The new Lexus LF-SA city car concept has made its global debut at the Geneva motor show.
The small car previews the car maker's planned Mini and Audi A1 rival, although it is significantly smaller than both these cars in concept form. The LF-SA is 3400mm long, 1700mm wide and 1430mm high.
Despite these compact dimensions, Lexus says that the LF-SA concept is capable of carrying four passengers in a 2+2 seating layout. It is focused around the driver with a fixed driver's seat and a passenger seat that slides back and forth. The wheel and pedals can be adjusted to fit the driver, rather than the seat moving.
The rest of the cabin is relatively spartan, with a hologram-style infotainment system that is integrated within the instrument display. It also comes with a wide angle head-up display.
The LF-SA's spindle grille design could also become a future design cue for the brand.
A company statement adds: "The LF-SA has been conceived as a luxurious, driver-focused vehicle, designed to address a future world that is more influenced by technology and virtual experiences.
"The new concept reflects Lexus's passion for new design trends and explores unexpected territories for the brand."
Senior Lexus officials told an Australian website last year that the company planned to introduce a sub-CT200h model in Geneva. Global head of Lexus design Tokuo Fukuichi revealed the plans, saying a smaller model was something the company was "seriously considering".
The LF-SA is expected to be based on the Toyota Yaris platform and should come to market as an entry-level Lexus option in 2018, soon after the second-generation CT range is revealed. A range of engine options, including downsized turbocharged petrols and at least one hybrid version, is expected.
Lexus is also showcasing its GS F performance car and LF-C2 roadster concept at the Geneva show.
Read more Geneva motor show news
Get the latest car news, reviews and galleries from Autocar direct to your inbox every week. Enter your email address below:
Join the debate
Add your comment
Unspeakably horrid!
Rover - Lexus
This Lexus - great - we need in the mini segment something alive and interesting - this fits the bill - yes it should have come out of the mothers stable - but that would have shocked the workforce not to mention the world at large. As for the mouth - I think I would fix some speakers in there and have Queen pounding out "we are the champions!!! or Barcellona" lol (may as well go the whole hog.
Seems Lexus have decided ......