Lexus sports coupe concept heads for Detroit show

Lexus will unveil a sports coupe concept at the North American Motor Show in Detroit next month.

The LF-LC is said to not preview any specific model – being instead a design exercise to explore the future of Lexus design.

However rumours suggest it previews a production coupe that will reach showrooms by 2015.

Created at the Lexus Calty design studio in Newport Beach, Calif, the 2+2 concept has, according to Lexus group vice president and general manager Mark Templin; “been crafted from a clean sheet of paper at the request of Lexus headquarters in Japan.

“The LF-LC blends both high technology and organic shapes to connect the driver to the machine,” he adds.

“The clean lines of the vehicle emphasize motion, creating a distinctive look for this futuristic sport coupe.”

Many observers believe the LF-LC could reach production in the form of a large hybrid-engined coupe to challenge the likes of the Mercedes SL.

If it does reach showrooms the car will fill a gap in the range vacated in 2008 by the folding-roof Lexus SC430 – a car also created in California.

The LF-LC will be revealed on the first press day of the Detroit show on 9th January.

Words by: Andrew Charman