Lexus LF-NX Concept takes aim at the small crossover herd [w/video]

Tue, 10 Sep 2013

Lexus is drawing crowds with its sharply styled LF-NX Concept, a car that previews a competitor for the likes of the BMW X1, Mercedes-Benz GLK (also debuting at Frankfurt) and Audi Q3. We previewed the LF-NX last week, but we've since gotten a bit of in-person time with the compact crossover on the Frankfurt show floor.

There's a lot of show-car tinsel here, but the makings of a production model are fairly visible. That trademark Lexus face, with the separate headlight and running light arrays and an even more extreme version of the "spindle" grille, is present and accounted for. The styling is sliced and carved, like the Lexus IS, although it's difficult to tell if the production model will be quite so extreme in its looks. We'll bet yes.

Take a look above for the full set of live images from Frankfurt, then scroll down for video and some of the stock images from the original, online unveiling. Finally, click over for our complete coverage of the LF-NX from its debut, last week.

World Premiere of the Lexus LF-NX Crossover Concept at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show

- Distinctive and sculpted styling
- 'Human Oriented' interior design with new, touch-sensitive instrumentation
- Highly efficient full hybrid powertrain

FRANKFURT, Germany, Sept. 4, 2013 - A new Lexus compact crossover concept, the LF-NX, will make its world premiere at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show (IAA). This concept explores the potential for a compact crossover within the Lexus model range.

Reinforcing Lexus' leading position in full hybrid drive technology, the LF-NX concept is powered by a new variant of the Lexus Hybrid Drive system tuned for SUV performance.

With its highly distinctive and powerfully sculpted styling, the LF-NX concept's exterior design reflects a further evolution of Lexus' L-finesse design language.

The front is dominated by a strong interpretation of the Lexus spindle grille, extremely expressive signature front lighting with independent Daytime Running Lights (DRL), and unique corner styling which separates the bumper from the front wing with an aggressive vertical cut.

In profile, muscular wheel arches are trimmed with the black protective finish which typifies an urban crossover. Above the pronounced diamond shape of the belt line, a classic Lexus side glazing profile and steeply raked tailgate create the sweeping silhouette of an athletic coupe.

The rear features highly articulated lamp clusters. They are detailed to project downwards to the full depth of the bumper, creating a sharp, aerodynamic trailing edge to the vehicle which mirrors the front wing detailing.

The Lexus LF-NX concept is finished in a new Brushed Metal Silver exterior colorwhich gives the striking impression that the bodyshell has been carved from a single piece of solid metal.

The interior mirrors the LF-NX's highly sculpted exterior with bold, powerful forms creating a driver-focused cockpit within an ergonomically ideal environment.

In a continuation of the 'Human Oriented' L-finesse design concept, the cabin features the ideal, upper display zone and lower operation zone dashboard format perfected over successive Lexus generations.

This allows for intuitive interaction with the vehicle's next generation technology, which includes touch-sensitive electrostatic switches, and a new touch pad Remote Touch Interface (RTI) design.

Reinforcing the LF-NX concept's premium crossover credentials, the strength and refinement of the interior's carved metal surfacing is complemented throughout by Sunrise Yellow / Black leather upholstery with contrast stitching, and sophisticated blue instrument lighting.

The Lexus press conference is scheduled on September 10 at 13:00 CET on the Lexus stand, Hall 8, Frankfurt Messe.

By Brandon Turkus