OFFICIAL: Lexus Audi A3
February 26th, 2010 by Richard Aucock
LEXUS has revealed full production images of its new premium compact hatch due later in 2010.
The Lexus CT 200h will be the sector’s first full hybrid model and is already hinting at ‘class leading CO2 emissions’.
Using a 1.8-litre petrol engine mated to an electric motor, the 5-door hatch can even run in full electric mode at low speeds. This means it produces NO CO2 emissions.
Electric running is not huge, at 1.2 miles, and the speed is capped to 28mph before the engine restarts. But, says Lexus, it will still be useful in city traffic. The batteries are recharged on the move, by the engine and brakes.
It uses a new front-drive platform, says Lexus, with hi-tech double wishbone suspension at the rear. Here, clever engineering has maximised boot space – dealers can quote 345 litres seats up.
This means there is no space penalty despite the needs to accommodate batteries. A long wheelbase also maximises interior space, promises the firm.
There is a cool, gadget-laden dash with a quality of finish to challenge Audi, we are told. Four driving models include ECO, NORMAL, SPORT and EV, meaning there are lots of toys for drivers to play with.
Car Dealer Magazine will see the new model for the first time at Geneva next week. There, we expect Lexus to stress the fact it produces virtually no particulate emissions and a tenth of the NOx of an equivalent diesel.
Making this the ‘greenest premium hatch’ there has yet been: perfectly in tune with our times.
We’ll sneak out more details then, including an idea of CO2 emissions and prices… but for now, what are your first reactions to our Lexus CT 200h image gallery?
Tags: ct 200h, geneva 2010, lexus