DETROIT MOTOR SHOW: Lexus presents new SUV flagship

UPDATED 16/01/2018 11:30am: New Lexus Australia boss Scott Thompson has told motoring.com.au that if a production version of the LF-1 Limitless is confirmed and is made available in right-hand drive, then he will be chasing it for local sale.

“It’s a pretty good looking car and I think it would complement our range and move us forward as a brand,” said Thompson, immediately after the wraps had come off the luxury cross-over.

“It’s an amazing car obviously,” he added. “Once we gauge consumer interest and interest from the media and the press then we will start to plan for the future.

“There is definitely an opportunity we have identified in the marketplace above RX and across from LX in the marketplace.”

Lexus has used the Detroit motor show to unveil what it claims is the world's first "luxury flagship crossover".

Dubbed the LF-1 Limitless, the concept shows off technology and innovation opportunities as well as the latest evolution of design language at Toyota's luxury brand.

It also clearly sets itself as the preview for a model to sit above the popular RX in its line-up and as a potential rival for the likes of the forthcoming BMW X7.

Lexus already has the full-size LX 570 in its SUV line-up but that is a 200 Series LandCruiser-based 4x4 rather than crossover.

Lexus says the LF-1 has the capacity to be fully autonomous and offers the potential to be powered by fuel cells, hybrid, plug-in hybrid or all-electric powertrains, hence the Limitless tag.

Designed by Toyota's CALTY studio in California, the Limitless debuts a styling concept dubbed "molten katana", which it says fuses the organic shapes of liquid metal with the sharp edges of a traditional Japanese sword.

CALTY president Kevin Hunter said imagining that shift formed the basis for the "fluid, yet aggressive" design of the LF-1.

"This is our vision for a new kind of flagship vehicle that embraces crossover capability without giving up the performance and luxury delivered by today's top sedans," Hunter said.

"The Lexus LF-1 Limitless concept incorporates imaginative technology while creating a strong emotional connection by improving the human experience for the driver and passengers."

Key LF-1 design features include a long bonnet and short front overhang, over-sized fenders, 22-inch wheels, a low roof height and elevated ride height. A split roof spoiler allows uninterrupted view out through an expansive glass area.

The LF-1 doubles down on the controversial Lexus spindle grille, which uses LED lights rather than chrome and is a three-dimensional design.

Overall, Lexus claims the rear-wheel drive LF-1 evokes the shape of a traditional US muscle-car. It measures up at 5014mm long, 1986mm wide, 1605mm high and has a wheelbase of 2947mm.

Inside the LF-1, analogue knobs and buttons have been replaced in the cockpit and dashboard by motion-activated controls and a minimalist display. Two rear-seat passengers adjust climate and entertainment controls via their own display screens.

Interior materials include a metallic trim finished in the same tinted titanium colour as the exterior, wooden door trim, dark leather trim and seats covered in white perforated leather. A lighting show is a highlight of the start-up sequence and miniature LEDs shine out through tiny perforations in the door trim.

Technologies included in the LF-1 include an autonomous 'Chauffer mode', which allows for hands-free operation via by-wire steering, braking, acceleration, lights and signals. When the driver takes over all powertrain controls are on the steering wheel.

'Four-dimensional' sat-nav monitors progress, traffic and road conditions along a programmed trip and suggests fuel stops, rest breaks, restaurants and even make hotel reservations. The system can be directed via touch-responsive haptic controls.