LEXUS VEHICLES TOP VISIBILITY STUDY
Lexus vehicles have gained top marks in a recent rear-ward visibility study conducted by the National Roads and Motorists' Association (NRMA).
The study rates vehicles on how well a driver can see out the back of a car, as well as the availability of reversing technology.
Lexus vehicles accounted for three of the seven highest-rated vehicles - the most of any manufacturer.
Lexus IS, GS and LS models topped the study with a five-out-of-five rating.
The Lexus reversing camera system allows drivers to see the rear bumper bar and its surroundings via a small camera. This camera feeds images to an in-dash screen, which switches on automatically when reverse is engaged.
The screen is also commonly used for satellite navigation and control of other vehicle functions such as audio and climate control.
Lexus chief executive John Roca said safety was a major focus for Lexus. The company had equipped Lexus sedans and SUVs with reversing camera technology as either standard or optional equipment.*
"Safety for both occupants and pedestrians is a powerful ethic at Lexus. The widespread availability of reversing cameras and parking sensors on the Lexus sedan and SUV range is a testament to that," Mr Roca said.
"Lexus is a leader in parking technology. Reverse parking cameras have been fitted to Lexus vehicles since 2003, and this year we introduced Intelligent Park Assist^ on our flagship hybrid - the LS 600hL.
"Next year Lexus will introduce the all-new LX 570, which will feature a blind spot monitoring system fitted to LX 570 Sports Luxury model.
"The system combines three cameras to give the most comprehensive views of the vehicle's surrounds," Mr Roca said.
The NRMA visibility index has been developed to encourage motorists to compare the safety design features of vehicles. Results are rated on a scale of zero to five stars, with a rating of five indicating state-of-the-art reversing visibility.
For further information and the complete results of NRMA Insurance's Reversing Visibility Index, visit www.nrma.com.au/reversing.
* RX 350 Sport and GS 300 Sport are not available with reversing camera.
^ Park Assist is designed as a driver assistance device only and should not be used as a substitute for skilled driving and safe parking practices. The area into which the vehicle is to be reversed must be visually monitored by the driver while parking.