Lexus Axes Three Models in Europe in Favor of Crossovers
Even Europeans seem to be favoring crossovers these days.
Saying Goodbye
Crossovers have slowly killed off the passenger car in the U.S. as customers eschew the segment they once loved for higher-riding, taller, and more spacious offerings. But it apparently isn't just America that's favoring crossovers these days. In fact, Lexus has reportedly decided to kill off the RC, IS, and CT in Europe, according to Automotive News Europe.
Photos: Lexus
Evolution of Sales
The decision was made, as it often is because sales of those three models have been poor in Europe. Like America, it seems that folks there just aren't buying cars anymore. "It's a decision based on the evolution of our portfolio," an unnamed Lexus spokesperson told Automotive News. "If you look at the sales of Lexus in Europe and the overall market, the evolution is going more toward SUVs."
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Slumping Performance
Thus, once the current inventory on sale in Europe is gone, that'll be it for these three models. The CT, of course, was discontinued in America back in 2017, but it's rather old in the tooth at the moment after having debuted way back in 2011. The hybrid hatchback was once a strong selling in the region, but year-to-date sales had plunged 35% to just 2,344 units by the end of August.
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Selling Dozens
In that same time frame, Lexus sold a mere 422 RC coupes in Europe, which doesn't make it anywhere near worthwhile for Lexus to continue to sell it there. The automaker also only moved 58 LS sedans in the same period, though it will continue to sell it in Europe because it's still their flagship model.
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Recently Refreshed
As for the recently refreshed IS, 1,101 units flew off dealership floors in the first eight months of the year. It's hard to say if the 2021 model would have helped bolster that number somewhat, but apparently, Lexus doesn't want to stick around and find out.
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Stronger Numbers
Regardless of these depressing numbers, Lexus is selling plenty of crossovers in Europe, as it is in America. The automaker moved its UX, NX, and RX to the tune of 10,291, 7,739, and 3,474 units, respectively, through August, which are strong numbers indeed.
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No Fatigue
It's somewhat of a depressing trend for those of us who love sedans, coupes, and hatchbacks, but that's the reality of the market today. There may come a time when buyers tire of crossovers, but that doesn't appear likely to happen anytime soon.
Photos: Lexus
>>Join the conversation about Lexus of Europe downsizing lineup right here in the Club Lexus forum.
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