The Lexus CT 200h hybrid – Lexus’ first compact vehicle - will feature ground-breaking chassis technology when it goes on sale locally early next year.
Lexus says the CT 200h will be equipped with front and rear lateral performance dampers – like monotube shock absorbers, but used to boost the torsional stiffness of the body. The Japanese brand claims its use of lateral performance dampers is the first volume production application of the supercar technology that is a key factor in the CT 200h’s to-shelf driving dynamics.
According to Lexus, the CT 200h will deliver the fuel saving and environmental attributes of a hybrid with the sporty driving dynamics of a compact performance car. The CT 200h will compete against credentialed European rivals like the BMW 1-Series and Audi A3 and Lexus has been undertaking extensive test driving on European roads.
Chassis rigidity is crucial for crisp ride and handling as well as reduced NVH, so this is the area that has received most attention as Lexus engineers fine-tune the CT 200h. As well as the lateral performance dampers, even the battery carrier is used as a stiffening brace.
The Lexus CT 200h will be launched in
