UPDATE: Lexus 1-series rival

Lexus is gunning for the BMW 1-series, and has released the first picture of the LF-Ch concept that preivews its new hatchback. It'll debut at September’s Frankfurt motor show.

The new picture (yellow) accompanies the initial sketch (blue). In true teaser image fashion, though, firm information on the car is thin on the ground. 'The concept will demonstrate a mix of technical innovation and ground-breaking design that promises to raise the bar in the premium compact segment’, apparently, and will be a five-door hybrid.

That trick drivetrain will separate it from its Alfa Romeo Milano, Audi A3 and BMW 1-series rivals and ape the Lexus HS250 that debuted at the Detroit motor show.

The HS is unlikely to make to the UK, but its combination of 2.4-litre four-cylinder petrol and electric motor power (totaling 184bhp) could be the chosen source of poke for the LF-Ch.

We’ll no doubt find out more information at the Frankfurt motor show, where Lexus will also be revealing updates across the rest of its range. The GS and LS luxury saloons both get a host of interior and exterior tweaks, while the Lexus IS-F - one of our sports saloons of choice - gains a new limited-slip diff. If you fancy IS-F looks for less money, though, Lexus has also connjured up the F-Sport package for standard IS saloons.

We will be providing full Frankfurt live coverage both on evo.co.uk and the evo Magazine Twitter page.

Click to read the latest long-term report on our Fast Fleet Lexus IS-F