Lexus CT200h

Lexus has unveiled the new CT 200h - the first full hybrid vehicle to be launched in the premium compact segment. 

The new 5-door compact model offers full hybrid technology and low emissions without compromising on the quality, refinement and driving pleasure expected from a Lexus.

The CT200h hybrid was specifically designed and developed with the European market in mind and Lexus hopes it will help attract new, younger customers to the brand.

Exterior and interior design
The production-ready CT 200h boasts similar styling to the Lexus LF-Ch concept which was unveiled at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show.

The exterior is styled for maximum aerodynamic efficiency and minimum wind noise. The CT 200h’s distinctive, sharp-edged look with prominent Lexus L-finesse design also sets it apart from its premium compact rivals.

The interior combines superior ergonomics with extensive use of metallic finishes and dark, soft-touch surfaces. The CT 200h retains the asymmetrical dashboard design seen in the LF-Ch but is split into an upper Display Zone, with an eight-inch LCD multi-display screen; and a lower Operation Zone, with the shift lever and other controls such as Lexus’s Remote Touch.

In spite of its compact design, the CT 200h offers a roomy interior. The 2,600mm wheelbase boasts one of the most spacious front and rear passenger accommodation in its class and the 345 litre luggage capacity can increase to 700 litres with the rear seats lowered.

Lexus Hybrid Drive
The Lexus Hybrid Drive system in the CT 200h combines a 1.8-litre VVT-i petrol engine with a powerful electric motor. The driver has a choice of four selectable drive modes: ECO and NORMAL which place the emphasis on efficiency and comfort, while SPORT focuses on dynamic performance.

The CT 200h also has an EV (electric vehicle) mode that allows for ultra-quiet running on the electric motor alone, resulting in zero fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. The car is capable of running in EV mode for up to 1.2 miles at speeds up to 28mph.

Chassis and suspension
The CT 200h is built on a new platform which has been specifically developed to combine ride comfort with superior driving involvement and handling agility.

Several elements in the MacPherson strut design have been exclusively developed for the mode, including the coil springs and shock absorbers, and a new front anti-roll bar has been designed to deliver improved roll rigidity.

The new double wishbone rear suspension is exclusive to the CT 200h and incorporates a lightweight trailing arm. The springs and shocks are positioned separately to minimise intrusion into the loadspace floor

The new Lexus CT 200h will debut at the Geneva Motor Show this week and worldwide sales launch in late 2010.

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Donna Kelly

Check out these new hybrids…
> Subaru go electric at Geneva
> Vauxhall Flextreme GT/E
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01/03/2010