Lexus CT (11 on) - Review

While Lexus may want the tagline to read ‘world’s first compact premium hybrid’, look beyond the company spiel and in fact the CT200h is merely an affordable way in to the Lexus brand and an avenue for the manufacturer to try and pull in ‘younger’ buyers. It’s also a way of stopping Toyota customers leaving the Toyota/Lexus family and buying an Audi A3 or BMW 1-Series when they fancy an upgrade. So the hybrid hatchback has a lot to live up to. Powered by a 1.8-litre petrol engine combined with an electric motor this is an affordable car in a premium package. The problem is, that compared to the competition and the market it’s aimed at, affordability isn’t everything. Performance is a major part of the package and this is where the CT200h suffers. While the handling is sharp and precise it’s let down by a lifeless drive and then there’s the petrol and electric hybrid engine, which is sluggish and unresponsive. What it does have over its rivals is a good level of standard equipment and well-finished interior. If you are willing to make some compromises and your priorities are low running costs over an engaging driving experience, then there is no reason why the CT200h can’t be a viable alternative to the premium hatchback norms.