This is a bit old as most people would have seen this in many other websites. So below is just a short summary :
- Official sketch of a concept compact premium hatchback Lexus.
- Concept design to be unveiled on September 15 2009 at the Frankfurt International Motor Show, Stand C11 in Hall 8, 1545 hours local German time.
- Series production car to be unveiled in 2010 Geneva Motor Show.
- Expected launch / series production start by early-2011.
- To be named Lexus CT series
- Contrary to many publications, Lexus CT is not likely to be a hybrid only model. Engine option will include a 2.0-litre petrol and a 1.8-litre petrol-electric hybrid currently used in the Prius. A 2.4-litre petrol-electric hybrid from Lexus HS250h / Camry Hybrid is possible but is still undecided, mainly due to concerns high cost and potential cannibalisation on sales of IS250.
- Drivetrain configuration will be front-wheel drive, making it the second FWD Lexus after the HS250h. It will be more Audi A3 than BMW 1-series. Toyota, being a more rational / market demand driven company have none of the baggage like BMW and thus does not need to insist on RWD. It actually makes a lot more sense given that A3 outsold 1-series in Europe (expected to be CT's main market) and Toyota is a company that always follows where the market is going.
- To be positioned between Toyota Prius and Lexus IS250.
- Introduction in North America is not confirmed and is unlikely, given the low market potential of hatchbacks in USA.
1. IS250C (folding hardtop convertible IS250) : September 2009
2. IS F-R : late 2010
Also known as IS-F "Evolution." 100kg lighter than a standard IS-F through greater use of lightweight materials (i.e. carbon fibre). Also includes carbon ceramic brakes and a more powerful V8 engine.
3. LF-A hybrid supercar : 2010
4. GS Full Model Change : 2011
5. LS Full Model Change : 2012
6. IS Full Model Change : 2013
Related link
Lexus IS-F Evolution and Lexus LS 2010 Minor Change
3 comments:
IS250C already launched. Looks nice in 2-door form.
Lexus has another FWD car, the ES.
Dodo,
Yes I left out that "Camry-Lexus". Think its only in LHD form now.
Paul,
Yups IS 250C is already available in some markets but not in M'sia yet. Not sure what's the delay. Guess you will be contacted pretty soon if local launch is near.
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