Lexus LF-CC reveals future design direction

17/09/2012 in News, Manufacturer News

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Lexus has revealed new details about its LF-CC which it says reflects the design direction what is likely to be a coupe version of its next generation IS.

Exterior and interior elements of the new model show how Lexus is looking to compete with premium rivals.

The LF-CC is equipped with a new 2.5-litre hybrid powertrain that is destined for use in future production models, and which Lexus believes will deliver a combination of sporting performance suitable for a mid-size coupe and low emissions, targeted below 100g/km.

The Hybrid Drive powertrain uses a new, 2.5-litre four-cylinder DOHC petrol engine, mated to a high-output electric motor.

In addition to the engine and electric motor, the system also features a generator, high-performance battery, a power split device and compact power control unit.

Lexus has confirmed this new powertrain will be available across its model range in the future but hasn’t yet specified a date.

Lexus LF-CC 2012 Gallery

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Lexus

Lexus total sales last year were just behind where the brand was in 1999 but model development has recently seen a resurgence in demand.

The CT200h has been hailed as the model that Lexus 'has been crying out for' to ramp up sales through its dealer network.

The CT200h is the first compact five-door car from the Japanese prestige brand. This is also the lowest priced Lexus, costing from £23,485. The carmaker wants to ramp this up to 10,600 by 2012, and CT200h will account for more than half of that total.

Customers are expected to come from other premium brands as well as mainstream ones, including Lexus’s parent Toyota.

Toyota GB’s research shows that 10% of Toyota owners leave the brand each year to upgrade to premium models, but only 10% of these have bought a Lexus until now because there was no compact, lower priced cars in its range.