Lexus signals fresh direction with new sports car

"This is more than just a new car for us," said Mark Templin, general manager of Lexus.

"It signals the start of something big." First introduced in the United States in 1989, Lexus is now entering a third phase of its business plan with a focus on "exciting and emotional styling" that "tugs at the heart," Templin said.

Crippled by supply shortages in the wake of the March quake-tsunami-nuclear disaster in Japan, Lexus was overtaken by both BMW and Mercedes in US luxury car sales after holding the crown for 11 years.

Templin insisted that Lexus would win it back in breeze this year, thanks in part to the introduction of nine new models which he said will have the same inspired design.

"This is one hot looking car," Templin said after unveiling the LF-LC coupe, which features sliding glass roof and aggressive detailing.

"The fluid lines through the entire silhouette of the car create a dynamic profile that emphasizes direction and motion," he said.

"The spindle grille takes on an entirely new identity and that shape is also sculpted into the rear of the car."

Source: AFP