The Lexus LF-Ch concept brought here to Toronto, after its debut in Frankfurt and visit in Detroit, shows how serious Lexus is at expanding its hybrid portfolio.
Lexus already offers more hybrid models than any other luxury make. It recently added the small (or Prius-like) HS250h sedan to its hybrid portfolio. The Lexus LF-Ch asks the question: Should Lexus even offer a smaller, 5-door hatch hybrid?
“Entry level luxury buyers have told us that they are looking for a hybrid option, and their response to the LF-Ch concept will be an important factor in determining whether this vehicle will become a production model,” noted Larry Hutchinson, Director of Lexus in Canada.
Under the skin is latest version of Lexus Hybrid Drive technology as packaged in the HS250h. So there is 2.4-litre Atkinson-cycle engine, nickel-metal hydride pack, and electric motor. A drive model allows drivers to select between four modes: Normal, Eco, EV, and Sport. According to Lexus literature, that Sport mode “amplifies throttle response for the most enthusiastic drivers.”
The LF-Ch has four seats. Rear passengers get headrest-mounted iPhone docking, and the front seat passenger can use the Remote Touch controller to operate the nav, audio and climate systems.
LF-Ch was designed at Calty, Toyota’s R&D centre in Newport Beach, California. According to its press release, “designers created an intriguing contrast between the powerful, machine-like surfaces, and fluid forms and details that appear hand sculpted.” To that we would add: “She looks good!”
photo:Lexus
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| photo: Lexus |
Lexus already offers more hybrid models than any other luxury make. It recently added the small (or Prius-like) HS250h sedan to its hybrid portfolio. The Lexus LF-Ch asks the question: Should Lexus even offer a smaller, 5-door hatch hybrid?
“Entry level luxury buyers have told us that they are looking for a hybrid option, and their response to the LF-Ch concept will be an important factor in determining whether this vehicle will become a production model,” noted Larry Hutchinson, Director of Lexus in Canada.
Under the skin is latest version of Lexus Hybrid Drive technology as packaged in the HS250h. So there is 2.4-litre Atkinson-cycle engine, nickel-metal hydride pack, and electric motor. A drive model allows drivers to select between four modes: Normal, Eco, EV, and Sport. According to Lexus literature, that Sport mode “amplifies throttle response for the most enthusiastic drivers.”
The LF-Ch has four seats. Rear passengers get headrest-mounted iPhone docking, and the front seat passenger can use the Remote Touch controller to operate the nav, audio and climate systems.
LF-Ch was designed at Calty, Toyota’s R&D centre in Newport Beach, California. According to its press release, “designers created an intriguing contrast between the powerful, machine-like surfaces, and fluid forms and details that appear hand sculpted.” To that we would add: “She looks good!”
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| photo: Lexus |
photo:Lexus