Lexus Rumored to Debut Compact Hatchback Concept in Frankfurt, Targets BMW 1 Series

Toyota's premium brand Lexus is planning to unveil a five-door compact hatchback concept at this September's Frankfurt Motors Show that will be followed by a production model at next year's Geneva Salon, according to Edmunds. The report goes on to claim that the hatch will use a front-wheel drive Corolla chassis - not the best base for a direct competitor to the BMW 1-Series and Audi A3 models...

Not surprisingly, it is also noted that there will be a hybrid model in the mix that will most likely get the same the same drivetrain as the Lexus HS 250h sedan that utilizes a 147 HP 2.4-liter four-cylinder Atkinson-cycle gasoline engine and a 40 HP electric motor for a combined output for 187-horsepower.

However, there is a chance that the hybrid version of Lexus' premium hatch may get the same drivetrain as the forthcoming Auris Hybrid model that is scheduled to be launched in Europe in the second half of 2010.

It is reported that the new Lexus hatch will go on sale in Europe in late 2010 while there are no plans to bring it to North American.

[Via: Insideline , Photo Illustration: Best Car]

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