While the world was busy checking out the plethora of new fully electric models by Toyota and Lexus, we noticed something weird on the background of a family photo of the whole Lexus range. Next to the current ICE-powered and hybrid models, there was a mysterious compact crossover, hinting at a new production vehicle. The unnamed vehicle is positioned on the left side of the range, next to the UX, NX, possibly the updated RX, what appears to be the new-generation GX, and a sedan looking like a new IS or ES. We don’t know why Lexus didn’t include the brand new LX in the picture. As for the compact crossover, the fact that it is sitting in the background means it will likely feature a hybrid powertrain as the rest of the current range.

Rumors about a smaller SUV/crossover by Lexus have been circulating the web for many years. The latest reports hinted at a possible Lexus version of the Toyota Yaris Cross B-SUV, while we also heard rumors about an even smaller A-SUV. However, if our eyes are not deceiving us, the teaser depicts a larger model which looks like a C-Segment crossover, or a raised hatchback. This sounds like an older report from 2019 hinting at a possible successor to the now-discontinued CT 200h.

Currently, the smallest SUV in Lexus’s lineup is the UX that was introduced back in 2018, with an electric variant following in 2019. The Lexus UX is based on the GA-C platform which is also currently underpinning a bunch of Toyota models including the Corolla, Corolla Cross, and C-HR. Judging from the small size difference between the UX and the teased crossover, we suspect that the same platform could be used. After all, Toyota has three models on the compact platform so why couldn’t the more premium Lexus have two.

Lexus is planning on becoming an all-electric brand in Europe, North America, and China by 2030, which means any ICE-powered offering for those markets has a pretty straightforward deadline. However, an 8-year lifecycle sounds enough for a premium C-Segment crossover that could work as a direct rival to the DS 4, and the upcoming Audi A3 high-riding variant. The new model will most likely use the hybrid powertrain found on the EU-spec Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid, combining a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with a lithium-ion battery and a couple of electric motors offering all-wheel-drive and a combined output of 197 hp.

Besides the compact crossover, Lexus is working on a new RX with a rumored debut in the second half of 2022, plus the fully electric RZ which is expected to arrive even sooner. In 2023, the UX will reportedly get mid-cycle updates, while in 2024 we are expecting an updated IS and new generations of both the RC and the GX.