MOTOR MONTHLY

“We’ve done the research,” said Mr Roca.
“We see it (premium compact) as a segment
that requires Lexus representation and I think
it has potential for being our volume car, or at
least on par with IS and RX.”
Asked if he thought the 1.8-litre petrolelectric
hybrid LF-Ch could still be priced
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under $50,000 or the IS250’s $58,990 starting
price, Mr Roca said: “I think it would be ideal
to have the car sub-50 (but) I think people will
pay up to $75,000 for it, given it is a dedicated
hybrid.”
Lexus enthusiasts have bemoaned the close
associations with the anti-niche and less
flavoursome Corolla – the biggest-selling car
in the world – and the lack of a rear-wheel
drivetrain to match BMW.
Although badged as a ‘concept’, Lexus
Europe chief Andy Pfeiffenberger made it
clear at Frankfurt that the LF-Ch is intended
for production.
“The car appeals to the heart, but also to the
head,” said Mr Pfeiffenberger. “With the hybrid
power train, Lexus drivers can expect very
low CO2, and minimal NOx and particulate
emissions. That means they can enjoy the
premium drive experience they seek while
making far less impact on the environment.”
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