Like BMW, Infiniti and Cadillac before them, Toyota turned to a performance sedan platform to provide the foundation for their new crossover. Based on an awd version of the premium midsize platform which underpins the Lexus GS 430, the HPX is powered by a 4.3 liter 300-horsepower V8 engine and paired with a five-speed automatic transmission. It has an athletic chassis with height-adjustable suspension to match high-performance expectations. Premium levels of comfort and luxury complete the picture.
Initiated and designed by Calty Design Research, Inc., Toyota's California-based design center in Newport Beach, the HPX concept also serves as the first expression of a new Lexus design philosophy. Rather than a strict formula, this philosophy is an idea that will be adapted in many forms to introduce more continuity to the Lexus line-up."We strived to convey a dynamic profile that expresses speed and agility," said Calty Vice President Kevin Hunter. "At the same time, we also wanted the HPX to give clues to its technical sophistication."
Intended to evoke the sophistication, functionality and luxurious comfort of an executive jet, the HPX features an aircraft-style wheel and drive-by-wire steering system. A single interface mounted on the center console is used to navigate various control menus and the GPS navigation system. The instrument panel uses advanced technology to allow drivers to customize displays and information to their needs. Readouts can be scaled, repositioned, and color-adjusted for individual preference. Small cameras situated on the side and rear of the vehicle feed their images to the front display.Full volume bucket seats are provided for the front and middle rows, while a third row seat designed for children folds into the rear floor. LCD display screens deploy from the center console to provide DVD entertainment for the second and third row passengers.