Lexus LF-LC a head-turner

The Koreans starred, the Japanese mounted a comeback, and One Ford hit the headlines with an extended family of Focus-based newcomers that it is certain to make a big hit in Australia. But it was one car and the commitment of its company chief that made the most impact as America fought back on the opening day of the 2011 North American International Motor Show.

The stunning sports coupe officially broke cover at Detroit motor show and showed off what Lexus general manager Mark Templin calls a design revolution for the company.

Templin wouldn't be drawn on whether the LF-LC concept will become a production reality but is doting-dad proud of the hybrid 2+2 coupe, even as he foreshadows the company will grow more than any luxury brand in the industry.

"This is more than just a new car for us. It signals the start of something big," he says.

The exterior was penned in Lexus' California studio and is all flowing lines and sharp angles, while the interior uses a variety of contours and leather and suede contrasts to emphasise that it's a driver-focused sports car.

A tech board, which Templin desribes as a "tilt-up iPad" is housed in the centre console and controls the sound system, airconditioning and navigation, with a pop-up touch-screen keyboard for more complex tasks.

There are a pair of 12.3-inch LCD screens showin information and navigation display and a pair of touch screens are mounted in the doors to operate the windows.

Templin says Lexus is entering the third phase of its development, building inspirational and emotional products, after first launching its brand in 1989 and then expanding its vehicle line-up.

The rear-wheel drive LF-LC uses Lexus' next-generation hybrid powertrain to deliver what Templin says is a rewarding driving experience that is also kinder to the environment.

There was also more practical news with Templin saying Lexus will launch nine new or updated models in 2012 as it looks to the luxury car sales lead it lost to BMW last year as a result of product shortages arising from the March tsunami.