Lexus has revealed how the hybrid drive system of the new CT 200h hatchback matches the driver's moods. The car will offer a choice of Dynamic or Relaxing characteristics.
There are four modes to govern the 1.8-litre petrol engine, electric motor and electrically controlled continuously variable transmission (E-CVT). The first three modes - electric (EV), ECO and Normal - are designed to give a smooth, quiet drive. Up to about 50km/h the car can run in purely electric mode while ECO provides a gentler response to the accelerator and the air conditioning runs in a more fuel efficient manner.
A fourth mode, Sport, 'lets the driver exploit the full potential of the CT 200h's dynamic qualities'. The changes include increasing voltage to the electric motor, allowing the engine to rev higher and making the throttle more sensitive to small inputs. Sport mode also alters the behaviour of the electric power steering and stability control, changes the colour of the instrument display from blue to red and replaces the hybrid power meter with a rev counter.
More details of the new, compact Lexus will be revealed at the Paris Motor Show at the end of the month.