The more compact, rear-wheel drive, full hybrid LF-CC already integrates various design cues from the LF-LC; a first illustration of how concept cars are truly influencing future Lexus models and, in this instance, future D-Segment derivatives.

Announcing the launch of a premium mid-sized coupe in the more accessible D-segment in the near future, the LF-CC reinforces Lexus’ commitment to create more engaging, inspirational vehicles through attractive design, a superior driving experience and advanced technologies.

EXTERIOR DESIGN

The LF-CC showcases the latest evolution of the company’s unique L-finesse design language, with the boldest yet interpretation of the signature Lexus ‘spindle’ grille. Framed by the bonnet lip, deep lower spoiler and powerfully projecting front fender tips, the grille mesh is encased in a deep, metal-finish surround and takes on a pronounced, 3D form.

A unique, 3 LED-projector headlamp design is housed in the narrow gap between the lower and upper fender surfaces, without a conventional, one-piece cover. Independent Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) are fully integrated into the upper bumper surface to complete this unique new design.

The broad lower fenders are aerodynamically sculpted to manage the flow of air to the engine bay and front brakes, whilst reinforcing the powerful, dynamic road presence of the new Lexus signature frontal design.

In profile, the powerful convex curve of the bonnet flows seamlessly through a steeply raked windscreen into a roofline which deliberately peaks towards the rear of the cabin to emphasise the traction available from the vehicle’s rear-wheel drive powertrain.

The bodywork is stretched tight between the front and rear fenders, and the rear fender is less pronounced than that of the front, reinforcing the concentration of vehicle weight over the driven wheels for maximum traction.

Further developing a design form initiated on the LF-LC concept and the high-performance LFA, the sharply sculpted form of an airflow regulating fin flows from underneath the side of the car and upwards through the rear wheel arch. This aerodynamic detail is designed to increase downforce over the driven wheels, further improving traction.

The airflow regulating fin merges with the falling roofline in a pronounced rear spoiler integrated within the boot lid, seamlessly fusing design and aerodynamic elements to give the vehicle its distinctive, coupe proportions.

To the rear, the full width bumper flows into the rear wheel arches to emphasise the LF-CC’s broad, powerful stance. Lexus-characteristic L-shaped combination lamps feature a layered, strongly three-dimensional design, and the lower, concave bumper section incorporates a full width spoiler to further enhance rear-wheel drive traction. The rear stop lamp is nicely integrated into the shark antenna.

The LF-CC is finished in a new, ‘Fluid Titanium’ exterior colour, a metallic finish with exceptionally high brilliance which combines sharp, bright highlighting with dark shaded surfaces to reinforce the powerful forms of the bodywork’s sculpted surfaces.

INTERIOR DESIGN

The LF-CC’s interior hints at the progressive luxury of a future Lexus model cabin layout, and represents a further development of the company’s HMI (Human Machine Interface) design philosophy.

The dashboard is divided into two distinct zones: an upper, Display Zone, with a multi-display screen located at an ideal distance for at-a-glance viewing, and a lower, Operation Zone, which allows access to the uniquely designed shift lever and an innovative touch tracer display for remote system control.

This clear division of zones creates a unique fusion of an airy, spacious cabin and a sporting cockpit which places the emphasis on a snug, highly focused driving environment. All functional driving components are consolidated in the driver’s seat surroundings, combining outstanding ergonomics with advanced HMI technologies.

The driver benefits from a low, highly focused driving position with a sporting, wide grip steering wheel, optimum pedal placement and high-visibility instrument dials. The touch tracer display for remote system control is located directly behind the shift lever for maximum comfort and ease of operation.

Coordinating with the ‘Fluid Titanium’ exterior colour, the seats, door panels and instrument binnacle hood are trimmed in a warm, elegant amber leather finish. The extensive use of metallic finishes and soft touch materials throughout reinforces the premium quality of the environment. The contrast between the exterior and interior colour schemes gives the car an elegant yet simultaneously sporting image.

ALL-NEW 2.5 LITRE FULL HYBRID POWERTRAIN

Representing a new Lexus powertrain for future production, the LF-CC is equipped with an all-new, highly efficient, 2.5 litre full hybrid powertrain delivering a combination of the engaging performance appropriate to a sporting, D-segment coupe and low CO2 emissions, targeted below 100 g/km. This powertrain will achieve class-leading energy efficiency, with more than 2 hp produced per gram of CO2.

This Lexus Hybrid Drive powertrain features an all-new, ultra-smooth running, 2.5 litre 4-cylinder petrol engine mated to a compact, high-output, water-cooled permanent magnet electric motor.

In addition to the petrol engine and electric motor, the LF-CC hybrid drive system further comprises a generator, a high-performance battery, a power split device which, via planetary reduction gears, combines and re-allocates power from the engine, electric motor and generator according to operational requirements, and a compact power control unit to govern the high speed interaction of the system components.

Adapted specifically for the hybrid powertrain, the all-new 2.5 litre, DOHC, 4-cylinder petrol engine benefits from several technical improvements. It adopts the Atkinson cycle and D-4S direct injection technology to optimise both the power and fuel-efficiency benefits of Lexus Hybrid Drive.

Lexus will introduce this new hybrid powertrain into its model range in the near future.

Representing a new, more sporting image of the Lexus brand, the LF-LC is an entirely driver-focused vehicle that displays a possible future design direction for the premium automotive manufacturer.

Challenged by Lexus in Japan to design the future hybrid sports coupe concept, the Calty design studio in Newport Beach, California, sought to move the definition of Lexus design forward with avant-garde beauty and advanced technology, whilst still keeping the brand within reach of the majority of premium buyers.

The LF-LC showcases the new Lexus design language in its bold interpretation of the signature Lexus ‘spindle’ grille and rear architecture. Curves blend smoothly into dynamic angles creating an engaging interplay of line, shadow and corner.

Framed by a deep aluminium surround, the mesh pattern of the spindle grille takes on a pronounced, 3D form, while functional air intakes in the bottom corners of the grille demonstrate a fusion of distinctive style and engineering functionality.

The Lexus design hallmark arrowhead motif of the LED daytime running lights and the fading dot matrix pattern of the vertical foglamps both add a strong sense of movement to the frontal design of the new concept.

In profile, the lines of the LF-LC’s powerful silhouette reinforce the dynamism and motion inherent in the design. The dynamic cabin lines are carried through to the rear deck of the LF-LC, integrating the spindle grille theme to echo the front of the vehicle and create a feeling of width.

The tail and foglamps repeat the Lexus arrowhead motif, leading the eye down to a quad exhaust design. The ‘L’-shaped inner lighting of the tail lamps creates a strong sense of depth, and the rear foglamps reiterate the fading dot matrix pattern.

The interior of the LF-LC is a driver focused design which integrates form and function in a coherent whole. Designed to feel both open and secure, the cockpit contrasts the cool ambience of advanced technology with organic forms and soft textures. The driver is surrounded by deeply scooped side panels and a high, curved console, creating a strong focus on the controls and the road ahead.

True to Lexus’ commitment to making driving an intuitive experience, the LF-LC features a remote touch-screen system that allows the driver to operate controls without shifting position or altering his line of sight.

Twin 12.3” LCD screens provide information and navigation displays. A centre console touch screen controls the audio, air-conditioning and navigation systems, with a pop-up touch-screen keyboard for more complex commands. Similar touch-screen surfaces on each door are used to operate the windows, mirrors, seat positions and personal entertainment settings.

Multi-level meters within the driver’s instrument binnacle layer LCD and analogue technologies. The bottom layer displays temperature, fuel and the Eco meter background; the middle layer is the tachometer’s mechanical ring; and the topmost layer provides indicators for the tachometer, speedometer and Eco meter.

Surfaces throughout the cabin are finished in a combination of smooth leather and suede, with brushed metal trim and wood accents. The lightweight, race-inspired front seats are formed in multiple layers, and echo the interlacing curves that define the cabin’s styling. The lightweight, racing-style steering wheel features integrated switchgear and the engine start button.

The front-engined, rear-wheel drive LF-LC features an Advanced Lexus Hybrid Drive powertrain. Targeting a power output of over 500hp and CO₂ emissions of under 150g/km, it equips the LF-LC with both exhilarating driving performance and outstanding fuel and environmental efficiency.