Canada

USA

The February sales numbers for Lexus USA are in:

Lexus outperformed analyst forecasts for the US market in February, posting a 5.2% overall sales increase despite persistent media coverage of the recalls involving its parent company, Toyota (which itself posted a 10.3% decrease in sales).  Some reports had forecast a double-digit drop in Lexus sales, but this turned out not to be the case.  Sales increases were led by the newly released GX 460, up 185.5%; the refreshed LS line also saw a 14.1% sales jump.

There were single-digit declines for the ES, IS, RX, and LX lines, while the GS sedans and the outgoing SC 430 exhibited the biggest sales drops. With the more expensive LS line outselling the GS, Lexus is likely looking forward to the next generation replacement for its midsize sport sedan. Approximately 360 units separated sales of the ES and IS lines, showing the entry sport model’s strength as it approaches the success of Lexus’ longtime sedan best-seller.

Canada

Lexus Canada also enjoyed its best February ever with 902 units sold, up 26.2% from last year.  The best-selling RX 350 accounted for 412 units, up 49.3% from last year.  Lexus has seen significant growth in Canada, with year-on-year sales increases through the past decade; 2010 looks to be continuing that trend.

[Source: PR Newswire, USA & Canada]

Big news for North America—according to the Lexus Europe Twitter account:

CT 200h will be offered for sale in ALL markets where Lexus is present

While I never had real doubt that the CT would be North America bound, it’s still a relief that there’s been some official verification. This model will do wonders for the Lexus brand in Canada.

That said, it’s possible, even likely, that the worldwide launch will be staggered, with Europe & Japan receiving the first CT shipments. This will be a main point of focus during the Geneva Auto Show, so we’ll be sure to learn more next week.

[Source: Lexus Europe]

At last week’s Toronto Auto Show, I had a chance to take some interior photos of the Lexus LF-Ch, and it was an amazing opportunity to get a close-up look at the handcrafted and one-of-a-kind concept car.

Before entering, I was asked not to touch anything—the interior is delicate and not built to be handled—even the door was opened for me. The steering and pedals are functional, but every other button and lever is purely speculative, meant to give off an impression. In fact, much of the labelling is done with rub-on lettering:

The driver’s seat had all the feeling of a wood box (which is likely what it’s made from), but every material is beautifully detailed, I loved the look of the fabric:

Sitting in the LF-Ch was a real fanboy moment for me, and my fifteen minutes inside went by in a flash. Here’s the full gallery:

I had a chance at last week’s Toronto Auto Show to have a quick chat with Toyota Canada’s Managing Director, Steven Beatty, about the growing Canadian Lexus sales and the possibility of a production LF-Ch coming to Canada (keep in mind that this conversation took place before Lexus’ announcement of the CT 200h).

TLE: In January, Lexus Canada had a 62% sales increase, and I was curious what you would attribute that to.

Stephen Beatty: I attribute it to good product! (laughs)

TLE: That’s a good answer!

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I had an unexpected surprise today while attending the Toronto Auto Show today—turns out the LF-Ch concept was set to receive its Canadian debut, which meant I had a chance to take some interior photos like this:

The concept’s interior is handmade and essentially left untouched to prevent wear & tear. I could not believe the craftsmanship, just amazing.

More details and photos tomorrow.

Even with the winter weather, one of the real pleasures during my time with the 2010 Lexus RX 450h has been driving at night. It all starts with the on-demand all-wheel drive system—there hasn’t been a single slip, really nothing more than a flash of the yellow traction light, and that brings a lot of confidence no matter the road conditions.

But more than that, it’s also when the RX 450h’s real luxury shines through, as much of the vehicle’s best technology takes a starring role once the sun goes down.

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