Is Lexus Introducing a Yaris Cross Based Model?
According to a recent report by Japanese car publication Magazine X, Lexus might be developing a new crossover model which will share its underpinnings with Toyota Yaris Cross.
SUVs and crossovers are currently the best-selling body types in the market, and legacy automakers like Ford are revamping their product portfolios to feature more high-riding models. Now, Lexus Enthusiast is claiming that Toyota’s luxury sub-brand is also working on a new crossover model, which will share its underpinnings with the Yaris Cross. The website based its claim on a recent report by Japanese car publication Mag-X. All the claims remain uncorroborated, at this point the automaker has not officially addressed any of these rumors.
This is not the first time we have come across such claims. Back in March, Best Car Magazine (also from Japan) offered a similar report. The 2021 Toyota Yaris Cross made its global debut last year in April. The Japanese automaker based the Yaris Cross on its GA-B platform which was designed for its subcompact models as part of the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) range. Toyota’s crossover was available with a 1.5-liter hybrid powertrain and even got an all-wheel-drive layout. According to Magazine X, Lexus intends to use the same platform to underpin its rumored model.
The publication also reports that Toyota’s luxury marquee might even borrow Yaris Cross’ three-cylinder hybrid powerplant, which produces 116 HP of combined power output. Like the Toyota Yaris Cross, we do not expect Lexus to launch its small crossover stateside. The offering will likely be aimed at Australian, Japanese, and European markets where similar products from other automotive alliances have also been successful in the past. The small luxury crossover will likely be positioned under Lexus UX in the company’s portfolio as an entry-level model.
The hybrid powertrain in Yaris Cross comes mated to an E-CVT transmission. Lexus Enthusiast reckons that Lexus’ small crossover will rival the likes of Audi Q2 and BMW X1. At 116 HP, the alleged model will probably square off against the entry-level variants of Audi Q2 and BMW X1, both of which produce 114 HP of maximum power. If Lexus manages to keep the weight down, then Toyota’s hybrid powertrain will make up for its modest performance with impressive fuel economy. Earlier this year, Lexus also announced its plans to introduce 10 electrified models by 2025.
Image Source: Toyota
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