The media is reporting that the CT200h is being replaced because it's a slow-selling vehicle. However, we know it remains one of the most popular Lexus models sold in Europe.
So the fact that it's being switched for a crossover is a case of "better the devil everybody wants". British magazine Autocar is reporting that Lexus engineers are making room for a hybrid crossover. Of course, they could be pulling this one out of their exhaust pipe, but considering how popular the NX has been, we think they might be right.
The CT200h has limited appeal. It's a luxury hatchback while Japan also has a similarly sized hybrid sedan. America, meanwhile, doesn't want anything to do with it. In addition, there's no huge benefit to having a car this small, which is why the Honda Civic got rid of the hybrid powertrain.
The replacement for the CT is likely to be called the UX, as trademarks for this name have been filed in Australia. However, unlike the CT, it won't have one powertrain, but many. There's a 200 model, a 250h and a regular 250. We believe the platform and some of the engines will be shared with the new Toyota CH-R, which could make this an even better car than the NX.
Right now, nobody knows for sure what Lexus is cooking up. Last year, a report stated that the CT 200h will live on through another generation. This was followed by another story suggesting the formula will be changed to suit the tastes of young buyers, who want posh crossovers. But let's not forget that the LF-SA concept of 2015 seemed to preview some sort of subcompact car.
One thing is for sure, with the Audi Q2, MINI Countryman and now this Lexus product, this side of the market is getting pretty crowded. Who said you can't stuff luxury into a little box?
The CT200h has limited appeal. It's a luxury hatchback while Japan also has a similarly sized hybrid sedan. America, meanwhile, doesn't want anything to do with it. In addition, there's no huge benefit to having a car this small, which is why the Honda Civic got rid of the hybrid powertrain.
The replacement for the CT is likely to be called the UX, as trademarks for this name have been filed in Australia. However, unlike the CT, it won't have one powertrain, but many. There's a 200 model, a 250h and a regular 250. We believe the platform and some of the engines will be shared with the new Toyota CH-R, which could make this an even better car than the NX.
Right now, nobody knows for sure what Lexus is cooking up. Last year, a report stated that the CT 200h will live on through another generation. This was followed by another story suggesting the formula will be changed to suit the tastes of young buyers, who want posh crossovers. But let's not forget that the LF-SA concept of 2015 seemed to preview some sort of subcompact car.
One thing is for sure, with the Audi Q2, MINI Countryman and now this Lexus product, this side of the market is getting pretty crowded. Who said you can't stuff luxury into a little box?