2004 Lexus Rx330 Base Sport Utility 4-door 3.3l on 2040-cars

Auto blog

2015 Lexus LS gets tighter turning radius, new infotainment

Go back a couple of decades and the thought of a Japanese automaker challenging the German limousines would have seemed laughable, but 25 years later the Lexus LS is a mainstay of the luxury sedan market. And it didn't get there by sitting on its laurels, so it should come as little surprise that Lexus is offering some small tweaks as it enters the 2015 model year.
This time around the upgrades are rather minor, consisting primarily of a new multimedia system. It's got an updated navigation system with 12.3-inch display, revised backup camera imagery with dynamic gridlines, and an enhanced Lexus Enform App Suite that can control the locks, ignition, climate control and more, remotely.
While they were at it, Toyota's engineers also reduced the turning circle by four inches (on cars fitted with 18-inch wheels), and enhanced the F Sport package as well. Otherwise, it's essentially the same LS we've always known.

What to do if the infotainment in your Lexus isn't working

According to Toyota, "errant data from our traffic and weather data service provider" caused the infotainment systems in 2014-2016 Lexus vehicles and the 2016 Toyota Land Cruiser to go into some sort of endless reboot loop. The video above shows what that looks like, in case you're interested. Obviously, it's not good – the malfunction means the audio systems, navigation and climate control systems aren't working properly, and that the hands-free mobile phone function won't work. Apparently, some owners were able to manually fix their cars by disconnecting the battery cables for 10 minutes, which forces the car's computer systems to restart. But Toyota isn't officially suggesting that people take that action. Instead, "Toyota and Lexus owners experiencing these issues should visit their dealer for a complimentary system reset and a confirmation of the system," the automaker said in a statement. It's worth noting that issues with the usability of modern infotainment systems have caused customer satisfaction scores to drop. Lexus, though, has been mostly immune to such complaints, having come in first place in J.D. Power's most recent Vehicle Dependability study. Not that you should automatically trust those findings, anyway... Related Video: This content is hosted by a third party. To view it, please update your privacy preferences. Manage Settings. News Source: Lexus via Twitter Lexus Toyota Auto Repair Ownership Technology Infotainment

Best Large SUVs of 2024

When it comes down to large SUVs, there's more to consider than price and just how large it is. First, it comes down to what's underneath the skin. Some are built on a truck-like body-on-frame chassis — this would be the traditional, literal definition of an "SUV." Others use car-like, unibody construction, which would make them a crossover. What really matters, though, is how you use them. For most American families, a large three-row crossover is going to be your best bet. They have loads of passenger and cargo space, and deliver superior fuel economy, handling and ride quality than those big traditional SUVs. They're cheaper, too. On the other hand, those traditional large SUVs like the Chevy Tahoe and Ford Expedition are better-suited for more heavy-duty tasks like towing. Most now have bigger third rows than big crossovers, while extended-length versions like the Chevy Suburban have way more cargo capacity behind their third rows than everything but an airport shuttle. As for luxury large SUVs, they fall into those same two categories as well, with American choices mostly being truck-based. The pros and cons of choosing one over another are similar. Below, you will find our list of the best large SUVs broken down into three categories: large family crossover, large traditional SUV and large luxury SUVs, which comprise both construction types.  Best Large Family Crossovers  |  Best Large Traditional SUVs  |  Best Large Luxury SUVs Best Large Family Crossovers 2024 Honda Pilot Why it stands out: Exceptional storage and cargo space; unique second-row functionality; refined ride; versatile and capable TrailSport; advanced AWDCould be better: Subpar acceleration with lackadaisical transmission and engine response; so-so driver assistance tech Read our full 2024 Honda Pilot Review The Honda Pilot was completely redesigned for 2023. It maintains its predecessor's family-friendly packaging and overall focus, but it has injected a welcome sense of style (especially in the TrailSport pictured above) that makes it stand out much better from the big crossover crowd. The Pilot's restrained adornment and classic proportions are refreshing compared to the increasingly busy Kia Telluride, Hyundai Palisade and Subaru Ascent. Let's talk about practicality, though, which is ultimately the Pilot's best attribute.