Sydney Motor Show: Lexus Introduces CT 200h F Sport

Lexus is currently running a close race with Mercedes-Benz for the title of the top selling luxury manufacturer in the United States market.

There are rumblings that the luxury division could be stepping up incentives in order to retain the title.

Regardless, a new product that Lexus counts on helping sales next year is the CT 200h hybrid hatchback.  Lexus is aiming to add a little visual drama with a new CT 200h F Sport model.

Unfortunately, the new car appears to be all show and no go though. Exterior updates include a more aggressive and redesigned front fascia, body kit, honeycomb upper grille, and a new rear bumper and diffuser.

The electric Flame Blue color that has debuted on previous Lexus F performance models features. The color looks particularly striking with the darkened windows. There is also larger alloy wheels in a gun metal finish.

The most important update to the actual driving experience would have to be modifications to the suspension.

Inside there is an F-exclusive trim, steering wheel, sports pedals, as well as a redesigned instrument panel.

The biggest bummer is no performance enhancements to the CT 200h's hybrid powertrain.  The car's standard 1.8-liter VVT-i four-cylinder engine makes 134 horsepower combined with an electric motor.

The engine is mated to a continuously variable transmission (E-CVT) and the setup provides a 9.8 second 0-60 time. As you can imagine, this isn't the best car for those looking for performance. The F-Sport sure will sure look the performance part though....