#Lexus Previews "Flagship Crossover" LF-1 Limitless At Detroit Int'l Auto Show [Auto Styling News]

Like molten metal being forged into a fine Japanese sword, the lines of the Lexus LF-1 Limitless concept have the potential to shape the future of a flagship luxury crossover for Lexus.

Revealed at the North American International Auto Show, this concept - billed as the brand's "flagship crossover" - signals the very real direction of the brand. And it's spectacular.

Lexus established the luxury crossoversegment two decades ago with the global debut of the
RX 300 at Detroit. It remains the top-selling luxury crossover despite nearly 50 competitors that have
since entered the segment.

Like its name, the possibilities for powertrains are limitless. Lexus says the LF-1 concept could be powered by fuel cell, hybrid, plug-in hybrid, gasoline, or even all-electric. By around 2025, every Lexus model around the world will be available either as a dedicated electrified model, or have an electrified option.

Love it or hate it, the "hourglass" spindle grille design is becoming the standard already on all Lexus vehicles. And here, it's accentuated and has evolved into something quite beautiful - even if you're still wary of it appearing on YOUR car.

The innovative LF-1 was created at CALTY Design Research in California. The design language is rooted in the simple yet elegant design concept dubbed “molten katana”. This design visualization fuses the organic shapes of liquid metal with the sharp edges of a traditional Japanese sword. Imagining that shift from a smooth, flowing mass into a solid, chiseled shape formed the basis for the fluid, yet aggressive design of the LF-1 Limitless.

The Lexus LF-1’s exaggerated dash-to-axle ratio gives it an athletic profile that’s more sports car than station wagon. Combined with a cabin that sits deep within the rear-wheel drive chassis and aggressive 22-inch wheels barely contained under bulging fenders, the LF-1 has a powerful stance that conveys its performance intentions at a glance.

The low roofline and elevated ride height further emphasize that this is a crossover designed for performance with practicality.

What do YOU think?


Photos: Lexus.com