Lexus CT200h review - A premium hatchback alternative - Prices, Specs and rivals

There might only be a single engine and transmission choice, but Lexus has gone to town on the trim levels. There’s the entry-level S, followed by SE, Advance, Luxury, Advance Plus, F Sport and Premier. The CT 200h S starts at just over £21,000, with the Premier model topping the price lists at a few quid under £30,000.

That S comes with a fairly comprehensive specification list, though those fuel and emissions saving 15-inch alloy wheels do look a bit measly under the chunky-sided body. SE adds some privacy glass, larger 17-inch alloy wheels and front fog lamps, though Advance is required if you want cruise control, keyless entry, heated seats, front and rear parking sensors and navigation.

Luxury gains the usual leather, though loses navigation. Advance Plus loses the leather but gets back the satnav. It all gets pretty confusing, above that, while F Sport brings 'sports suspension' and the lateral damping system as well as some F Sport specific styling changes. Premier adds all sorts of chrome and aluminium trim along with powered seats and a premium Mark Levinson audio upgrade.

Rivals are the usual Germanic trio of the BMW 1 Series, Audi A3 and Mercedes-Benz A-Class - all in their most economical diesel guises. If you’re really intent on saving the planet, then a BMW i3, VW e-Golf or Audi A3 e-tron all offer a more interesting drive, if higher price points.