Last week's edition of the Automotive News has a pictorial piece on p. 48 showing the new models that seem to be copying the Bangle Butt look of the 02 7Series. These include the New S Class MB, the Hyundai Azera (who brags about it), and the Acura RL.

But the most obvious is the new Lexus LF-Sh that, well, debuted (sorry, couldn't resist) at the Tokyo Motor Show last month. It is "very BMWish" as noted by a design professor. I'll agree, right down to the rear bumper reflector slits. :think:

They also reference the new Saturn Sky and note its flame-licked flanks.

It's interesting to note that Lexus has now set its copy-cat styling sites on BMW, forsaking the Benz lineup, which to me, has lost its design way to Honda over the past few years.

Cheers,
Ray Hull

Here's is the LF-Sh butt:

http://www.autoweek.com/files/specials/200...sh/pages/07.htm

I agree, it looks a bit like the 5-serie from the view of the pics.

Cool pics, but it looks like a 5er butt (lights pattern), large is350 sides, and some resemblance of the 5er pattern headlights. hmmm, Chris Bangle was on to something most people didn't get until now.

What a blatant ripoff! At least Lexus is getting smarter - it fashioned its original LS400 with strong MB styling cues.

:wow:

I knew Bangle was wrong when I saw the first 745's. But, I knew he was right when I saw my first 545i. I am glad Bangle didn't butt out. Reminds me of a Bob Seager song:

"They do respect her but(t) they love to watch her strut."

Thanks all for the encouragment. I'm actually o.k...just dealing with it. Meanwhile, I'm not doing to bad in my rental SRX Caddy station wagon...the kids have fun in the third row. Heezy, if I'm in town I'll try to make it to the Toys for Tots...did you go to the MEET about a couple of weeks ago?

I missed the problem. I hope all is OK. Did you mean to post what you said on this thread?

Huh :think: ?