Lexus trademarks CT 200h, CT 300h and CT 400h for entry-level Euro model?
by Jeremy Korzeniewski on Jul 31st 2009 at 1:58PM 
The gurus over at my.IS forums bring us more material to chew on today regarding the long-rumored C-Segment hybrid hatchback from Lexus due to go up against the likes of the Audi A3 and BMW 1 Series and expected to debut at the upcoming Frankfurt Motor Show. Not long ago, Lexus trademarked the names CT 200h, CT 300h and CT 400h, leading many to believe the entry-level model will get a range of hybrid powerplants with varying engine sizes and horsepower output. The smallest engine may be based on the 1.8-liter unit with Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive from the latest Toyota Prius.
There's reason to believe the new Lexus CT Series will be based on the underpinnings of the Toyota Auris, which is available in Europe in both three- and five-door hatchback forms and has recently been slated for a hybrid powertrain. Just like other Lexus offerings based on Toyota platforms, expect a ton of extra sound deadening and a more sophisticated suspension setup if these rumors prove accurate. Thanks for the tip, Joaquin!
[Source: my.IS]
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Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
DiRF 2:06PM (7/31/2009)
But can it scan your head for medical problems?
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Patrick 2:06PM (7/31/2009)
Is CT supposed to imply "city"?
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lex 2:10PM (7/31/2009)
Compact Tourer
fmwso 2:17PM (7/31/2009)
Too bad it's not going to carry the BS nameplate after all...
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Justin Lucke 2:19AM (8/01/2009)
Volvo C30?
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thomas 2:53PM (7/31/2009)
can they make it look NOT yawntastic????
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P.V. 8:59PM (7/31/2009)
I actually like the look of that rendering and hope the concept/production vehicles will stay close to that. I also hope that it will be RWD a la BMW 1 Series hatchback.
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P.V. 9:00PM (7/31/2009)
My comment disappeared!
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SHANE FROM AUSTRALIA 5:43AM (8/01/2009)
I think the new entry-level Lexus looks good. Not sure why some people say they don't like the look of it because it certainly is not bland or ugly at any angle.
Furthermore, i reserve no hesitation that the CT will serve it's purpose well and attract a resonable number of customers, it will make a good addition to the Lexus lineup - as with the upcoming HS250h.
Unfortunately here in Australia, we miss out on many good cars that you lucky folks get in the US. For example ... Lexus Aust. sells the IS250 (including the new Convertible) and the IS-F but we miss out on the IS350 ... would love to see that arrive here sometime as with the LF-A when it is finally released.
All-in-all ... i like the direction Lexus is moving in - they are maturing as one of the most recognisable luxury brands in the world, not that they arn't already.
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