Motor Trend had an opportunity to talk with the Lexus Design group manager Takeshi Tanabe about the new LF-CC concept that debuted yesterday, and it’s definitely worth reading — here a couple quotes:
Unlike other Lexus hybrids, the body design doesn’t aim to make explicit the hybrid powertrain or fuel-economy potential. “We used to show the cars were hybrid, but now this is more emotional and sporty,” says Lexus Design group manager Takeshi Tanabe. The long nose will also house gasoline engines, which at present consist of a version of the naturally aspirated 2.5-liter four (IS 250), 3.5-liter V-6 (IS 350), and the 5.0-liter V-8 in the IS F in the U.S. This would be the first IS hybrid.
Tanabe explains, “In the past, Lexus was about reliability, quality, comfort, and silence. We still have that, but we are adding emotion through the design to attract younger buyers. From now, from the new GS and this CC Concept, we’re adding excitement.”
“Maybe some will like this car; maybe some won’t,” says Tanabe. “I don’t want to say we’ll offend people who don’t like it, but I do want to be distinctive.”
Along with the article are three exclusive images, including this photo of the interior:
The other two images are preliminary concept sketches:
There’s such a dramatic progression from last year’s LF-Gh to the LF-CC — the Lexus spindle grille design language is maturing rapidly, and the increased familiarity is bringing something very exciting and distinctive to the brand.
(Be sure to read this Motor Trend article — the LF-CC analysis is very perceptive, and Lexus executives provide plenty of insight.)
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