Lexus CT200h Review

The Lexus CT200H is the world's first premium hybrid hatchback. With prices ranging from 30,990 to 55,990, the CT competes directly with the Toyota Prius as well as other premium offerings from Germany, like the Audi A3 and the BMW 1 Series. Like the Prius, the CT combines a petrol engine, an electric motor, a battery pack, and a continuously variable transmission.

Regenerative braking and start stop technology mean that 200H is best suited to city driving where the hybrid system can be used to full effect. Fuel consumption and emissions set a new bench mark in the segment, although it trails the Prius, as designers sacrificed some aerodynamic efficiency for a sleeker hatchback design.

Standard features include eight airbags, four driving modes, dual zone climate control, and funky LED daytime running lights. Of the four models, the stripped down interior of the entry level Prestige gives away its base model status, while the pick of the bunch is the well optioned F Sports model.

This is Tim Beissmann at the CT200h launch in Melbourne, reporting for car advice