According to Automotive News, Lexus will launch an all-new compact crossover called the CX later this year. The CX will be based on the Toyota RAV4 and will compete with vehicles like the BMW X1 and Audi Q3. Powertrain options are expected to include a new turbocharged four-cylinder as well as a hybrid variant.
Following the U.S. launch of the CX in 2013, Lexus will introduce an all-new version of the RX in 2014. Set to ride on the same platform as the Camry/Avalon, the next RX could grow in overall length to better accommodate the new CX. And, to further differentiate the two crossovers, the 2014 RX could gain a third-row option.
The RX will continue to offer a hybrid option, but Toyota will likely stick with nickel-metal battery technology rather than make the switch to lithium ion. Toyota has discovered that lithium ion batteries do offer some packaging benefits, but don't dramatically improve performance.
