Unknown to the rest of the world, this Lexus is sold only in Japan - what is it?

This mid-size Lexus falls right in between the ES and CT models - but you'll never see it if you live outside Japan

Unknown to the rest of the world, Lexus quietly sells a family-sized vehicle exclusively in Japan. 
  

This model was introduced in 2009 and has since gone under the surgeon's knife for a nip and tuck to update its appearance in keeping with family DNA worn by the rest of the models in the Lexus line up. Size-wise, it falls right in between the entry model CT and the larger IS. Engine-wise though, things are slightly different.


Underneath, it is powered by a 2.4-litre four-cylinder petrol engine mated to an electric motor to produce 187 bhp. So it's a hybrid, rated with real world efficiency figures of 35 mpg on the combined cycle. When talking of powerplant then, this Lexus goes smack in between the CT 200h and ES 300h. 

When word of the launch of this Lexus first spread, it was so popular that 1,500 pre-orders were recorded by Lexus, translating into three times more than the monthly sales target. When finally produced, and customers could finally test drive it in the showroom, orders went through the roof and even though there was already a backlog, customers had no qualms making a downpayment when the estimated delivery time was eight months.

Which incredible Lexus model am I talking about? Find out soon!

Cheers!

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