Lexus open-top concept unveiled in LA

Lexus claims that the car is currently an exploration of design themes, but it's very likely that the company is also testing the waters with the LF-C2, seeing how people respond to it and if a production version is feasible.

And if it does go from auto show to car showroom, expect it to carry the RC badge and be offered as a drop-top alternative to the company's recently launched RC coupé.

The car, unveiled at the LA Auto Show, boasts an even more extreme version of Lexus's new Spindle Grille, which conjures up images of the Predator form the 1987 Arnold Schwarzenegger film. Beyond that striking grille, the car's flowing but angular lines are more heightened in execution but very similar to those sported by the aforementioned RC coupé.

Lexus has made no mention of what might lurk beneath the hood but inside, things are bang up to date, and then some.

The cabin is in a 2+2 layout so rear legroom will be tight. Still there's plenty of headroom because the concept car has no roof at all, not even an emergency panel for when there's an unexpected downpour.

The rear seats are separated by the car's center console. It actually starts where the rear seats meet the car's body and progresses through the cabin, right up to the dashboard fascia.

It houses the gear lever and a central touch screen that controls the car's various functions. The main binnacle is equally digital but simple and complemented by digital touchscreen controls integrated into the steering wheel.

The finishing touch among all of these high-tech elements is an analog clock that takes pride of place in the center of the dashboard.

'The LF-C2 concept shows what's in store for our brand's future design direction,' said Jeff Bracken, Lexus group vice president and general manager. 'This concept shows consumers around the world Lexus' devotion to emotional designs as well as our passion for an exceptional driving experience.'