Lexus will expand its F range to include a performance version of the GS sedan and possibly the full-size LS limo, with the hope to establish the brand as a true rival to BMW’s M division and Mercedes AMG. The information comes from Lexus’ Australian chief John Roca, who spoke recently with The Australian.
In addition to the performance range, Roca confirmed Lexus will add a model below the IS to rival the BMW 1-series and Audi A3 models but stated that it was still a few years away. In the meantime, Roca explained that Lexus will concentrate on its hybrid technology and is planning to add a hybrid option on every model as well as debut a new dedicated hybrid concept at next year's Detroit Auto Show.
Next year will see the launch of the next-generation RX crossover, based on the LF-Xh concept (pictured) from last year’s Tokyo Motor Show, as well as a new coupe-cabrio version of the IS complete with a folding metal hardtop.
When asked about the LF-A supercar, Roca confirmed the car is destined for production and hinted at a 2011 launch date.
LF-A Roadster Concept
Reader Comments
Sun Apr 6 2008 10:28 PM
Gus says
That roadster looks awesome...
Sun Apr 6 2008 10:56 PM
Wizards Lore says
by the time that Lexus pulls there fingers out and builds the LFA the need for a car of its type will have passed...its taking tooooooo long to bring into production, considering that the design study was out nearly 3-4 years ago...
Sun Apr 6 2008 11:07 PM
Gojira says
A vehicle below the IS? I wonder if that is really necessary as Lexus already has 3 entry level vehicles: RX, IS & ES. Is it going to be smaller? Have less HP than the IS250? FWD?
Maybe if they drop the IS250 & keep the 350 & F ... then there could be room for a lower model.
Mon Apr 7 2008 3:03 PM
chris says
wizard; it normally takes about 4 years for a design study to hit the roads. besides, i dont know what country you live in but the small roadster category is alive and well. and with the asian lovers already missing the S2000 and MK2, you can expect that LFA to sell BIG TIME.
Tue Apr 8 2008 10:31 PM
Richard says
What are you guys smoking at Motor Authority? Lexus will not top million units worldwide in the next few years. You are talking a 500,000 unit increase in two or so years. Are you nuts! Not only is this not possible from a business sense, Lexus is a nothing outside of the US, Tawain, Japan, and South Korea. It cannot even crack 40,000 units in Europe. Million units in several years? Seriously, who told you this bunk!
Fri Apr 18 2008 11:05 PM
NaBUru38 says
Gojira: Audio has the A3, BMW has the 1 Series, Mercedes-Benz has the A-Class and B-Class, Volvo has the C30... Lexus has plenty of room for a C-segment hatchback and cabrio.
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