Road test: Lexus CT200h Premium

The Lexus CT200h compact hatchback, which has been given a mid-life revamp, is just about its maker’s most London-friendly offering. A petrol/electric hybrid, the 200h takes Toyota Prius bits and sticks them into something more upmarket.

The new one has a revised grille, back bumpers, alloy wheels and some other visual tweaks, although with its shallow, fussily-styled side windows and stocky profile, it’s not conventionally beautiful. Arcane engineering details, from extra welds to new glues, under-body fins and engine dampers, have been used to make the Lexus quieter and improve its ride and cornering. There’s not much wrong with its handling skills, although dynamically the car is uninvolving and the ride often firm.

Its 1.8 petrol engine, mated to a CVT automatic, still sounds demented when revved hard and 0-62 in 10.3 secs and a top speed of 112mph are pedestrian on paper, although fine in the real world.

The CT200h is a capable motorway cruiser and nice to use around town, where it wafts along in the quietly relaxed electric mode that has made the Prius such a pleasure in London, slipping smoothly to petrol power when required. Many of the changes, from replacing a can of tyre seal goo with a space saver spare wheel, a hill hold and other improvements to its controls and sat-nav, all make the CT200h nicer to use. its cabin is comfortable and well made.

Lexus claims the CT200h will attract youthful, dynamic go-getters but i think it will appeal to well-heeled older drivers looking to downsize.