New Lexus F Model Teased, LFA Successor Discussed

Lexus will show a new F model at the 2014 Detroit auto show. While no details have been revealed, a teaser images suggests the new model could be the RC F coupe.

From the images, we can tell the new Lexus F model features multi-spoke wheel design and a large fender vent behind the front wheels – similar to that on the last Lexus IS-F sedan. Furthermore, the swooping hood and the upper edge of the headlight housing are reminiscent of the 2015 Lexus RC coupe that was unveiled at the 2013 Tokyo Motor Show. In other Lexus news, the Lexus LF-LC concept shown at the 2012 Detroit auto show may hint at the LFA supercar’s successor, according to Autocar. Set above the upcoming Lexus RC coupe, an LFA successor could serve as the brand’s halo car.

“I have the expectation that car will be launched,” said Haruhiko Tanahashi, who led LFA development. “I personally hope the LF-LC will be built. I think most of Lexus’s concept cars have been turned into production cars.” Where the carbon-fiber intensive LFA featured an F1 inspired 4.8-liter V-10 engine, the LF-LC concept could be based on a shortened version of the LS sedan’s chassis and be powered by a hybrid powertrain. If a production version of the LF-LC concept were to materialize, it would arrive at a lower price point than the near $400,000 LFA.

“We want a whole level of real F products with a car like the LFA being at the top of it,” said Mark Templin, head of Lexus. “It doesn't mean we have something on the drawing board.” While no time frame was given for LF-LC production, it will likely come after F-badged variants of existing models, such as the GS F and the 5.0-liter V-8 powered RC F that Lexus will show off at the 2014 Detroit auto show. Source: Lexus, Autocar