Lexus the third manufacturer in DTM?

We had Opel until the end 2005. Then there was MG, rumored to enter and even a render of their car.. That ended with all the bankrupt news etc.

Now we have Lexus! The Lexus TAS 2008 microsite has a preview of the IS F Racing Concept.

The lines, 4-door, wheel flares and aerodynamics are all signs that lead to a DTM entry. There are rumors of talks about other manufacturers entering in 2008. This would be great.

Compare this with the MG and you can see why the rumor is traveling the automotive blogs..

Either way we will have to wait and see come Jan 11, 2008 during the Tokyo Auto Salon 2008. We also have our leads within the DTM, so if we hear it, you will hear it!

The rumors on which manufacturer would join Audi and Mercedes in the Deutche Tourenwagen Masters have been many during the recent years. Since the talks about new rules emerged, the rumors have gone hot again. Lexus is one of the big names in the list of possible interested manufacturers. Fuel has been added to the fire as Lexus has shown a picture of a racing prototype of their IS-model to be revealed at the Tokyo Motor Show.

There is no official information on the prototype, but the splitters and wings look identical to DTM specifications.

TouringCarTimes has received information that there are actual negotiations going on between Lexus/Toyota, the DTM organization, plus Audi and Mercedes.

Audi has recently demanded, according to our information, that if they are going to accept the new rules - a third manufacturer is required to enter the DTM with Audi and Mercedes.

The Tokyo Motor Show starts on January 11th and more information regarding this subject is expected then, stay tuned!”

- TouringCarTimes