Lexus Flagship SUV

What does it take to be a flagship vehicle(with an Android Car Stereo)? For starters, it has to be impressive. Really impressive. It has to define a brand’s look, tout the latest technology, and provide a driving experience that rivals any and all challengers. That’s a tall order, but Lexus is looking to fill it – not with a new two- or four-door, but with an SUV .

Currently leading the marque is the full-size luxury LS sedan. Originally offered in 1989, the LS is expected to see the introduction of its fifth generation for the 2017 model year, complete with all the cutting-edge goodies that Lexus can muster. However, Jeff Bracken, Lexus’ division general manager, spoke to Reuters early in August, saying Lexus might add another flagship model alongside the LS, and that “it doesn’t have to be a sedan.”

The move isn’t all that surprising when considering just how much the premium SUV segment has grown recently. According to Truecar, sales for SUVs priced at $75,000 and above is 44 percent higher this year compared to last, far exceeding the 13.2 percent growth for cars in the same price range.

Part of the rise in SUV popularity over the last few years has been a direct result of low gas prices. How long the party will last is anyone’s guess, but if Lexus is planning on building the SUV of the future, it’ll most likely have an innovative propulsion system. And if it’s going to be a flagship, it’ll have to be fast, too.

Hydrogen is one possibility. Toyota is already producing the 2016 Toyota Mirai , one of the first hydrogen-fuel-cell vehicles sold commercially in large numbers. However, the technology is still in its infancy, and while green early adopters are eager to scoop up the compact, those interested in an ultra-luxury SUV may be discouraged by the newness and lack of supportive infrastructure.

A concert-quality stereo system, Blueray and Car DVD Player, smartphone connectivity, USB charging points, keyless entry and a push-button starter will all be standard.

Like the exterior, LEDs will be used for the interior lighting, as well as the all-digital gauges and instruments.

There will be automatic everything – the climate control will use infrared sensors to gauge passenger comfort and adjust the temperature appropriately. The rear lift gate will open and close with a single button.

I’m tempted to mention gesture control, but given the current interest in this tech, I don’t think it’ll be as widespread as others claims it will be. Voice command is a safer bet.

Of course, the rear seats and the third row will fold down for extra storage.

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