Even though Toyota’s luxury division won’t say it, the LF-Gh’s also hints at a replacement for the GS given the proximity in size between the two models as the concept measures 192.5-in. long, 73.6-in. wide, 57.1-in. tall while riding on a 112.2-in long wheelbase. In comparison, the current GS is 190.7-in long, 71.7-in. wide, 56.1-in tall and rides on the same 112.2-in long wheelbase.
Lexus says that through this exercise, it redefines its L-Finesse design philosophy, which debuted in 2001, adding that it represents a bolder styling that “unites hard and soft; and energetic and soothing elements”. Needless to say, the LF-Gh has borrowed many styling elements from Lexus’ first supercar, the LF-A, including the body surfaces as well as the shape of the tail lamps, headlights and front grille.
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Next up on our motorshow calendar is the 2011 New York Auto Show in late April, where we’re expecting several world premieres, including a new concept car from Lexus. The Japanese automaker made the announcement today through its Twitter channels with a rather vague note: “LF-Gh: LF = Lexus Future. h = hybrid. G = ...”.
The company also stated in an invitation to the press that the concept “will present a glimpse into the future of Lexus design.” We’re assuming the ‘G’ stands for a prototype version of the next generation of the GS premium sedan but we’ll know more within the next couple of weeks.
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Having first shown up at the 2009 Tokyo Motor Show, Lexus brought one of two examples to the UK for the Lexus-sponsored Great British Bike Ride.
"Let me stress that you are not looking at a market study … or hearing about vague intentions" Andy Pfeiffenberger, vice president of Lexus Europe, told journalists during the presentation of the car in Frankfurt.
"This LF-Ch concept is a clear indication of our entry plans for the compact premium segment in the near future, with the world's first ever premium compact, full hybrid."
The overall shape of the plastic wrapped model depicted in these spy photos is almost identical to the LF-Ch concept right down to the rear window, though the design does appear to have been toned down a notch.
For example, gone are the 'hidden' read door handles that have been replaced by conventional handles while the tail lights and rear bumper design are new.
If the car pictured here is indeed the LF-Ch, then there's a strong possibility that we may see the hatchback model in the flesh at the Geneva Salon next March.
Lexus plans to offer the premium hatch that will rival cars like the BMW 1-Series and Audi A3 with both conventional and hybrid powertrains.
Hat tip to our anonymous reader for the shots!
And we're talking about a lot of carbon fiber as the lightweight material is used for the newly designed hood, rooftop, rear wing, exterior mirrors, trunk, front spoiler lips, right down to the rear diffuser.
The same material is also found on the Lexus IS F's engine cover as well as in the interior on the door panels, center and lower console, steering wheel trim, and the transmission lever.
Unfortunately, Lexus did reveal the weight gains from the extensive use of carbon fiber parts on the sports car.
Other mods include the forged magnesium wheels and sport tires, high-performance carbon ceramic brakes, sport suspension, new exhaust system with a titanium sports muffler and the two-tone bucket seats inside.
Lexus said that the standard IS F's 5.0-liter V8 engine with 423HP (in JDM spec) has been left intact.
Photos by Phil Alex with the help of friends Mike and Aaron
The good news is that Lexus just announced that along with the Japanese market debut of the LF-Ch compact-premium hybrid concept, the firm's Tokyo Motor Show stand will also play host to the world premiere of a "revolutionary two-seater supercar", in other words the LF-A. The bad news is that Lexus did not release any photos or information on the long-anticipated V10-powered supercar that is said to compete price- and performance-wise with no less than the Ferrari 458 Italia and other exotic models.Furthermore, it has yet to be confirmed if the maker will reveal the final production version of the LF-A or if Lexus will follow the example of Toyota and its FT-86 RWD compact sports coupe and Honda with the CR-Z hybrid coupe, introducing a thinly disguised concept model.
The Lexus LF-Ch, the centerpiece of the Japanese firm's stand at the 2009 Frankfurt motorshow, is concept model for a new baby Lexus that will compete in Europe with entry-premium hatchbacks such as the Audi A3 / Sportback, BMW 1-Series and the recently freshened up Volvo C30. As anticipated, Lexus confirmed the development of a production version based on this concept. "Let me stress that you are not looking at a market study … or hearing about vague intentions" said Andy Pfeiffenberger, vice president of Lexus Europe during the presentation of the car in Frankfurt.
"This LF-Ch concept is a clear indication of our entry plans for the compact premium segment in the near future, with the world's first ever premium compact, full hybrid. That distinction will make this dynamic car stand out in what will be Europe's largest premium segment," Pfeiffenberger added.
Though Lexus did not give a specific launch date, media reports suggest that the five-door compact hatch should be on the market within the next two years. Besides the gasoline-electric full hybrid version, the production model will most likely be offered with conventional gasoline and diesel engines as well.
Click here to check out the the official press gallery of the Lexus LF-Ch
