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Lexus to launch baby RX hybrid crossover based on RAV4

2011 Lexus RX 450h
2011 Lexus RX 450h
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2011 Lexus RX 450h – Click above for high-res image gallery

If you're looking to buy a luxury SUV or crossover, Lexus offers no shortage of choices. The GX and LX models may be the more capable when the road turns to dirt, but the most successful is the RX (pictured above), accounting for nearly half of all models the company sells here in the United States. Building on that success, rumor has it that the Toyota luxury division is planning on launching a smaller version of the RX 450h hybrid based on the RAV4.

Tentatively dubbed 'CX', the model would slot in below the RX and arrive as something of a high-riding counterpart to the CT hatchback. As such, it is rumored to be offered, at least initially, exclusively as a hybrid, wearing a new CX 300h nameplate. In size and price, it is expected to compete with the likes of the BMW X1, Audi Q3 and Infiniti EX.

If the reports come to fruition, the launch of the gas/electric crossover could pave the way for a more affordable RAV4 hybrid, as well.

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