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The Lexus LF-Gh will make its
global debut at the 2011 New
York International Auto Show.
The concept has been conceived
as a redefinition of the luxury
grand tourer, with a “clean
sheet of paper” approach to
design.
The aim was to produce a perfect
blend of style, performance,
efficiency and environmental
compatibility, while introducing
the benefits of advanced, new
technologies. The design process
has brought about a refinement
and evolution of Lexus’s
L-finesses design philosophy –
established since 2001 – with a
bolder and more distinctive
projection of what a premium
segment model could become. As a
result, original ideas included
in the new concept may migrate
to future Lexus production
models.
Taking the GT
tradition further
The LF-Gh sees Lexus take the
idea of the grand tourer saloon
a step further. It has been
designed as a high-performance
concept that can deliver an
inspiring driving experience,
carrying passengers in comfort
over long distances. It combines
presence and emotional appeal
with functionality, offering
enhanced creature comforts and
load space big enough to carry
luggage for an extended trip.
The car’s bold, wide stance
reflects its strong dynamic
performance. Built on an agile,
rear-wheel drive platform, it
offers generous interior space
for four occupants within a
distinctive, long greenhouse
design. The LED lighting is a
clue to the range and scope of
new materials, electronics and
dynamic systems incorporated in
the LF-Gh.
Exterior design
The front end design
incorporates a spindle-shaped
grille that projects a resolute
look, while also contributing to
efficient aerodynamics and
radiator and brake duct
operation. It is a key feature
that will be inherited by future
Lexus models.
Every line of the body is about
both form and function: for
example, air flows in through
the front inlets next to the
vertically arranged LED fog
lamps, and exits through similar
slim outlets at the rear that
follow the curve of the tail
lamps. The concept also explores
how traditional features such as
door mirrors and handles can be
minimised to enhance overall
sleekness and improve
aerodynamics.
The very deep front bumper adds
to the sense of movement and a
low centre of gravity, while the
raised bonnet line implies
strong performance potential.
The twin-spoke 20-inch wheels
further add to the sense of
driving appeal.
The concept’s increased width
gave the designers an expansive
canvas on which to create
distinctive wraparound LED tail
lamps, with intricate reflectors
set behind all-red lenses.
Judicious use of slim chrome
trim elements in the bumper,
exhaust and diffuser adds subtle
quality touches.
The LED headlamps and
independent L-shaped LED daytime
running lights ensure the LF-Gh
has a “face” like no other car
on the road.
Interior design
The LF-Gh is equipped with a
future Lexus interior, in which
every detail has been newly
scrutinised to create an
environment that is
driver-orientated.
The driver’s zone has a
high-visibility instrument panel
and a centre console that is
intuitive to use. A new analogue
clock with a three-dimensional
face serves as a focal point for
the cabin and represents another
shift in Lexus’s design
philosophy. The space is
finished in high-quality
materials with finely honed
detailing, designed to respond
to the demands of customers who
know and appreciate true
quality.
Lexus Hybrid
Drive
The LF-Gh’s hybrid powertrain is
denoted by its Blue LED Lexus
Hybrid Drive badges in the front
grille and on the bootlid. The
way in which the sculpted
tailpipes blend with the rear
valance minimise the visual
impact of the exhaust system,
suggesting that the flow of
exhaust gases will be
substantially reduced. Overall,
the concept’s design supports
engineering that changes current
notions of power, efficiency,
safety and environmental
consideration in a luxury car. |