The new Lexus hatchback - saving the planet in style

LEXUS brings a touch of posh to the hybrid hatch sector. David Vivian assesses its chances. Lexus is aiming to gatecrash the small prestige hatch territory dominated by Audi and BMW with an up-market/low emissions five-door hatch using the petrol-electric hybrid powertrain of the Toyota Prius and Auris HSD.

It’s the first hybrid in this sector and carries the promise of Lexus quality. Under the bonnet lies a 98bhp 1798cc variable timing four-cylinder engine that, working in tandem with an electric motor, delivers 134bhp.

Lexus has tweaked the electronics to smooth the delivery and, in Sport mode, provide a little more shove while sharpening throttle and steering response and reducing the effect of the stability control.

Like the Prius, there are three other settings: Normal, Eco and EV (in which you can travel on electric power alone at up to 28mph while battery reserves permit).

Premium small hatches as a breed don’t make space a big priority and the Lexus is no worse than the class norm, though what would be a decent luggage capacity is compromised by the battery pack located underneath the rear seats and boot floor.

Leg and headroom dimensions in the back look adequate and the small of stature shouldn’t feel cramped, though the CT’s high waistline means the view out won’t be great for everyone.

The good news is that, when it comes to perceived quality - the standard of the paintwork, fixtures and fittings, the sense of solidity and the tactility of the cabin materials - the Lexus should be able to stand toe-to-toe with Audi and BMW and maybe even force them to look to their laurels.