Lexus CT 200h – the entry-level Lexus – gets a bit of a makeover.

The Lexus CT 200h – Lexus’s now seven-year old entry-level model – gets a range of exterior and interior design tweaks and updates for the 2018 model year.

It’s almost seven years since the Lexus CT 200h arrived as a new entry-level Lexus – and its only hatchback – in an effort to capture downsizers and a younger market.

But the CT wasn’t an overwhelming success, seeming to fall between two stools with a sporty ride without the power to exploit it.

Things perked up a bit with the arrival of a facelift for the CT in 2014 which saw the ride in the Lexus improve – and the looks – and there’s now no doubt it’s now a decent – slightly left-field- option to other premium hatchbacks.

How much longer the Lexus CT will last we’re not sure – it’s being dropped in the US from next year – but we assume a bit longer at least as Lexus has just revealed a range of titivations for the CT for the 2018 model year.

The CT gets a new spindle grille with new mesh – making all models look rather like the F Sport – and new front bumper with new fog housings and new running lights.

Round the back there’s updated lights and styling tweaks, as well as new paint options and a new selection of alloys.

Inside there is a new selection of upholstery materials and an optional 10.3″ infotainment, and the actual F-Sport models get a new grille and black highlights.

In 2017 and update wouldn’t be complete without new technology, so the CT gets an optional Lexus Safety System Plus Package.

The 2018 Lexus CT 200h is expected to go on sale in the UK later in the year with prices which shouldn’t be much different to the current CT’s £22.5k starting price.