Lexus Is Redesigning Its Controversial Spindle Grille

Already Underway

For many years now, Lexus' decision to go with a spindle grille and make it increasing larger with each passing year has been a controversial one. Ultimately, we've gotten used to the somewhat polarizing design over the years, and many actually love the look. However, it seems as if Lexus is not only planning on redesigning its spindle grille, but that process has already begun in a way.

Photos: Lexus

Maintain, Yet Change

"We want to maintain the spindle shape itself," Lexus global design chief Koichi Suga told Automotive News in a recent interview. "But the spindle has always been based on functionality of what's happening under the hood. Many people mention it looks like Darth Vader. The new spindle execution is based on this learning. We need the right balance."

Photos: Lexus

Spindle Body

Finding the right balance is what Lexus tried to achieve with the new 2023 RX and RZ all-electric crossover, both of which feature what the luxury brand calls its "spindle body" rather than a traditional spindle grille. Suga did admit in his interview that U.S. customers have never really been fans of the spindle grille, at least for the most part, which prompted this big change.

Photos: Lexus

Incorporating Elements

The spindle body is a bit less offensive and is more integrated with the vehicles, as many of the elements present in the spindle grille have instead been incorporated into the bodywork. On the 2023 RX, this means that there are some recessed sections along the top of the nose, which actually features mesh to match the grille itself.

Photos: Lexus

Mimic the Look

That makes the grille look smaller, though in all fairness, it actually is. Meanwhile, on the RZ, such a large opening isn't necessary as it's an all-electric vehicle. Thus, Lexus utilizes an inlet at the bottom of the front end, while a black section across the front mimics the traditional look of the spindle grille.

Photos: Lexus

Experimental Looks

When Toyota announced its major EV initiative recently with a bevy of concepts it's worth noting that all of them had a different take on the spindle look, which signals that Lexus designers are tinkering with what they want to do with the look moving forward. If nothing else, it's pretty clear that customer feedback is having an impact here.

Photos: Lexus

Hot Take

This could be good news or bad news, depending on how you feel about the ever-growing spindle grille. The new RX has been a bit controversial in terms of how it looks as well, but the same can be said of any radically redone vehicle. Oftentimes, it takes a while for us to get used to a new vehicle design, and that may also be the case with the ever-evolving spindle grille, too.

Photos: Lexus

>>Join the conversation about Lexus's new Spindle Grille design right here at ClubLexus.com.

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