Lexus: H is for Hybrid

Source: On the Automotive

With the world almost collectively turning its head away from larger engines and hunting for smaller, more economical cars, you’d be forgiven for thinking Lexus might be a bit nervous lately.

However, with the Geneva Motor Show approaching in March, Lexus chiefs are probably sitting on the edge of their seats in excitement, eagerly awaiting press reaction to their own petrol-hybrid – the new LF-Ch.

The new Lexus LF-Ch is set to land slap bang in the middle of an existing range of luxury compact hatchbacks that includes the Audi A3 and the BMW 1 Series.

Powered by a petrol-hybrid powertrain, this eco-friendly motor marks Lexus’ first move into the compact hatch market (though the LS is currently available as a hybrid) and if the new LF-Ch looks anything like the concept car shown at last year’s Frankfurt motor show, it’s sure to be one of the most stunning.

Officially to be unveiled in Switzerland in a little over a month, don’t be expecting any petrol or diesel models. Only a petrol-electric model is to be announced. Under what’s likely to be a well styled bonnet will sit a 1.8 litre petrol-electric engine (conveniently related to the latest Prius).

Not only are Lexus hoping to take advantage of the growing interest in hybrids, but they could stand to combine the interest in alternative power and the compact hatch market. When BMW launched their 1 Series they found that 76% of its buyers had never owned a BMW before with the 1 serving as a stepping stone to larger models.

With plenty of larger Lexus models to move into and a healthy customer-retention level attached to the manufacturer, the move to the compact market (let alone a heavier push into the hybrid sector) should see Lexus move into a very nice place with the economy poised for recovery.

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