AFTER a year which saw Lexus double UK sales, the company is expecting similar growth with more launches during 2000. At the Geneva Motor Show, Lexus unveiled the flagship LS430 along with a new IS200 variant and gave a further glimpse of the RX300 which is on sale in the UK later this year.

The LS 430 has a new 4.3-litre V8 engine, a completely new platform and restyled body. It reaches 62mph in 6.8 seconds and includes air conditioning which recognises if one part of the car is in shade and a DVD-ROM which holds a whole map of Europe on one disc. Prices have not been announced, but as a guide, the LS400 costs £49,999.

The RX300 off-roader was also on show, ready for its launch in November. A larger engined GS model, the GS430 and the SC430 coupe, which are both coming to the UK, were not on the stand, but should appear at the Birmingham International Motor Show.