Thursday 29th October 2015

Tokyo debut for Lexus LF-FC concept

Could the next Lexus LS really look like this? There's a possibility...

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Typically the ordinary Lexus models aren't of great interest to PH, often because they are rather dreary hybrids. Intriguing V8 'F' models aside, it isn't an especially exciting brand.

This LF-FC concept could do a great deal to change that though. Of course everything is speculative at this stage given it's no more than "a glimpse into Lexus's design and technology direction for a future flagship", but it's an enticing glimpse nonetheless.

A big - 5.3m long - and swoopy four-door saloon, the LF-FC packs all the kind of futuristic tech you would expect of a Japanese manufacturer at its home show: it's powered by a fuel cell, the interior is controlled solely by hand gestures and there are many assistance functions to "provide a safe and efficient driving experience".

But there's more tangible stuff to be encouraged by too, not least the way it looks. It's bold enough for a concept without being too far fetched to seem impossible. Perhaps it's not classically beautiful but the styling seems to reflect the confidence of Japan at the moment to do its own thing. It's different and interesting, which there's a lot to be said for. The interior as well sounds slightly mad in concept but looks superb.

Moreover, there's mention in the press material of optimum weight distribution and how it has been designed "for enjoyment on winding roads rather than straight motorway cruising." Now to await the reality being far less interesting...

Nope, let's not be too negative for now. This concept looks very cool and previews a far more interesting future for big Lexus saloons. Hopefully. Of course the way to make one really interesting is to give it 650hp...

[sidesauce]

Maybe not quite to my personal taste but I respect the fact it doesn't look like another Euro design. Plus you just know its engineering will be impeccable.

[British Beef]

An interior soley controlled by hand gestures! Seriously, someone somewhere from the land of sushi thinks this is the way forward.

Call me a ludite, but a worse alternative to buttons and knobs I cannot imagine.

[Orange Rocket]

Interesting design and, as said, it doesn't look in any way European!

Does seem to be competing with Mercedes' concept for "Biggest Grille of the Show Award". Now waiting for BMW's concept to boldly display 4 metres of chicken wire...

[chris333]

British Beef said:

An interior soley controlled by hand gestures! Seriously, someone somewhere from the land of sushi thinks this is the way forward.

Call me a ludite, but a worse alternative to buttons and knobs I cannot imagine.

People from the land of beer and sausages are also at it!

[Fetchez la vache]

Stands out from the crowd in a land full of blandness!
Just build it Lexus - minus the ludicrous hand gestures.

I could even get used to the back end.
Probably.

[Cable]

Yep, I really like that.

[W00DY]

I like it.

With a full width number plate support, the grill would be a lot more palatable and otherwise it has a great mix of funky and elegant going on.


If those are illuminated badges, then they can fk right off.



Also where are the interior pics given it apparently looks superb? Come on PH, you're making me wander off to other sites now.

[Andy665]

More images here

http://www.lexus-int.com/?gclid=CIeYspfb58gCFQsHww...

Saw these images a while ago now and if the new LS looks anything like this then it will certainly shake up the segment

[foxhounduk]

From the 'A' pillar back it looks like an M139 Quattroporte to me from one of the angled side-views and that is no bad thing!

Well done Lexus, get it on the shelf for sale!

[Wilmslowboy]

Forget the hand gesture stuff - I have the remote touch inteface pad in my RCF - and it is quite hard to use with you left hand (try using you computer mouse with your left hand if you are right handed)

Anyway please Lexus make it LIGHT - my car would be in a differntt league if it was a normal 1600 KG instead of a portly 1800+ KG

SO much beauty and crafted interior.....

[Twoshoe]

W00DY said:

I like it.

With a full width number plate support, the grill would be a lot more palatable and otherwise it has a great mix of funky and elegant going on.


If those are illuminated badges, then they can fk right off.



Also where are the interior pics given it apparently looks superb? Come on PH, you're making me wander off to other sites now.

I like it too, but I'm not averse to illuminated badges. Last seen (I think) on Wolseleys 40-something years ago!

[unsprung]

Andy665 said:

More images here

http://www.lexus-int.com/?gclid=CIeYspfb58gCFQsHww...

Saw these images a while ago now and if the new LS looks anything like this then it will certainly shake up the segment

Thanks for that link. In addition to photos, one finds there a video.

It makes a point of showing an aircraft-like reclining seat in the rear -- an obvious nod to the Chinese potentates who are the primary target for this car.

The car looks ace, especially in the side view. A 21st-century executive saloon. Fittingly, it is powered by a hydrogen fuel cell.

In the video, we see it cruise alongside a hyper-modern CBD of the type that one sees in Shanghai today. Striking glass towers and all that. China has 40 cities with a population of one million or more.

All very "the next 50 years" and not so much about the West and what we take for granted today.