Lexus’s presentation at the 2013 Frankfurt motor show was the world-first appearance of its new LF-NX concept, described as a vision for a mid-size luxury crossover model.
According to Lexus, 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 liter, four-cylinder Atkinson cycle petrol engine with a power electric motor. At lower speeds, LF-NX can be driven under electric motor power alone.
Fugly LF-NX
The car’s frontal appearance is dominated by a strong interpretation of Lexus’ 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 (according to the Lexus blurb writers) 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 was 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 (just where do they dream these things up).
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’ 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 (well that’s an earth shattering development).
The center 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.
Despite all that waffle, it is quite frankly, dreadfully fugly.
