An unknown photographer has captured recent spy shots of what looks like a production version of the Lexus LF-CH. Acclaimed by many, this 5 door luxury compact has been designed with European drivers in mind, and is seen as a competitor to popular BMW and Audi models.

Based on these photos, which were taken from the rear and show the car under a layer of plastic wrap, the LF-CH that will be seen on highways as early as 2012 will have a slightly more subdued look than what was unveiled at auto shows three years earlier. So now that we know more about what this vehicle might look like, some may already be salivating over this hatchback. But, a word of warning; you may not want to build up your LF-CH hopes high yet.

There are still big questions, besides what this supposed production LF-CH looks like unwrapped and from other angles. Will the hybrid power plant that accompanied the LF-CH concept to the 2009 auto shows be seen in the 2012 production model? Is this going to be a limited release, in the spirit of the upcoming LFA? And, most importantly, will this sporty hatchback be sold in North America or will Lexus tease US and Canadians by making this a Euro only model?

From what I’ve heard, there is serious doubt that the Lexus LF-CH will be seen on this side of the Pacific, though Toyota is expected to incorporate a lot of the concept’s features into models for this market. This is all speculation for now. It’s still possible that Lexus will attempt to establish itself in the luxury hatchback market that European carmakers don’t seem to believe is sizeable enough to target. So, don’t give up hope on purchasing the American designed Lexus LF-CH from American (or Canadian) dealers.

Click here for spy photos of possible production Lexus LF-CH

2010 HS 250h:

Lexus has unveiled the world’s first luxury hybrid car – the 2010 HS 250h. The all-new HS 250h sedan gets a redefined exhaust recovery system to ensure up to 30% better fuel efficiency with minimal engine warm-up time. Inside is the sophisticated Eco Plastics “cockpit of the future”,reinforcing Lexus’s commitment to luxury, comfort, and environment-friendly motoring.

Let’s take a closer look:

2010 HS 250h Interior:

Front View:

Rear View:

Images: CARandDRIVER