2022 Lexus LQ
WHAT IT IS A sleek flagship crossover that will make the LX SUV
look positively archaic. WHY IT MATTERS Lexus has cornered the
market on highly rational luxury-car buyers. Drawing design cues
from the LC coupe, the LQ could also inspire lust in the kind of
driver who buys a vehicle without first making a spreadsheet.
PLATFORM The longitudinal-engine LQ should share key structural
elements with the LS sedan. POWERTRAIN The 416-hp twin-turbo
V-6 and the 354-hp hybrid powertrain from the current LS are
certain. An F performance model could pack a 600-plus-hp
twin-turbo V-8. COMPETITION Audi Q8, BMW X6, Land Rover Range
Rover Sport, Mercedes-Benz GLE-class, Porsche Cayenne.
WHAT MIGHT GO WRONG Shy of a global
recession or climate collapse,
probably not much. ESTIMATED ARRIVAL
AND PRICE The LQ is still a couple years
from dealer lots, where it could
command prices from $80,000 to
nearly $100,000 for top models.PLATFORM The GV80 is built on a
new longitudinal-engine platform
that will also underpin the next-
gen G80 mid-size sedan.
POWERTRAIN A 290-hp turbo-
charged 2.5-liter inline-four
serves as the standard engine. A
375-hp twin-turbo 3.5-liter V-6
powers higher-trim models. Each
pairs with an eight-speed auto-
matic transmission. The four-cyl-
inder comes with either rear- or
all-wheel drive; the V-6, only with
all-wheel drive, at least at launch.
COMPETITION Acura MDX, Audi Q7,
BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz GLE-
class, Volvo XC90.
WHAT MIGHT GO WRONG Building a
brand involves more than building
well-made, thoughtfully designed
vehicles. Genesis faces a tall task
getting buyers to trade BMWs and
Benzes for vehicles wearing a
badge that few people revere.
ESTIMATED ARRIVAL AND PRICE
The GV80 should be on U.S.
roads by summer, with prices
starting at $49,925 and climbing
to $72,375 for a fully loaded
example.