Our cars: Lexus CT200h - August

Lexus CT200h SE-L Premier

Week ending August 24
Mileage 16,072
Driven this week 241 miles

Lexus CT200h review

Now, I know you expect leather seats to wear over time, but the driver's seat in the Lexus is cracked after just nine months and 16,000 miles.

I admit I haven't used any leather conditioner on the seats, but then I wouldn't think it necessary so soon. I'd expect the leather to look like new for a lot longer, especially in a premium car such as the CT200h.

Is anyone else suffering with the same thing?

Neil.Williams@whatcar.com

Week ending August 17
Mileage 15,831
Driven this week 473 miles

At weekends, I've got the choice of driving my Lexus CT200h or my girlfriend's four-year-old Skoda Octavia vRS Estate.

The Skoda is far more practical for her son and dog, and its ride is also far smoother than the CT's. Even if we're popping to the shops – something that the Lexus should be perfect for – we find that a diesel performance estate is more comfortable and refined than the upmarket Lexus.

Neil.Williams@whatcar.com


Week ending August 3
Current mileage 14,840
Miles driven this week: 1321 miles

The Lexus is a mixed bag on long trips; mostly bad, but there are good points.

After a 500-mile drive, my back didn't ache thanks to the supremely comfortable and supportive driver's seat.

Unfortunately, the rest of me wasn't in such good shape. The punishing ride and constant noise and vibration you're subjected to at speed are tiring, to the extent that I'd rather have been in any of the CT200h's rivals.

Talking of which, we're testing the Lexus against a BMW 1 Series, Volkswagen Golf and Volvo V40 in the October issue of the magazine, which goes on sale on Thursday, August 23. If you're in the market for a premium hatchback, read this test before arranging any test drives.

Neil.Williams@whatcar.com