Lexus Looking to Replace the CT by 2021
Hybrid and EV model lines are rapidly expanding as manufacturers strive to one-up the competition. Lexus is looking to make as splash with a potential hybrid/EV model said to be a step above the ever-popular Toyota Prius with extra performance to boot.
Making a Comeback
The Lexus CT 200h was first introduced by the Japanese manufacturer in 2011 as a hybrid compact sport hatchback with a touch of luxury. Based largely on the Toyota Prius, the CT models turned out to be a bit of disappointment here in the states as they were routinely outsold by other hybrid models despite positive reviews. Although they are still sold in other parts of the world, U.S. sales of the CT ceased after the 2017 model year, but the latest rumor is that Lexus soon plans to release a replacement for the CT model with intentions of competing directly against other luxury brands such as Tesla, Mercedes, BMW, and Jaguar.
A Prius at Heart
For those unfamiliar with the Lexus CT, it utilizes the same 1.8L 2ZR-FXE gas engine as found in the Prius along with identical electric drive motors to give the car 134 horsepower and 153 lb-ft or torque. Where the CT differs from the Prius is in its chassis, which is based on the MC chassis as used by the Toyota Corolla and Matrix models. The powertrain and chassis are the big talking points for the upcoming model as we are likely to see both EV and Hybrid power options available in a crossover package from Lexus for the first time.
>>Join the conversation about Lexus replacing the CT here in ClubLexus.com.
Time for an Upgrade
The current Lexus CT hybrid system is becoming a bit long in the tooth as it is based on 2011 technology. Battery efficiency has greatly improved over the last decade. Thus, the upcoming model should make huge strides in overall range and fuel consumption over the outgoing car. To illustrate these improvements, the current Toyota Prius gets a combined MPG of rating of 52 miles as opposed to the CT's 42 miles. It is not unreasonable to believe that a new hybrid car could achieve upwards of 60 miles per gallon, or have a several hundred mile range in fully electric trim.
Photo Courtesy of Drivers Magazine
>>Join the conversation about Lexus replacing the CT here in ClubLexus.com.
Market-Driven
Head of Lexus Europe, Pascal Ruch recently discussed with AutoExpress that the CT model has allowed Lexus to position itself nicely into the compact hybrid vehicle market and that it is important for them to remain there. He expressed that perhaps the biggest selling point of the upcoming CT model lineup is that they will strive to include a higher performing powertrain (such as the 2.0L hybrid from the Toyota Auris) and even a fully electric-powered vehicle.
Image Courtesy of Draw to Drive
>>Join the conversation about Lexus replacing the CT here in ClubLexus.com.
Electric Arrival
In recent years, Toyota and Lexus have made it quite clear that they were not very interested in producing electric vehicles. But with the news that they have filed a trademark with the European Intellectual Property Office last year for their "UX300e" as well as revealing their LF-1 Limitless Concept at the 2018 Detroit Auto Show, it's clear that there is a lot brewing behind closed doors.
>>Join the conversation about Lexus replacing the CT here in ClubLexus.com.
Solid European Sales
Lexus has also introduced the UX crossover line for the 2019 model year. There has been some speculation that this would cripple the CT model in Europe, but sales have continued as projected and Ruch says there are no plans to discontinue the current CT just yet. In fact, the current CT is likely to be sold until the new model is ready for release.
>>Join the conversation about Lexus replacing the CT here in ClubLexus.com.
Concept Conjecture
The introduction of the new UX gives us a glimpse of what the upcoming styling of the new CT may look like. A number of sources suggest that Lexus is in the planning stages of mixing design elements of a hatchback and crossover to give the overall appearance of an SUV, but in a smaller, low-slung package.
Image Courtesy of Motor1
>>Join the conversation about Lexus replacing the CT here in ClubLexus.com.
First Lexus EV?
In any case, the updated CT is expected to arrive for the 2020-2021 model year and could potentially be Lexus' first EV while also offering a variety of hybrid iterations. Europe and China have been hot marketplaces for hybrids and EVs, so it is understandable that the car will be targeted to those markets, but we could very well see it hit US shores. If past Toyota and Lexus vehicles are any indications, we'd say a redesigned CT could do quite well here.
Image Courtesy of Draw to Drive
>>Join the conversation about Lexus replacing the CT here in ClubLexus.com.
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