Concepts

Here’s something new—Lexus interviewed some of the journalists attending the Geneva Auto Show to get their opinion on the new CT 200h hatchback:

Best response: “The fact that it’s a hybrid will tick so many people’s boxes.”

The Lexus CT 200h brochure has been leaked by way of World Car Fans, let’s get straight to the images:

Some talking points:

• The CT is built on an all new platform with a double-wishbone rear and tuned McPherson strut front suspension
• The 1.8L VVT-i engine found in the Prius is confirmed as the engine component of the CT 200h’s powertrain. No mention is made of overall horsepower.
• There will be four distinct driving modes: EV, Eco, Normal & Sport. Switching to sport will change the instrument panel and center console spotlight to red. (Nice touch!)
• Overall dimensions:
  • Length: 4,320mm/170”
  • Width: 1,765mm/69.5”
  • Height: 1,430mm/56.3”
  • Wheelbase: 2,600mm/102.4”

I’m still pouring over these images, but I really like what I see so far. How the CT 200h translated the LF-Ch’s front-end was my major concern, and that was handled expertly, meshing elements of the IS with the Toyota Prius. And just look at this interior:

The Lexus CT 200h will officially debut on March 2nd at the Geneva Auto Show.

[Source: World Car Fans]

The Lexus CT 200h has arrived for its introduction at the Geneva Auto Show:

This image comes courtesy of Lexus Europe, who are updating their Flickr account every day with a new image from the Geneva Auto Show floor. As expected, the photos so far show the Lexus exhibit to be in various stages of construction, but it’s sure to get interesting the closer we get to the autoshow’s opening day next week.

The actual photo doesn’t show much, though there’s definitely some hints of the LF-Ch in the front bumper and hood-line—here it is zoomed up:

Looks like a more traditional grille under there as well.

[Source: Flickr]

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:

Lexus has confirmed that the LF-Ch concept will be released as a production model at the Geneva Auto Show in March—named the CT 200h, the luxury compact hatchback will be equipped with Lexus’ second-generation Hybrid Drive, bringing the total number of hybrids in the lineup to five and opening the Lexus brand to a whole new segment of buyers.

No official word on what engine will be powering the CT 200h, but it’s a safe bet that it will be based on the I4 1.8L engine found in the Toyota Prius.

The above image was included in the press release, and it shows a rear tail-light design that is all Lexus, merging elements of the IS & RX models—a fitting combination given that the CT is likely to be marketed as a sporty hatchback. Here it is at full size:

The CT 200h will be revealed by Andy Pfeiffenberger, Vice President of Lexus Europe, on March 2nd at the Geneva Auto Show on Stand 4211 in Hall 4. The full press release is included after the jump.

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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.