Lexus CT 200h F Sport

Lexus CT 200h F Sport

The 2011 Honda CR-Z was meant to be the car that showed hybrids could be sporty as well as green, but sadly, its lowly 122 horsepower and dismal 0-60 times meant it was never going to be taken seriously in performance circles. Fortunately, there’s another hybrid vehicle on the horizon that may live up to the challenge. The car is the 2011 Lexus CT 200h, which is scheduled to go on sale in the U.S. early next year.

Hybrid power, low emissions and high fuel efficiency: it’s not the kind of equation that suggests the kind of sharp and sporty driving that Lexus claims owners of the CT 200h will be able to experience. But this hasn’t stopped the automaker from rolling out a new version of its hatch fitted with its latest F Sport go-fast accessories.

Performance and exterior enhancements include unique suspension, front and rear styling, alloy wheels and badging, along with the choice of Lexus' special Flame Blue exterior paint scheme. Inside, the F Sport enhanced CT 200h receives optional unique interior trim including an F Sport steering wheel, sports pedals, scuff plates, instrument panel and privacy glass.

Of course, the car also comes with the CT 200h’s standard body performance damper system, designed to improve ride and handling. In the case of the hybrid hatch, Lexus has used the damping technology as a way of increasing torsional rigidity, suppressing vibrations and contributing to ride comfort without the penalty of significant extra weight.

The damper design is like that of a monotube shock absorber. Used in place of conventional rigid bracing, they are deployed between the front suspension towers, and at the rear across the lower back panel.

Sadly, no changes were made to the car’s hybrid drive system but at least CT 200h owners will be able to look like they’re going fast with these new F Sport accessories when the car launches next year.

[Lexus]