Lexus planning a sport version of the GS powered by LFA’s V10 engine
By Andrew C., 26 Aug, 2010. 0 Comments
2013 Lexus GS
Lexus plans to produce a super-saloon version of the GS (powered by the LFA's V10) that's aimed to rival the BMW M5. After that model, Lexus wants to create a new SC that will come up against the Mercedes-Benz SL. The current car will end production this July but the new SC will be launched in mid-2014, putting a four-year gap between the two vehicles. The next model will be a hybrid that is powered by a 5.0-litre V8 with its rear wheels being powered by an electric motor. The high-performance GS-F saloon is expected to arrive in 2013, with a detuned version of the LFA's 4.8-litre V10. Lexus engineers aim to reduce the engine's capacity by around 200cc to 4.6 liters and power to 450bhp.
They want to improve low-range torque. Even with this reduced power output, the GS-F is set to become the most powerful road-going Japanese saloon ever built. The GS-F will be equipped with Toyota's first torque vectoring differential. The "torque split unit" actively apportions drive between the rear wheels for better handling, much like the diff used on BMW's M cars and the X6 SUV.
The new SC is likely to be fitted with a similar system. But before the arrival of the new SC and GS-F, Lexus will display its first hatchback at the Geneva motor show. To go on sale in 2011 is the CT200h, a hybrid five-door. It's based on the Prius platform but has been tweaked to provide better ride and handling. In addition, the Prius' torsion beam rear suspension has been replaced by a double wishbone layout. Since the powertrain electrics were designed specifically for the Lexus, it guarantees a stronger power delivery from the electric motor. The CT200h will be the first Toyota product to be powered by lithium ion batteries. [via autocar]
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