Lexus baby hybrid is go

15th February 2010

It's official – Lexus’ new rival to the Audi A3 and BMW 1-Series will be called the CT 200h.

The new entry-level compact car will make its world debut at March’s Geneva Motor Show, before going on sale next year. And as the badge suggests, it will be available only with a hybrid powerplant.

The drivetrain is likely to be a development of that in the Toyota Prius – a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine working with an electric motor to give an output of at least 150bhp. And this will make the CT 200h the first full hybrid in its class. Styling will be near-identical to the three-door LF-Ch concept seen at last year’s Frankfurt expo, and the cabin will seat four. Prices will start from around £17,500.

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