Since its first appearance in 1989, the Lexus brand has become synonymous with style and good taste. Technological advancements, added to the brand’s range of models, have resulted in Lexus becoming the brand of choice for a sector of high purchasing power individuals, who are not just looking for a vehicle, but also for evidence of a lifestyle preserved for the fortunate few.
In 2003, this tradition of exclusivity lead Lexus to form an alliance with a company that shares its status: the Pebble Beach Company, operators of the famous resorts and golf courses in California of the same name. The fruits of this alliance can be seen each summer with the public launch of the Lexus-Pebble Beach limited edition models.
This year two of the marque’s favorite models were favored with this honor: the LS 600hL was admitted to membership of this exclusive club reserved for Lexus and Pebble Beach special series cars, and the SC430, which this year is being recognized for the sixth time.
Both vehicles pay tribute to the qualities that Lexus imprints on its designs, which stand out for their elegant appearance, luxury interiors, maximum passenger comfort and new technology that keeps them at the forefront of engineering.
The Lexus LS 600hL is the largest model in the Japanese marque’s range, and boasts being the first luxury automobile to be equipped with a hybrid motor. The 49 hp produced by this motor, when added to the 389 hp output of the conventional 5.9 liter gasoline power plant, produces a total of 438 hp. The results of this combination of power sources include: acceleration from 0 to 100 kph in 5.5 seconds, enough torque to power the car from 80 to 112 kph in just 3.5 seconds, greater fuel efficiency (34 km per gallon) and the always desirable reduction in polluting emissions.
The LS 600hL has the benefit of being able to operate with either one of its motors (either gasoline or hybrid) alone, or with them both together. It is also equipped with a safety feature known as APCS (Pre-Collision System), which enables the automobile to detect even the slightest risk of collision. It also embodies improvements over its predecessor (the LS460) in the areas of suspension, chassis structure and even the tires – the new model is fitted with 19” wheels, equipped with a computerized system for monitoring pressures.
This model is certainly at the forefront of developments in comfort: the passenger compartment is completely insulated from external noise and its doors were designed with such precision that, the sound they make on closing imitates the sound of a wooden door closing in a large house. The Pebble Beach version is finished in the finest materials such as wood, and boasts the emblem of its resorts in details such as the steering wheel and floor mats.
As if the model’s own characteristics were not sufficient evidence of its aristocratic heritage, the 50 cars of this special edition to roll off the production line (which will reach vendors in October) come with three optional packages. Purchasers can choose between a set of personalized Calloway golf clubs and balls, a collection of luxury suitcases or a set of ten Viking Santoku knives, one of haute cuisine’s most exclusive brands.
The SC430, that goes on sale in September and will be available in a limited quantity of 300, does not come with these extras, but then it doesn’t need them. It is a beautiful coupe that easily transforms into a convertible, and will delight both owners and admirers with its unique sporting appearance. It is a car with soft lines, equipped with a 4.3 liter V8 engine producing 286 hp that is sure to delight even the most demanding of drivers.
Among its technological advantages, the SC430 stands out for its four disc braking system and its four channel ABS with electronic braking distribution. Also of note are the electronic systems controlling stability and traction, tire pressure and cruising speed.
Its interior offers more welcome surprises such as the side windows with special ultraviolet and infrared filters. Just like the LS 600hL, this model is completely insulated from exterior sound, even when the aluminum top is stowed in the trunk so that the driver can enjoy the freedom of a convertible. The dashboard is finished in leather and wood, as is the steering wheel, and this special edition bears the Pebble Beach signature that identifies the SC430 as an automobile reserved for the select few.
Adding to the list of features that boast of comfort and elegance are the airtight top, which takes just 25 seconds to stow itself in the trunk, the advanced air conditioning system, the front loading 6 CD system and the navigation screen that is hidden behind a wooden panel when the car is locked.
Anyone lucky enough, or with enough money, to drive away a Lexus SC430, will benefit from a 6 year guarantee, three year’s maintenance and the Call & Play service, giving large discounts at more than 80 luxury hotels and 160 golf courses. Surely this is a package that will be extremely tempting for those seeking to maintain their status as members of the select club of the privileged few.
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