Mark Templin, Executive Vice President, Lexus International

With the launch of the first RX in 1998, Lexus pioneered the premium crossover segment, combining, for the first time, all the flexibility, practicality and durability of a Sports Utility Vehicle with the handling, performance, refinement and ride of a premium sedan.

More compact than the RX at 4,640 mm long with a 2,700 mm wheelbase length, the LF-NX concept focuses on the growing segment of smaller, more urban-centric mid-sized premium crossovers, attracting a new, more design-oriented generation of discerning Lexus customers.

Exterior Design

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

The front of the new concept is dominated by an imposing 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 bonnet edges, whilst the base is underscored by a chrome-finished undertray 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 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. And the wheel arches incorporate black painted trim, hinting at the protective finish which typifies an urban crossover.

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 cills 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 bodyshell 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, angular exterior styling. It features bold, powerful forms which create a driver-focused cockpit within an ergonomically ideal environment.

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. And 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 switches and the new Lexus Remote Touch Interface (RTI). This combines a touch tracer display with a new touch pad design and an adjustable arm rest, for comfort and smooth, intuitive ease of use.

Powertrain

Reinforcing Lexus' commitment to the future of full hybrid drive 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.

The full hybrid drive system combines a 2.5 litre, four-cylinder Atkinson cycle petrol engine with a powerful electric motor to drive. 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 a par with conventionally powered rivals, whilst returning outstanding fuel consumption and class-leading CO₂ emissions.

New interior design with LFA-inspired, driver-focused cockpit and significant increases in rear seat space and luggage capacity for best-in-class roominess.

Ergonomically ideal interaction with touch-sensitive switchgear and state-of-the-art Human Machine Interface (HMI) technology.

Choice of powertrains - 2.5 litre V6 petrol engined IS 250 and the IS 300h: the first IS model to feature Lexus Hybrid Drive.

Comprehensively enhanced driving dynamics engineered to offer the most engaging, entertaining driving experience in its segment.

New F SPORT package available across the entire model range - unique exterior and interior design features, and dynamic enhancements.

Powerful multimedia systems with multiple connectivity options and Lexus Connected Services including real-time traffic and parking navigation as standard.

Advanced safety systems including new Blind Spot Monitor (BSM), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) and Auto Location Tire Pressure Warning System (AL-TPWS).

Unmatchable cost of ownership with low maintenance and running costs, significant tax incentives and high residual values.

Boldest yet L-Finesse Design

At 4,665 mm overall, the all-new IS is 80 mm longer and 10 mm wider than its predecessor. The front overhang has increased by just 10 mm, and the wheelbase has been extended by 70 mm to 2,800 mm.

Following the next-generation GS, ES and LS models, the new IS features the sophisticated dynamism of the new Lexus spindle grille frontal design, awarding the compact sedan a combination of aggressive elegance, a more powerful road presence and a stronger brand identity.

The new Lexus' tight, sporting proportions are emphasised by a rising belt line which tightens to the rear of the vehicle. This not only clearly delineates the body from the cabin, but also emphasises the wide flare of the wheel arches to give the new IS a broad, powerful stance.

In profile, the strong beltline creates the impression of larger rear tires and a lowered centre of gravity. The mass of the cabin appears to be concentrated rearwards, applying visual weight to the rear tires to enhance the perception of traction.

A rising crease line flowing from the lower body, through the rear wheel arch and into the rear lamp clusters adds further dynamism to the sweeping elegance of the sedan's sporting profile.

The exterior design incorporates several Lexus firsts, including a new, powerfully articulated headlamp cluster design with Lexus trademark, arrowhead Daytime Running Lights (DRL) located independently below, and a newly developed pop-up hood design which allows for the lowest possible vehicle front profile whilst optimising pedestrian impact protection.

The clean, elegant coupe-like lines of the new IS are further enhanced by two additional Lexus firsts; a rear wheel arch hemming treatment which allows the tyre to be placed further outboard and closer to the wheel arch, and a laser-brazed roof structure which joins the roof and side members without the need for a roof drip moulding.

Intuitive Ergonomics & Refined Comfort

The IS's all-new interior design offers drivers a focused, ergonomically ideal environment from within which to fully exploit the new Lexus sedan's superb driving dynamics.

The snug, wrap-around driving position has been inspired by the cockpit of Lexus' race-bred LFA supercar.

LFA-style features include a sports steering wheel trimmed in tactile, high-grip perforated leather, and, a Lexus first, highly supportive sports seat design using an "integrated foaming" construction method which eliminates gaps between the upholstery and the foam padding to combine excellent comfort with outstanding lateral holding performance.

The seat hip point has been lowered by 20 mm, the angle of the new, 3-spoke, 370 mm diameter steering wheel has been lowered 3 degrees, and steering reach adjustment has been increased by 23 mm, creating a more sporting driving position.

With 50 mm of its 70 mm longer wheelbase dedicated to increased rear seat space and 20 mm dedicated to increased luggage capacity, the new 60:40 split/folding rear seats offer occupants significantly greater levels of comfort and a 50% increase in legroom for class-leading roominess.

The combination of extended wheelbase and a thinner front seat design generates an 85 mm increase in rear seat knee room. And a 20 mm increase in the gap between the B pillar and the front corner of the rear seat improves accessibility.

The new IS 300h is also the first Lexus full hybrid to install the battery beneath the luggage deck board, offering a 450 litre compartment capacity on a par with that of petrol engine models.

Throughout the interior, high quality materials and finishes convey contemporary, premium look and feel, with a level of craftsmanship and attention to detail for which Lexus is global renowned. Soft touch finishes abound, including knee pads either side of the centre console for increased driver and front passenger comfort.

The dashboard is divided into two zones: An upper display zone locates the 7" LCD multi-display screen at an ideal distance for at-a-glance viewing, while a lower operation zone allows access to system controls such as the second generation of Lexus' Remote Touch Interface (RTI).

Intuitive, ergonomically ideal interaction with the vehicle's instrumentation, switchgear and Human Machine Interface (HMI) technology is fundamental to the sporting IS driving experience.

The control panel incorporates touch-sensitive, electrostatic switches to control the dual-zone air conditioning temperature. Sliding a finger up or down the bar shaped switch allows for temperature adjustment in 0.5 degree Centigrade increments.

Powertrains - with Lexus Hybrid Drive

Two rear-wheel drive versions of the new IS will be available in Europe; the 2.5 litre V6 petrol engined IS 250 and the IS 300h: the first IS model to feature Lexus Hybrid Drive.

Reinforcing Lexus' commitment to the future of full hybrid drive technology, the new IS 300h is equipped with a second generation Lexus Hybrid Drive system, which offers significant reductions in fuel consumption and CO₂, NO_x and particulate (PM) emissions, with no loss of performance.

The full hybrid drive system combines a powerful 105 kW/143 DIN hp electric motor with a newly developed, 2.5 litre, 133 kW/181 DIN hp, four-cylinder Atkinson cycle petrol engine featuring a next generation D-4S direct fuel injection system, Dual VVT-i and a high-efficiency Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) system.

With the rear wheels driven through the hybrid system's Electronically controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (E-CVT), total system power is 164 kW/223 DIN hp. The new IS 300h has a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 8.3 seconds, will accelerate from 80 to 120 km/h in only 6.2 seconds, and has a maximum speed of 200 km/h.

Conversely, the new Lexus full hybrid returns an average fuel consumption of 4.3 l/100 km, and class-leading CO₂ emissions from 99 g/km.

The location of the hybrid battery beneath the loadspace deck board —a Lexus first- gives the new IS 300h a perfect, 50:50 weight distribution. To fully exploit the dynamic potential of this ideal balance, the E-CVT may be switched to a sequential shiftmatic mode operated via steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters. The transmission has been tuned to more closely match engine speed increases in line with the speed increases of the vehicle itself, offering drivers a more engaging driving experience.

The driving experience is further enhanced through the adoption of another Lexus first, Active Sound Control (ASC); a new technology that compliments the engine sound with audio sound through a dedicated loudspeaker.

The IS 250's 24 valve, 2,500 cc V6 petrol engine features D-4 direct injection, and Dual VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing-intelligent) to both intake and exhaust camshafts, enhancing engine performance. It develops 153 kW/208 DIN hp at 6,400 rpm and 252 Nm of torque at 4,800 rpm, accelerating the IS 250 from 0-100km/h in 8.1 seconds and giving a maximum speed of 225 km/h. Fuel consumption is 8.6L/100km.

Breakthrough Driving Dynamics

Segment-leading driving enjoyment is at the heart of the new IS development programme, and every aspect of the new Lexus sedan's driving dynamics has been painstakingly engineered to that end.

New, laser screw welding and adhesive body bonding techniques, along with additional spot welding, have increased overall body rigidity. This not only enhances stability, but also allows for a more comfortable ride with no detriment to handling agility.

The new IS combines a revised double wishbone front suspension system with a new multilink rear system similar to that of the latest generation Lexus GS. Both systems have been fine tuned to match the driving feel of the new Lexus, combining improved ride comfort with outstanding grip performance and an agile response to steering inputs.

The front double wishbone system has been revised, offering a 20% increase in roll rigidity. To the rear, separate mounting of the multi-link system's spring and shock absorber maximises luggage space. Substantial revisions contribute to a 53% reduction in suspension friction, a 15% increase in tyre cornering grip and excellent stability.

Steering feel and feedback is key to an enjoyable driving experience, and the new IS benefits from a steering gear box based on that of the new GS. The structure and rigidity of the gear box has been revised to create a lighter, smoother, more accurate steering feel with enhanced response to input and greater feedback to the driver.

The new IS is equipped with a completely new ABS system offering enhanced brake control performance. Brake pedal feel has been improved, and the pedal angle itself changed to allow for smoother foot shifting to and from the accelerator pedal. Brake cooling performance has also been improved by the adoption of straighter brake ducts which provide an increase in cooling airflow volume.

A new Drive Mode Select system features up to five switchable driving modes- ECO, NORMAL, SPORT/SPORT S, SPORT S+ (available on F SPORT models equipped with AVS) and EV (available on IS 300h), to optimise the driver's preferred combination of economy, comfort, performance and handling characteristics.

F SPORT Package

IS F SPORT package models not only benefit from exclusive, more sporting and aggressive exterior and interior design features, but also genuine dynamic enhancements in the form of exclusively tuned front and rear suspension systems.

Externally, F SPORT models may be instantly recognised by a more aggressive spindle grille design with a more prominent chrome trim and an exclusive mesh design. The bottom corners of the front bumpers feature LED foglamps and aerodynamic detailing to provide both downforce and enhanced brake cooling. Unique 18" wheels feature a Y-spoke design which indentifies them with the LFA bloodline.

On board, F SPORT models inherit the Innovate driver's meter with moving centre ring from the LFA. A Lexus first, an exclusive seat design uses and 'integrated foaming' construction method, ensuring that there are no gaps between seat upholstery and filling to combine excellent comfort with outstanding lateral holding performance. Bespoke interior trim detailing includes an F SPORT steering wheel and shift knob, and aluminium pedals and scuff plates.

Both the front and rear suspension systems and the Electric Power Steering (EPS) are exclusively tuned for the F SPORT package, enhancing IS handling performance without detriment to ride quality.

An Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) system is an option exclusive to F SPORT models. It allows the driver to fine tune the IS F SPORT's ride characteristics with a choice of two damper settings; NORMAL mode, for everyday driving comfort, and SPORT S+ mode, for improved body control and precise responses to steering input while cornering.

The IS 250 F SPORT also benefits from an intake sound generator which creates a more sporting engine note. The sound creator uses a damper that amplifies the vibration of the intake pulse and introduces it as a pleasing note into the cabin to heighten the sporting driving experience.

Rewarding Multimedia

Featuring improved switchgear and paddle shift ergonomics, the new steering wheel is the first on a Lexus to coordinate multimedia system control with both meter and 7" centre console displays.

All IS models are equipped with new, Lexus Media Display (LMD) or Remote Touch-controlled Lexus Premium Navigation multimedia systems. The latter boasts excellent USB, AUX, Bluetooth and WiFi connectivity.

Through a collaboration with INRIX, the new IS model range marks the introduction of a navigation service, with both real-time traffic and parking services fitted as standard.

Offering detailed information on more than 42,000 car parks across Europe and continuously updated, INRIX Park will navigate drivers directly to the nearest entrance of the closest, least expensive available parking location to their destination. Real-time traffic-powered navigation offers drivers the fastest available route avoiding accidents, incidents, road closures and other traffic-causing delays.

Lexus Connected services also features two new Google link functions; Google Street View and Panoramio, a photo sharing service which enables the uploading of photos for viewing on the centre console screen.The IS may be equipped with a state-of-the-art Mark Levinson Premium Surround System, offering one of the finest in-car audio experiences available today. Mark Levinson has been working in exclusive collaboration with Lexus for the last 12 years, engineering systems for the specific acoustic qualities of each individual Lexus.

4 years have been spent ensuring that the IS's 12 channel, 835 Watt, 15-speaker system is perfectly mated to the IS cabin, delivering a purity of sound equivalent to that of a live, concert hall performance.

A new Auto Volume system automatically adjusts system volume for each song being played to ensure consistent volume levels and full audibility for even the quietest passages of music.

All 15 loudspeakers incorporate power-saving GreenEdge^TM technology, developing twice the volume for the same power consumption. GreenEdge^TM technology covers a wider frequency band than conventional systems, giving an enhanced dynamic range.

Advanced Safety Systems

Incorporating Lexus' unique Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system, the new IS builds on the already superior safety performance of the outgoing model with the addition of several, advanced new active safety features.

A sophisticated Pre-Collision System (PCS) offers drivers collision avoidance assistance. PCS features a millimetre-wave radar sensor, operating within a 20 degree scanning radius to detect obstacles in front of the car, even during cornering.

If there is a high possibility of a collision, PCS will alert the driver and, when he begins to brake, provide Pre-Collision Brake Assist to supplement his own braking effort. If the driver does not brake and a collision is inevitable, Pre-Collision Brake will automatically apply the brakes to reduce impact speed.

A Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) uses rear mounted radar to detect vehicles in adjacent lanes that are not visible in the outer door mirrors. An indicator light in the corresponding mirror alerts the driver when the presence of such a vehicle is detected.

A new Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) system employs the BSM radar to alert the driver to approaching vehicles when backing out of a parking space.

An Automatic High Beam (AHB) headlamp system maximises visibility at night by automatically switching to low beams when its camera detects the lights of either an oncoming or preceding vehicle.

A Lane Departure Alert (LDA) system helps prevent unintended lane changes by alerting the driver when the vehicle deviates from its lane without the operation of the turn signal.

An Auto Location Tire Pressure Warning System (AL-TPWS) displays pressure values for each of the four tires via a display located within the driver's instrument binnacle. When low tire pressure is detected, AL-TPWS clearly indicates which of the four tires has low-pressure status.

A newly developed pop-up hood design creates space to absorb pedestrian impact force, allowing for the lowest possible vehicle front profile whilst optimising pedestrian impact protection.

The IS benefits from 8 SRS airbags; two-stage Dual Supplementary Restraint System (SRS) front airbags, both driver and front passenger SRS knee airbags, front and rear SRS side airbags, as well as full length SRS side curtain airbags.

Unmatchable Cost of Ownership

Through a unique combination of low maintenance and running costs, significant tax incentives or benefits, and high residual values, the full hybrid technology of the new Lexus IS 300h offers customers cost of ownership advantages unmatchable by 2.0 litre diesel rivals in the D-Premium sedan segment.

The IS 300h's Lexus Hybrid Drive system has been specifically engineered for outstanding durability and low maintenance.

The powertrain has been designed with no requirement for a clutch; the starter motor and alternator are integral to the hybrid system and require no servicing or replacement over the life of the vehicle; and the conventional timing belt has been replaced by a maintenance-free timing chain.

With no need to either service or replace these parts, IS 300h customers can, therefore, realise a saving of some 1,500 Euros —the component cost alone- over 100,000 km.

Lexus Hybrid Drive technology also has a positive impact on both brake and tyre wear. Over the course of 90,000 km, the IS 300h will require no disc replacement, just one set of new brake pads and only one new set of tyres; a saving over 2.0 litre diesel rivals of some 1,250 Euros in the cost of parts alone.

Rigorously assessed for performance and durability, and backed up by over 15 years of in-service experience, the full hybrid battery is designed to last the entire life of the car.

Combining this component longevity with reduced labour times during servicing, IS 300h maintenance costs over 100,000 km are expected to be amongst the lowest in the segment.

Producing best-in-class petrol CO₂ emissions of just 99 g/km combined with superior, 4.3 l/100 km fuel efficiency, the IS 300h combines low running costs with significant tax incentives or benefits in many European countries, including France, Spain and UK.

Lexus Hybrid Drive has now established itself as extremely economical in terms of both consumption and depreciation. In recognition of this, the GS 450h has already won the 2013 Wertmeister Award (a collaboration between Auto Bild and Eurotax) for the lowest depreciation in its class, reinforcing the high levels of confidence customers place in Lexus full hybrid vehicles.

Initial CAP residual value forecasts award the new IS 300h a class-leading 38% in the UK.

Reinforcing Lexus' leading position in full hybrid drive technology, the LF-NX concept is powered by a new variant of the Lexus Hybrid Drive system tuned for SUV performance.

With its highly distinctive and powerfully sculpted styling, the LF-NX concept's exterior design reflects a further evolution of Lexus' L-finesse design language.

The front is dominated by a strong interpretation of the Lexus spindle grille, extremely expressive signature front lighting with independent Daytime Running Lights (DRL), and unique corner styling which separates the bumper from the front wing with an aggressive vertical cut.

In profile, muscular wheel arches are trimmed with the black protective finish which typifies an urban crossover. Above the pronounced diamond shape of the belt line, a classic Lexus side glazing profile and steeply raked tailgate create the sweeping silhouette of an athletic coupe.

The rear features highly articulated lamp clusters. They are detailed to project downwards to the full depth of the bumper, creating a sharp, aerodynamic trailing edge to the vehicle which mirrors the front wing detailing.

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

The interior mirrors the LF-NX's highly sculpted exterior with bold, powerful forms creating a driver-focused cockpit within an ergonomically ideal environment.

In a continuation of the 'Human Oriented' L-finesse design concept, the cabin features the ideal, upper display zone and lower operation zone dashboard format perfected over successive Lexus generations.

This allows for intuitive interaction with the vehicle's next generation technology, which includes touch-sensitive electrostatic switches and a new touch pad Remote Touch Interface (RTI) design.

Reinforcing the LF-NX concept's premium Crossover credentials, the strength and refinement of the interior's carved metal surfacing is complemented throughout by Sunrise Yellow / Black leather upholstery with contrast stitching, and sophisticated blue instrument lighting.

Furthermore, Lexus will stage the European premiere of the first-ever GS 300h, featuring Lexus' highly efficient 2.5L hybrid powertrain. Positioned at the heart of the E-premium segment, the GS 300h combines low emissions and fuel consumption with a refined, comfortable drive, and returns a very low cost of ownership.

The Lexus press conference is scheduled on September 10 at 13:00 CET on the Lexus stand, Hall 8, Frankfurt Messe. It will also feature a special appearance by the stars of the Lexus 'Steps' campaign.

For information update please also check: http://newsroom.lexus.eu