Lexus hybrid takes on the Nurburgring

Gazoo Racing fitted the CT 200h with a larger engine.

(Credit: Lexus)

Hybrids face the stigma of being more about fuel economy than sport, but the Lexus CT 200h intends to prove it can be a hot hatchback by lapping the Nurburgring. A CT 200h tuned up by Gazoo Racing will compete in the Adenauer ADAC Rundstrecken-Trophy, a six hour endurance race.

Along with suspension tuning, the CT 200h's standard 1.8-liter engine has been swapped out for a 2.4-liter. But the car retains its Lexus hybrid system, letting it use the electric motor from a stop and for added boost under acceleration. This hybrid system will give the CT 200h lower fuel use, a crucial advantage in an endurance race.

Gazoo Racing, a Japanese group racing various Toyota and Lexus models, missed an opportunity to also tune up the hybrid system of the CT 200h. A higher capacity lithium ion battery pack and a higher torque electric motor would give the car added acceleration.

The race will be held on Saturday, May 14.