Compact Lexus on its way to the U.S. by 2012

Posted: Aug 24, 2009
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Lexus is all set to debut a new compact concept at next month’s 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show; but will we ever see this compact BMW 1-Series and Audi A3 rival on the stateside? According to sources at Toyota, Lexus may roll out the competitor to popular entry-level luxury models sooner than expected.

According to Automotive News, insiders at Toyota said that Lexus will develop a new compact for Europe and could sell it in the United States by 2012.

“You are going to see more products start coming under models like the Lexus IS,” said Erich Merkle, president at Autoconomy.com, an online auto newsletter. He said that luxury-car buyers are now on fixed incomes and may want to spend less for their daily drivers.

Rumors has it that the 5-door Lexus compact hatchback will be powered by same hybrid drivetrain from the 2010 Lexus HS 250h, which produces a total of 187-hp from a 2.4L 4-cylinder engine.

Lexus Premium Compact Concept (Frankfurt):

Lexus Premium Compact Concept (Frankfurt)

- By: Kap Shah


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  • Baragon

    Guess Acura was ahead of the game w/ the TSX.

  • Pat

    TSX isn't a 1-series or A3 rival – although I guess I can see how you think it is.

  • zermatt

    If Lexus makes the 1 Series look close to this picture then it would be the first Lexus that I would consider owning. The IS is a weak competitor to the 3 Series and the rest of the line up is a homage to the Cadillac / Buick buyers.

  • GMfan87

    you would drive a hatchback 4-cyl. hybrid?

  • zermatt

    For the teens to drive. They drive a Mini Cooper S and they autocross it. The Lexus would have to be sporty and not just a gas miser. It is more likely that we would get another Cooper S at the end of the current lease as I cannot see a hybrid being competitive – at least not yet.

  • GMfan87

    you would drive a hatchback 4-cyl. hybrid?

  • zermatt

    For the teens to drive. They drive a Mini Cooper S and they autocross it. The Lexus would have to be sporty and not just a gas miser. It is more likely that we would get another Cooper S at the end of the current lease as I cannot see a hybrid being competitive – at least not yet.