Report: Lexus wants to build another flagship, could be a new SUV

Lexus seems to want to redeem itself after Volkswagen AG took the crown away from Toyota as the largest automaker by sales. One of Lexus’ apparent solutions: to build another flagship. And it might be an SUV.

It’s funny how that works since no more than five years ago, we were all shunning America’s obsession with the gas-guzzling SUV. But now, because gas prices are taking a slight dip again, it seems SUVs are growing in popularity. It’s hard to contest that the crossover SUV (it’s still an SUV) is by far the hottest selling thing right now since sliced bread.

Reuters sat down with Lexus’ general division manager, Jeff Bracken, who hinted at the new flagship idea, but of course, was coy with specifics.

Either way, he did suggest to expect something in concept form at the Detroit Auto Show next year.

On a slightly different note, Bracken also shared some details regarding the new RX crossover. Highlighting significant dealer demand for a third-row RX model, there’s a high chance that we could see an RX with an extended wheelbase and that third row later in the car’s life cycle. The 2016 RX goes on sale later this fall.

And lastly, we should also expect a next-generation Lexus LS sometime in October at the Tokyo Motor Show, with a potential coupe variant and an all-new chassis.

– By: Chris Chin

Source: Reuters

Chris Chin

Chris Chin is the Editor-In-Chief of egmCarTech and is a regular contributor to Automobile Magazine.

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