A fresh report out of the United States suggests Lexus plans to launch a new LQ flagship crossover range that would include a high-performance variant with more than 450 kW.
According to Car and Driver, the new Lexus LQ is likely to hit initial markets in 2022, although the COVID-19 pandemic may end up delaying its launch.
Previewed by the LF-1 Limitless concept unveiled at the North American International Auto Show in January 2018, the new model is expected to slot in just above the LX. It’s worth pointing out Lexus registered the “LQ” badge as a trademark in the US in May 2018.
The latest report claims the new LQ will share “key structural elements” with the LS sedan, including the latter’s twin-turbo 3,5-litre V6 petrol engine (as well as the hybrid version of the powertrain offered in some markets), which generates 310 kW in the flagship saloon.
Interestingly, Car and Driver furthermore suggests an F-badged performance version of the LQ could be on the cards, employing a twin-turbo V8 expected to offer in excess of 450 kW.
As a reminder, the LF-1 Limitless concept measures 5 014 mm long (a little shorter than the LX, then), with a wheelbase of 2 974 mm, a width of 1 986 mm and a height of 1 605 mm. At its unveiling, the Japanese firm described it as an illustration of “what could happen if Lexus were to add a flagship crossover” to its line-up.
