Who Says What
“The Lexus LF-Ch will showcase a new design direction for Lexus. Which is something they probably need, particularly if they are to attract younger buyers. The Lexus demographic is distinctly middle-aged, so this new compact hatch is designed to be a funkier, younger design than the current conservative offerings.
“This is the big hope for Lexus to compete with the offerings from Audi with the A3 and BMW with the 1 Series. And if the deign of the new compact hatch does seem funky and contemporary when we get to see it in full then they are in with a chance. Lexus makes a very good car, and if they can shake off their boring and conservative mantle – without alienating exiting customers – they could have found a winner.”
Cars UK
“Not only is this the first Lexus that could directly compete with BMW's 1-Series or the Audi A3, but it's packed with the now-familiar hybrid technology seen throughout the line-up. As such, Lexus is positioning to become a hybrid-only marque. It's a bold move that should certainly stir up the competitive European premium compact segment.
“By next year the compact segment is expected to claim the largest share of the European premium car market. The LF-Ch concept reaffirms Lexus's commitment to Europe, combining compact dimensions, stylish five-door, full hybrid technology and low emissions to satisfy the most demanding customer requirements and to appeal to a new, younger generation of customers.”
Tiscali.co.uk Motoring
“Expect the small Lexus hybrid to average 70mpg and emit less than 80g/km of CO2, despite topping 130mph and sprinting to 62mph in less than 10 seconds. “As well as the expected hybrid the Lexus will also boast a new range of small diesels and petrols, all of which benefitting from stop start and plenty of other fuel-saving measures.
“Pricing for the new baby Lexus are expected to start at £16,000.”
Channel4.com
“It reflects the growing demand for cars that are smaller and more fuel and CO2 efficient, but with no compromise in levels of refinement and driving pleasure. By next year the compact segment is expected to claim the largest share of the European premium car market.”
Carpages.co.uk
“Lexus is expected to challenge the dominance of diesel engines in this sector by emphasising the low-pollution credentials of petrol/electric hybrid drivetrains. The hybrid’s low levels of particulates and nitrogen oxide emissions, as well as its CO2 efficiency, will appeal in Europe, where many city centres are being converted into low-pollution zones.
“The exterior is based on the same ‘L-finesse’ design philosophy as the rest of the Lexus range, but it has been tweaked to fit this market.”
Autocar