Lexus unveils its first five-door, hybrid compact car - the CT 200h

The new Lexus CT 200h, which goes into production in late 2010 and is set for sale worldwide, aims to attract new, younger customers to the brand.

Designed and developed with the European market in mind, the Lexus hybrid drive system in the CT 200h combines a 1.8-litre VVT-i petrol engine with an electric motor.

Drivers have the choice of four selectable drive modes: Eco and Normal place the emphasis on efficiency and comfort, while Sport focuses on dynamic performance.

Unlike mild hybrid systems used by other manufacturers, the CT 200h also has an Electric Vehicle mode that allows for ultra-quiet running on the electric motor alone, resulting in zero fuel consumption and CO2, NOx and particulate emissions. The car is capable of running in EV mode for up to 1.2 miles at speeds up to 28mph.