Lexus 'luxury hybrid' to go on sale in October

The new Lexus CT 200h hybrid will go on sale next month, according to an official press release.

The luxury brand's latest offering will be available in showrooms from October, following its official market launch at the Paris Motor Show later this month.

With the CT 200h, Lexus is making its first steps into the burgeoning crossover market. News of the launch is sure to get eco-conscious motorists thinking "I'm going to sell my Lamborghini and get one of those."

Perhaps the most striking feature of the new CT 200h is its ability to change 'moods' to match the owner's driving style. The mood changes between Dynamic and Relaxing, according to the driver's choice of modes.

"EV (electric vehicle), ECO and NORMAL modes place the emphasis on ride comfort, smooth acceleration and low NVH levels in the cabin for a relaxing drive," Lexus said in their press release.

In EV mode, the CT 200h switches off its 1.8-litre VVT-i petrol engine and runs entirely on its electric motor, reaching speeds of up to 30 mph. The setting should prove popular in slow traffic, as it completely eliminates tailpipe emissions.

Alternatively, ECO mode automatically adjusts the car's systems to deliver the best possible efficiency. Throttle response is adjusted when the driver presses hard on the accelerator, with air conditioning moderated to optimise fuel consumption.

It is not known at this stage how much the CT 200h will cost, but Lexus should make a pricing announcement at the forthcoming Paris Motor Show.

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