Lexus AS150 Supermini Rumored, Based on Toyota Prius C
The Toyota Prius c was panned by Consumer Reports but still boasts the best fuel economy average in the Toyota lineup. This could be why there is a rumor that Lexus will be basing a small hybrid on the diminutive car.
According to Paultan, an automotive news publication from Malaysia, the little Lexus would use the same 1.5 liter Synergy Drive, hybrid drivetrain that is in the Prius c. The Malaysian news source has dubbed the car, AS150. It should be remembered that all Lexus hybrids have the letter “h” in their name. This car would slot below the CT200h which is based on the Prius. The Japanese automaker has had failures with badge-engineered hybrids before, like the now discontinued HS250h.
The article also mentions a 1.2 liter, direct-injection turbo engine that would be used in the AS150t.
While mostly speculation at this point, such a car is not out of the question, considering the tremendous success the brand has had with the CT200h, growing Lexus sales significantly in Europe.
[Source: Paultan]
More by Nick Dasko
Comments
Join the conversation
I hope this never happens. Lexus is too good to steal the Prius C.