Lexus LF-NX Turbo concept debuts in Tokyo

Lexus introduced its first turbocharged motor on Wednesday at the Tokyo Motor Show. The 2.0-liter with a twin-scroll turbo debuted in the Lexus LF-NX Turbo Concept CUV.

For you engineers, the boosted four gets a high-tumble intake port, which cuts down on air turbulence, fan spray fuel injection, variable-valve timing and a cylinder head-integrated exhaust manifold. That manifold helps improve performance and fuel economy while allowing the turbo to operate across a wide-rev range.

Lexus declined to give power figures at this time.

At the Tokyo show, the motor was hiding in the LF-NX Concept, which is the next version of the LF-NX HV concept shown in Frankfurt.

The concept wears the sharpest lines we’ve seen from the brand and the most aggressive version of the company’s spindle grille. A mesh pattern fills the spindle, with chrome and smoked trim. Three LED headlights illuminate the road while the Nike Swoosh-like turn signals sit below.

The wheel arches and lower rocker panels are painted glossy black while the fin-shaped upper rocker panels wear matte chrome.

In back, triangular tailpipes are spread to the lower corners, connected by a strip of chrome. Thin, angular taillights are surrounded by concave body panels, which remind us of Kiss makeup or maybe WWF legend Ultimate Warrior. That being said, it’s good to see the company taking some design chances on a car that’s not the LFA. The concept is finished in a color called Brushed Silver Metallic.

Inside, the center console extends the full length of the car, splitting the rear seats. A brushed metal finish is applied to the gauges, steering wheel and overhead console. The seats are covered in yellow and black and there are touchscreens, buttons and mouse pads all over. Most of the instruments are illuminated in red, adding to the sporty motif, according to Lexus.

The car is obviously still in concept form, so no news on production. But the styling does tell us a bit about where the company is going, though surely it won’t be in a direction as wild as this.

About the Tokyo Motor Show

Japan is once again among the leaders of the global auto industry, and the Tokyo Motor Show promises to showcase the best of what that country has to offer. From green cars to super cars, technology to design, 2013 promises to be a banner year for the Tokyo Motor show. Autoweek will be on the show floor, bringing you the latest Tokyo reviews, news, photo galleries, and videos right here.

By Jake Lingeman