suvs and cuvs are so much more useful than sedans! the trend will continue to less sedans and more suvs/cuvs/hatches.
Lexus new compact SUV
executive matchup
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 5,771
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From: BC
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.
Last edited by Stormforge; Jul 6, 2011 at 09:21 AM.
Lexus Champion
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 1,651
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From: Stuttgart
It's a good move.
Product diversification is the key to survival in todays automobile industry. And Lexus is lagging behind in that regard with certain models for other markets.
I'd like to see an IS and GS wagon and perhaps a "4-door-coupe" based on the GS, the next-generation, of course. Diesel engines would be nice, to.
Also, Lexus could use a lifestyle product, something fun and sporty, like a Z4, TT and SLK rival (and SL / 6er as well).
Product diversification is the key to survival in todays automobile industry. And Lexus is lagging behind in that regard with certain models for other markets.
I'd like to see an IS and GS wagon and perhaps a "4-door-coupe" based on the GS, the next-generation, of course. Diesel engines would be nice, to.
Also, Lexus could use a lifestyle product, something fun and sporty, like a Z4, TT and SLK rival (and SL / 6er as well).
Lexus Champion
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 12,529
Likes: 267
From: Illinois
The car buying public has spoken. Thru June Venza sales = 18k and RX = 40k (at a higher price point).
Lead Lap
Joined: Jun 2011
Posts: 437
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From: NC
are you referring to lexus SUVs in general or specifically about the RX? because the RX450h does come in AWD.
if you are referring to hp only, the RX450h maxes out at 300 hp (combined gas/hybrid performance). it won't win any street races vs a bmw that has a twin turbo, but it is peppy enough to accelerate smoothly and quickly (for a hybrid SUV).
if you are referring to hp only, the RX450h maxes out at 300 hp (combined gas/hybrid performance). it won't win any street races vs a bmw that has a twin turbo, but it is peppy enough to accelerate smoothly and quickly (for a hybrid SUV).
They can still have fuel efficient powertrains just offer something more.
Lead Lap
Joined: Jun 2011
Posts: 437
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From: NC
So are the Audi TT and Audi A3. Volkswagen engineered their platform to incorporate that 330+ hp 2.5 turbo I5, AWD and a 7-speed dual clutch auto. I don't think the Toyota Avensis platform was designed for that many additions.
Lexus Fanatic
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 20,226
Likes: 266
Rav4 already has 270hp V6 engine and AWD.
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Lead Lap
Joined: Jun 2011
Posts: 437
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From: NC
All I'm saying is I would like Lexus to bring out fuel efficient engines as well as high powered powertrains for their entry level products. If they could make a 270 hp AWD Lexus CT that would be awesome.(comparable to the Audi S3.)
Lexus Champion
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 3,370
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From: NY
The RX is what the market wants... other makers just couldn't find a way to compete, so the shoot above and below to try and gain market.... Lexus would be chasing their own tail following them. What advantage does an X3 have besides ground clearance that you couldn't get in an awd CT?
Racer
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 1,727
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From: USA
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.
Lexus Fanatic
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 94,334
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From: Virginia/D.C. suburbs
the venza is toyota's version of the dodge magnum
IMO, we need more vehicles of that type on the market, not less.....particularly with AWD.
Lexus Fanatic
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 94,334
Likes: 237
From: Virginia/D.C. suburbs
No. I'd consider the Venza (and a possible Lexus-version of it) a raised-suspension AWD wagon, like the Subaru Outback and Volvo XC70 Cross-Country (though, unlike Subies, some Venzas come in FWD). The RX350, as I see it, is more of a conventional higher-stance car-based SUV, not a wagon.