Daily Slideshow: Lexus Hinting at a Flagship LQ

What Is It?

Toyota was recently caught trademarking a new two-letter nameplate. Since Toyota owns Lexus and Lexus uses the double-letter model scheme, we can assume that the trademark is being used on a new Lexus model. The trademark was filed on May 7th so this is relatively recent news.

Seeing as Lexus debuted a crossover in Detroit called the LF-1 Limitless Concept, we can also assume that the model will, in fact, be the production version of that same car. Don't worry, other color options will be available so that you won't be subject to ridicule by your friends for having a car that resembles a penny.

>>Join the conversation about the LQ Crossover right here in Club Lexus.

Crossover Market

Crossovers are incredibly popular right now. Automakers are starting to shift all of their research and development into making more family-friendly crossovers instead of sedans, sports cars, convertibles, etc. It would fare well for Lexus to develop more crossovers since their SUV lineup is well spoken for.

Every automaker that is profitable, sells numerous crossovers. Porsche, Audi, Mercedes, BMW all have one or more mid-sized crossover models. Neither are significantly different from one another but allow for the customer to have a choice. Lexus definitely won't stop with this one model; they'll make at least another to have two choices of crossovers, just like they do with their SUV segment.

>>Join the conversation about the LQ Crossover right here in Club Lexus.

What Will It Be Called?

Nothing is for certain, but the trademark for LQ was filed on the 7th. That would mean that this model situates itself right alongside the other Luxury models like the LS Sedan, LX SUV, and LC Coupe ("L" in Lexus's naming scheme stands for "Luxury"...go figure). That leaves a nice, tidy spot for a crossover to squeeze on in.

The LF-1 Limitless Concept was a smaller car; only 197 inches in length which is 5 inches shorter than a Mercedes GLS. 

>>Join the conversation about the LQ Crossover right here in Club Lexus.

Any More Details?

No other details have been released yet besides the information given about the concept a couple months back. This model will not be a normal crossover however, it will be a crossover coupe. Think Mercedes GLC or BMW X6 but smaller. The engine variants are yet to be released but any engine offered in the current model lineup like the turbocharged 4-cylinder and 6-cylinder is fair game. Talk of a hybrid system is definitely a possibility seeing as the current SUVs have hybrid options. Times are changin' so don't be surprised if this LQ model is entirely electric. Automakers are pressured by the government to make more sustainable cars every year. More electric cars are hitting the roads than ever before and Lexus wants in!

>>Join the conversation about the LQ Crossover right here in Club Lexus.

Interior

Based on the concept, the LQ will have a state of the art interior system which can recognize the driver's mood and act accordingly. If you're stressed and tired from a long days work, the car will soften up and do its best to relax you. If you are feeling fiery and aggressive, the car will tighten up and go into a 'Sport' mode.

The car can also adapt to your driving style, allowing for, "...the best driving experience possible..." 

No one can confirm this technology just yet. Looking to concepts for proof of the future is about as safe as betting on a horse race. Anything can happen and nothing is for certain. Many manufacturers will debut the newest and most incredible technology (like that mood recognition technology) to shock and aw the customers. But in reality, that technology never even makes it to production and if it does, is five t ten years down the line.

>>Join the conversation about the LQ Crossover right here in Club Lexus.

The Other Lexus SUVS

The 2018 Lexus fleet of SUVs includes the RX, the LX, the NX, and the monstrous GX. The RX is a normal sized SUV that comfortably fits five adults. It's offered in an array of engines from a 4-cylinder to a hybrid powertrain. The RX is mainly set up for city and highway driving. The GX is the more luxurious version of the RX. It is a bit bigger and can hold up to seven people total. The design isn't as streamlined or sporty but has superior off-road capabilities to the RX. The NX is probably the closest model to the future LQ. It is a crossover version of the RX so its dimensions are a bit smaller and its roofline is more sloped. The LX is the big daddy. It is the most expensive and also the most capable off-roader of the whole bunch. It is also the most expensive starting at just over $85,000.

>>Join the conversation about the LQ Crossover right here in Club Lexus.

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