Youtube user h4×0r0x was nice enough to post a demonstration of rather unique LS series feature found on the steering wheel, namely the Hold button:

As you can see, this button allows you to hold your brakes, meaning that you can rest your feet while at a stoplight. In essence, we’re looking at the anti-cruise control.

This is Lexus’ Passionate Pursuit of Perfection in full-effect.

While I have strong doubts that Lexus will ever release a RX Wagoneer edition, one 400h owner isn’t about to wait to see. Discovered by Autoblog.it, this one-off wooden body kit was created by Italian tuner firm Castagna Milano for someone very rich and equally eco-obsessed:

Most of the reactions to this unique body modification are decidedly negative, but I’m not sure I share that opinion (I’ve always had a soft spot for the Wagoneer). With the RX model being Lexus’ most ubiquitous, it’s a real challenge to stand out in the crowd, and that’s certainly not going to be a problem here.

Click Read More for some additional shots, including a photo of the fully customized interior.

[Source: Autoblog.it]
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Seems like there’s no end to the awards and studies this week, next up: Ward’s 8th annual Interior of the Year Awards.

The only Lexus up for nomination was the LS 460, and it took third place in the Premium Priced Car category, behind the Infiniti G35 and the Jaguar XK. However, the LS 460 did walk away with the Best Overall Comfort speciality award.

Still, it’s too bad the Chrysler Sebring won the Best Cup Holder Award, that would have been one to hang up in the Lexus head office foyer.

KBB has released the “Interior Styling” results of their consumer automotive perceptions research study, and Lexus scored high in each of the luxury categories:

Luxury Sedans

1. Lexus 2. Mercedes-Benz 3. Infiniti

Luxury SUVs

1. Cadillac 2. Lexus 3. BMW

Convertibles/Sports Cars

1. Mercedes-Benz 2. Porsche 3. Lexus

From my own experience, I know Lexus would have been in tough against Mercedes in the Luxury Sedan category. Mercedes has a very commanding interior presence, and it’s no surprise that they came first in the Convertible/Sports Car category. The Cadillac Escalade interior was greatly improved in their 2007 redesign, and their first place finish in the SUV category is well deserved.

Lexus parent company Toyota almost swept the remaining non-luxury categories, with the except of Truck interiors, which went to GMC.

[Source: PR Newswire]