DETROIT MOTOR SHOW: Lexus GS F teased

Lexus has released two teaser images of a new high-performance F model to make its world debut at the Detroit motor show on January 13.

The Japanese luxury brand hasn't confirmed what the model will be, but quite clearly from these images it's the all-new GS F, which has been spied numerous times previously.

Biggest surprise is the addition of slender new three-element headlights and an aggressive front bumper with boomerang-shaped LED daytime running lights reminiscent of those on the new RC coupe and latest IS sedan, enormous outboard air intakes and a huge mesh grille with bold chrome surround.

There are also chunky side skirts that extend to the front wheel-arches, forming gaping front quarter vents, big multi-spoke alloys with low-profile Michelin rubber and massive front brakes with six-piston orange-painted F callipers.

What powers the first GS F – and Lexus' first direct rival for large sports sedans like the BMW M5, Mercedes-Benz E 63 AMG and Audi S/RS 6 — remains unknown.

While a detuned version of the limited-edition LFA's V10 was previously mooted, latest betting is a more powerful version of the 351kW/550Nm 5.0-litre V8 that powers the RC F coupe, which could output more than 400kW and even challenge the 430kW of its most formidable competitor.

The GS F will be Lexus' second current F model after the RC F, which goes on sale here in February priced from $133,500, and is expected on sale globally in 2015.

Lexus has previously confirmed it will show not just one but two new performance models at Detroit, but the identity of the second remains unknown.

If it is another F model it could be a second-generation IS F sedan, with the same powertrain as the RC F coupe, or it could simply be a production version of the LF-C2 concept showed at last month's Los Angeles show, which would be a replacement for the previous IS250C and an RC convertible by another name.

Possible but less likely is the production version of the LF-LC coupe concept, which has been confirmed for production in 2016 and will be an effective replacement for the discontinued SC430, aimed at the Porsche 911 and priced close to $200,000.

As we've reported, the Toyota luxury division has trademarked the LC 500 and LC 500h names, leading to speculation of a range-topping new LS limousine-based two-door with 5.0-litre V8 and 3.5-litre petrol-electric hybrid powertrains offering up to 373kW.