Lexus Enform interface (first look)

Lexus' new Enform system features a level of connectivity on par with (and in many ways, exceeding) that of GM's OnStar.

The first feature, Destination Assist, is an in-vehicle concierge service that helps drivers to find very specific destinations.

Using an onboard cellular connection, drivers will be able to speak to a live operator to find specific businesses by name or by type. Zagat restaurant ratings are also available. Once a destination has been chosen, the operator can beam the POI to the Lexus' memory.

Using eDestination starts on Lexus' drivers' Web site. While on this site, users are able to save up to 200 points of interest to be sent to the vehicle's memory on next startup.

Users can organize their eDestinations in up to 20 folders with custom naming.

Destinations can also have custom names, such as "Kids' Doctor" and can also store notes, such as "Great shoe store."

Under the information menu, Enform's XM-based connected services can be found, including Lexus Insider, XM Stock, XM Sports, XM NavTraffic and NavWeather.

Lexus Insider is a lifestyle audio broadcast that is downloaded directly to the Enform-equipped Lexus vehicle. When a new issue is available, drivers will receive this prompt. Drivers not interested in the Lexus Insider can opt to not receive the broadcasts or prompts.

Essentially, Lexus insider is a Lexus podcast with potential topics including vehicle technology insights, updates on Lexus-exclusive regional events, selections from Lexus magazine lifestyle articles, exclusive destinations with downloadable points of interest.

Traffic data is provided by XM and features colored map overlays that indicate traffic flow and icons indicating incidents.

Clicking on an incident icon brings up more details.

XM NavWeather offers current weather conditions and, as seen here, a three-day broadcast.

Weather data is well-integrated with the navigation system. Enform will even inform drivers if there are weather warnings along their chosen routes.

Browsing the map, drivers can get a big picture of weather conditions, complete with icons for weather alerts. Here the big pink blob is a patch of heavy fog.

Most of the Enform systems can be called up through the Lexus voice command system.

XM Sports allows drivers to follow all of their favorite teams on XM Radio, provided that they have fewer than five favorite teams.

Audio broadcasts are then sorted by team name so drivers can quickly know when the next opening pitch will be thrown.

XM Stocks allows drivers to enter stock symbols to receive up to the minute quotes.

Once chosen, Enform displays your quotes in this menu and can even read them aloud using the text-to-speech system.

Just try not to get too distracted if your investments aren't doing too well.

SafetyConnect features include automatic collision notification, which calls a response center in the event of an airbag deployment, and an emergency assistance SOS button. Available assistance includes: towing, jump start, flat tire replacement, fuel delivery, and miscellaneous minor assistance.

Another neat feature is GPS/cellular tracking of a stolen vehicle.