Lexus dealers finally get the brand's first small executive model in their showrooms from October.

The CT200h is the Japanese premium brand's first small hatchback, and it also uses hybrid technology - combining a 1.8-litre petrol engine with an electric motor and electronically controlled CVT transmission.

It has a choice of driving modes that let drivers tap into the car’s full dynamic potential, or opt for optimum eco-performance.

 Being a full hybrid, CT200h can operate automatically in EV mode, switching off the petrol engine and running on its electric motor alone, at speeds from start-up up to 30mph.

EV mode can also be selected manually by the driver.

Lexus sales suffered during the recession as the brand had no small cars to offer motorists looking to downsize.