Skip advert
Advertisement

Lexus CT200h review - A premium hatchback alternative - Design

A frugal choice, but lags well behind German rivals for driving entertainment

Evo rating
RRP
from £21,000
  • Peerless Lexus service, reliability and tax-dodging emissions status
  • Eco focus makes for a dreary drive, yet the suspension is overly firm

Design

The CT is a curious looking hatchback, its heavy slab sides making it look weighty, more Toyota in its style than Lexus. The addition of the Lexus 'spindle' front grille has given it a more obviously familial look, but it’s unlikely the styling is ever going to have your head turn like it might with an optioned-up Mercedes-Benz A-Class.

Advertisement - Article continues below

In S specification the Lexus CT looks terribly under-wheeled, those deep flanks exacerbating the visual effect of tiny alloy wheels. A smart, rather than sharp looker then, which, in the cut-and-thrust compact premium marketplace, is a problem. 

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Polestar cars banned from sale in the US. Will Lotus be next?
Polestar 5 side
News

Polestar cars banned from sale in the US. Will Lotus be next?

The United States of America has shut the door on Polestar, the Department of Commerce removing the company’s authorisation to sell cars from the 2027…
26 Jun 2026
Subaru Impreza Turbo (1994-2000) review – an affordable modern classic rally icon
Subaru Impreza Turbo rear
Reviews

Subaru Impreza Turbo (1994-2000) review – an affordable modern classic rally icon

We knew the Subaru Impreza Turbo was special when it was new. The years haven't dulled this Japanese icon's appeal
28 Jun 2026
Morgan's Midsummer Coupé is its first fixed-roof hardtop since the Aero
Morgan Midsummer Coupé front
News

Morgan's Midsummer Coupé is its first fixed-roof hardtop since the Aero

Morgan’s returning to the fixed-roof coupe game, albeit on a limited-run basis for now
24 Jun 2026