Reinforced A-pillars and pyrotechnically charged roll hoops are obviously not on the menu for this second-generation Lexus LS 400 Cabriolet, which was created in a matter of minutes during a DIY coachbuilding lesson at the 2012 StanceWars event in Belgium this past weekend. Make the jump to view the videos for yourself. 
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Lexus has high hopes for its brand new 2013 GS sedan in the highly competitive executive segment, or at least it does in the North American market because Europe is a different story. While one would consider the Mercedes-Benz E-Class, the BMW 5-Series or the Audi A6 more direct opponents for the GS, Road & Track magazine chose a different adversary in the form of the Audi A7 Sportback. Audi's A7 may split the difference between a traditional saloon and a hatchback offering an in-between body style, but it in essence, it remains an executive model, so R&T's test is not too far off. The Audi A7 is more expensive than the GS, but not as much as you'd expect. Not including a destination and handling fee, the base A7 with a 310hp 3.0-liter supercharged V6 starts at $59,250, while the Lexus GS 350 with a 306hp 3.5-liter V6 costs $46,900 plus $5,690 for the base F Sport package, which brings the total to $52,590. You can watch the comparison in detail in the video that follows after the break. VIDEO
The mildly refreshed Lexus RX made its world premiere at this week's 2012 Geneva Motor Show. To be sold as a 2012 model in Europe and as a 2013 in North America, the Japanese firm's luxury crossover model receives some select styling tweaks while it also debuts a new F Sport Edition. The facelift introduces Lexus' new corporate 'spindle grille' together with new headlamps underscored by integral LED daytime running lights, a resculptured bumper, new tail lamp graphics and a fresh assortment of 18-inch or 19-inch alloy wheel designs. Lexus also added four new exterior colors, including Satin Silver, Burgundy Red, Sienna Brown and Midnight Blue, bringing the total of available paints to 10. Inside, the revamped RX crossover gets new colour and trim options along with a redesigned steering wheel and center console box, plus some minor upgrades to the instrument panel and infotainment system. A new F Sport grade also makes its appearance and will be available on both the RX 350 and RX 450h. It enhances the crossover model with a new styling package that includes a new front bumper, a different grille with a honeycomb design, a rear spoiler and bespoke 19-inch alloy wheels.Inside, it adds exclusive leather upholstery with white grey perforations and contrast stitching, steel silver painted trim inserts and a black ceiling. Somewhat more importantly, the F Sport models get a new suspension setup that promises to improve both handling and steering feel, while the RX 350 Sport version also features steering wheel-mounted paddle shift controls. The only other changes to the range for the new model year is the introduction of a Sport mode that supplements the RX 450 h's Normal and Eco drive modes. The new sport option is said to provide more responsive acceleration while also adjusting the power steering system to provide better feel. PHOTO GALLERY
