(Fri 26 Feb 10)

The CT 200h is both the first premium compact car devised by Lexus, and the first vehicle of that type to go on sale as a hybrid. Its powertrain is basically that of the Toyota Prius, with a 1.8-litre petrol engine, an electric motor and a CVT automatic transmission. Also like the Prius, there are four modes - normal, Eco (for greater economy), Sport and EV, the latter cutting out the engine altogether and allowing the CT 200h to run purely as an electric car for up to 1.2 miles at a maximum speed of 28mph.

With styling based on that of the LF-Ch concept displayed at Frankfurt last year, the CT 200h has been designed to provide an impressive amount of interior space. It's very similar in size to a Vauxhall Astra, but it has slightly more luggage capacity (345 litres) with the rear seats in their upright position.

The CT 200h will make its world debut at the Geneva Show next week, and will go on sale towards the end of the year.

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