The Lexus LQ crossover will reportedly challenge the Audi Q8 and Porsche Cayenne.
Lexus will launch a large crossover SUV with the LQ nameplate in the next few years, Car and Driver reported Wednesday.
The name, for which Lexus filed for trademark protection in 2018, refers to the vehicle, which will be part of the flagship L series, along with the LS sedan, LC coupe, and LX SUV.
According to Car and Driver, the LF-1 Limitless concept unveiled at the 2018 North American International Auto Show in Detroit was a preview of the LQ. The concept was a large crossover similar in size to the LX, but with a sloping roof and only two rows of seats.
In addition, while the LX was based on a body-on-frame platform shared with the Toyota Land Cruiser, the LQ will reportedly be built on the modular GA-L platform used on the LS and LC. The powertrain will reportedly be the same as the LS: either a 416-hp V6 twin-turbo or a 354-hp V6-based hybrid. The LQ F may also be equipped with the new V8 twin-turbo that Lexus is developing.
Pricing will likely be the same as other Lexus L-series models, i.e. starting at around $80,000. This will make the LQ an alternative to the upscale versions of the Porsche Cayenne, Audi Q8 and Land Rover Range Rover Sport.
Interestingly, Toyota plans to redesign the Land Cruiser next year or the year after. This means that the LX could be changed in the not too distant future.
