Lexus Unveils LF-NX Compact SUV Concept

BY Editor

Lexus Unveils LF-NX Compact SUV Concept – Sep 11, 2013– Frankfurt, Germany (Techreleased) – Lexus has unveiled the LF-NX compact SUV concept at the 2013 Frankfurt International Auto Show.

Lexus LF-NX Concept

The LF-NX concept’s bold, striking and innovative exterior reflects a further evolution of Lexus’ L-finesse design language, bringing more distinctive and sculpted styling to the premium compact SUV segment for the first time.

On the inside, the LF-NX continues the Lexus ‘Human Oriented’ L-finesse design concept. It features bold, powerful forms which create a driver-focused cockpit within an ergonomically ideal environment that houses innovative on-board technology.

The LF-NX concept is equipped with a full hybrid powertrain tuned for SUV performance. This highly efficient Lexus Hybrid Drive system targets class-leading CO₂ emissions.

More compact than the RX at 4,640mm long with a 2,700mm wheelbase, the LF-NX concept focuses on the growing segment of smaller, more urban-centric compact premium SUVs.

Lexus International executive vice president, Mark Templin, said that the LF-NX was devised to explore the potential for a compact SUV from Lexus.

“We intend to take advantage of the growing compact SUV segment and expand our SUV line-up in the future,” Mr Templin said.

“This concept is youthful, confident and innovative.

“It features a new bold look that gives an insight into the future evolution of the Lexus L-finesse design language,” Mr Templin said.

Lexus Australia chief executive Sean Hanley said that the LF-NX concept demonstrates the luxury marque’s commitment to hybrid technology.

“The LF-NX is a further demonstration of Lexus’ lead in the area of hybrid technology,” Mr Hanley said.

“For almost 10 years now, Lexus has been committed to hybrid technology and the unveiling of the LF-NX concept is just another string in our hybrid bow.

“With its striking design, innovative on-board technology and hybrid power, the LF-NX is something we’d love to see here in Australia sometime in the future,” he said.

Exterior design
The front of the new concept is dominated by a strong interpretation of the Lexus spindle grille. Both the chrome trim and grille mesh pattern increase in size as the grille widens through the lower bumper area, to accentuate the wide front track and powerful stance.

The upper edges of the grille generate powerful lines which define the bonnet edges, while the base is underscored by a chrome-finished under-tray which expresses the concept’s off-road credentials.

Signature front lighting features three diamond-shaped LED headlamps and the independent Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) first seen on the new Lexus IS sedan.

The DRLs are underscored by full-length LED strip turn signal lamps.

The lower bumper flows away from the spindle grille edges into vertical air intakes, before projecting strongly forward into a unique corner detail. This separates the bumper from the front wing with an aggressive vertical cut detail that narrows to a point beneath the headlamp clusters.

Both front and rear wings are formed by a series of muscular concave and convex curves. The wheel arches incorporate black painted trim, hinting at the protective finish which typifies an SUV.

The belt line forms a pronounced diamond shape in plan form. This reaches its widest point adjacent to the B-pillar before narrowing as it flows astern.

Below, the door sills generate a more aggressive, angular interpretation of the rising crease line first seen on the LF-CC concept.

Above the belt line, the classic Lexus side glazing profile combines with a steeply raked tailgate and integral spoiler to create the sweeping silhouette of an athletic coupe.

The rear of the LF-NX is dominated by highly articulated lamp clusters which create an instantly identifiable light signature. They extend the full depth of the bumper, creating a sharp, aerodynamic trailing edge detail.

The classic Lexus ‘L’ shape of the lamp itself is scored strongly into the rear bodywork, creating an echo of the front spindle grille form.

The wide lower bumper has been deliberately detailed without a visible exhaust system, in recognition of the full hybrid powertrain’s environmentally friendly credentials.

The Lexus LF-NX concept is finished in a new Brushed Metal Silver exterior colour which gives the striking impression that the body shell has been carved from a single billet of solid metal.

Interior design
In a continuation of the ‘Human Oriented’ L-finesse design concept realised in both the LFA and new IS, the interior mirrors the LF-NX’s highly sculpted exterior styling.

The centre console extends the full length of the cabin to bisect the rear seats. Its highly three-dimensional framework’s bright, brushed metal finish has also been applied to the driver’s instrument meters, the steering wheel, the seat structure and the overhead console.

Reinforcing the LF-NX concept’s premium SUV credentials, the strength and refinement of this carved metal surfacing is complemented throughout the cabin by black and Sunrise Yellow leather upholstery with contrast stitching, and sophisticated blue instrument and switchgear lighting.

Intuitive interaction with the vehicle’s switchgear, instrumentation and Human Machine Interface (HMI) technology is at the heart of Lexus interior design.

The LF-NX cabin features the upper display zone and lower operation zone dashboard format perfected over successive Lexus generations.

The upper display zone features an exclusive driver’s instrument meter design.

The lower operation zone allows access to a new generation of touch-sensitive electrostatic switches and the new Lexus Remote Touch Interface (RTI). New RTI combines a touch tracer display with a new touch pad design for smooth and intuitive use, and an adjustable arm rest support for comfort and ease of use.

Powertrain
The Lexus Hybrid Drive system combines a 2.5-litre, four-cylinder Atkinson cycle petrol engine with a powerful electric motor. At lower speeds, the LF-NX can operate under electric motor power alone.

The LF-NX’s highly efficient full hybrid powertrain targets performance on par with conventionally powered rivals, while returning outstanding fuel consumption and low CO₂ emissions.