SLEEK LEXUS SUV PREVIEWS FUTURE LS LUXURY FAMILY

LS Coupé SUV concept signals a shift away from a saloon to a more diverse LS line-up

- FELIX PAGE

Lexus has unveiled the new LS Coupé concept as one of a number of models - including a single-seater and a six-wheeled MPV (see stories, right) - that could form part of an expanded family of LS vehicles inspired by the seminal luxury saloon of the same name.

The Toyota-owned brand is responding to the global drop in demand for large saloons that once formed the bedrock of the luxury car market. That includes its own LS, which was retired earlier this year, having been originally launched as Lexus's first model in 1989.

While the Micro LS and MPV concept show some of the ways that spirit could be channelled, the LS Coupé concept - unveiled at the Tokyo motor show - looks to be the most production ready.