The Lexus LF-Gh hybrid concept will make its global debut at the 2011 New York International Auto Show. Lexus officials say we may expect quite a number of the styling cues and themes to show up on future Lexus models, but since this one looks production ready, could it be that we are seeing the next LS flagship or GS sport luxury sedan here? Place your bets!
The concept, which sets out to redefine the premium grand touring sedan, will be at the Lexus display through May 1.
“For this concept, Lexus designers studied characteristics that are often considered contradictory and difficult to execute together,” said Kengo Matsumoto, general manager, Lexus Design Division, Toyota Motor Corporation. “The captivating design of the LF-Gh concept examines the possibility of balancing what are normally opposing qualities, such as style and functionality.”
A news release says, “Working with a clean sheet of paper, Lexus Design Division designers aimed to perfectly blend style, performance, efficiency, and environmental compatibility in a premium, grand touring sedan while trying to leverage advanced, new technologies. The team explored how a future grand touring sedan would look standing still and on the road, and what design approaches might work to convey an extraordinary combination of attributes. They came up with a design that unites hard and soft; and energetic and soothing elements.”
You might recall that Lexus’ styling theme in recent years has been L-Finesse, and we are to think of the concept as a refinement and evolution of that theme, which has been carried out on all recent Lexus redesigns since 2001.
“Customers have been waiting for a bold concept like this from Lexus,” said Mark Templin, Lexus Division group vice president and general manager. “We look forward to their feedback and integrating some of these exciting design features into future Lexus vehicles.”
In keeping with a number of the most recent Lexus models, there’s a strong emphasis on performance in the LF-Gh.
“The LF-Gh was designed to be a high-performance concept capable of providing a moving driving experience, and comfortably transporting multiple occupants at higher speeds on long-distance drives. It combines a strong sense of presence and emotional appeal with functional attributes, supplying enhanced creature comforts plus the practical ability to transport personal supplies and luggage necessary for extended travel. Even while maintaining serene passenger comfort, it is a car designed to inspire and captivate the driver as hours behind the wheel accumulate.”
One area which really came in for a lot of attention was lighting design. Most auto enthusiasts know that one of the biggest trends in recent years has been theuse of lighting as specific trademarks for cars–as a kind of personal jewelry if you will.
Lexus says that with the LF-Gh, the “LED lighting hints at the range and scope of new materials, electronics and dynamic systems that endow this concept vehicle with state-of-the-art performance, driving control, and safety features.”
Future Lexus models apparently will be getting a new “family” of grilles, if the front end of the LF-Gh is any indication. The new design may be a spindle-shaped grille that Lexus says ” expresses the resolute face of Lexus, contributes to radiator and brake duct function, and is an essential element in achieving excellent aerodynamic performance. Every line in the LF-Gh combines form and function.”
Lexus designers took advantage of increased width that provides an expansive canvas for distinct, wrap-around LED tail lamps. The use of distinctive tail lamps and intricately designed reflectors behind all-red lenses contribute to a strong visual presence. Judicious use of slim chrome trim elements in the bumper exhaust and integrated diffuser adds a subtle premium touch.
Unique LED headlamps and independent L-shaped LED daytime running lights assure that the Lexus face will be like no other car on the road.
So what is the interior like?
“Behind dark tinted glass, hints of an all-new, future Lexus interior can be perceived. The cabin of the LF-Gh is the product of a meticulous re-examination of every detail, with the aim of making an interior that is driver-oriented.
The driver’s zone includes a meter panel with excellent visibility and a console with intuitive operability. An all-new analog clock with a three-dimensional face, a contemporary and exclusive timepiece suitable to a premium luxury brand, is a focal point of the interior and represents a shift in Lexus’ design philosophy. The use of genuine, high-quality materials and rich, finely honed details help create a driver and passenger space consistent with the idea of a full-fledged grand touring sedan. It is an interior designed to respond to the needs of customers who know true quality, and are particular about detail,” a news release says.
As for the power train, Lexus says that the ” blue LED Lexus Hybrid Drive badges located on the front grille and rear trunk lid signal an intention to provide equal measures of fuel efficiency and performance on demand. The rear valance blends sculpted exhaust tips for a very clean, finished look, minimizing the presence of the exhaust system to suggest that the flow of exhaust gas will be substantially reduced. Taken as a whole, the treatment emphasizes that this hybrid concept is designed to comply with the exceptionally low emissions requirements of the future. ”
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