Lexus CT 200h F-Sport 5dr Car Review - April 2012

The handling of the CT 200h is not bad at all with steering that responds quickly although is lacking in feedback, and the car has plenty of grip and a body that remains stable while cornering. However, the ride is far too firm and is verging on uncomfortable on the majority of British roads which is really disappointing. Inside the cabin the steering wheel and driving seat do adjust well to suit the driver, and visibility is fine to the front and rear of the car.

The engine performance delivered by the CT 200h doesn’t seem at all bad on paper, with acceleration from 0-62mph achieved in 10.3 seconds. The main issue is that it does feel there is a lack of acceleration in the mid range. The top speed of 113mph is also plentiful, but while the CT 200h is refined at low speeds once the petrol portion of the engine starts to work it is quite noisy, with more road noise than you’d expect too.

The CT 200h is a fairly attractive hatchback with a small grille and air intake that is reminiscent of other Japanese manufacturers, clearly displaying its roots. The rear end is attractive and the privacy glass and small spoiler above the rear window does give the car a fairly sporty look. Inside the car the trim is very nice with a centre console that is nice and easy to use, and does justice to the premium reputation of Lexus.

The level of kit found as standard here is very good, with leather seats being a very desirable feature, and the alloy wheels certainly helping to keep the premium image of the car. Climate control helps to ensure that the driver and passengers remain comfortable throughout the journey, and cruise control does make it more civilized on the motorway.

This hatchback is a practical vehicle that can easily accommodate four adults, although headroom is a little limited in the back seats. Adding a fifth occupant will make things a little squashed in the back, as the centre console does restrict their legroom significantly. The boot size is also quite reasonable for a car of this size. Lexus does have a good reputation for reliability, and there is no doubt that the CT 200h will continue this reputation.

With eight airbags the CT 200h is certainly a safe car in an accident, and it also has a range of driver aids to help keep all four wheels pointing in the right direction. This is why the car was awarded five stars in the Euro NCAP safety test.

The purchase price for this model is likely to be fairly off putting for many people, with £27,850 seeming to be an awful lot of money to pay for a family hatchback, even one with a Lexus badge.

The hybrid engine does deliver some decent fuel efficiency figures, able to achieve an average 68.9mpg, and also has very low car tax to pay. The low insurance group does mean that the CT 200h isn’t too costly to insure, but the low resale values does mean drivers will take a hit when they sell the car. The car comes with three years’ roadside breakdown assistance, and is delivered with a three year or sixty thousand mile warranty which isn’t a bad package for cars in this class.