- Dec 13, 2004
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A "Toyota insider" has supposedly spilled a few more beans to 7Tune about the upcoming front-engine, rear-wheel drive coupe the automakeris collaborating on with Subaru, and according to the source, the 2+2 will carry a few of the Lexus LF-A's design cues when it hits the market next year.
Although Lexus' "L-Finesse" styling has remained exclusive to Toyota's luxury brand, certain elements of the language have begun to filterdown to the automaker's mainstream models, specifically the recently released Venza CUV. The rendering above hints at some of the lines that could make thecut on the production version of the "086A," but contrary to past reports, 7Tune's tipster says that the Toyota and Subaru versions won't beremarkably different - only the front grille, headlamps and taillights will be unique. The report goes on to say that Toyota is desperately trying to keep theprice below the two million yen mark (a little over $20,000) and, coinciding with earlier rumors, Subaru is actively considering offering an STI version of thecoupe.
In a related story, ToMoCo's new president, Akio Toyoda - the exec who recently piloted the LF-A around the Green Hell during the 24 Hours of Nürburgring -told Auto Motor und Sport, "This sports culture, which we have neglected for so long, will again be maintained." Toyoda clearly wants to see theautomaker back on the radar of enthusiasts and the first example of this newfound focus could find its way onto the stage at this year's Tokyo MotorShow.
With the Altima Coupes success and Hyundai releasing the Genesis coupe, looks like Toyota is finally making strides in this direction.
Although I am not too sure about a Toyota having Lexus styling. It might degrade the Lexus status a bit but I still can't wait until this comes out.
They did say the rendering pic is pretty close other than the front grill, headlamps and taillights, so if true, it could be one beautiful and affordable, funcoupe to drive.
