New Lexus Hot Hatch, Almost

With the introduction of the LFA last year, you might think that Lexus would start to make hot versions of their current line-up. So far the only sporty Lexus since the LFA has been the IS-F, but last week Lexus announced you can now order a new range topping version of their compact luxury hybrid called the CT200h F-Sport.

The disappointing news is that the new CT F-Sport will not be any faster or more powerful than the standard car since there has been no change to the engine. The F-Sport will have the same 1.8L petrol unit teamed with an electric motor and a CVT gearbox, just like a Prius, that goes from standstill to 62mph in 10.3 seconds, which is not hot hatch territory.

The similarities with the very friendly and green Prius end there however. Even though there is no change to the power plant, the F-Sport does come with the usual hot hatch trinkets; a more muscular bodykit, diamond shaped mesh front grille, darker 17-inch alloys and a bigger spoiler on the boot lid on the outside and a flat bottomed steering wheel, aluminium pedals and black headlining on the inside.

The most important change to the little Lexus is the suspension. The F-Sport has been fitted with Kayaba dampers to help minimise body vibrations meaning a much better driving experience compared to the usual CT.

If you're looking for a more environmentally friendly car with no road tax and lower fuel costs that actually looks like a little gas guzzling rascal then this is sounding like the car for you. However there are others like it out there but with diesel engines instead of a petrol-electric hybrid. The new Lexus will cost £27,850 which is a lot more than the current S-Line Audi A3 Sportback with its smallest diesel engine (£22,925) and the new BMW 116d Sport (£22,125).

Unlike the German rivals though, the Japanese hatch comes with all the CT SE-L's equipment plus electric and heated front seats, cruise control, folding and auto-dimming wing mirrors and a rear parking camera as standard.