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The revolutionary Bose suspension that could have been

The Bose name pops up on these pages every once in a while – usually, as you might expect, because some automaker or another has installed its audio systems in one or more of its models. But a few years back, the research-driven audiophiles at Bose developed a revolutionary adaptive suspension system that could have been a game-changer. Sadly, it wasn't. The Bose suspension system was a technological breakthrough. As you can see from the pair of Lexus LS sedans demonstrated (and the Porsche Cayman thrown in for good measure) in the two-minute video above from CNET, the system virtually eliminated body roll and smoothed out bumps in the road to near glass-like serenity. It could even jump over minor obstacles. Unfortunately, the system was too heavy and expensive to put into production, and the project was shelved. Instead, it was repackaged into a suspended driver's seat for heavy-duty, long-haul trucks and called the Bose Ride System. It's said to significantly reduce fatigue and back pain while encouraging driver alertness and wellness – which is all well and fine, but a far cry from what the suspension system could have meant for the automotive industry. Just think about that the next time you notice the Bose logo on the speaker grille in an upscale vehicle from the likes of Audi, FCA, GM, Mazda, or Nissan – all automakers that offer Bose audio systems, and which might have considered implementing the advanced suspension if only it were more practical for production. Latest Video: News Source: CNET via YouTube Lexus Technology Videos lexus ls cnet

Lexus thinks small with ultra-compact LF-SA concept

Lexus used the Geneva Motor Show to premiere its concept for a forward-thinking 2+2 urban vehicle, the LF-SA. The concept is small – Lexus says it's an "ultra-compact sub-B-segment" vehicle – and it is designed for maneuverability and agility on congested city streets. It also celebrates the 25th anniversary of the first Lexus, the LS400. The LF-SA has prominent wheel arches, the signature Lexus spindle grille and L-shaped headlights. Lexus calls the appearance "a Time in Design styling approach, in which perceptions of the vehicle change when it is viewed from different angles." It was penned in Toyota's European design studio. It's all capped with a striking paint color, called "Silver Stellar," that the automaker claims is meant to evoke space exploration. The inside has room for two, but it is biased toward the driver. The pedals and steering wheel are adjustable, and the passenger seat is slide adjustable to allow access to the rear. Perhaps the coolest feature is the infotainment system's hologram-style display. The LF-SA leaked last week, and the live shots from Geneva prove it's worth another look. Related Video: Lexus LF-SA World debut at the 2015 Geneva motor show European debut for the Lexus GS F and LF-C2 roadster concept The new Lexus LF-SA concept makes its world debut today at the 2015 Geneva motor show. Last year marked the 25th anniversary of the very first Lexus, the LS400 saloon. To celebrate this milestone, Lexus challenged ED2, its European design studio, to create a concept of an ultra-compact (sub-B-segment) urban 2+2 model. The LF-SA Concept explores unexpected territory for the brand in a powerful, emotional execution that illustrates Lexus's passion for up-coming design trends. The LF-SA Concept is also a driver-focused vehicle, reflecting Lexus's vision that in a future world where technology and virtual experiences are expected to hold more sway, the real driving experience could become the ultimate luxury. Taking that insight as inspiration, the new concept presents an audacious interpretation of Lexus's L-finesse design philosophy, while never losing sight of the requirement for driving pleasure – a quality that will always be a defining element of Lexus's progressive luxury.

Lexus gives IS early updates for 2015

After just a year on the road, Lexus is bringing some modest tech and style upgrades to the 2015 IS. There are no mechanical changes to speak of, but the refinements should spruce things up a little bit.
The only exterior change for the 2015 IS models is the addition of LED foglights, but as they say, it's what's on the inside that counts. All models get an improved radio with Siri Eyes Free voice command for iPhone 4S and 5 users, and the standard backup camera now includes dynamic grid lines. There is also new piano black trim around the instrument panel and window switches, and a Stratus Gray interior color replaces the previous Light Gray. Buyers get a one-year subscription to the Lexus Enform Remote, which allows drivers to use their smartphones to control some aspects of the car, like remotely locking the doors.
Vehicles ordered with the F Sport package get heated and ventilated front seats, and all-wheel-drive F Sport models get a heated steering wheel, as well. The warmed wheel is also optional on non-F all-wheel-drive models. It should keep drivers nice and toasty in the winter.