Get An Early Look At The 2016 Lexus RX

At the 2015 New York Auto Show this week Lexus showcased the 2016 version of their best-selling model in the brand’s 26-year history. So far Lexus has sold more than 2.1 million units over the world. So in essence the RX represents three out of ten vehicles ever sold by Lexus. The 2016 RX builds on that trend with a completely new, luxurious interior to match its fresh, new, chiseled body style. The large dose of Lexus brand DNA that’s been artfully incorporated into the details can not only be seen, but also felt. The new fourth-generation RX also boasts exceptional on-road performance and safety technologies that include the innovative Lexus Safety System+.

“With the new Lexus Safety System+, we offer drivers an added level of occupant safety in a conveniently bundled package that leverages some of the latest accident prevention technology. We certainly expect the proliferation of these features to continue throughout the luxury vehicle market and our Lexus lineup as the industry remains steadfast in the pursuit of enhanced vehicle safety,” said Jeff Bracken, Group Vice President and General Manager Lexus Division.

The RX with all-new sheet metal makes a powerful visual statement at first glance. A completely new front end is highlighted by an emboldened spindle grille, more aggressive front bumper and available triple L-shaped LED headlamps. Together with the all-new LED fog lamps and LED daytime running lights, the RX has a more sophisticated and advanced look. Muscular front fender flares add to the vehicle’s sporty attitude.

When seen from the side, the sharp character line that runs from the front fenders to the rear end, together with a flowing roofline, give the RX a dynamic profile. All of this helps make the vehicle sure-footed at high speed and reduces wind noise. A truly distinctive styling cue is the blacked-out C-pillars, which provide the illusion of a floating roofline never before seen on a Lexus product. Also, newly available 20-in. aluminum wheels with larger tires improve the vehicle stance and proportions and replace the current model’s 19-in. options. These 20-inch wheels can also be customized with body color-matching inserts to emphasize the driver’s individuality.

Inside, RX’s new luxurious cabin with elegant, high-quality trim exudes warmth and class. An available color heads-up display (HUD) projects pertinent vehicle information to the driver’s windshield, while the information display area, featuring an available 12.3-in. monitor with full-screen map, is situated atop the center stack. The shift lever, complete with leather boot, has been positioned away from the front of the instrument panel to optimize operability and create more space for the driver.

“Even while ensuring a high level of luxury and space within the cabin, the RX’s silhouette remains sleek and dynamic, while the interior has been designed for easy operation with luxurious execution,” said Gen Ikeda, Lexus RX chief designer.

Looking under the RX 350’s hood is an upgraded and more powerful 3.5-liter V6 aiming to deliver 300 hp with direct injection, mated to a new eight-speed automatic transmission. Based on this enhanced powertrain is the RX 450h’s Atkinson-cycle 3.5-liter V6. When combined with the electric motor generator, the combined output results in around 300 hp. All RX engines have been tuned in anticipation of high fuel economy ratings and low carbon emissions.

When it comes to delivering precise, controlled handling, the new RX offers impressive dynamic capability. The entire chassis has been fortified to provide enhanced straight-line stability and control through turns. The vehicle’s body structure has been strengthened with added stiffness, helping to enhance its handling response while reducing engine and road noise in the cabin. Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) is standard, while Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) is available on select models.  Each system is designed to help recognize loss of vehicle control, and help mitigate potentially dangerous situations with automatic and often transparent adjustments to help the vehicle maintain optimal traction. The RX also is offered in All-Weather Drive to help the RX’s handling performance and control on dry and slick surfaces alike.

The RX’s fully independent suspension system, which consists of MacPherson struts up front and a double wishbone setup at rear, has been tuned and reinforced to enhance handling while keeping ride quality remarkably smooth. Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) is available on the RX for the first time. AVS electronically monitors and adapts the shock absorber damping and steering to help ensure optimal handling and ride depending on the driving conditions. The system is also designed to produce less body lean through corners, providing an engaging driving experience.

Reebok Classics Let’s The Ventilator Glo!

In 1990, Reebok released one of their most timeless running designs: the Ventilator. Incorporating Hexalite technology into the shoe to provide greater comfort and better shock absorption, it was the perfect shoe for the faster, lighter runner. The durable lugged outsole was designed to give sure-footed traction for both on and off-road running. The visible archbridge in the middle of the shoe was perfectly placed to offer optimum motion control. And the name Ventilator? That came from the ventilated side panels that allowed cooling and breathability. The shoe was ahead of its time.

Twenty-five years later the shoe is a classic. Still as light as it ever was but now worn for street fashion instead of road running.

Capturing the electric energy found within unforgettable days and even hotter nights, Reebok Classic’s latest iteration of the Ventilator Ventilator Day Glo – puts a bold, neon spin on the classic silhouette.  Fearless and unapologetic, the bright colorways that make up this unique pack are for those not afraid to stand out or stand up.

Find the perfect colorway to complete your spring wardrobe on April 1st for $75 for adults and $65 for kids. Available at Jimmy Jazz, Villa, Shiekh’s and Shoe Palace

Sean Malto Helps Mountain Dew Heat Things Up

One of Hollywood’s hottest directors, Justin Lin (known for his work directing The Fast & The Furious franchise and the upcoming Star Trek 3 film) is working with DEW athletes Scotty Lago (Olympic snowboarder) and Sean Malto (professional skateboarder) in two ads that will air around the world.

In this video watch what happens when Sean Malto mixes a skateboard, duct tape and a bunch of matches.

Thump Keg Brewing Brings Two New Beers Onto The Market

Thump Keg Brewing Co. debuts its beer line with two beers: the Rye IPA in collaboration with George Dickel Whisky and the Agave Amber Ale in collaboration with Peligroso Tequila. Both the Rye IPA and Agave Amber Ale uses inventive brewing techniques by pairing the same foundation ingredients as its collaboration partner spirits brands. While the Thump Keg line does not contain distilled spirits, Agave Amber Ale and Rye IPA are rich in flavor and complexity, providing a new taste experience for casual beer drinkers and beer enthusiasts alike.

Each kindred brew balances the refreshing-tasting character of a beer with a flavor complexity inspired by brilliantly distilled and carefully selected spirits. The Agave Amber Ale’s adventurous taste comes from the same signature blue agave used in the distillation of the award-winning, super-premium Peligroso Tequila. The Rye IPA receives a similar influence from George Dickel Whisky – the only rye whisky finished the Dickel way: chilled, then charcoal mellowed. The same underlying grains used in the whisky’s distillation are used to create the mash bill for the Rye IPA.

Here is a breakdown of the two beers.

RYE IPA

Appearance: Clear, light amber colored ale

Ingredients: Columbus, Cluster, Williamette and Tettnang hops, Rye mash bill

ABV: 5.8% ABV

Format: 6-pack of 12 oz. bottles, 20L Kegs

Serve: Best enjoyed cold and straight from the bottle or served in a 16 oz. glass accompanied by a shot of George Dickel Rye Whisky.

Tasting Notes:

Aroma:  Citrus and floral

Flavor: Subtle spice with bursts of vanilla and smoke capture the essence of George Dickel Rye Whisky, balanced with the citrus and pine notes.

Mouth-feel: Earthy character with bitterness

AGAVE AMBER ALE

Appearance: An amber colored ale

Ingredients: Tettnang hops, blue agave

ABV: 6.2% ABV

Format: 6-pack of 12 oz. bottles, 20L Kegs

Serve: Best enjoyed cold and straight from the bottle or served in a 16 oz. glass accompanied by a shot   of Peligroso Tequila.

Tasting Notes:

Aroma: Floral spice

Flavor: Hints of blue agave and lemon grass capture the essence of Peligroso Tequila, balanced with the toasted malts and subtle hops.

Mouth-feel: Clean bitterness