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

Land Rover Defender Octa review – the super SUV that’s more fun than sports cars
Land Rover Defender Octa – front
In-depth reviews

Land Rover Defender Octa review – the super SUV that’s more fun than sports cars

Put aside your SUV cynicism. The Land Rover Defender Octa is a triumph, with 911 GT3 levels of engineering making it an unexpected thrill to drive
8 Jan 2026
Toyota GR Yaris Morizo RR is the 911 GT3 RS of hot hatchbacks
Toyota GR Yaris Morizo RR
News

Toyota GR Yaris Morizo RR is the 911 GT3 RS of hot hatchbacks

Limited run GR Yaris Morizo RR was inspired by its Nürburging 24 hour performance and championed by the company boss.
9 Jan 2026
Used Alpinas – four tuned BMW Bahnstormers from the end of an era
Used Alpinas
News

Used Alpinas – four tuned BMW Bahnstormers from the end of an era

Alpina is to be reinvented under full BMW ownership – the perfect excuse to buy into a used one
7 Jan 2026