Tokyo show: Lexus bares its future

TOYOTA’S 14-year-old luxury brand will debut in Japan in August 2005, so two Lexus concepts were deemed necessary for the Tokyo event, the Lexus LF-S and LF-X.

Despite controversy within Toyota itslef about which future model the LF-S show car actually previews, the consensus is that the LF-S indicates the styling future of the current Lexus flagship, the LS430.

However, the LF-S may also indicate the design direction Lexus is going with the replacement for the six-year old GS-series, expected to be unveiled late next year.

Aimed at the luxury segment, the LF-S uses a V8 engine mated to a hybrid motor and "tentative" 4WD platform.

The five-seat concept is slightly longer, wider and higher than the GS300.

Meanwhile, Lexus has the all-conquering BMW X5 in its sights with the LF-S-based LF-X concept.

Boasting a six-seater configuration, the LF-X uses a development of the larger LS430’s 206kW 4.3-litre quad-cam V8 engine.

Production versions of both vehicles are expected to debut next year.