Lexus plans new convertible, hybrids

Lexus will add hybrids, improved infotainment and a convertible version of the LC to its lineup. A shared Mazda platform could end up replacing the RC coupe.

Toyota’s luxury brand will add a convertible performance coupe to its lineup in the second half of 2020 as it looks to take some droptop share from German rivals. 

A full redesign of Lexus’ large body-on-frame SUVs  —  the GX and LX — onto the automaker’s new global F1 platform will wait until 2022 and 2023, respectively. Lexus will look to improve its infotainment offerings — both the function and the interface — to address a known brand weakness and better match those of its luxury competitors.

IS: The brand will face a conundrum with its entry-level compact rear-wheel-drive sports sedan soon, given consumers’ move toward crossovers and SUVs. Sales have declined significantly, but a redesigned IS the second half of 2020 should help stir some interest. 

ES: The seventh generation of Lexus’ midsize sedan went on sale in 2018 and will be due for a major freshening in 2022. 

GS: The current generation of the GS sedan has been around since 2011 and is overdue for a redesign onto the TNGA platform. But sedan sales, even in the luxury segments, have fallen dramatically since the last generation was introduced. It’s unclear whether Lexus plans to let its Grand Sedan wither away or to invest in a redesign.

LS: The brand’s flagship LS sedan was redesigned in 2017 and will be freshened in 2021. A camouflaged fuel cell-powered version of what appeared to be an LS was spied testing in California last week, but Toyota has given no public indication of plans to extend its light-vehicle fuel-cell fleet beyond the Toyota Mirai.

RC: Given Lexus product cycles, the low-volume performance coupe would be due to transition onto the TNGA platform in 2022. However, reports in Japan suggest that the model could borrow a platform and inline-six engine from Mazda for the next generation.

LC: The LC was redesigned in 2017 and would be due for a freshening in 2021, given Lexus product cycles. A convertible will go into production in the second half of 2020.

UX: The subcompact crossover is still in its first year on the market, having arrived in North America in December. It will be due for a freshening in 2023, given Lexus product cycles.

NX: Given the recent redesign of its RAV4 sibling, expect the NX compact crossover to show off its redesigned look in 2021, when it will be moved onto the TNGA platform. Expect a bolder front fascia, the full Lexus suite of safety systems and upgraded infotainment, among other features. 

RX: Lexus’ top-selling RX crossover gets a freshening this year that reworks the infotainment system and adds a touch-screen interface. Given the brand’s product cycles, it is next due for a redesign in 2023.

GX: After a midcycle freshening this year, including a new front fascia, enhanced safety features and an off-road option, the GX is due for a redesign onto the F1 platform in 2022, when it is expected to add a hybrid version.

LX: The Land Cruiser-based luxury behemoth is due for a redesign in 2023, when it is expected to move onto the F1 platform.