Lexus released images of the LF-Gh hybrid concept it plans to unveil during the New York International Auto Show later this month. The car maker last week showed teaser photos of its headlight and taillight. The car is meant to represent what future grand-touring luxury cars could look like in general and to foreshadow the styling of future Lexus models in particular.

The concept vehicle’s name stands for Lexus Future Grand Touring Hybrid and is the latest styling exercise under L-Finesse, a design theme the Toyota Motor Corp. luxury unit has used since 2001. Lexus says the LF-Gh’s looks are meant to be bolder and more distinctive than typical luxury cars. This is a departure from historical Lexus styling, which critics have called bland and derivative.

Since the brand’s first car’s rolled out in 1989, Lexus has been known for conservative styling that many find elegantly understated while others find it boring. Now the company seems bent on being more adventurous in developing new cars. At least it plans to listen to what consumers have to say about the concept, and to use those comments to help guide it in its future designs.

“Customers have been waiting for a bold concept like this from Lexus,” said Mark Templin, Lexus Division group vice president and general manager. “We look forward to their feedback and integrating some of these exciting design features into future Lexus vehicles.”