Lexus CT200h review

Lexus of Poole recently unveiled its latest offering – the all new CT200h, the world’s first full hybrid luxury compact car, propelling Lexus into the prestige hatch market which until now has been dominated by the likes of the Audi A3 and the BMW 1 Series.

Lexus stunned the world with its first car 21 years ago and over the past two decades Lexus has gone from strength to strength. It’s a brand synonymous with refinement and reliability that has also become famous for pioneering the use of hybrid technology. Under the hood of the new CT lies a 98bhp 1798cc variable timing four-cylinder engine, synchronous electric motor and regenerative braking system delivering 134bhp. And it’s surprisingly quick, however the CT is more focused towards economy than performance. Inside, there are three settings to choose: Normal, Eco and Sport with a fourth EV option which, at the touch of a button, allows you to travel on electric power alone up to a maximum of 28mph.
Being a full hybrid, the Lexus can automatically switch to ‘stealth mode’ and run on battery power for short distances at low speeds, while Eco mode softens throttle response and optimises the power consumption of the climate control to preserve fuel.
Plenty of kit is a foundation stone of the Lexus ethos, so it’s a little surprising that only the topline Premium models have satnav as standard. To be fair, though, it’s quite some satnav, boasting touchscreen controls, a display with excellent clarity and graphics and a level of sophistication few other line-fit systems can match. In other areas, however, the lesser CT200h variants aren’t found wanting. There are three trim levels to choose from: SE-I, SE-L and SE-L Premier. Lexus reckons that it would cost over £1,700 to specify a comparable BMW 118d SE to the same level as a CT200h SE-I.
All the models come with alloys, climate control, privacy glass and Bluetooth, plus leather seats for the mid-spec variants. As well as the brilliant touch-screen satnav, premium models get electric seat adjustment and a magnificent 13-speaker Mark Levinson hi-fi system.
Running costs is where the CT200h can really hurt its conventionally-powered rivals. Its hybrid technology might be fairly conventional, we’re on the cusp of a transition to plug-in lithium ion batteries, but that can’t detract from CO2 emissions of just 96g/km and the benefits that go with it: rock bottom road fund licence and company car tax. A 10 per cent benefit-in-kind company car tax rating compares with 13 per cent for a BMW 118d or an Audi A3 2.0 TDI, or 18 per cent if you properly match this Lexus by choosing these rivals in their automatic guises.
The combined consumption figure of 68.9mpg is staggering and one that cannot be touched by the competition. Throw in congestion charge exemption, reasonably-priced servicing and what’s almost certain to be a snail-like rate of depreciation and the running cost package looks compelling. This combined with the Lexus badge and the associated luxury of the brand results in a fantastic car at the top of the prestige hatch market with all the style, quality, comfort and innovation you expect from Lexus.

Essentials
Price £22,996 – £29,997
Performance 0-60 10.3s,
Max speed 113mph

Address book
Lexus of Poole
West Quay Road, Poole,
01202 667575

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