Geneva Preview: Lexus unveils CT 200h

Lexus will be launching at next week’s Geneva Motor Show the first ful hybrid vehicle for the compact segment. The CT 200h is set to start being produced in late 2010 and will be sold worldwide.

The new model from Lexus was designed thinking on the European driver. The five-door compact car, is the first of the brand, and the full hybrid technology and low emissions are a response to the challenges of the new days, such as concerns for the environment.

The new Lexus CT 200h has a design close to the one presented with the LF.Ch concept, at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show. It follows the Lexus’ design philosophy of L-finesse. Conceived to have the maximum aerodynamic efficiency and minimum wind noise, the front grille that sits over a full-width bumper and air dam, is a reference to the LF-Ch concept. The front also include higher positioned headlamps units, which is one of the characteristics of the L-finesse design.

As for its hybrid drive, the CT 200h will be powered by a 1.8 litre VVT-I petrol engine, which will combine with an electric motor. The CT 200h gives drivers the option to choose between four different drive modes: ECO, NORMAL, SPORT and EV (electric vehicle).

The EV (electric vehicle) mode allows the Lexus CT 200h to travel for up to two kilometres at speeds below 45km/h on electric power alone.