The CT200h officially went on sale last April, and was so successful on debut that it ended 2011 as the third most popular luxury vehicle, and first in its class. It was also named 'Hybrid of the Year' by the National Business Review.

The model's success has helped launch Lexus into a strong 2012, which is set to further reinvigorate the Lexus marque with a range of new releases, says Lexus New Zealand Manager Debbie Pattullo.

"Hot on the wheels of the CT200h and the sensational flagship IS F 'Red Edition', a fleet of new Lexus models is due to hit our shores in 2012 across most segments of the luxury market."

Debbie Pattullo says Lexus New Zealand knew it had a winner on its hands, with CT200h, when advanced customer orders in March last year topped 30 vehicles, an unprecedented level for Lexus.

"The CT200h has a stunning mix of sportiness and hybrid technology, all in a stylish compact luxury package. The dual personality and size proved to have huge appeal to New Zealand drivers," says Debbie Pattullo.

Helped by a unique finance package which included free insurance, CT200h captured 22.2 per cent of the luxury compact segment for 2011, with 228 sales.

"There is a noticeable trend towards smaller vehicles, and the CT200h met the market perfectly," she says.

Looking ahead to this year's highlights, she says the new LX570 arriving in March is the first example of enhanced L Finesse design, featuring the new signature spindle grille. RX will also take on the new Lexus design look when it undergoes a model line-up change, incorporating for the first time F Sport models.

"Then the all-new GS will launch on a completely revised platform, having undergone a ground-up development aimed at propelling the Lexus GS line to the forefront of the medium Luxury sedan and Luxury Sports sedan segment," says Debbie Pattullo.

Finally, a new LS will bring a strong finish to an exciting year for Lexus, she says.

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