Detroit Motor Show 2012: Lexus LF-LC Hybrid Sports Coupe

There might be much love in Detroit, and the world over, for the sharp new Honda NSX, but there’s no avoiding the rock-hard gaze of the latest Lexus concept; a 2+2 hybrid sports coupe called the LF-LC. And we all remember the incredible – if outrageously expensive - LFA, a super-supercar that’s already earned Lexus much kudos and respect. And there’s much of the LFA in the new LF-LC, but a lot of it is tinted green.

Introducing the concept at the Detroit show, that runs all this week, Karl Schlicht, General Manager, Lexus Product and Marketing Planning Division in North America, said: "We are in the middle of the biggest change in Lexus’s history, inspired by a new generation of distinctive design.

"The new GS embodies this with its sculpted spindle grille as our symbol of change. And now, the next chapter of Lexus evolves with this coupe design concept. With its striking looks, this concept hybrid 2+2 hints at the design cues that are coming in a wave of new Lexus models over the next two years." Low, sleek and very serious-looking new cars to come from Lexus, then?

Full LF-LC technical details are scant at present, as is confirmation that this new coupe will actually make it into production. Indeed, the LF-LC could remain a design excerise and expensive Detroit publicity stunt.

For now, we can tell you that the LF-LC was designed by the Lexus Calty studio in Newport Beach, California, after a design gauntlet was tossed done by the big bosses at Lexus Japan, with the challenge to “move the definition of Lexus design forward with avant-garde beauty and advanced technology, whilst still keeping the brand within reach of the majority of premium buyers.” Basically, make it look great, go well and feel fabulous without costing a total bomb. So far, so good, on the looks front, at least.

The front-engine, rear-wheel drive LF-LC is built around an Advanced Lexus Hybrid Drive system, with their new look “3D aluminium spindle front grille” leading the way, backed up by lightweight bodywork and chassis materials and a driver-focused interior that’s packed with leather, suede, wood and brushed metal finishes, as well as plenty of the latest tech. All the good stuff, basically.

While Honda have all but concretely confirmed their new NSX, this new Lexus concept sounds a little less set in metal right now. But, as is usually the case with incredible concepts, if the reception is good and the market is there, there’s every chance that production plans could be made. Hybrids are getting seriously interesting! 

















By Daniel Anslow 

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