Lexus wants to target younger buyers with its CT 200h hybrid
By Andrew C., 26 Aug, 2010. 0 Comments
2011 Lexus CT 200h
Lexus expects that the stylish design of its new CT 200h full-hybrid entry-premium hatchback will appeal to younger drivers, according to the carmaker's European head Andy Pfeiffenberger. At the Geneva Motor Show, Pfeiffenberger said that the company expects that a "whole new audience" will respond well to the CT 200h's dynamic styling. He said that the L-Finesse design, which is the latest evolution of Lexus, has a "real contemporary appeal" that seeks to bring in the design-conscious, younger customers.
Pfeiffenberger said that the CT 200h is arriving at the right time, especially since the compact premium segment was the largest in the premium market last year. He said that this car is the answer to the needs of the European buying public that want smaller, less-polluting cars that still offer refinement and driving pleasure. The hybrid drivetrain used in the CT 200h is the same one used in the Toyota Prius.
It combines a 1.8-liter gasoline engine with a electric motor. On purely electric power, the car can go for up to 1.2 miles (nearly 2km) at maximum speeds of 28 mph (45 kph). The CT 200h is styled with a focus on maximizing aerodynamic efficiency and minimizing wind noise. It is slated to go into production and is set to compete directly against the BMW 1 series and the Audi A3. [via autonews]
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