There are two types of concept cars unveiled at auto shows: the never-intended-for-production exercises in automotive design excellence, and the fully-working, almost-ready-for-production cars that you can expect to see at a dealer in some form or other within a few years. 

Unfortunately, the Lexus LF-LC Concept Hybrid Sports Coupe is the former, although we wish it were the latter. 

Unveiled yesterday at the 2012 Detroit Auto Show, the four-seat sports car combines a front-engine, rear-wheel drive performance gasoline engine with what Lexus calls its Advanced Lexus Hybrid Drive. 

While the Lexus LF-LC Concept might feature a hybrid drivetrain with origins in the hum-drum Toyota Prius, the LF-LC is anything but boring. 

With its large, aggressive grille, large wheels and sweeping hood, you’d be forgiven for mistaking the LF-LC for just another sports coupe. 

But Lexus promises the LF-LC is anything but, offering “a rewarding driving experience that is also kinder to the environment.”

Given that the Lexus LF-LF Concept Hybrid was born at Lexus Caltry design studio in Newport Beach, California, we’re also not surprised that the LF-LC features a full panoramic glass roof, enabling occupants to worship the sunlight without the negative effects of open-top driving. 

That’s not all, we also love the concept’s 12.3-inch LCD screens, center touch-screen control board and fully digital dash. In this concept, Lexus has managed to combine premium luxury with the latest in tech chic without overwhelming driver or passengers. 

Sadly, Lexus has no plans to bring the LF-LC to market, but we still think it’s one impressive car that proves without a shadow of doubt, that hybrids are finally sexy

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