Lexus CT200h Hatch Might Be Replaced by a Hybrid CUV
In a move that would surprise no one, the Lexus CT200h might be replaced in Toyota’s luxury lineup by a compact crossover.
The hybrid CT200h has never sold that well because it is more expensive yet less fuel efficient than a Toyota Prius, and North Americans are becoming less and less fond of compact hatchbacks.
AutoCar reports that Lexus’ European boss hinted that the CT200h might be replaced by a compact crossover, which would give the hybrid more appeal and more market share. The hatch is also getting stale and hasn’t seen a significant update in a while, and with buyers gravitating to crossovers in droves, the move makes a lot of sense for Lexus.
ALSO SEE: 2016 Lexus RX 450h Review
Toyota is coming out with a C-HR compact crossover soon, which will be available with a hybrid powertrain. The platform could be used in a similar Lexus vehicle, which was previewed in the LF-SA concept pictured above that debuted at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show. A CT200h replacement will likely come out in about two years and be larger than this concept and less dramatically styled, but there’s no doubt that a luxury compact crossover hybrid will sell more than Lexus’ aging hatchback.
[Source: AutoCar]
Jodi has been obsessed with cars since she was little and has been an automotive journalist for the past 12 years. She has a Bachelor of Journalism from Ryerson University in Toronto, is a member of the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC), and a jury member for the prestigious North American Car/Truck/Utility Vehicle of the Year (NACTOY). Besides hosting videos, and writing news, reviews and features, Jodi is the Editor-in-Chief of AutoGuide.com and takes care of the site's day-to-day operations.
More by Jodi Lai
Comments
Join the conversation