Geneva show: Lexus downsizes with LF-SA

A FEW days after images surfaced on the internet, Lexus officially lifted the lid on its quirky LF-SA sub-light car concept at the Geneva motor show overnight, but cautioned that the aggressive-looking micro car was nothing more than a concept.

The Japanese luxury car-maker said the tiny two-door 2+2 seater hatch was developed to commemorate last year's 25th anniversary of the launch of the original Lexus, the LS400 sedan, in 1989.

Penned by Lexus' European ED2 design studio, the sub-B-segment concept uses elements of the company's L-Finesse design philosophy, emphasised by the massive Darth Vader-like grille and Nike swish L-shaped daytime running lights.

Lexus says the Stellar silver colour scheme references “space exploration”, while the interior in inspired by “the spectacle of the solar eclipse”.

The car-maker also says the on-board connectivity, infotainment and safety combined with luxury elements “reflect the spirit of weekend adventure in everyday city driving”.

The LF-SA is 1430mm tall and 3450mm long – about 500mm shorter than a Toyota Yaris and 106mm shorter than a Fiat 500 – while the 1700mm width almost matches the Yaris.

The chunky styling includes layered panelling on the doors, giant rear wheel arches and huge wheels, while the 'spindle' grille and proportions give the LF-SA an almost bug-like look.

Lexus' now familiar grille transforms from a two-dimensional graphic into a three-dimensional form, according to the car-maker, while the width of the grille appears to give the concept a wider stance.

The double-stepped styling at the rear also incorporates the L-Finesse language, as seen on the L-shaped tail-lights Lexus says the cabin gives priority to the driver, with the driver's seat fixed in place the steering wheel and pedals are adjustable. The front passenger seat can slide forward to allow access to the rear seats.

The dash is pure concept, with a futuristic sweeping design, chunky four-spoke steering wheel, minimalist centre console and LED lighting throughout.

The infotainment system in the LF-SA features a hologram-style digital display as a part of the instrument binnacle as well as a wide-angle head-up display.

Lexus said that the LF-SA is strictly a concept, and it is unclear if it will be developed for production. If it gets the green light for further development, it could become the Toyota-owned luxury car-maker's entry model, sitting below the CT hatch range and facing off against the likes of Audi’s A1.

Other Lexus production models to feature the company's aggressive new styling language include the NX compact SUV, RC sportscar and IS mid-sizer. The next cab off the rank for Lexus will be the all-new RX SUV, due next year.