Lexus LF-Lc concept car (2012) first official pictures

Now it's official. After the leaked images of the Lexus LF-Lc broke early before Christmas, today Lexus issues more official photos of its SC-alike concept car.

The LF-Lc will be shown at the 2012 Detroit auto show, aka the North American International Auto Show, which kicks off next week.

The LF-Lc is a 2+2 sports coupe designed to showcase the next iteration of Lexus design. Dubbed L-Finesse, the language of Lexus hasn't changed much in the past decade and this concept explores future stylistic avenues.

Designed at the company's Calty studio in Newport Beach, California, the LF-Lc 'combines high technology and organic shapes to connect the driver to the car,' say the chief creatives. 'The clean lines of the vehicle emphasize motion, creating a distinctive look for this futuristic sport coupe.'

Insiders talk about this car being built in the spirit of the SC, that rare-groove roadster which challenged the Mercedes SL.

The spindle grille, in particular, is said to be influential - taking the new-look snout from the GS and giving it a fresh twist. It fronts up a massively elongated bonnet, with cartoonish proportions for its hybrid powertrain.

By Tim Pollard