Introducing the Lexus LF-NX Concept to Debut in Frankfurt

Over the past few weeks we’ve discussed more than a few new cars and concepts that will be making their debut at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show. One of the major Japanese brands we had yet to confirm a concept for, though, was Lexus… We knew we’d be getting something new, since Lexus released a cryptic teaser for a never-before-seen concept a couple weeks ago.

Here at Integrity Exports, our guess (and hope) was that we’d be seeing the Lexus RF-C. However, as of today, we now know that Lexus is not bringing the RF-C Concept, but the LF-NX Concept.

Even though we were wrong about the RF-C, we are certainly not disappointed. Just take a look at the Lexus LF-NX Concept pictured below to see why:

While we still don’t know very much at all about the mechanics of the Lexus LF-NX concept, what we can plainly see is that this is one sharp looking compact luxury crossover. All that we know about the powertrain is that the LF-NX will feature “a new variant of the Lexus Hybrid Drive system tuned for SUV performance.” So, we know that there will be at least one hybrid option available when the Lexus LF-NX finally goes on sale sometime next year.

As far as aesthetics, this is one of the best looking concepts we’ve seen in awhile… Definitely one of the best in 2013. But, this incredible design isn’t at all surprising. Lexus has been consistently pushing their design language in a more aggressive direction, and the LF-NX pictured above is an over-the-top, but not at all on pleasant, embodiment of that effort.

In case you still haven’t caught on to the new pinched spindle grille that Lexus is pushing on all their new vehicles, the LF-NX makes it unavoidable, but the domineering front clip is (literally) just the tip of the iceberg. Between the overly exaggerated wheel arches, the deeply angular exterior lines, the high belt line, the subtly fluid LED headlights and the blocky rear bumper, the LF-NX looks as if it were chiseled from an onyx glacier.

Although Lexus has only released one image of the LF-NX’s interior, it looks like the inside of the luxury compact crossover will be just as eye-catching and entertaining as the outside. As far as design, the press release tells us that the LF-NX will continue with L-finesse interior themes; including an upper display zone accompanied by a lower operation zone and dashboard. New technology will include touch-sensitive electrostatic switches and a new Remote Touch Interface, both aimed to make the crossover feel as human-oriented as possible.

Obviously, there are still quite a few holes in what we know about the Lexus LF-NX. However, you certainly won’t hear any complaining from us. This compact crossover concept looks amazing, and we can’t wait to see more at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show next week. Stay tuned for more information when the Japanese crossover makes its debut on September 10.

Source: Autoblog, Car and Driver