2011 Lexus CT 200h light interior and seating position revealed

Revealed in detail along with new images of an alternative lighter interior, Lexus says the low hip point of the driver’s seat – which has been brought as close to the vehicle’s centre of gravity as possible – gives a driving experience in line with the Lexus IS F.

Such has been the focus and attention to detail for the hybrid’s seating position at Lexus that the engine air intake design has been re-engineered so that the bonnet remains low to give the driver an unobstructed view from the low-set seat.

The new sports steering wheel features a wide grip cross-section and has been set at a lower, 21-degree angle. The accelerator and brake pedals have also been angled to optimise the position of the hips.

The seat itself has extra built-in lateral and lumbar support similar to the IS F to hold the driver in place.

Lexus also revealed last week that the CT 200h would be the first volume production model to use front and rear lateral performance dampers to increase torsional rigidity and reduce vibration.

The lateral dampers enhance steering ride and feel and also reduce body deformation, with engineers recording a 15 percent reduction in the displacement of the suspension towers.

The Lexus CT 200h will be on display at the 2010 Paris Motor Show in October ahead of its European launch around the start of the new year and an Australian debut in mid-2011.

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