The Lexus LF-LC May Signal What’s Ahead for the Next Generation LS
At Lexus of Highland Park we are just fine with the Lexus LS, but it has been awhile since this flagship model has seen an upgrade. That’s why we were heartened by news of the LF-FC unveiling at the Tokyo Auto Show last month.
This new concept car is a pretty big indicator of what LS fans can expect from the next generation. The hydrogen fuel cell drivetrain certainly sounds promising and a gesture-controlled electronics system will give the techies much to cheer about, especially with its “hologram guide” which sounds pretty futuristic to us. Whether these features will be incorporated into the next generation of Lexus luxury sedans, we can only speculate (and hope).
The LF-FC is big, stylish and looks every bit a Lexus with its curves and spindle grille. The drivetrain is powered by electric motors, one in the rear and two in-wheel motors up front. It has been suggested before by Lexus European division boss, Alain Uyttenhoven, that the LS will feature a new design concept intended to differentiate it from the smaller GS and ES models. The design is intended to invoke more emotion as well. Lexus doesn’t want to imitate or chase after any particular consumer trend. If they create a new model that causes a bit of a stir in the automotive world, that would be OK with them and OK by us. Lexus isn’t put off by the idea of the next generation polarizing public opinion. This wouldn’t be the first time that Lexus fans have had to pick a side.
A V8 engine tuned to deliver 465 horsepower should stand it in good stead with those who don’t want to forego power for fuel efficiency. A gas and electric hybrid joining the V8 to an electric motor can be expected to kick out 535 horsepower, which is a significant improvement over Lexus’s current LS 600h L.
Can’t wait until 2017 for the next LS generation? No problem, we still have plenty of other great Lexus models for you to choose from. Stop by and talk to one of our sales associates today. We are located at 2930 Skokie Valley Road in Highland Park, IL.
