Supercars and hybrids mix at Lexus

Lexus gave crowds a glimpse of its supercar credentials when the sleek LF-A coupe was uneiled at the Melbourne International Motor Show today.

While still strictly a show car, there is talk Lexus will bring a version of the sleek coupe to market -- and soon. Powering the two-seater is a V10 engine with 373kW which is said to propel the car to a top speed of around 320km/h.

Featuring a front-mid engine, rear-wheel drive layout, 19-inch alloy wheels and unique triple exhaust system, the LF-A benefits from Toyota’s Formula One aerodynamic and mechanical expertise and is a taster for a future performance car from the brand best known for sedans.

Almost ungainly in appearance in print (and online!), the supercar is stunning in the metal -- and clearly one serious piece of kit!

“The LF-A is an outlet for Lexus to stretch our high-performance muscle,” said Lexus Australia’s divisional manager Scott Grant.

Talk regards a production version is growing, however, opinion remains split on whether Lexus will go the fornt or mid-engined route. The maker has been caught testing both variants both in Japan and Germany.

Definitely due on sale in March will be Lexus’ next-generation RX350 all-wheel drive SUV. Featuring an all-alloy 3.5-litre quad cam V6 engine, it offers 19 per cent more torque and 6.7 per cent greater power than the outgoing RX330 -- Lexus’ most successful local model.

The luxury SUV comes with a DVD-based satellite navigation system, six-disc CD/DVD changer, MP3/WMA-compatible sound system and Rear Guide Assist camera for reverse parking ease.

Also on show was the GS450h -- the world’s first commercially-available luxury hybrid sedan. Lexus says the green machine will create a new market segment when the car goes on sale later this year, and and with petrol prices and environmental issues firmly on the agenda it is almost certainly right.

The GS450h combines a 218kW 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine with a 148kW electric motor which provides 2.0-litre-type fuel economy with 4.5-litre power. The world’s first rear-wheel drive hybrid vehicle will accelerate to 100km/h in less than 6secs.

Lexus says it is serious about hybrid technology and will release the world’s first luxury hybrid four-wheel drive (the RX400h) locally later this year.