Trademark applications provide a very hazy window into the future of an automaker’s lineup, and this one’s no different. On May 7th, Toyota filed an application with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office for use of the name “LQ” on a motor vehicle.
While it partially fits into the Lexus brand’s naming scheme, the second letter of the name (after L for “luxury”) is meant to designate the style of vehicle. So, just what kind of flagship model could this be?
The trademark application, uncovered by Lexus Enthusiast, seems to point to a different type of vehicle. In the upper echelon of the Lexus stable, “LS” means a luxury sedan, “LC” designates a luxury coupe, and “LX” covers the SUV/crossover field.
So, what about that Q? The best guess out there is that “Q” refers to a sportier luxury crossover, possibly one previewed by the brand’s LF-1 Limitless concept vehicle. Far more athletic than the range-topping LX SUV or midsize RX, the unibody, comparatively low slung Limitless debuted at January’s Detroit auto show with no production promises in tow.
Still, the automaker claimed the concept had “the potential to shape the future of a flagship luxury crossover for Lexus.”
Crafted at CALTY Design Research, the crossover showed off what could become the brand’s future styling direction. The jury’s out on whether that’s a good thing. With creases aplenty and an evolution of Lexus’ signature spindle grille leading the way, the crossover’s rakish profile oozed sportiness. Dual rear spoilers completed the look. Lexus claimed the concept could handle any number of propulsion sources.
While there’s no shortage of crossovers and SUVs in both the Toyota and Lexus lineups, the company has hinted it isn’t against fielding two vehicles in the same segment. The LQ could easily become another cash cow positioned near (or at) the top of the Lexus heap.
[Images: Lexus, Bozi Tatarevic/TTAC]
Yep, this is probably Lexus’ new naming scheme for qossovers.
“Q” could stand for “Quiet”, too. Meaning electric or fuel cell.
Yep. Vulpine has it right. It’s the Lexus division’s take on the Scion iQ.
The enormously successful Scion iQ (/s).
Actually, we (including the author of this article) are probably making a mountain where not even a molehill exists. It’s just another ABC-named car emblem in an endless SEA of ABC-named cars.
I long for the days when cars had names. Like Catalina. And Thunderbird. And Monaco. And Seville. And Javelin. When I read posts from the B &B, half the time I don’t know which cars they are referring to. “My XYZ had the graphite leather seats which make the interior in the K6GR look pale in comparison…”. Huh ?
I guess I’m just showing my age…
Not arguing, Scarey. I prefer names over Alphabet Soup myself.
Q-ship, maybe?
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Q-ship
Maybe it is Q for “Queer” to address the growing pink market.
I guess a new second letter is the only option if they want to convey that this thing is supposed to sit with the LC/LS/LX atop the range. I understand it’s based on the LS platform and will cost LS money.
If it is as refined as a LS I’ll be a potential used buyer in a few years, not that that helps Toyota…
It is Quantum Leap backwards.
“LQ”:
Looks Quotidian at best . . .
I only buy American . . .
End of Story . . .
Slightly lifted Yaris with 20 inch rims and a tiny hatchback and rubbish leather seats, it will sell like gangbusters to widespread acclaim.