Reports indicate that Lexus is set to unveil a high-performance crossover in 2020, aimed at competing with the Lamborghini Urus.
According to the Japanese publication Spyder7, this vehicle will be a new flagship model for Lexus, based on the LF-1 Limitless concept that was introduced in January. The base version is expected to feature a retuned 3.5-liter, twin-turbo V6 engine from the Lexus LS 500, generating 424 horsepower (430 ps). This engine may also pair with two electric motors to enhance power output and improve fuel efficiency.
A high-performance “F” variant of the crossover may use the anticipated 4.0-liter, twin-turbo V8 engine, which is also expected to be part of the rumored LC F model. Dubbed the LF-1 F, this version is said to deliver 661 horsepower (670 ps), surpassing the Lamborghini Urus by 20 horsepower, which has 641. Furthermore, the LF-1 F is projected to be more affordable, with an estimated price of around $150,000, compared to the Urus’s $200,000 price tag.
The launch of this flagship model is reportedly slated for 2020, with market availability expected in 2021.
While Lamborghini has not yet published an official lap time for the Urus at Nürburgring in Germany—a standard for performance cars—test mules have been observed on the track, suggesting a time might be forthcoming. Should the Lexus LF-1 F demonstrate handling on par with the Urus, it could perform well in both road and track settings. However, it remains uncertain if it can surpass the Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 S’s record of 7:49.4 at Nürburgring, should Lexus indeed be developing such a model. Definitive answers will have to wait until 2020.
The Drive reached out to Lexus for a statement regarding the anticipated new model; however, the company declined to comment due to their policy against discussing potential future vehicles.
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