Cars

Lexus IS Sedan: A Hybrid Future Beyond 2025

The automotive landscape is constantly evolving, and even well-established models face transitions. Lexus, known for its enduring presence in the luxury sedan market, is undertaking a strategic refinement of its lineup. While several long-standing models, including most variations of the IS sedan, are scheduled to conclude their production runs by late 2025, a specific iteration, the IS300h two-wheel-drive, is set to persist, primarily serving the Japanese domestic market. This decision highlights Lexus's adaptability and foresight, ensuring the IS nameplate's longevity through a focused, market-specific approach.

Looking ahead, the continued existence of the IS300h is not merely a postponement of an exit; it signals a forward-looking transformation. Industry insights suggest that a substantial update, possibly even a complete overhaul, is anticipated for this model as early as spring 2026. This reimagining is expected to align the IS with Lexus's contemporary design philosophy, drawing inspiration from its Electrified Sedan Concept. Furthermore, this evolution extends to its powertrain, with rumors pointing towards a new IS350h hybrid system, integrating a 2.5-liter Dynamic Force engine with dual electric motors for enhanced performance and fuel efficiency. The prospect of an all-electric version joining the lineup, mirroring strategies seen with other Lexus sedans, further underscores the brand's commitment to an electrified future.

For the North American market, the trajectory of the IS is less defined. Unlike other regions, a hybrid IS model is not currently available in the United States, and the high-performance IS 500, with its V8 engine, is confirmed to be discontinued after 2025. This divergence raises questions about whether the redesigned hybrid and potential electric IS models will eventually make their way to American shores, as no concrete plans or testing initiatives have been disclosed. Nevertheless, the continued development of the IS300h signifies that the narrative of the IS sedan is far from concluded globally, demonstrating how a legacy model can reinvent itself to meet future demands for efficiency and innovation.

The automotive industry is in constant motion, adapting to new technologies and consumer preferences. Lexus's strategic decision to evolve its IS sedan, particularly the IS300h variant, exemplifies a commitment to innovation and sustainability. This move ensures that cherished models can continue to inspire and serve new generations by embracing forward-thinking design and eco-friendly powertrains. It’s a testament to progress, showing that even in times of significant change, there's always an opportunity to redefine what's possible, driving towards a more efficient and electrifying future.

Unpacking the 2025 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro Lease Offering

Prospective truck enthusiasts seeking to acquire a top-tier Toyota Tundra TRD Pro for 2025 now have a compelling lease option. This article provides a comprehensive breakdown of the newly introduced lease terms for this formidable vehicle, outlining the financial commitments and benefits. We examine the standard monthly payment structure, the initial financial outlay required at signing, and the annual mileage cap. Furthermore, an alternative leasing strategy with no upfront payment is explored, detailing how this impacts the monthly financial obligation. The piece also delves into the noteworthy attributes of the Tundra TRD Pro, from its robust hybrid powertrain to its enhanced off-road features, offering a complete picture for those considering this lease.

The Toyota Tundra TRD Pro, a prominent model in the automaker's lineup, stands as a testament to powerful engineering and rugged design. For August 2025, an enticing lease program has been unveiled, presenting an opportunity to drive this high-performance pickup. The standard lease arrangement for this model specifies a monthly payment of $1,106 over a 36-month duration, with an annual mileage allowance of 10,000 miles. This offer necessitates an initial payment of $3,999 upon signing the lease agreement. A significant advantage included in this package is ToyotaCare, which covers scheduled maintenance for two years or up to 25,000 miles, whichever comes first, adding considerable value and peace of mind for lessees. It is crucial to remember that these figures are exclusive of additional taxes, various fees, and other potential charges, meaning the actual monthly expenditure could be higher than the quoted amount.

For individuals who prefer to minimize their initial financial outlay, the option of a zero-down lease for the Tundra TRD Pro is worth considering. While not an official zero-down promotion, effectively eliminating the upfront payment means that the $3,999 typically due at signing is distributed across the 36-month lease term. This adjustment translates to an increase of approximately $111 per month in the lease payment, bringing the total effective monthly cost to around $1,217. This approach allows lessees to retain more liquidity at the onset, making the acquisition of Toyota's most robust full-size truck more accessible. The core terms of the lease, including the 10,000 annual mileage limit and the two-year/25,000-mile ToyotaCare maintenance plan, remain consistent under this arrangement. Prospective lessees are advised to consult with their local dealership or utilize Toyota’s online payment calculator for a personalized and precise financial projection, as this estimate does not encompass all potential taxes, fees, and related charges.

The Tundra TRD Pro, which received its latest significant update in 2022, continues to impress with its modern features and capabilities. Positioned just beneath the top-tier Capstone trim in the Tundra range, which starts at over $80,000, the TRD Pro exclusively features Toyota's i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain. This innovative system, replacing the traditional V8 engine, delivers an impressive 437 horsepower and 583 pound-feet of torque. Beyond its formidable power, this hybrid configuration also achieves commendable fuel efficiency, boasting 18 miles per gallon in the city and 20 miles per gallon on the highway. Designed with off-road prowess in mind, the Tundra TRD Pro comes equipped with specialized off-road enhancements. These include 18-inch wheels fitted with rugged all-terrain tires, a purpose-built off-road suspension system that provides a 1.1-inch lift, and an integrated LED light bar within the grille for superior illumination in challenging conditions. Additionally, it offers a suite of standard luxury features that are often optional on other trims, such as a power moonroof, a TRD leather-wrapped shift knob, and SofTex-trimmed seats adorned with a distinctive camouflage pattern, enhancing both comfort and style.

Leasing the Toyota Tundra TRD Pro offers a compelling pathway to experience this high-end truck, especially given its significant purchase price. Opting for a short-term lease agreement on these hybrid-powered Toyota models can provide a sense of security, particularly for those curious about the long-term reliability of the new powertrain technology. Moreover, for individuals who plan to utilize the Tundra TRD Pro for intense off-roading, a lease can offer peace of mind. Any potential damage or wear incurred during demanding adventures off the paved roads becomes less of a personal burden, as the vehicle will be returned to the dealership at the conclusion of the lease term. This leasing option also frequently results in lower monthly payments compared to conventional financing alternatives without a down payment, making it a more accessible choice for a broader range of buyers.

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Rolls-Royce Phantom Makes a Splash to Commemorate a Century of Legacy

A striking scene unfolded in Plymouth, England, last week, as residents seeking refuge from the summer heat found their local swimming pool occupied not by swimmers, but by a luxurious Rolls-Royce Phantom. This perplexing automotive aquatic display, it turns out, was a meticulously planned stunt by Rolls-Royce. The esteemed automaker orchestrated this unique event to commemorate the 100th anniversary of its iconic Phantom series, a testament to the model's enduring allure and its significant presence in the cultural landscape, particularly among musicians and celebrities.

The inspiration for this remarkable spectacle harks back to a legendary, if somewhat disputed, incident from 1967 involving Keith Moon, the flamboyant drummer of The Who, who was rumored to have driven his Rolls-Royce into a hotel swimming pool. While the specifics of Moon's alleged escapade remain a topic of debate, with some suggesting a different vehicle or even denying the event altogether, the tale has achieved mythical status, influencing various artistic and popular culture references. This historical nod underscores the Phantom's long-standing appeal, from its original launch in 1925 as the pinnacle of luxury, favored by figures like Queen Elizabeth II, to its revival in 2003 under BMW's stewardship, which saw it embraced by a new generation of high-profile individuals, including contemporary music artists. The meticulously staged "floating" car in Plymouth, resting on a specially designed submerged platform, cleverly brought this legendary anecdote to life for a modern audience, reaffirming the Phantom's place in both automotive history and popular imagination.

This imaginative celebration by Rolls-Royce vividly illustrates how heritage and innovation can converge to create memorable experiences, while also spotlighting the Phantom's continuous evolution and its unwavering status as a symbol of prestige across different eras. It reminds us that embracing creativity and drawing inspiration from intriguing historical narratives can captivate attention and strengthen a brand's legacy. The event served not only as a centennial tribute but also as a powerful affirmation of the Phantom's enduring cultural impact, demonstrating how a marque can remain relevant and inspiring through generations by honoring its past in ingenious ways.

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