Browse over 9,000 car reviews

Lexus LF-Ch may seed hybrids

A new family of small cars could spring from the seeds of the Lexus LF-Ch concept car at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

The show car is a compact hatchback from the same mould as the Audi A3 and BMW 1 Series but there could also be an SUV similar to the X1 if Lexus goes ahead with full-scale production. And they will both have hybrid power.

The LF-Ch was unveiled as a full petrol-electric hybrid and there are signs it could be developed as the Prius of the Lexus lineup, setting the green path but also establishing an all-new hybrid-only line. It is aimed at Europe, although Australia is expected to also join the production plan.

"It's too early to say much at all," says Lexus Australia spokesman, Mike Breen. "We will probably have more detailed information by the beginning of next year."

The mechanical package in the LF-Ch is similar to the Prius, including an electric-only city mode. But it was not confirmed as a plug-in hybrid, the next development on the Prius front. The newcomer is much more sporty than a Prius, with a low centre of gravity and long wheelbase for a smooth ride and good cornering grip. It takes a more European approach to driving.

The design of the hatchback body is a major new direction for Lexus, even if it loses some of the extroverted lines by the time it goes into production. It has a raked windscreen, low roof and blacked-our rear pillars with rear doorhandles in the C-pillars to give it a more coupe-like stance. But there are also chrome trim pieces and the same blue-edged hybrid badges just fitted to Prius III.

Inside, the LF-Ch is a major departure for Lexus, with more emphasis on the driver including low-set seats and a wraparound dash. But there is, inevitably, lots of leather and a typically-Japanese greeting in the navigation screen on start-up, as well as the computer mouse-style Remote Touch system already fitted to the latest RX SUVs.