Unveiling the Lexus Sport Concept: Is it a new version of the Lexus LC? Perhaps a successor to the Lexus LFA? Or could it be something entirely novel?
In January 2012, the automotive world was introduced to the LF-LC Concept at the Detroit Motor Show. This future-focused, progressively styled sportscar was a stunning two-door coupe, a vision of Lexus's design philosophy for the years to come.
The LF-LC Concept was not just a concept, but a clear indication of Lexus's commitment to injecting sportiness into their brand. It was said to "inherit the driving taste, or the secret sauce, of the performance cultivated via the development of the LFA".
While the LF-LC Concept was not explicitly described as a preview of a new LC generation, a second-generation LFA, or a direct replacement for the Lexus LC, it certainly represented Lexus's future sports car design direction. The concept car featured a wide, low-profile, two-door form that blended dynamic and emotional elements into a vision for a next-generation sportscar.
Fast forward to 2016, and the new range-topping Lexus LC made its debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. Powered by a 467bhp naturally aspirated V8 engine, the LC 500 was a testament to Lexus's performance capabilities.
However, the story does not end there. The LF-LC Concept was indeed heading for production, and the new version of the concept, showcased at the Australian Motor Show, was a production model. This new iteration featured a 4WD and a 500bhp hybrid powertrain, marking a significant step forward in Lexus's electrification strategy.
Meanwhile, the Lexus Sport Concept, revealed at The Quail, continued to signal the way forward for Lexus design. The nature of the Sport Concept - whether it is the LC, the next-gen LFA, an electric supercar, or something else - remains unclear. What is certain is that the Sport Concept is a future-focused, progressively styled sportscar that embodies Lexus's commitment to innovation and performance.
In another twist, the Lexus Electrified Sport Concept, initially dubbed as indicating a hybrid powertrain, turned out to be an EV. This electric version made its Goodwood debut, further emphasising Lexus's commitment to electrification and sustainability.
As we look to the future, it is clear that Lexus is not content to rest on its laurels. With the production of the LF-LC Concept, the debut of the LC 500, and the unveiling of the Lexus Sport Concept, Lexus is pushing the boundaries of sports car design and performance. The future is electric, and Lexus is ready to lead the charge.
