Lexus hatch targets youth

Japanese luxury car-maker Lexus has finally exposed the LF-Ch concept, a five-door luxury hatch that could become one of its highest selling models when it reaches production in 2010.

Making its global debut in Frankfurt, the LF-Ch concept wears large 20-inch alloy wheels and is the 'show car' version of the vehicle destined for production next year, which Lexus hopes will "appeal to a new, younger generation of customers."

As the little 'h' in the name denotes, it will be a full hybrid vehicle meaning it can run in pure electric mode with no intervention from the combustion engine.

Lexus is keeping mum on the specifics of the hybrid petrol-electric powertrain and the new car could be the first front-wheel drive Lexus if it borrows the Prius' hybrid underpinnings.

But the most important aspect of the new concept is its design, which provides an early indication of how the production model will look.

Making use of the L-finesse design ethos which is beginning to influence all Lexus models, the LF-Ch concept has a lot in common with the IS-F -- the sculpted curves, taut lines and sporty profile.

Lexus refers to the "machine-like overall surfacing of the bodywork" which delivers an original style that can't be accused of being nouveau European. The LF-Ch concept is an undiluted, unabashed Japanese design.

While the major design cues, such as the curved bonnet, solid front fascia and aggressively styled LED head- and tail-lights create an unyielding appearance, the smaller touches contribute greatly, such as the vertical brake cooling ducts, blacked-out B-pillars and the hidden rear door handles.

The interior of the LF-Ch will adhere to Lexus' luxury mantra, but with a more youthful approach, evidenced in the extra iPod docks and LCD touch-screens for rear seat passengers, and wide-grip steering wheel and paddle shifters for the driver.

Leather upholstery, advanced climate control and other convenience features are a given, while switchgear has been reduced via the Lexus Remote Touch control system, which made its debut in the RX 450h SUV and uses a mouse-like interface with physical feedback.

The LF-Ch concept car measures 4300mm long and 1790mm wide, and the production version is expected to retain these dimensions, making it a competitor for vehicles such as the Audi A3 and BMW 1 Series hatch.

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