2005 Lexus LF-Sh Concept

The LF-Sh is a yet another Lexus concept depicting the brands L-Finesse design language, but this time it represents the next generation of a vehicle that has become synonymous with upscale luxury and quality on this side of the Pacific, the replacement for the full-size LS sedan.

But in and of itself, this stylish new concept vehicle could be the biggest test of Toyotas premium brand to date. The pressure mounted against Lexus concerning this cars introduction is beyond high, as its not only the preview of its forthcoming flagship model but is also being presented for the first time in the brands home country of Japan, where Lexus is a completely new entity.

So far, both the GS, which was first introduced as the LF-S concept, and the new IS, which debuted as the LF-C concept, in two-door retractable hardtop guise, have been well received in production trim, and posing serious threats in market segments where Lexus had previously been weak; the LF-Sh exhibits the same sense of confidence, although now in full-size form.

What gives the LF-Sh concept such great presence is its adherence to Lexus new L-Finesse design language. One might think that the same styling cues used on a sport compact sedan would clash when applied to the sizeable dimensions of the LS, but this interpretation works to compliment. Despite being the biggest Lexus concept car produced to date, these initial photographs show integrated creased edges and curvaceous panels that create a beautiful if not complete contrast to the current LS. While theres no arguing that the current LS is extremely efficient in design, it blends into the backdrop rather than projecting an image of individualism. L-Finesse works wonders, helping the concept garner attention without resorting to controversy (Audi A8, BMW 7-Series and now even the Mercedes-Benz S-Class).

The LF-Shs presentation does a fairly good job at disguising the vehicles size, betrayed only by a few softer edges. Overall, the car measures 199.2 inches in length, 73.8 inches in width, 57.7 inches in height, and it rides on a wheelbase of 116.9 inches. Translation: its the same size range as its main European competitors like the S-Class, A8 and 7-Series.

Interestingly, there is some internal interest at raising the LS competitive status by offering a long wheelbase version. Less drastic moves have been made elsewhere in the Lexus lineup, such as offering different drivetrains or all-wheel drive, but never in such a large scale. Lexus change on the "one size fits all" policy is sure to benefit the brand down the road by reaching a larger audience.

For the concept, Lexus has specified that the car will be powered by a V8 engine assisted by an electric hybrid motor (hence the h in its name). Its unclear exactly what type of motor will be used, but judging by the fact that its an eight-cylinder the unit under the hood of the LF-Sh concept is most likely the new 4.6-liter V8 with a low-performance assist system. Lexus claims that the car generates approximately 400-horsepower, enough to muscle it to the top of its class. As with optional drivetrains available in the GS and IS, all 400 ponies are harnessed to an electronically controlled all-wheel drive system. Details on the hybrid system, such as whether its a sandwich type (i.e. Lexus GS 450h) or front-wheel assist (i.e. Lexus RX 400h), have yet to be been announced.

As for production, its expected that a new 4.6-liter V8 featuring VVT-L dual variable valve timing, and D4-S direct injection will power the standard LS. Although the engine has yet to be officially confirmed, its been long speculated that power output will be around 350-horsepower, a significant improvement over the current 4.3-liters 290-hp. Without any great leaps and bounds of imagination, this car will be called the LS 460. This motor will most likely be paired to a six-speed automatic.

While buyers of current and previous LS models have been restricted to a single drivetrain, a large-displacement V8 engine of either 4.0 or 4.3 liters, for the first time with this new generation Lexus will be offering an alternative. The LS flagship (and Lexus flagship for that matter) will be the LS 600h, a hybrid-assisted version of the LS 460 generating the equivalent power of a car with a 6.0-liter engine (V8 or V12; whichever sounds more dramatic). Aside from offering unheard-of levels of performance, the LS 600h will also be a most economical full-size sedan, with diesel-like fuel consumption and even lower emissions.

If a potential timeline were to be put together for the LF-Sh / LS, it would look a little bit like this. The introduction of the LF-Sh with full details will take place promptly before the cars public showing at the Tokyo Motor Show, which just took place. Having completed its purpose of appetizer to the world, focus would shift to the production LS, scheduled to make an appearance in production-ready form at the 2006 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, this coming January. Finally, the long wheelbase and high-performance hybrid versions would be shown at the New York International Auto Show in April. Expect sales for the regular LS to begin late 2006.