedans, and a level of technological sophistication not found on most vehicles in this class. While the base cars are equipped with enough standard luxury items to satisfy most discerning consumers, optional equipment ups the ante considerably in the competitive luxury sedan segment.

2008 Lexus LS 460 leasing: Model Overview:

The 2007 LS 460 was voted World Car of the Year, a prestigious distinction the 2008 model certainly lives up to. Not only does it meet and even exceed levels of luxury, build, sophistication, and value when compared to cars from Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz, it sets the benchmark in the luxury class. The LS 460 is an Ultra-Low Emissions Vehicle (ULEV) and meets strict standards for hydrocarbon emissions. The 380-horsepower 4.6L V8 with its variable valve timing is linked to the world's first eight-speed sequential-shift automatic transmission to seamlessly return 16 mpg city and 24 mpg highway. Ample standard equipment includes a choice of three interior wood trims, ten-speaker premium sound system, 16-way power driver's seat, dual-zone climate control, Smart Access keyless entry and start, and HID headlights. Other than various luxury options available, the chief difference between the LS 460 and the LS 460 L is the overall length. The L Lexus LS 460 adds nearly five inches to the wheelbase, which equates to five extra inches of rear passenger legroom and allows for some very special appointments. Among them is the $12,675 Executive-Class Seating Package, which adds a rear fixed console, DVD rear-seat entertainment system, power rear sunshades and headrests, and a right rear seat recliner with leg rest and multi-function massager. The base LS 460 can be configured with various Comfort and Navigation Packages. Both cars are available with Lexus's Intuitive Parking Assist, but only the L offers Advanced Parking, which essentially parallel parks the car for the driver. The feature is a stunning piece of innovation that no other manufacturer offers. Safety systems are in keeping with the 2008 LS 460's level of refinement. Both models come standard with a host of air bags front, rear, and side, including front knee air bags. Anti-lock brakes, traction control, and stability control are all standard as well. Additionally, both models can be ordered with Pre-Collision System (PCS), which predicts unavoidable collisions and sets seatbelt and brake systems in motion. Also available is Dynamic Radar Cruise Control that maintains a safe, pre-set distance between the car in front.

2009 Lexus RX 350 Lease: More information regaring this 2009 Lexus is to follow. Or, you can call The Lease Outlet today, at 800.686.2615, and we'll very pleased to tell you more about the Lexus LS 460 and answer any of your questions.

Lexus LS600h leasing: Model Strengths:

High-tech, high-roller image; fuel efficiency; very spacious, luxurious interior; exclusivity; all-weather traction.

Lexus LS460 leasing: Model Changes:

For 2008, Lexus's new luxury flagship, the LS600h L, joins the standard-length LS460 and extended-length LS460 L (which were all-new for 2007), and competes with the most exclusive V12 "super sedans" from Mercedes-Benz and BMW. With a high-tech hybrid power train under hood, along with all-wheel drive, the LS600h L goes for a different crowd-of affluent buyers who are environmentally conscious.

Lexus LS460 leasing: Model Value:

According to Lexus, the 2008 LS600h L features the world's first full V8, all-wheel-drive hybrid drive train; it provides performance that's similar to that of the top German luxury cars, yet has a combined fuel economy of over 20 mpg. It's also among the best of any car for back-seat space, and offers several high-tech features not otherwise seen in some of the most exclusive competitors, such as the advanced parking guidance system, which helps the car "steer itself" into parking spots.

Lexus LS460 leasing: Model Overview:

The 2008 LS600h L showcases Lexus Hybrid Drive, which follows the expertise gained in Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive but is geared more for performance and smoothness that befits a car in this exclusive crowd. The system pairs a 5.0L gasoline V8 engine with two strong electric motors, a system for recapturing power, and a large-capacity battery pack. Altogether, the hybrid power train can deliver 438 horsepower, yielding 0 to 60 mph acceleration times of only 5.5 seconds and impressive passing power. All-wheel drive is part of the package. Power is distributed by a full-time all-wheel-drive system for good traction and stability year round. A Torsen, limited-slip differential helps adjust power distribution; 60 percent goes to the rear wheels under normal driving. The continuously variable automatic transmission has an "S" mode that simulates the engine-braking action or surges in power that drivers may be accustomed to with gears. There's also a snow mode for limited traction. The hybrid power train in the LS600h L is a full hybrid system, meaning that it's capable of running at low-speed on electric power only. It includes an "EV" drive mode to creep almost silently into driveways or parking garages. It's backed up with one of the most powerful electrical systems in any vehicle, with a 288-volt battery pack and on-board power inverter for the hybrid system, and an auxiliary 12-volt battery for on-board accessories. The hybrid system also allows the LS600h L to be considerably more frugal than other cars of its size, weight, and power. It achieves model-year 2008 EPA fuel economy figures of 20 mpg city, 22 highway, and is also expected to meet the Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (SULEV) emissions standard. Compared to other hybrids and to other high-end luxury cars, the LS600h L boasts extremely quiet operation, with extra sound-deadening materials and special vibration-isolating engine mounts. The steering and suspension are designed to be quiet and isolating, yet communicative enough for confident road holding. An air-spring suspension helps provide a good compromise between ride and handling, while there are big ventilated disc brakes front and rear. A variable gear ratio steering system and electronic power steering can function with the standard stability control system to make small adjustments to put the car back on course. It’s easy to get distracted with all the technology under the hood, but the LS600h L is also an extremely luxurious car inside, both in the traditional sense and in terms of high-tech features. The extended wheelbase that comes with the "L" affords plenty of legroom in the back seat for even the tallest basketball players, and it's appointed in fine semi-analine leather with leather trim and real stitching. Wood and chrome trim adorn the interior throughout. Eight air bags are standard on the LS600h L, but up to eleven are available, including individual rear side bags. Standard features on the LS600h L include an adaptive front lighting system, climate-controlled front seats, heated rear seats and steering wheel, card-key access, and intuitive park assist. The options list is massive, and the Lexus LS600h L can be equipped to rival a Bentley or Rolls-Royce, including climate-controlled rear seats, a reclining rear power seat with massage, a wood-trimmed table, power sunshades, a DVD entertainment system, and even an advanced parking guidance system, which will actually help steer you into a parking spot. A Limited Edition model is also available; it comes in a unique Truffle Mica exterior with Alabaster and black leather interior, along with a distinctive appearance inside.

2008 Lexus RX350 leases: Model Strengths:

Comfort; ride and refinement; safety; available technology features; fuel-efficiency (400h).

2008 Lexus RX350 leases: Model Changes:

Both Lexus RX models get only minor appearance changes for 2008, including new chrome door handles and a revised front grille. A new design for the 18-inch alloy wheels is also available. The 400h gets new blue hybrid badges. Two new colors-Desert Sage Metallic and Brandy Wine Mica-join the palette.

2008 Lexus RX350 leases: Model Value:

The 2008 Lexus RX350 and RX400h offer the comfort and refinement of luxury cars, combined with the spacious, versatile interior of utility vehicles. Several high-tech features are available-like adaptive front lighting-that aren't widely available in its class. The RX400h especially, with its advanced hybrid power train, stands out for its high fuel efficiency and 27-mpg city rating. The models also have a very strong reputation for quality; for 2007, the RX was the highest-rated midsize premium multi-activity vehicle in the J.D. Power and Associates Initial Quality Study (IQS).

2008 Lexus RX350 leases: Model Overview:

The 2008 Lexus RX is offered in two primary models: the RX350, which is powered by a 270-horsepower, 3.5L V6, and the RX400h, which has an advanced hybrid system combining a 3.3L V6 and an electric motor system, making a total of 268 horsepower together. The 400h's Lexus Hybrid Drive is a "full hybrid" system, meaning it can operate on electric power in some low-speed stop-and-go conditions, greatly increasing fuel efficiency. The system recovers some energy to battery packs-which are located under the back seat-during braking and coasting, and the electric motors assist the gasoline engine with extra power for accelerating and passing. Both the Lexus RX models are offered in either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive versions. In the Lexus RX350 for lease, the available full-time all-wheel drive system has a viscous limited-slip center differential and distributes power to the front and rear wheels with a 50/50-split in normal driving, sending more to the wheels with more traction when needed. In the 400h, an electric motor drives the rear wheels independently. According to Lexus, both the front-wheel-drive version of the RX350 and the RX400h can accelerate to 60 mph in 7.3 seconds. The 400h however has superior fuel economy ratings of 27 mpg city, 24 highway. Extra attention has been paid to noise and vibration in the RX. Vibration-canceling engine mounts, an acoustic windshield, and extra sound insulation are used. There's also an available air suspension system, which has four ride-height settings, including a "high" mode for rough surfaces at fewer than 30 mph. "Low" mode lowers ride height by 0.6 inches for improved handling, and there's also a lower "access" mode for easier entry, exit, and loading. All RX models have five-passenger seating, with a 40/20/40 split folding rear seatback that both slides and reclines. With the seats folded down, the 28.3-cubic-foot cargo capacity can be expanded to nearly 85 cubic feet. All RX models have safety systems aplenty, including vehicle stability control (VSC), anti-lock brakes with brake assist, side curtain air bags, front-seat-mounted side air bags, and a driver's knee air bag. On 400h models, there's also the Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system, which seamlessly integrates many of the vehicles systems, including the ABS, VSC, traction control, and steering assist, to enable it to more quickly anticipate the loss of control and make corrections. Both the RX350 and RX400h are available in a single very well-equipped model, which includes a power lift gate, dual-zone automatic climate control, ten-way-adjustable power front seats, real wood interior trim, and heated auto-dimming exterior mirrors. The Lexus RX offers several other innovative high-tech features that aren't common on vehicles in its price range. An adaptive front-lighting system swivels the headlights up to 15 degrees in corners, and the dynamic laser cruise control will maintain a set distance from vehicles traveling ahead. Other major options include a DVD-based navigation system with five million points of interest and an integrated Bluetooth calling interface, an illuminated entry system, a large moon roof, and an 11-speaker Mark Levinson Premium Audio System.

2008 Lexus SC 430 leases: Model Strengths:

Handsome looks; well-designed interior; loads of standard luxury equipment; pleasing power train.

2008 Lexus SC 430 leases: Model Changes:

Aside from a revised wheel design in the Pebble Beach Special Edition, very little changed on the Lexus SC 430 retractable hardtop for 2008. Saddle interior trim is no longer available and Chardonnay Pearl paint has been replaced by Golden Almond Metallic. Pricing remains the same as the 2007 model.

2008 Lexus SC 430 leases: odel Value:
The 2008 Lexus SC 430 continues to exude luxury and class, its refined good looks still turn heads at the country club, and its smooth 4.3L V8 is as impressive as ever. The list of standard equipment is extensive, and much longer than most of its competitors. Reliability has been extremely high for the SC since its 2002 redesign.

2008 Lexus SC 430 leases: Model Overview:

The 2008 Lexus SC 430 for lease, with a retractable hardtop, is powered by a 4.3L DOHC 32-valve V8 with continuously variable valve timing which is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. It produces 288 horsepower and 317 ft-lb of torque while still meeting ULEV II standards. Known mostly for its unique design, which has aged gracefully since its 2002 redesign, the SC is incredibly well equipped. Aside from the usual items one would expect to see on a $65,000 luxury car, the SC comes with fog lamps, power electro chromic heated mirrors with a memory feature, 18-inch alloy wheels, power heated leather seats with memory, a navigation system, automatic climate control, and very handsome wood trim. The sound system for the Lexus SC for lease, a Mark Levinson audio unit with cassette and six-disc CD changer, is also outstanding. The rear seats for this Lexus work well for small children or for extra cargo during top-down motoring. Standard safety features on the rear-wheel-drive SC include traction and stability controls, ABS with electronic brake force distribution and brake assist, high-intensity discharge headlamps with washers, a tire pressure monitor, front seat-mounted air bags, and front knee air bags. With so much being standard, the options list is quite short. A rear spoiler and run-flat tires can be ordered, as can 18-inch "liquid graphite" alloy wheels. A Pebble Beach Special Edition Package includes unique maple interior trim, 18-inch alloy wheels, a rear spoiler, special badging and floor mats.