Lexus execs spills the beans: GS F model, 1-series fighter, hybrid galore

Autoblog · Apr 7, 2008

Lexus execs spills the beans: GS F model, 1-series fighter, hybrid galore

Filed under: Detroit Auto Show, Convertibles, Coupes, Hybrids/Alternative, Sedans/Saloons, Sports/GTs, Green, Crossovers/CUVs, Lexus, Australia

Click above for a high-res gallery of the Lexus LF-A Roadster concept.

Lexus Australia's chief executive, John Roca, gave up a number of product details to The Australian in an interview this past weekend, including the addition of an "F" variant of the GS sedan and possibly a full-size LS limo. Both models are aimed to attack luxury stalwarts Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz by offering a number of high-performance variants and also developing a new model that would slot in below the IS sedan to take on the BMW 1-series and the Audi A3. That model is still a few years away, but it will be an integral part of Lexus' commitment to reach one million global sales in the next two to three years.

The other element includes offering hybrid versions of every vehicle it sells, plus the introduction of a hybrid-only model that will be unveiled in concept form this January at the Detroit Auto Show. Toyota's luxury arm plans to release a redesigned five-seater RX next year, based off the LF-Xh concept that bowed in Tokyo, although there's no word on the rumored seven-seat variant due out before the end of the decade.

Naturally, no conversation about Lexus would be complete without some mention of a two-door, coupe/convertible version of the IS, a model that's been sorely lacking from the Lexus lineup, plus, the LF-A supercar, which should finally come to market in 2011, but may only be available in left-hand drive.

Gallery: Lexus LF-Xh concept

Gallery: Lexus LF-A Roadster

Gallery: Lexus LF-A Concept

[Source: The Australian via Motor Authority]
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

More...