Lexus 'LQ' Trademark Likely for Upcoming Flagship Crossover
A recent trademark registered by Lexus could be used for the automaker’s upcoming compact crossover.
The Japanese luxury automaker registered “LQ” in the U.S. on May 7 for “automobiles and structural parts thereof.” If you follow the company’s lineup, the letter “L” is normally used to designate a range-topping model. For example, the LC is the top-of-the-line coupe, while the LX is a full-size SUV. There’s also the new LS, which serves as the Lexus flagship sedan. So the LQ nameplate suggests it will be used for a range-topping model, and it’s likely for the flagship crossver that Lexus previewed earlier this year with the LF-1 Limitless Concept at the 2018 Detroit Auto Show.
SEE ALSO: Lexus LF-1 Concept Previews New Luxury Crossover: 5 Things You Need to Know
The interesting thing is that Lexus currently does use the “Q” designation for any other model in its lineup. But LX is already taken for the company’s flagship SUV, and it appears Lexus is keen on offering both a proper body-on-frame SUV and a flagship crossover.
Rumors suggest the production LF-1 Limitless could debut as soon as the 2019 Tokyo Motor Show, so the timing for trademarking its nameplate isn’t too far off. But then again, automakers have registered trademarks in the past that never get used, but that’s likely not the case here. The big question is whether Lexus will revamp its lineup to use the “Q” designation for its crossovers, or if the LQ will be something special.
Thanks Joaquín Ruhi!
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Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.
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There are too many Qs in car names these days.
wtf is this