Lexus hybrid concept and topless IS for Paris

Lexus will use the Paris motor show to showcase its LF-Xh hybrid concept car, and it will also pull the wraps off the IS 250 C (read: convertible), conceived to rival roofless versions of the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes CLK.

The upcoming drop-top (of which no images have been released thus far) will be the third derivative in the IS range, following in the wake of the brawny V8-powered IS F, which launched internationally earlier this year.

Getting back to the LF-Xh hybrid concept pictured alongside, the vehicle made its first European appearance at the Milan Design Week earlier this year, but this will be its first appearance in the more conventional surroundings of an international motor show.

The LF-Xh features "powerful, highly sculptural bodywork and an elegant, user-intuitive interior," boasts Lexus, while its motive power comes from an all-wheel-drive Lexus Hybrid Drive system, which combines a powerful V6 petrol engine with high output electric motors (as per the RX400h).

Its design language is significant as it contains clues to the shape of the next-generation RX, which is likely to surface in production form next year (possibly at the Tokyo motor show, if not sooner).

For now, Lexus is making a song and dance about the concept's "combination of advanced environmental technology, outstanding driving performance, near-silent operation, excellent fuel efficiency and low emissions".

The Japanese brand has stolen a march on its rivals in that it still remains the only premium carmaker to offer a comprehensive hybrid model range, comprising the RX 400h, the GS 450h and the ultra-luxo LS 600h flagship limousine.

Speaking of the LS, Lexus will also use the Paris show to display its new LS 460 AWD, which is said to build on the strengths of the rear-drive donor car by adding the "sure-footed dynamic abilities" of permanent all-wheel drive.

The all-wheel-drive system has a three-differential configuration, with a highly compact Torsen limited-slip centre differential that distributes drive power in a 40:60 split between front and rear axles under normal conditions.

However, a loss of grip at either end can result in the split being varied between a 50:50 to 30:70 split between front and rear axles. Lexus claims this enhances the vehicle's grip, traction and cornering stability under acceleration to "class-leading levels".

Visit the Carsales Network again for our news from this year's Paris motor show.

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