Toyota to take covers off LF-SA concept at Geneva Show

Toyota has released a shrouded teaser image of the LF-SA Concept, ahead of its world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show on March 4.

The company says “the LF-SA Concept explores unexpected territories for the brand in a bold and emotional execution”. At the very least, as seen from the image, the car has an aggressive-looking front end equipped with LED daytime running lights (DRLs).

The LF-SA Concept could rival the likes of the Mini and the Audi A1. However, interestingly, the spindle grille design suggests that as well as showing how a mooted small Lexus will look, it hints at the firm's next generation of design cues.

A company statement adds: "The LF-SA has been conceived as a luxurious, driver-focused vehicle, designed to address a future world that is more influenced by technology and virtual experiences.

Speculation on the concept’s identity is rife, but senior Lexus officials have already told an Australian website that the company plans to introduce a sub-CT200h model in Geneva. Global head of Lexus design Tokuo Fukuichi revealed the plans at the Paris motor show last year, saying a smaller model was something the company was "seriously considering".

The five-door model, which is expected to be based on the Toyota Yaris’ platform, will come to market in 2018, soon after the second-generation CT range is revealed. A range of engine options, including downsized turbocharged petrols and at least one hybrid version, is expected.

The 2015 Geneva Motor Show will also host the first European appearance of the latest addition to Lexus’s F portfolio of high-performance models, the new GS F. Seen first at the Detroit show in January, the GS F (pictured below) is a refined, four-door saloon with the speed and agility of a premium sports car. Its normally aspirated 5.0-litre V8 engine produces 470bhp and maximum torque of 530Nm. The GS F is also the first model to be equipped with the new, comprehensive Lexus Safety System.