The Frankfurt Motor Show is probably one of the most exciting events to happen in September for the Auto Industry. It comes at a time when the weather is changing and signaling an end to the summer and it is a time when journalists and consumers alike are thinking in more about what is coming than perhaps what is. Enter the Lexus LF-Ch concept car.

2009 Lexus LF-Ch concept at the 2009 Frankfurt auto show

2009 Lexus LF-Ch concept at the 2009 Frankfurt auto show

The LF-Ch is Lexus’ answer to the likes of the Audi A3, Mercedes A-Class and BMW 1-Series. You might even compare it to that of the proposed “mini” Aston Martin. No matter what you liken it to though, it is proof that automakers around the globe believe that smaller cars are a way of the future and this compact hatchback is no exception. When you first see it you might even think, “Wow, is that the new Mazda 3?” As I said, small cars seem to be the way of the future and the styling seems to all come from a similar school.

2009 Lexus LF-Ch Compact Hybrid Concept

2009 Lexus LF-Ch Compact Hybrid Concept

What does set the LF-Ch apart from its competitors is its hybrid drivetrain. Yes, with the 2010 Lexus HS 250h getting some pretty good reviews, Lexus is now looking to come to market with this type of smaller and more compact luxury vehicle. In fact, there is now talk that the LF-Ch may come stateside even though it was originally only targeted for Europe. Lexus’ General Manager, mark Templin, told The Detroit Bureau the Lexus LF-Ch has a possibility of being on sale in America by 2010. He went on to say, “There is a group of buyers growing up now who won’t buy cars by the pound.” He might be right, especially with the interest in the Ford Fiesta, Toyota Prius and Honda Insight.

Our favorite quote from Templin, however, is this: “Just because it’s small doesn’t mean cheap.”

Yes folks, what you are seeing here is the Luxury brands trying to get their market back by offering premium options with green technology. We have seen stories on the Prius becoming the new “in” car in Hollywood, the question is could a car like the LF-Ch change that trend to a more exclusive hybrid. So keep a look out for the Lexus LF-Ch concept at the L.A. Auto Show next month, it might find itself right at home in Hollywood.

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