Rumors of a Lexus version of the Toyota 86 are coming thick and fast, but new reports from Japan suggest that the luxury version of the two-seat sports car is taking a very different approach to performance.
The persistent rumors that Lexus will turn its luxury hand to the new Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ just won’t go away, but the latest news from Japan is that Lexus will electrify its version, presumably for even more power and efficiency.
Reports published on Japanese scoop site Spyder7 indicate that the new model adopts the Toyota / Subaru 2.4 liter naturally aspirated boxer four-cylinder gasoline engine that delivers an improved output of 173 kW at 7000 rpm and 250 Nm torque is good.
But where it gets interesting are the new reports claiming that Lexus would try to differentiate its version of the popular sports car and they would do so through the power of electricity.
In fact, Japanese media indicate that a plug-in hybrid solution is in the making for Toyota’s luxury sibling, in line with the brand’s broader electrification strategy.
We know from models like the Toyota RAV4 Prime, which unfortunately isn’t on sale in Australia, that the addition of a battery and an electric motor can mean big things for performance. Toyota’s RAV4 with plug is the fastest and most powerful in its series.
Also on the cards is a mild hybrid solution that would bring some efficiency but would be less exciting in terms of overall performance.
Lexus would also reportedly redesign the cabin technology, essentially mirroring the interior of the NX model, including its premium touchpoints and infotainment.
Now it has to be said that a lot of this is a rumor right now, but a Lexus premium performance car is something we can get over with.
