CARS & CONCEPTS: New or refreshed offerings from Lexus, BMW, Honda and more

Toyota’s luxury division is casting a wide net with the fifth-generation Lexus RX, above, offering a “powertrain for everyone,” according to the automaker. The crossover’s four options — one gasoline, two hybrid and a plug-in hybrid — run the gamut, from focusing on fuel-efficiency to prioritizing performance.

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Expected to go on sale in Canada at the end of 2022, the Ontario-built 2023 RX is about 90 kilograms lighter than the outgoing model and, using Toyota’s new GA-K platform, it has a lower centre of gravity. Pricing has not been announced.

2023 BMW X1

For its third generation, the BMW X1 compact crossover will go through a growth spurt. Slightly longer, wider and taller than its predecessor, the redesigned X1 will better measure up to competitors. The 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine is up by 13 horsepower to 241, and the eight-speed automatic transmission will be replaced by a seven-speed dual-clutch unit. The dash gets a large curved display incorporating a 10.3-inch digital gauge cluster and a 10.7-inch screen for managing most vehicle operations. The 2023 X1 will start at $44,990, plus delivery, when it arrives in Canada in the fourth quarter.

2024 HONDA PROLOGUE

The automaker’s first volume electric vehicle has begun taking shape ahead of an expected launch in 2024. The Honda Prologue is being co-developed with General Motors and will be built on its Ultium-battery platform. The design, however, signals the direction of Honda’s solo electric future, the automaker said. After getting its feet wet with the Prologue, Honda plans to roll out a series of new EVs based on its new e:Architecture starting in 2026.

2023 TOYOTA COROLLA CROSS HYBRID

Expected to arrive in Canada this year is the hybrid sibling to the gasoline-powered Corolla Cross that Toyota added to its lineup for 2022. The 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid integrates the automaker’s fifth-generation hybrid system, offering all-wheel drive, 194 horsepower and combined city/highway fuel consumption of an estimated 6.4 l/100 km. As the name implies, the Corolla Cross is based on Toyota’s popular Corolla sedan and hatchback models. Pricing for the hybrid has not been released.

BUICK WILDCAT CONCEPT

Planning an all-electric lineup by the end of the decade, Buick has introduced the Wildcat concept as a calling card for the brand’s design philosophy. The concept presents a new “expressive face,” said Buick, with a forward-leaning front end and low-mounted grille. A centre console runs from the instrumental panel to the rear seats.

Buick said the Wildcat will also serve for developing technology, such as artificial intelligence and biometrics. For example, the vehicle could “detect an elevation in driver heart rate and automatically adjust vehicle settings to calm them down.” That could involve aromatherapy and massage.