New compact Lexus SUV based on Toyota RAV4 on the way

Lexus are planning a compact SUV to slot in below the RX, and based on the Toyota RAV4, to compete in the compact SUV market.

Which explains why Lexus are looking for a model to slot in below the hybrid RX (pictured above) – a full size SUV/Crossover – to keep them competitive. And what easier way to go than to take the new Toyota RAV4 and turn it in to a Lexus?

That seems to be the plan, with Automotive News reporting that Lexus are planning to debut a new compact crossover at the Tokyo Motor Show in November ahead of a likely reveal of the new Lexus in production guise at next year’s Geneva Motor Show.

But as this is Lexus, there’s little chance the new compact SUV will come with the 2.2 litre diesel from the RAV4, so it seems likely it will instead get the hybrid setup from the new IS 300h.

That will mean an increase in power compared to the RAV4, with the new Lexus compact SUV getting a 2.5 litre petrol and electric motor for something in the region of 180bhp, a 0-62mph under 9 seconds and economy of around 55mpg.

It’s a sensible move from Lexus to produce a compact SUV to take on cars like the X1, Q3 and soon to arrive Mercedes GLA, and we’ll hopefully see it with offerings beyond the hybrid setup from the IS 300h.

By Cars UK