REPORT: Lexus could go even smaller than LF-Ch concept?
Lexus LF-Ch Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery
Lexus doesn't currently play in the small car segment in any of the markets it competes in. That's set to change in short order, as evidenced by the LF-Ch concept that the premium Japanese automaker is slated to debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show next week. Interestingly, Lexus could reportedly go yet another size class down. Speaking to Autocar, an unnamed marketing specialist says:
BMW chose to enter the premium B-segment class with an entirely new brand in the form of its Mini division. That program has been highly successful for the German automaker, and Lexus believes the so-called supermini class will continue to grow. Says the Lexus marketer:This segment will grow as more premium marques begin to build cars in this size. We already have the Mini and the Alfa Romeo Mito, and the Audi A1 is just around the corner... Indeed, the Mito has been a big success outside Italy, especially in the challenging German market. The Mini is under considerable pressure now.
It's probably the third or fourth most important segment. In fact, the 'B' premium sector is already bigger than the large SUV segment. But it is very hard to make money in it.
Gallery: Lexus LF-Ch Concept
[Source: Autocar]
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
Throwback 9:54PM (9/10/2009)
" But it is very hard to make money in it."
That has always been the problem with small cars.
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future-autos.blogspot.com 9:20AM (9/11/2009)
I wonder if this is what Toyota is using the MINI platform for.
Either way, considering the past success of the Acura RSX (and its forthcoming success should it return to market), the luxury compact market is one with quite a lot of unfulfilled potential. Right now, the most complete offering is the Volvo C30 (which wins due to the price of the 1-series) as well as the MINI Cooper, and we all know how successful the MINI line is. The only reason the Volvo isn't more successful is because it's a Volvo.
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FitFan 3:58PM (9/11/2009)
It's a bit easier to make money at it when you're selling subcompacts for $30K.
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