Which one of these doesn't belong: Hatchback, hybrid, Lexus.
It's a trick question. All of them belong, and they're all featured in the new Lexus LF-Ch. The little hatchback with a name only the Pentagon could love is a compact hatchback hybrid -- say that five times fast -- that Lexus is bringing to the Frankfurt auto show next week.
We're hoping Lexus actually builds it, because it looks like it's more fun than a night with Beer Robot.
The hot hatch would expand a Lexus hybrid lineup that includes two full-size sedans, crossover utility vehicle and what could be called a luxurious Prius.
"To continue raising the hybrid benchmark, we need to continue exploring hybrid technology in different segments," Mark Templin, Lexus group v.p. and general manager, said in a statement. "The LF-Ch concept gives us the opportunity to gauge consumer reaction and help us determine whether or not this would be viable for production."
There's no specifics on the drivetrain except that it is the latest generation of the Lexus Hybrid Drive technology system and it has a "drive mode " switch that lets you chose from one of four settings: Normal, Eco, EV and Sport. The Sport mode, according to Lexus, "amplifies throttle response for the most enthusiastic drivers." We're guessing that means it gives the car some cajones.
Bedsides the hard to miss styling that Lexus says "exudes strength and simplicity," the interior features such high-tech goodies as a Lexus Remote Touch controller with user-adjustable haptic feedback to control the navi, entertainment and climate control systems. Backseat passengers get headrest-mounted iPhone docks for audio and video entertainment.
"The LF-Ch concept is the next evolution of the compact luxury vehicle. We were able to create a beautifully designed hybrid with a deep sense of mystery and intrigue," Kevin Hunter, president of Lexus' Calty design facility, said in a statement.
That may be, but the real question is whether there will be a market for a Lexus hatchback, hybrid drivetrain or not.
We'll get more details, and some real photos, when Lexus unveils the car in Frankfurt.
Images: Lexus
