Facelifted Lexus CT 200h requires 'driver effort' to achieve average fuel economy

Lexus has owned the premium hybrid hatchback market for the past eight years, with the CT200h remaining the only car in the segment.

Sales have been strong, despite the niche, with 28,650 models shifted in the UK alone of which around 55% went to fleets.

This year, Lexus has given the CT a new front end with a larger grille that is more in keeping with the rest of its range.

Inside, a larger infotainment screen is available on higher-spec models, but the CT’s interior layout is messy and dated compared to European rivals.

The Lexus CT 200h is available to test at CCIA 2018 

A new suite of safety systems introduce autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control and lane keep assist to the line-up.

Trim levels have been revised and simplified, giving drivers a choice of five models priced from £23,495.

The CT is only available with one engine – the 1.8-litre hybrid from a Toyota Prius. It emits 88g/km of CO2.

High levels of refinement and excellent build quality provide a smooth and relaxing ride. The CT is not especially nimble, mainly due to its weight, and therefore feels most at home on the motorway or in town.

Lexus claims an average fuel economy figure of 74.3mpg for the CT. While this is achievable, it requires a considerable amount of driver effort.

If driven like a conventional car, a more realistic – but still impressive – figure of 50mpg should be expected.

Benefit-in-kind taxation is attractive, too, with a 20% taxpayer billed less than £1,000 per year.

Over a four-year cycle the CT will cost a fleet operator about the same as an Audi A3 Sportback 2.0 TDI. 

The two cars have comparable dimensions and both wear a premium badge, however the Audi’s performance and interior layout may tempt user-choosers to pay a little extra tax and opt for the A3.