Lexus CT200h F Sport (2010), faster hybrids planned

Lexus is desperate to portray its new CT200h as the sporty hybrid. Hence the new Lexus CT200h F Sport unveiled at the Australian motor show.

There's a new styling pack, including an IS-F-alike snout, alloys and F Sport trims outside and a sportier interior.

The CT200h isn't expected to make it to the UK, but elements of the makeover could be offered in future. Most interesting is a new suspension set-up which is claimed to improve torsional rigidity.

Apparently so. Lexus insiders are acutely aware that the CT200h hybrid doesn’t have the performance to match its sporty (ie unforgiving) chassis.

‘We have another, higher performance powertrain in development,’ a source told Insider in the new issue of CAR out this week.

One option is the slightly pokier 2.4-litre hybrid powerpack from the US market HS250h (combined output 187bhp), although there’s scope for developing something more powerful. Here’s hoping.

By Tim Pollard