Lexus Prius Sketch from Motor Trend
There isn't much in the way of new information in Motor Trend's article about the upcoming Lexus hybrid, but it did include this beauty of a mockup sketch:
There were a few new points covered, though they seem entirely speculative:
The difference between the Lexus variant and the Prius itself -- as is generally the case for Lexus models with Toyota underpinnings -- is not expected to be much more than skin deep. The as-yet-unnamed Lexus will have its own body panels and may get a convertible variant, but both vehicles will be fitted with roof-mounted solar panels and nickel-metal hydride batteries upon launch.
I have to say, if the new Lexus hybrid looks anything like this sketch, it's going to be hugely successful. There's certainly a hint of Prius in the shape, but the more aggressive front-end and huge wheels remind me of the new VW Scirocco, only bigger and with two more doors. And that's no bad thing.
I've been rather sceptical of the whole "Lexus Prius" thing, but that doesn't look too bad at all. I'll trust them to not just swap the badges around, that won't cut it in the showroom at all...
Tony: Exactly my reaction. I've never cared for a Lexus Prius either, but when I see something like this it gets me pretty excited. It looks super-stylish, the similarities with the Prius are minimal, and it fits well into the existing Lexus lineup.
Then again, I never really believed Lexus would release a rebadged Prius -- why give any more weight to the "glorified Toyota" label?
That looks...really nice, actually. I hope that concept goes through. I'd seriously consider buying one if it does.
Recently I attended a Lexus test drive event and talked to a technical lead. I asked about future models and he said the dedicated hybrid would not share the Prius platform, but another Toyota platform. But hard to say how much these people really know or if their sources are the same as ours.
The sketch looks promising though.
MT's LS 460 sketch came pretty close to the actual fourth gen LS, maybe this is a good preview.
@Pond: I can't believe I'm saying this, but I hope it's the Corolla. For some reason, I want this new car to be a small sporty hybrid to compete with the BMW 1-series.
@Dan: Let's hope! :-)
I agree, it would be a hit in Europe I think and probably do well in N.A as well with the current gas prices.
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