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.
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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.
