WINNER of a clutch of awards for its outstanding reliability, the CT200h has become one of the best-selling hybrids in the Lexus stable.

Eight years ago it introduced the compact hybrid hatchback to the luxury care segment. More than 300,000 have been sold since then.

But what it lacked was a touch more sportiness. Enter the CT200h F Sport.

With this latest update, Lexus looks to build on the model’s strengths and its well-earned reputation for efficiency and reliability, introducing a refreshed exterior that captures its driver-appeal – without compromising its user-friendliness and fuel economy.

Lexus sees it as a premium hybrid compact car for younger customers who enjoy spirited driving but care about the environment.

The programme of revisions is evident in the car’s new look, given significantly greater impact with a reworking of the front end. For instance, the daytime running lights keep their arrowhead pattern but have been repositioned so that they sit above the single-projector headlights.

The grille has been given a stronger look with the introduction of a new mesh pattern, while there are new metallic grey bezels for the fog lights, set in sharp-edged triangular surrounds.

Together these changes give the CT 200h a stronger road presence and more modern and athletic appearance.

There are changes at the rear, too, with new Lexus L-shaped LED taillights that create a wider, sportier look.

Sportier wheel designs spice up the car’s profile — from the entry-level 15-inch rims to the F Sport’s 17-inch dark metallic alloys.

Even at first glance it is easy to appreciate the status of the CT’s cabin as among the best in its class, thanks to the use of high-quality materials and rich surface textures.

The optional Lexus Premium Navigation System benefits from a significantly larger screen, increased in size from seven to 10.3 inches for a clearer display and greater ease of use.

The F Sport version benefits from specific changes that reinforce its status as the sports-focused model in the range.

It is available with a two-tone exterior paint finish and distinctive new colours – Solar Flare and Azure Blue – which both look very classy and in line with the car’s aspirations.

In the cabin, exclusive combination finishes are available, including two-tone leather upholstery.

The engine and electric motor combine to produce 136bhp, while the combined fuel economy is 68.9mpg on the combined cycle.

The exterior has certainly been given a stronger presence – particularly in the case of the F Sport version - while cabin quality has been enhanced.

There are new colour and trim options, a 10.3in infotainment system and the inclusion of Lexus's Safety System, which features autonomous emergency braking up to the speed of 50mph, lane departure, traffic sign recognition, adaptive cruise control and headlamp assistance.

The bottom line is that the CT200h just won’t cut it when compared with hatchback offerings from rival German premium brands that provide a more spirited drive.

With an acceleration figure of 10.3 seconds for a 0 to 62mph sprint, the F Sport version seems anything but sporty, and bringing your right foot down on the pedal introduces a less than welcome noise. Without doubt, the CT200h is made for cruising, in which it excels at both high and low speeds.

Still, if you are looking for quality and refinement, an appealing cost of ownership for company car drivers, stacks of equipment and reliability, it should go on your shopping list.