Toyota Confirms Compact Lexus Hybrid

The car was unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show last week, but until recently the company insisted that the compact hybrid would only be sold in Europe. According to Automotive News, Lexus executives pleaded with Japan to bring to the car to the US—partly in hopes that the smaller Lexus would appeal to a younger demographic. “When the all-new Lexus CT 200h enters the market it will be the only hybrid vehicle in the emerging premium compact segment,” said Mark Templin, Lexus Division group vice president and general manager.

“There are no plans, at present, to bring this vehicle to the U.S.,” said Toyota spokesman Curt McAllister in response to an e-mail query from IL.

The hybrid is expected to go on sale in Europe, but Lexus has yet to spell out a timetable for launch of what it calls “a new gateway model” to Toyota’s upscale brand.

Few details were released about the CT 200h, with Lexus only saying that it will be equipped with second-generation Lexus Hybrid Drive technology. The teaser image shows a vehicle that seems to put a premium on curves and high style, at least judging from the rear-end shot.

CT 200h will make its US debut at the 2010 New York Auto Show later this month. Production begins in late 2010. The car could go on sale in the US sometime in 2011.

The company has not published performance details, but they do say that the motor is “powerful.”  Nickel-metal hydride is used for the high voltage battery.  Power is sent to the front wheels via a electrically-controlled contiuously variable transmission, or E-CVT for short.

The car remains a sleek five-door, just like the concept.  It has sporty overhangs at the front and back, and a well-placed rear spoiler.  The car looks to have LED rear lighting.  At 4,320mm long, the car is 140mm shorter than the Toyota Prius.  The Lexus is 1,765mm wide by 1,430mm high; 20mm x 50mm less than the Prius.  It rides on 17-inch alloy wheels, and features McPherson/front- and double wishbone rear suspension.

Lexus wants to use this car to prove that full hybrids do not have to be boring drives.  They claim the car has “superior handling agility” to suit their customers’ wishes, and three driving modes (Eco, Normal, and Sport) to adjust to different situations.  Again, Lexus remained vague about sprint times, overtake ability, and top speed.

[Via http://thehybridblog.wordpress.com]

• The Volokh Conspiracy » Blog Archive » The Quintessential TV News ...