Lexus Displays New Design Philosophy in Detroit

LATHAM, N.Y. (01/17/2012)(readMedia)-- Luxury automakers aren't well known for deviating far from longstanding designs, but Lexus showed that it will be taking more liberties with its styling at the 2012 Detroit Auto Show last week. There, Lexus revealed its dynamic LF-LC hybrid sport coupe concept and the production version of the redesigned 2013 LX 570 luxury SUV that will begin arriving at Lexus dealerships in February.

Both the Lexus LX 570 and LF-LC sported the automaker's new spindle grille, a mark of the more aggressive nature of Lexus' most recent designs. The LX 570 also received new LED daytime running lights, 20-inch alloy wheels, refreshed bumpers and other small yet notable changes. On the other hand, the LF-LC concept, which was "crafted from a clean sheet of paper" at Lexus' Calty design studio in California, pushed design boundaries more aggressively.

"The LX 570 received more of a facelift than reconstructive surgery, and the effect is subtle yet surprising," said Eric Rosen, general manager of New Country Lexus of Latham, an Upstate New York Lexus dealer. "By making just a few small tweaks, Lexus really updated the feel of the LX 570. And, with the LF-LC, they've shown that they're serious about taking the brand to a new level stylistically and technologically."

The LF-LC concept showed off an abundance of glass and curves at its global debut in Detroit. Capped by a glass roof, the organically inspired interior of the hybrid featured more sweeping shapes and premium stitched seating. Along with twin 12.3-inch LCD information and navigational displays, Lexus included touch screens on each door to operate windows, mirrors, seat adjustments and personalized entertainment system settings. The LF-LC was built with a front-engine rear-wheel-drive hybrid powertrain that the automaker says will deliver high performance and fuel efficiency simultaneously.

Lexus also provided the 2013 LX 570 with a technological boost, giving it a new Easy Access system that retracts the steering wheel and driver's seat when the car is off, making it easier to enter and exit the vehicle. The eight-seat LX 570 also received a middle-row 120-volt power outlet, mahogany wood trim, side-mirror turn signals, an improved cooling system for the front seats and wider body side moldings.

While the Lexus LF-LC concept takes a new direction with its hybrid drivetrain, the automaker decided not to replace the LX 570's standard 5.7-liter V8 engine, which provides 90 percent of its 403 pound-feet of torque at 2,200 rpm, a crucial feature for heavy-duty towers. This means that the 383-horsepower engine, still paired with Lexus' six-speed automatic transmission, will retain its 7,000-pound towing capacity.

"Lexus certainly took some design risks in Detroit, but they didn't really mess with the powerful core of the LX 570," added Rosen. "It's always good to see a refreshed version of a model, especially when it reflects the new direction of the entire brand, but there are just some vehicles whose performance shouldn't be messed with."

About New Country Lexus of Latham:

Elite of Lexus award-winner New Country Lexus of Latham is where New York Lexus shoppers find the hottest new Lexus models, like the CT 200h and the RX 350. At New Country Lexus of Latham, the joy of Lexus ownership goes beyond the buying experience, with skilled Lexus service technicians who help Lexus owners keep their vehicles in top condition. Part of the New Country Motor Car Group, New Country Lexus of Latham is located at 999 New Loudon Road (Route 9) in Latham, N.Y. Browse their Lexus inventory online at www.newcountrylexusoflatham.com, like them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/NewCountryLexusLatham or reach them by phone at 888-230-5761.