Lexus CT 200h - superb efficiency and driving experience

Lexus are pioneers in making hybrids, a lot of their models powered by hybrid systems are on the roads. Incredible fuel efficiency, low emissions, sharp and sporty handling are some of the features of CT 200h.

Lexus CT 200h is equipped with lateral performance dampers, components that, until now, have largely been the preserve of a very few high-performance models.

The lateral dampers are key elements in a detailed package of design and engineering measures that also includes strategic strengthening and carefully gauged welding quality throughout the vehicle.

The are three available drive modes - SPORT, NORMAL AND ECO.

CT 200h will compete against BMW 1 Series and Audi A3, which currently dominate on the market.

Lexus CT 200h (2011)

• Lateral performance dampers

The Lexus CT 200h is the first volume production model to use front and rear lateral performance dampers to increase torsional rigidity and reduce vibration.

The dampers' design is like that of a monotube shock absorber, as shown in the diagram below. Used in place of conventional rigid bracing, they are deployed between the front suspension towers, and at the rear across the lower back panel. Each damper assembly is tailored to suit the rigidity, noise and vibration performance in its immediate surroundings.

As well as absorbing and minimising unwanted vibrations, particularly through the vehicle floor, they improve steering feel and ride comfort. Body deformation is also significantly reduced: in testing, Lexus engineers recorded a 15 per cent reduction in the displacement of the left and right suspension towers.

Their contribution to on-board comfort even extends to cutting the amount of white noise transmitted through the car's audio system, the kind of attention to detail that is a hallmark of Lexus engineering.

• Structural rigidity

Lexus's ambition is for the new CT 200h to set a benchmark for handling in its segment. To help meet this goal it has targeted measures to give the car excellent structural rigidity, in particular by optimising weld points and bracing around the vehicle.

On the underbody weld spot density has been increased where the rear floor cross-members connect with the wheel housings and bracing has been added to both the front and rear suspension systems. Extensive reinforcement has been added to the wheel mounts, steering gearbox mount, steering column assembly and the suspension members. The front suspension towers, front cowl and front pillars are all connected by a network of bracing.

The front floor brace, hybrid vehicle battery carrier and the rear lower support members are also all designed for high rigidity performance.

On the upper body, a fully closed cross-section runs around the full circumference of the tailgate, with inner gussets and outer reinforcements located on C- pillar.

• Comprehensive dynamic package

The work invested by Lexus in CT 200h's chassis and body forms part of a full dynamic package for the car that includes equally detailed attention to aerodynamics, steering, suspension and even the driver's position at the wheel to achieve sporty, rewarding performance.

The CT 200h will form the centrepiece of Lexus's display at the Paris motor show before going on sale in the UK early next year.

Lexus CT 200h outline technical specifications