WorldCarFans has scored some spy shots of next generation Lexus RX SUV, which give some hints of what to expect in the vehicle’s future.

Judging by the ill-fitting body panels and the extensive taping, the vehicle will be expanding in width and length. The cut bumpers and rear doors would indicate a shift in the front and rear axles, suggesting a longer wheelbase.

Stylistically, we’re looking at a mule using the existing (but modified) RX body panels, so there’s no real hint of any exterior design changes, with the exception of the new rearview mirrors with inset turn signals.

As for the mechanical side of things, and when to expect a redesigned RX, this is what WorldCarFans had to say:

The new RX will also likely stay with its current 5-passenger capacity, since customers wanting three rows of seats can get that in the bigger Lexus SUV’s, the GX470 and the LX 570. Base engine will probably continue to be shared with the Toyota Highlander, that now being (for 2008) a 3.5 liter DOHC V-6 making 270 hp. The Lexus will likely also continue to offer a hybrid engine, the 3.3 liter V-6 which combined with its electric motors also makes 270 hp.

Lexus will be introducing an all new LX570 for the 2008 model year, so it is likely that a new RX350 won’t be scheduled until 2009.

If you’d like to see more photos, be sure to visit the WCF site.

We’ve all seen the Edmunds video of the prototype LF-A tearing up Nürburgring, but this additional footage, posted by Viper Productions on Youtube, really shows off the confirmed V-10 engine:

Seems much faster than in the Edmunds video, it’s practically a black roaring blur. Now, the only question is, when is this blasted car going to be put into production?

You can forgive the shakiness of this cameraman, it’s not every day you see a IS-F prototype sitting at a stoplight:

What stands out most for me are the wheels, they’re absolutely fantastic and easily my favourite design from Lexus yet. Still can’t say I’m feeling those massive side vents though.

But the one thing I don’t understand are blacked out emblems, if anything, it’s bound to draw more attention than if they were clearly visible.

Edmunds has managed to scare up a video of the Lexus LF-A prototype during last week’s run around Nürburgring:

Seeing the supercar in motion is much more impressive than the spy photos, the speed is positively overpowering.

In their analysis of the footage, Edmunds makes some rather astute observations:

• Judging from the roar, the LF-A will be running a V-10 engine.
• The intake ducts integrated into the C-pillar and rocker panels could cool a rear-mounted battery pack, which would allow for a hybrid powertrain.
• The supercar is using an automated sequential manual gearbox, which presently sounds a little rough around the edges.

No word yet whether this car will be unveiled at Frankfurt Auto Show in September or the Tokyo Auto Show in October.

World Car Fans has some fresh-off-the-track spy shots of the upcoming Lexus LF-A, which now sports a shop class spoiler and some honest-to-goodness rear view mirrors:

The V-10 super car has stayed quite close to its original concept, with the only noticeable differences being the aforementioned spolier and some minor bumper and light housing differences.

The production LF-A is expected to debut at the Frankfurt Auto Show in September. Check World Car Fans for more photos.