FRANKFURT - Lexus displays a not too pretty concept

• World debut for the Lexus LF-NX mid-size crossover concept
• Live streaming of the press conference is available here.
• European premiere of the Lexus GS 300h

Lexus’s presentation at the 2013 Frankfurt motor show (IAA) is led by the world-first appearance of its new LF-NX concept, a vision for a mid-size luxury crossover model.

The show also hosts the first European public appearance of the new Lexus GS 300h, a full hybrid that will be added to the new GS model range in the UK later this year.

Lexus LF-NX concept

• Vision for a mid-size Lexus crossover model
• Distinctive, sculpted exterior
• Lexus Hybrid Drive full hybrid powertrain tuned for SUV performance
• Human Oriented interior with touch-sensitive instrumentation
• Debut appearance at 2013 Frankfurt motor show on 10 September

A new Lexus mid-size crossover concept, the LF-NX, will make its world debut at the 2013 Frankfurt motor show, a study that explores the potential for this kind of vehicle in the Lexus model range.

The LF-NX reinforces Lexus’s leadership in hybrid power in the premium market, being powered by a new variation of the Lexus Hybrid Drive full hybrid system, tuned for SUV performance. It combines a 2.-5-litre, four-cylinder Atkinson cycle petrol engine with a power electric motor. At lower speeds, LF-NX can be driven under electric motor power alone.

The powerfully sculpted styling reflects a further evolution of the L-finesse design language that influences the look of all today’s Lexus models.

The car’s frontal appearance is dominated by a strong interpretation of Lexus’s spindle grille and a signature arrangement of the front lights. The daytime running lights are given added visual emphasis by being positioned independent from the headlamps, in a similar fashion to the new Lexus IS, and underscored by full length LED turn signal lamps. The headlamps comprise three diamond-shaped LED units.

The LF-NX also displays a distinctive treatment of the front corners, which separate the bumper from the front wings with a sharp vertical cut line that narrows to a point beneath the headlamp units.

In profile, the LF-NX concept presents muscular wheel arches, edged with a black protective finish that expresses its urban crossover character. Above the pronounced diamond shape of the belt line, the side glazing is arranged in the classic Lexus profile, which works with the steep rake of the tailgate and integrated rear spoiler to create an athletic coupe-like silhouette. Both the front and rear wings are formed by a series of muscular, concave and convex curves.

At the rear the highly articulated lamp clusters project down the full depth of the bumper, creating a sharp, aerodynamic trailing edge to the vehicle that mirrors the detailing of the front wing design. The classic Lexus L-shape of the lamps is scored strongly into the rear bodywork, echoing the spindle form of the front grille. The wide lower bumper has no visible exhaust outlet, in recognition of the full hybrid powertrain’s low emissions performance.

The concept is being presented in a new Brushed Metal Silver exterior finish that creates a striking impression of the car having been carved from a single piece of solid metal.

The interior mirrors the highly sculpted approach to the exterior with powerful forms and a highly ergonomic driver’s cockpit.

The cabin follows the “Human Oriented” element of Lexus’s L-finesse design, presenting a dashboard divided between an upper display zone and lower operation zone – a format perfected in successive generations of Lexus models. This enables intuitive interaction with the concept vehicle’s next generation technology, including touch-sensitive electrostatic switches and a new touchpad Remote Touch Interface design. Ease of use is further supported by an adjustable driver’s armrest.

The centre console extends the full length of the cabin, bisecting the rear seats. Its bright, brushed metal finish has also been applied to the main instrument meters, the steer wheel, seat structure and overhead console.

The concept’s status as a premium crossover is reinforced by carved metal surfacing around the interior, sophisticated blue instrument lighting and yellow and black leather upholstery with contrast stitching.

Lexus GS 300h

• Introduction of GS 300h makes Lexus the first premium brand to offer two full hybrid vehicles within the same model range
• 2.5-litre Lexus Hybrid Drive powertrain delivers CO2 emissions from 109g/km and combined cycle fuel consumption of more than 60mpg
• Full GS range to benefit from desigh technology and safety enhancements
• Details of UK range and specifications for new GS 300h to be released shortly

The introduction of the new GS 300h premium saloon makes Lexus the first prestige brand to offer a choice of two full hybrid powertrains in the same model range, the new version lining up alongside the GS 450h launched in 2012.

The GS 300h will be launched in the UK later this year, with details of performance and specifications due to be announced shortly.

Lexus is taking the opportunity of the new model addition to bring in a series of design, technology and safety enhancements for the full GS range.

The new GS 300h is powered by a second generation Lexus Hybrid Drive system, similar to that introduced in the IS 300h. It offers significant reductions in fuel consumption and CO2, NOx and particulate emissions, at no cost to performance.

The full hybrid system comprises a 141bhp (105kW) electric motor and a 2.5-litre, four-cylinder, 16-valve DOHC Atkinson cycle petrol engine with next-generation D-4S fuel injection, Dual VVT-i intelligent valve timing and a high-efficiency exhaust gas recirculation system. The engine develops 178bhp (133kW) at 6,000rpm and 221Nm of torque from 4,200 to 5,400rpm.

Drive is to the rear wheels via an electronic continuously variable transmission (ECVT). Total system power is 220bhp (164kW). CO2 emissions for the GS 300h will start at 109g/km – band B for UK road tax (Vehicle Excise Duty), with combined cycle fuel consumption from 60.1mpg.

The GS 300h remains true to the principles of delivering an engaging drive that have helped shaped he dynamic performance of the new GS range. It features double wishbone front and multilink rar suspension systems, powerful brakes and sharp, accurate steering to deliver agile handling, excellent body control, high speed stability and the kind of ride comfort expected of a Lexus.

The GS 300h F Sport will be available with additional elements to sharpen ride and handling, including Active Variable Suspension..

In styling terms, the GS 300h adopts the exterior design introduced by the GS 450h in 2012, including the prominent interpretation of the Lexus spindle grill design.

The launch of the GS 300h will also usher a choice of additional F-Sport-specific colours, including G White, Starlight Black and Midnight Blue (UK colour designations will be announced shortly). LED fog lamps are now available for F Sport models and the option of 19-inch alloy wheels has been extended to Luxury grade versions of GS.

The spacious, finely crafted interior follows the latest Lexus cabin design theme with an ergonomic, dual-zone driver cockpit and use of advanced HMI technologies designed to help keep drivers alert as well providing easy, intuitive operation of controls and access to information. The fourth generation GS introduced a number of technology innovations, including an S-Flow energy saving air conditioning system with integrated climate management and nanoe technology; a second generation Remote Touch Interface linked to one of the world’s largest on-board information displays; and a choice of audio systems offering unparalleled power and clarity.

At the same time as Lexus adds the GS 300h to the range it also makes a new design shift lever and colour head-up display available for the GS 450h.

The GS’s comprehensive array of active, passive and preventive safety features is being further extended, with addition of a Rear Cross Traffic Alert, which uses the same radar technology as the Blind Spot Monitor to alert the driver to vehicles approaching from either side when reversing out of a parking space.