For what will be the final year of U.S. availability of the Lexus CT 200H, the company has made some notable changes to the vehicle. Those changes include an altogether more fluid and aggressive look.

The car was due to be removed from Lexus’ U.S. model lineup last year, and may have seen a last annual iteration as a smooth transition. It is likely that the 2018 CT 200H will provide a shift to a more competitive crossover model in its class for 2019. Hatchbacks aren’t the current fashion. And, the company will want to make a splash with its replacement, which could represent a real leap forward for the price point.

With a new mesh grille, and projector lights that are less intrusive to the overall look of the front end, the CT 200H looks ahead to the crossover to come. A more fluid back end, tail lights and back windscreen bring the car’s visuals more into line with the competition, suggesting speed, increased width, and better aerodynamics.

The 2018 CT 200H cabin gets some sprucing as well, including an optional 10.3” touchscreen for the updated infotainment system, and the option of a bamboo veneer as a cosmetic; a nice touch, which should appeal to the ecologically-conscious buyer who wants his or her hybrid vehicle to overtly look the part. Floor mats partially made of sustainable material also improve the car’s perceived carbon footprint.

As far as how it looks as a sporty crossover, Lexus decided on black finish accents, deepened side creases, and 17” alloy wheels. Performance and safety tech updates include a lane departure alert and control, automated headlight beam control, road sign recognition, and radar-guided cruise control.

The hybrid powerplant for the 2018 model will be the same 134 horsepower blend of 98 HP gas and 80 HP electric motors. The system provides fuel economy of 43 MPG, a very appealing number in the late 2010’s.