Lexus has drastically changed the exterior styling of its vehicles, which, depending on your perspective, is either a good or bad thing. Now, Auto Express reports that senior executives at Lexus plan on bringing models that will "become more emotional and dynamic" to drive. To show the world that it's serious about making cars that are fun to drive, Lexus debuted its new multi stage hybrid powertrain on the LC500h that uses a CVT transmission and a four-speed torque converter automatic gearbox. This was done to give the car a better feeling.

Chief Engineer Koji Sato told Auto Express that the unique setup was used to remove the "feeling of disconnect because of the way the engine speed rises and falls at odds with the vehicle speed." The setup not only gives the vehicle a "unique character" and "better response," but is more enjoyable. "The hybrid system is not just for an eco-device anymore, it can be fun to drive," stated Sato. "And this is just the beginning for Lexus." The new rear-wheel drive GA-L modular platform used in the LC500h and V8-powered LC took five years to make. The platform is designed to have a low center of gravity, is a front-mid engine layout and is claimed to have the stiffest underbody the automaker has ever created.

The modular platform, along with the multi-stage hybrid powertrain will be utilized on a number of models in the next few years. With Lexus deciding to put a successor to the LFA on hold for a while, it's a good idea for the automaker to reinvent the rest of its lineup by making its vehicles more enjoyable to drive. But we're not sure that a more rigid chassis and low center of gravity is enough to put Lexus ahead of the pack.