Lexus LF-NX Crossover Hybrid Concept Explores Potential for Compact SUV And Debuts at 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show
09/10/2013
Lexus
Lexus' latest concept, the LF-NX compact crossover, will be on display at the Frankfurt Motor Show (IAA). The LF-NX concept focuses onthe growing segment of smaller, more urban-centric compact premium crossovers.
Measuring 182.7 inches long with a 106.3-inch wheelbase, this crossover concept is smaller than the popular RX sport utility vehicle (SUV) that pioneered the premium crossover segment in 1998.
"We intend to take advantage of the growing compact crossover SUV segment and expand our SUV line-up in the future," said Mark Templin, executive vice president, Lexus International. "The new LF -NX concept explores the potential for a compact crossover within the Lexus model range. 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."
Exterior Design
The LF-NX concept's bold, striking and innovative exterior brings more distinctiveand sculpted styling to the premium compact crossover segment.
The front of the new concept is dominated by astrong 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 concept's wide front track and powerful stance.
The upper edges of the grille generate powerful lines which define the hood edges, while the base is underscored by a chrome-finished underbody panel which expresses the crossover concept's off-road credentials.
Extremely expressive, signature front lighting features three diamond-shaped LED headlamps and the independent Daytime Running Lights (DRL) first seen on the new 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 forward into a unique corner detail. This separates the bumper from the front fender with an aggressive vertical cut detail that narrows to a point beneath the headlamp clusters.
Both front and rear fenders 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 urban crossover. 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 Lexus 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 visibleexhaust 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 color which gives the striking impression that the bodyshell has been carved from a single piece of solid metal.
Interior Design
In a continuation of the 'Human Oriented' L-finesse design concept realized in both the LFA and new IS, the interior mirrors the LF-NX's highly sculpted exterior styling. It features bold, powerful forms which create a driver-focused cockpit within an ergonomically ideal environment.
The center console extends the full length of the cabin to bisect the rear seats. The 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 and instrumentation is at the heart of Lexus interior design. The LF-NX cabin features the ideal, 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 switcheson door trim, and the new Lexus Remote Touch Interface (RTI). The RTIcombines a touch tracer display with a new touch pad design for smoothand intuitive use, and an adjustable arm restsupport comfort.
Powertrain
The LF-NX concept is equipped with a full hybrid powertrain tuned for SUV performance.
The full hybrid drive system combines a 2.5-liter, four-cylinder Atkinson cycle gas engine with a powerful electric motor. At lower speeds, the LF-NX can operate under electric motor power alone.
The LF-NX's highly efficientfull hybrid powertrain targets performance on par with conventionally powered rivals, while returning outstanding fuel consumption and low emissions.