A disconnected driving experience was one of the key criticisms of the Lexus CT 200h SE-L when Autocar road tested that version earlier this year. The 200h F-Sport also has Lexus’s lateral damping system fitted as standard.
The coil spring rates have been changed and the standard Showa shock absorbers replaced with Kayaba dampers with the aim of providing “more sports-oriented performance”. The lateral dampers help minimise body vibrations, leading to a more linear steering feel and greater comfort.
The Lexus CT 200h F-Sport gets external tweaks including 17-inch alloys, a larger rear spoiler, flared side skirts, a mesh front grille and revised bumpers. In the cabin a flat-bottomed steering wheel has been added, along with aluminium pedals and scuff plates.
The F-Sport is based on the CT 200h SE-L trim level, but gains cruise control, black leather upholstery, heated front seats, electric driver’s seat adjustment, auto-dimming, electrically retractable door mirrors and a rear parking camera.
Options include an HDD navigation system combined with Lexus’s Remote Touch control, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, back guide monitor and 10-speaker audio package. Front and rear parking sensors and a sunroof are also available.
Like the other cars in the CT200h range, the F-Sport version has a transverse-mounted 1.8-litre four-cylinder petrol engine up front producing a peak 98bhp. Sandwiched next to it is a ‘hybrid transaxle’ transmission channeling power to the front wheels, which incorporates an 81bhp, 153lb ft, AC synchronous electric motor.
The Lexus CT200h F-Sport produces 94g/km CO2 emissions, which means it is exempt from road tax, and is capable of 68.9mpg, according to manufacturer’s claims.
The new Lexus CT 200h F-Sport is available to order now, priced from £27,850, with first UK deliveries in January.
