The CT 200h is basically Lexus' answer to the BMW 1 Series, except that while the latter offers an entertaining drive via rear-wheel drive and (mostly) powerful engines, the Lexus takes aim at the greenies by using the mechanical core of the Toyota Prius.
It's certainly a different approach to tackling the premium compact segment and it's a stab at the status quo that Lexus believes will help attract a completely new set of younger customers into its fold when it launches locally this August.
Despite its front-wheel drive layout, the CT has been designed to offer a great ride/handling balance via a new platform that's been given the lowest possible centre of gravity and a high-rigidity, lightweight bodyshell.
The hatchback is a full hybrid, meaning that it's able to use either its petrol engine or electric motor alone (briefly in the latter case), or both simultaneously as will be the case most of the time.
The aforementioned system mates an Atkinson cycle 1.8-litre VVT-i petrol engine to an electric motor that delivers a total system output of 100kW. It also panders well to the drivers' mood, with four selectable driving modes comprising Normal, EV, Eco and Sport.
No word on pricing as yet, but given the slow acceptance of hybrid vehicles in SA so far, due to cost, they're going to have to price competitively if any significant volume is on the cards.