A new hybrid rival to the Audi A3 and BMW 1-Series will make its UK debut at Greener Company Car in Action next week.

The Lexus CT200h will be shown in the UK at the event in Millbrook, Bedfordshire, with all visitors being given the opportunity to view the model due on sale early in 2011.

The premium compact hatchback will be the first petrol-electric hybrid in its class, and is expected to have CO2 emissions lower than 100g/km.

Saab has also signed up to the event on June 29 and 30, and will have its all-new 9-5 model – with CO2 emissions of 139g/km for the 160bhp diesel model – available for evaluation.

It will be the first time fleet decision makers would have had the chance to drive the new Saab in the UK and is the company’s first model to be launched since it was sold by General Motors earlier this year (see page 13 for more on Saab).

It will also be the first opportunity to get behind the wheel of other low-CO2 models such as the Toyota Auris Hybrid, Seat Leon Ecomotive and battery-powered Peugeot i0n.

Other new models available for testing include the Vauxhall Meriva, Honda CR-Z hybrid coupe, Alfa Romeo Giulietta and Peugeot RCZ.

Cars and vans from 15 brands will be available to drive at the 700 acre site, which has a variety of different road environments designed for evaluating vehicles.

Many of these routes, including a twisty hill course and a high-speed bowl, will be open to attendees.

Greener Company Car in Action will also include a range of displays and advice areas dedicated to helping fleets lower their running costs and reduce their emissions.

And this year’s event will see an increased focus on light commercial vehicles, as most visitors to Greener Company Car in Action also operate vans.

Several manufacturers will have their latest models to take out on the range of driving circuits.

The full list of vehicle brands attending is Alfa Romeo, Citroen, Fiat, Ford, Honda, Kia, Lexus, Mazda, Peugeot, Renault, Saab, Seat, Skoda, Toyota and Vauxhall.

To book your place at this year’s Greener Company Car in Action event go to www.fleetnews.co.uk/company-car-in-action/

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Author: Simon Harris