Lexus new compact SUV
Lexus Test Driver
Joined: Apr 2008
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From: Ontario
Lead Lap
Joined: Jan 2011
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From: MA
They don't need a RAV4 based cute ute. If anything, Lexus is lacking in the higher end. They need an RX-XL, with a 3rd row. Mercedes, Audi, BMW, Acura all have a 3 row crossover/SUV.
And no, the GX/LX don't count. They're either too large or people just aren't buying them.
And no, the GX/LX don't count. They're either too large or people just aren't buying them.
Lexus Fanatic
Joined: Jan 2005
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They don't need a RAV4 based cute ute. If anything, Lexus is lacking in the higher end. They need an RX-XL, with a 3rd row. Mercedes, Audi, BMW, Acura all have a 3 row crossover/SUV.
And no, the GX/LX don't count. They're either too large or people just aren't buying them.
And no, the GX/LX don't count. They're either too large or people just aren't buying them.
Lexus Fanatic
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 20,244
Likes: 275
well, they are basically all sitting on same platform anyway - MC platform that spans 20 other cars at least, but I am sure it would be closer to Rav4 than anything else due to suspension design needed.
But probably Euro Rav4, not long platform one sold in the USA.
But probably Euro Rav4, not long platform one sold in the USA.
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Makes sense as a hybrid Rav-4 is confirmed. Believe it or not this is mainly for Europe, then other markets. Cute-Utes are selling like hotcakes in Europe as the SUV craze has really hit there. BMW can't build enough X1s, Audi can't build enough Q3s.
With this cute-ute added, it might finally allow the RX to grow to 7 seats, something some people have asked for but I think is unnecessary as the RX seems to sell perfectly fine without it.
With this cute-ute added, it might finally allow the RX to grow to 7 seats, something some people have asked for but I think is unnecessary as the RX seems to sell perfectly fine without it.
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Lead Lap
Joined: Jun 2011
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From: NC
I think Lexus should develop a crossover based on a version of the Lexus IS and GS platform. This way they could have a direct competitor to the BMW X3 and X5. They should still make this baby FWD based crossover however to aid in CAFE. I just don't want them to do a half job like they did with the HS250h.
^I'd also like to see them create crossovers on the IS and GS platforms. I have no problem with the Rav4 (in fact, I love it) but to me, something RWD would have a lot more appeal.
As time goes on, I think the RX is almost becoming a niche product as the market moves above and below it in price, size and power. It's in a unique position, being midsized, priced $40-$60K, and only having two rows of seats. Clearly, Lexus still has the winning formula no matter what class/size you look at, but I don't think they can ignore the changing marketplace for much longer.
As time goes on, I think the RX is almost becoming a niche product as the market moves above and below it in price, size and power. It's in a unique position, being midsized, priced $40-$60K, and only having two rows of seats. Clearly, Lexus still has the winning formula no matter what class/size you look at, but I don't think they can ignore the changing marketplace for much longer.
Lead Lap
Joined: Jun 2011
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From: NC
I agree about the more appeal. I feel that with these FWD chassis they have limited amounts of performance applications.
Take the 1-series. It can incorporate engines ranging from a 114 hp 2.0 4-cylinder diesel all the way to the 335 hp twin turbo I6 in the 1 M. also the Audi A3 which has power ranging from the 140 hp 2.0 TDI to the 332 hp 2.5 turbo I5. I would like to see Lexus do some performance of their lower products.
Take the 1-series. It can incorporate engines ranging from a 114 hp 2.0 4-cylinder diesel all the way to the 335 hp twin turbo I6 in the 1 M. also the Audi A3 which has power ranging from the 140 hp 2.0 TDI to the 332 hp 2.5 turbo I5. I would like to see Lexus do some performance of their lower products.
Lexus Fanatic
Joined: Oct 2003
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From: Virginia/D.C. suburbs
Originally Posted by MPLexus301
I'd also like to see them create crossovers on the IS and GS platforms.
Lead Lap
Joined: Jun 2011
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From: NC
What Lexus really needs to do (and I don't know why the product-planners keep resisting it) is to do a more-plush version of the Toyota Venza. It would, IMO, be the perfect entry-level Lexus crossover....and would also save time and money in design by not having to re-engineer a sedan platform like the IS or GS.