X

Lexus in for a brand makeover, starting with new concept car this year

The Japanese luxury brand will introduce the unnamed concept car this spring, which will show off the brand's future direction.

Lexus concept car teaser

This looks radically different for Lexus.

Lexus

Lexus promised big things in store this year as it revealed on Monday its 2020 global sales results. On the numbers, sales went up, down and then up again amid the coronavirus pandemic. The news that really stuck out in the announcement is the brand's intention for a makeover, starting this year.

Things will kick off with a new concept car this spring and Lexus provided a teaser, too. Most noticeable is the lack of the "L" badge on this concept car. Instead, designers decided to spell "Lexus" on the rear of this unnamed vehicle. 

I did some Photoshop magic (ahem) and brightened the image to try and get a better look at what looks like a sedan or coupe, but it still doesn't show much off. The car looks pretty wide with taillights unlike cars currently at Lexus dealers, and it looks as though they may sit within a light bar, like the Porsche Taycan. The bottom of the bumper also has some angular lines, and the distinct lack of exhaust outlets makes me think this is an electric car. Lexus won't say any more, so these are just educated guesses for now.

While we'll learn more about the car this spring, the brand said it plans to detail more about the company's strategy. It plans to launch its first car under the rebranded mantra this year, too. It's not clear where the car will land or if the US will even partake in the first part of the festivities, but it's clear Lexus has big plans a comin'.

2021 Lexus IS 300 is sharper than ever

See all photos
Watch this: 2021 Lexus LC 500 Convertible: Less roof, more gorgeous
Sean Szymkowski
It all started with Gran Turismo. From those early PlayStation days, Sean was drawn to anything with four wheels. Prior to joining the Roadshow team, he was a freelance contributor for Motor Authority, The Car Connection and Green Car Reports. As for what's in the garage, Sean owns a 2016 Chevrolet SS, and yes, it has Holden badges.
Sean Szymkowski
It all started with Gran Turismo. From those early PlayStation days, Sean was drawn to anything with four wheels. Prior to joining the Roadshow team, he was a freelance contributor for Motor Authority, The Car Connection and Green Car Reports. As for what's in the garage, Sean owns a 2016 Chevrolet SS, and yes, it has Holden badges.

Article updated on February 1, 2021 at 6:38 AM PST

Our Experts

Written by 
Sean Szymkowski
CNET staff -- not advertisers, partners or business interests -- determine how we review the products and services we cover. If you buy through our links, we may get paid. Reviews ethics statement
Sean Szymkowski
It all started with Gran Turismo. From those early PlayStation days, Sean was drawn to anything with four wheels. Prior to joining the Roadshow team, he was a freelance contributor for Motor Authority, The Car Connection and Green Car Reports. As for what's in the garage, Sean owns a 2016 Chevrolet SS, and yes, it has Holden badges.
Why You Can Trust CNET
174175176177178179180+
Experts Interviewed
030405060708091011121314+
Companies Reviewed
108109110111112113+
Products Reviewed

We thoroughly evaluate each company and product we review and ensure our stories meet our high editorial standards.