Lexus CT 200h Coming To North America

The HS 250 is a complete and utter failure. Debuting as some sort of bizzaro premium Prius for the Lexus loving crowd, it’s relatively astronomical price tag and middling fuel economy led to nearly unanimous criticism and dismal sales performance.

But apparently Lexus wants another kick at the can with this: the new CT 200h. Having debuted at the Geneva auto show, the new CT 200h promises to be the world’s first premium, compact, dedicated hybrid hatchback. Boasting a 1.8 litre Atkinson cycle engine (with as yet unannounced fuel mileage figures), the CT 200h promises to be capable of propelling the diminutive five door wagon on electric power alone for one mile. Initially expected to be limited to the European market, it was recently announced that the CT 200h will be a worldwide car, with deliveries in the European, Japanese, and American markets beginning in the first quarter of 2011.

If you’re grossly underwhelmed by this, and possibly confused by Lexus/Toyota’s continued desire to exploit every untapped niche (however small) the marketing departments can find, we think it’s safe to say that you number among the majority.