Lexus is looking to redefine the premium grand touring sedan market when it unveils the LF-Gh concept at the 2011 New York International Auto Show.
"For this concept, Lexus designers studied characteristics that are often considered contradictory and difficult to execute together," said Kengo Matsumoto, general manager of Lexus Design Division. "The captivating design of the LF-Gh concept examines the possibility of balancing what are normally opposing qualities, such as style and functionality."
Dominating the front fascia is the boldly-designed spindle-shaped grille that not only contributes to the radiator and brake duct's functions but also serves as a vital element in giving the car its excellent aerodynamic performance.
As an example, air flows in through front inlets adjacent to the unique vertical LED fog lamps and exits through similar slim rear outlets that follow the curve of the tail lamps from the rear quarter panel. The Lexus LF-Gh concept also explores the minimization of traditional features such as side mirrors and door handles to enhance the sleekness and improve aerodynamics.
Lexus adds that the spindle-shaped grille is powerful design element and is a key feature that "integrates distinctive style with engineering functionality without sacrifice in either discipline." It will also be inherited by future Lexus models.
Though Lexus has revealed very little of what the LF-Gh's interior looks like, the luxury marque says that the driver's zone includes a meter panel with excellent visibility and a console with intuitive operability while an all-new analog clock with a three-dimensional face serves a focal point of the interior and represents a shift in Lexus' design philosophy.
Powering the LF-Gh is Lexus's Hybrid Drive system that provides equal measures of fuel efficiency and performance on demand.
"Although only a concept, we hope the LF-Gh will resonate with our customers worldwide, and communicate our intention to once again advance ideas about the face of Lexus luxury in the years to come," said Matsumoto.
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