Lexus LF-1 Concept Previews New Luxury Crossover: 5 Things You Need to Know

This concept previews a new flagship model for Lexus, a large vehicle that embodies the best that Lexus has to offer. The LF-1 might hint at what the next-generation Lexus LX, the brand’s current flagship SUV, will look like, or it could indicate that an entirely new addition to the Lexus crossover lineup is coming soon, which is more likely. The LX is one of the only body-on-frame SUVs left on the market, but we think this concept will modernize and focus more on luxury than off-road capability.

The Lexus LF-1 Limitless Concept was designed by Lexus/Toyota’s in-house CALTY Design Research team in California. If you didn’t like Lexus’ signature spindle grille, you’d better get used to it because this concept makes it even bigger and more alien-looking — it now extends all the way back into the hood of the car and nearly reaches the windshield. With its 22-inch wheels, aggressive fenders, imposing stance, and sharp creases, this design language might trickle onto other cars in Lexus’ lineup.

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Other interesting styling cues include the split rear spoiler, aggressive but functional vents, a massive panoramic glass roof, pop-out door handles, and sharp rims that actually look like they could be produced. Lexus often tones down its concepts a ton for production, but the gorgeous LC 500 that looks exactly like the concept changed that. Perhaps this means more of the styling seen on this concept will make it to an actual production car.

With seating for four passengers, designers were aiming for “maximum comfort” for the interior. Most of the physical controls and buttons have been replaced by motion-activated controls and display screens with haptic feedback. The back seat passengers also get the same seats used in front and each gets a screen to adjust climate and entertainment options. Brushed copper accents and open-pore wood are details we hope make it into production cars. An interesting detail is the driver will use steering wheel-mounted buttons to engage park, drive, and reverse.