The Lexus CT 200h is a full hybrid compact 5-door full of Lexus fit and finish and priced under $30,000. The CT200h was created and developed originally for the European market, but is now available in the US, and aimed directly at America's young, highly discerning and environmentally conscientious customers.
The driver-centered cabin is designed with clearly defined display and operational zones. Audio and telephone controls share the steering wheel, while three multi-function stalks are just behind, only an inch away. The shift lever is mounted high on the console, inches from the wheel. A console-mounted "mouse" operates the display on a large, central, pop-up eye-level screen for multiple control functions at a glance.
Seating surfaces are trimmed in a soft synthetic, but leather will be an available option. Front seats are designed in the deeply bolstered sports style. The rear bench is also bolstered as two separate sports seats and folds flat in a 30/70 split to add carrying capacity. Lexus-level safety is standard, as is dust and pollen filtration in the dual-zone climate control system.
Three factory option packages are available: "Premium Audio" includes a 6-disc premium system with 10 speakers, an electrochromic rearview mirror with compass, and Lexus Homelink. The "Leather Package" includes auto-dimming outer mirrors, driver memory seat, rain-sensing intermittent wipers and perforated leather seating surfaces. The "Navigation Package" has a long list of connectivity components along with voice-command and an array of navigational aids. A Pre-Collision System and a dynamic cruise control can be included as factory installed options.
The Toyota-developed, front-wheel-drive, hybrid system uses a highly efficient Atkinson cycle, DOHC 1.8 liter 4-cylinder engine and an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission. The engine is supplemented by a pair of 650-volt motor/generators. The system's total combined horsepower is 134, which is capable of delivering 0-60 times of 9.8 seconds and EPA fuel economy of 43 mpg city, 40 highway. The electric-assisted rack and pinion power steering includes power-splitting traction control.
Lexus describes two distinct driving "moods" Relaxing or Dynamic; and four driver-selected drive modes: EV, Eco, Normal and Sport. Full EV has a 1-mile range at 28 mph, while Eco simply reduces throttle response and air conditioning loads slightly below Normal. The Sport mode changes the character of the CT 200h to give a more enthusiastic driver better dynamics that include higher engine speeds with quicker throttle response, faster steering settings and less intrusion of Vehicle Stability and Traction Control systems. All of this is augmented by Lexus-developed low friction shock absorbers and a light-weight, large diameter front anti-roll bar.
Premium 5-door Compact, Gateway-to-Lexus Luxury Appointments
High Performance Hybrid Technology.
The new CT 200h is a new entry-level Lexus hybrid. It features a luxurious driver-focused cockpit designed for optimum driving experience. Deeply bolstered front seats give dynamic control and fold flat rear seat offer maximum utility volume. Lexus Premium audio and auxiliary electronic systems are standard. Front wheel drive with a Continually Variable Transmission (CVT) delivers the best possible performance and efficiency at all speeds and throttle positions.
Luxury buyers have had a short list of options when it comes to environmentally friendly, high-efficiency vehicles. The CT200h is based on sibling Toyota's Prius model, but adds Lexus-style luxury appointments. It's inexpensive at under $30,000, but comes with the styling, interior appointments and safety Lexus owners expect.
