GENEVA MOTOR SHOW: New baby Lexus -- UPDATED

UPDATE 6:55pm: Lexus has officially released its teaser image of the LF-SA concept, confirming it "explores unexpected territories for the brand", as we reported exclusively last week. "In a future world which many people see as increasingly influenced by technology and virtual experiences, the LF-SA concept is also a driver-focused vehicle, reflecting Lexus’ vision that real  experience will remain ultimate luxury," said a Lexus release issued late today. No further information was provided.

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The cat is out of the bag. Lexus' all-new compact car has been officially confirmed via the accidental posting of its name, LF-SA, and a teaser photo.

Although this image and a reference to the LF-SA name were only visible for moments on Lexus Europe's official Twitter feed before they were removed, it was long enough for news of the Lexus LF-SA to go global.

As we reported last week, our sources have confirmed the concept that Lexus will reveal at the Geneva motor show on March 3 will in fact preview an all-new model positioned beneath the CT 200h.

The LF-SA concept is a pointer to the Japanese luxury brand's first B-segment light-car to rival the Audi A1 and is likely to share its architecture and dimensions with the Toyota Yaris, although judging by its dramatic contours it could even be a pint-size five-door hatchback based on the smaller A-segment Toyota iQ not sold in Australia.

The leaked photo certainly confirms Lexus is planning a new city-car that, like the mid-size NX crossover, continues the Toyota premium brand's evolving and increasingly audacious L-finesse design language.

Dominated by the brand's trademark spindle grille wrapped in a compact front fascia and bonnet, the LF-SA's other notable features include a bevy of LEDs that form the headlights, fog lights and trademark boomerang-inspired daytime running lights.

It is understood that Lexus is keen to begin production of the new city-car in late 2017 before its global release in 2018, when its modus operandi will be to bring a new breed of customers to the brand.

The production version of the LF-SA will therefore be the most affordable Lexus vehicle to date. Like the Audi A1, it is expected to start from under the $30,000 mark while delivering a range of advanced technologies and premium equipment.