Lexus BS: 1-Series Rival in Development

[Zafiro]

Lexus is unlikely to launch a sub-$30,000 model in the U.S. but that doesn’t mean it won’t develop a new entry-level model for other markets. One possibility is Europe, where small cars like BMW’s 1-series hatch and Mercedes A and B-Class sell in substantial numbers. Toyota exec Tokuichi Uranishi has revealed that Lexus could develop a new entry-level model for Europe to help reach its European sales target of 150,000 vehicles by 2015.

During an interview with Auto Motor und Sport, Uranishi explained that for Lexus to become a true rival to Mercedes-Benz and BMW, it has to strengthen its standing in Europe and to do so it will need to expand its product portfolio.

Lexus is already confirmed to launch the upcoming LF-1 flagship coupe as well as a hybrid only model and possibly a seven-seater crossover, which should see its market share in Europe rise considerably. This year, Lexus hopes to sell 56,000 vehicles in Europe, a fraction of its global target of half a million vehicles.

AMS

 

[Centurion]

Re: Lexus planning Euro only 1-series rival?

I hope it won't be a pimped Corolla.

 

[RICHBOY]

Lexus Develop's 1-Series Rival

Enter the rumormill: Lexus to develop 1-series rival for Europe

http://www.autoblog.com/category/lexus/

The Lexus BS compact lived up to its name when rumors flew back in 2005.

Those purveyors of the finest automotive speculation at Auto Motor und Sport recently sat down with Tokuichi Uranishi to discuss the finer points of Lexus' future. During the interview, the Toyota exec mentioned that if Lexus wants to become a real threat to BMW and Mercedes abroad it would have to expand its product line in ways similar to its Germanic rivals. One such brand extension would be the development of a smaller model designed to rival the BMW 1-series and Mercedes A- and B-class vehicles.

Mr. Uranishi explained during the interview that Lexus aims to sell 150,000 vehicles in Europe by 2015, something that would only be possible through the expansion of the marque's lineup. The new luxury compact model would join the new LF-1 coupe and a hybrid-only vehicle supposedly under development.

Looks pretty sweet!

 

[bmer]

Re: Lexus Develop's 1-Series Rival

They will also need a wider selection of diesel engines. Last year 50,8 % of new cars in Western Europe were powered by diesel. In some countries the share is even bigger (France: 71, 4 %; Spain 68,2 %; Belgium 74,5 %).

 

[Beemer B773ER]

Re: Lexus planning Euro only 1-series rival?

I hope it won't be a pimped Corolla.

Hmm.. I thought the Corolla was already damn pimpin' ..just kidding.

Well it's an interesting idea, and ofcourse the rationale is there since the smaller German variants have been doing well in Europe.

This shows just how serious Toyota is about having Lexus as world's leading luxury brand.. I mean, they've alread conquered the world with Toyota global sales, let's see how they go trying to knock-off the Germans on their home continent. It's a tough ask.. but if there's a company that has any chance of suceeding it's Toyota.

 

[siko]

Re: Lexus Develop's 1-Series Rival

Lexus BS Compact Hatchback – Rendering

Just last week, Tokuichi Uranishi, a Toyota executive vice president, told German car magazine Auto Motor und Sport, that Lexus is interested in developing a compact hatch. “We can foresee a competitor to the BMW 1-Series” said Uranishi. This year, Lexus expects to sell around 55,000 units in Europe but its targeting annual sales of 150,000 units by 2015 and the addition of a lower priced (than the IS) entry-model would definitely help Lexus achieve that goal.

We’re not sure if this rendering of the so-called BS series that we discovered in the net has anything to do with reality, but we can tell you that if Lexus goes ahead and introduces the compact hatch, it'll most likely be based on the IS platform and mechanics (front-engine, rear-wheel drive layout).

Of course, since the hatch will be aimed towards the European market, we should expect 4-cylinder petrol and diesel engine variants added to the range. In addition, a hybrid version shouldn’t be out of the question, as Toyota Europe needs to sell more frugal and low-emission cars to deal the EU’s stricter rules.

[Source: CarScoop]

 

[siko]

Re: Lexus Develop's 1-Series Rival

Lexus BS... LOL

 

[Bruce]

I hope to God they don't call it the "BS". That's just...

 

[cawimmer430]

The guys at Lexus think cracking the European market is that easy?

I mean offering a small car is what they should do, but they still lack the history and appeal of BMW and Mercedes, which is a major factor in Europe. Plus, Europeans are proud of their country's product which means buyers are generally nationalistic, especially if they're going to shop for a luxury car.

The hybrid coupe is a waste of time IMO. Lexus needs to offer a smaller gasoline or diesel engine for some of their cars if they at least want to compete properly. Cheaper trim levels are also something to consider. Lexus used to stand for value, they still due, but they've also gotten more expensive here in Europe and a lot of people don't see the point of a fully equipped car, especially with things you might not need. Hence European carmakers are famous for letting you select and pay for what goes into your car.

I think they should forget the idea of a 7 seat crossover a la R-Class vehicle. They will probably only offer it with a thirsty V6 or V8 engine or a hybrid which means poor gas mileage overall. Maybe they'll stuff their new 4.5-l V8 Landcruiser diesel into it, whatever they do, it will flop. I am almost positive of that.

I think their 1-Series rival won't do well against the established 1-Series and A/B-Classes. Lexus IMO should focus and position their IS better. They should offer more engine choices and cheaper trims for this particular model. Lastly they should stop claiming the IS220d and IS250 are BMW 320d and 328i killers, because they regularly get spanked by the 3er here, not to mention the C-Class or A4.

 

[Mr Robert]

Lastly they should stop claiming the IS220d and IS250 are BMW 320d and 328i killers, because they regularly get spanked by the 3er here, not to mention the C-Class or A4.

Only place a Lexus could compete is on Best Motoring

 

[cawimmer430]

Only place a Lexus could compete is on Best Motoring

Is that where they win reviews?

 

[Mr Robert]

Is that where they win reviews?

Yes! No American or European car stand a chance when compared to a Japanese car in that show, ever! They must be the least credible show in the business and is best regarded as pure humor!

 

[Benzboi_inoz]

I'm sure if lexus develop a small car to compete in that market niche, they will do very well, as they have in all other market niches they have entered. And why not? They are very good cars.

The fact that they may not suit some people in their driving characteristics, or have the history to suit others, doesn't change that IMHO.

Good engineering and design is good engineering and design.



John...