HYBRID motoring will take an upmarket turn when the next new Lexus model reaches the showrooms later this year.

Designed and developed to intensify the Japanese brand's battle for sales in Europe, the CT 200h will be the first compact-sized petrol-electric car in the premium sector.

Styled for maximum aerodynamic efficiency and minimum wind noise, the five-door car is expected to deliver class-leading CO2 emissions.

To be revealed at the Geneva Motor Show, the model is powered by a 1.8-litre engine and an electric motor. Four drive modes will be available from an CVT transmission with electronic control and the car's batteries will give it a range of 1.2 miles at speeds of up to 28mph in zero-emissions mode.

‘We believe the size and packaging of the CT 200h will address the requirements of discerning and environment-conscious customers in a key market sector. But it will not compromise the quality, refinement and driving pleasure that are the hallmarks of Lexus,' said a spokesman.