Overview & Reviews

Historically, hybrids have been known for having certain strengths. Of course, fuel economy is one of them. But engaging handling? Not so much. These days, though, there are models on the market that are more ambitious, promising great mileage sweetened with a sportier driving experience. One such model is the Lexus CT 200h.

The Lexus CT 200h shares its powertrain with the Toyota Prius. The main distinction here is that the sporty-looking CT 200h is designed specifically for better handling, with a low stance and special suspension components. It's an appealing idea, to be sure. But just as with the rash of compact cars many premium brands are introducing to their showrooms, the CT 200h stretches the traditional definition of a luxury car as it's small inside and out, not particularly powerful and not particularly plush.

Current Lexus CT 200h
The Lexus CT 200h is a hybrid-electric, compact four-door hatchback. There is a single powertrain choice, a 1.8-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine combined with a powerful electric motor. Depending on the driving situation, one or both drive the CT 200h's front wheels through a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). The engine makes 98 horsepower, but the entire hybrid system -- essentially the same used in the Prius -- can generate a total of 134 hp.

The CT 200h comes in a single trim level. Standard features include automatic climate control, Bluetooth phone connectivity, an eight-way power driver seat, premium vinyl upholstery and a six-speaker sound system. Most of the CT's truly upscale features come in several option packages, however. These include LED headlamps, adaptive cruise control, auto-dimming side mirrors, leather upholstery, a navigation system and a premium sound system. An F Sport Special Edition package is also available that includes unique wheels, a sport-tuned suspension and special upholstery.

Compact dimensions and efficient hybrid drive mean the Lexus CT 200h's chief asset is exceptional fuel economy, and our testing generated an overall economy of nearly 40 mpg; the EPA rates the CT 200h at 43 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway, figures few luxury cars of any description can match. Acceleration, however, is not a strength, although the CT 200h handles nimbly enough.

If you're expecting standard Lexus opulence and lots of wood trim, you won't find it here. But the CT 200h cabin is still upscale, with soft-touch surfaces on the most heavily trafficked contact points. The optional leather upholstery feels rich and pliable but the standard "NuLuxe" premium vinyl upholstery is convincing and won't disappoint. The cabin looks modern and high-end, with the exception being the radio's dated layout and display screen. There is reasonable luggage room -- 14.3 cubic feet -- and the hatchback configuration with folding rear seats makes for cargo-carrying flexibility that other entry-level luxury sedans can't match.

Used Lexus CT200h Models
The Lexus CT 200h debuted for the 2011 model year. First-year CT 200h models did not have the audio warning system added in 2012 to notify pedestrians and cyclists of this quiet car's presence at low speeds. Also added after the CT 200h's first year on the market was the optional F Sport package with sportier body pieces, special 17-inch tires and flashier interior detailing.

For the 2014 model year, the CT 200h received a face-lift that brought it more in line with the rest of the Lexus lineup. Mechanically it remained unchanged, but a handful of new features debuted. These items include LED low-beam headlights, a black-painted roof for the F Sport package, a new steering wheel, an updated Remote Touch interface and improved speakers for the audio system.

User Reviews:

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  My city car - 2016 Lexus CT 200H
  By CSH - October 1 - 8:53 pm

  I have owned the car for 1 month and so far there has been no issues. It can be a bit noisy and you do feel every bump but I use it mainly for city driving so I am ok with that. Great gas mileage and you get the Lexus support. A great entry into the luxury car market.

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  Excellent Car - 2012 Lexus CT 200H
  By rjab - September 6 - 1:24 pm

  Had this car for a week now and its amazing. Getting already 45 mpg with mixed city and highway driving. Got the Premium trim with Audio package, HDD Navigaton and Leather Package. Love the drive and the sports mode. Saving a lot of money on the gas. Got the Factory Invoice price from my dealer.

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  This car will not disappoint - 2011 Lexus CT 200H
  By lesha2 - July 14 - 2:45 am

  I love this car. It is a win win all the way. Had to get used to a smaller car as I previously owned an SUV. Got over it pretty fast. Feels very luxurious. Its quiet. It has enough power and is definitely cute.

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  A Prius with a whole lot of style - 2011 Lexus CT 200H
  By mscottie - March 9 - 12:53 pm

  This car is not a rocket, but its got more than adequate pickup when you need it (especially from a stop). Handling is great for a non-AWD vehicle, even with the mediocre OEM tires. The seats are fantastic with large bolsters (dont know what the heck the Motorweek folks are talking about!). Absolutely no complaints about the layout of the controls, although the navigation system is unnecessarily awkward to use (I much prefer the Navigon & TomTom apps on my iPhone, but its not built into the car). About 2K miles in and were averaging over 45MPG of mostly city/suburban driving (but we still get about 45 on the highway, too).

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  Underpowered!!!! - 2016 Lexus CT 200H
  By Robert - December 25 - 6:27 am

  This car struggles to merge and uphill. It turns out this is more like a Prius with some nicer interior and better design. I would not purchase this vehicle ever again. Good thing I leased and in 3 years or less I will be out of it. I would recommend the Golf GTI or the Mazda 3 S Hatchback over this expensive Lexus.

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  Fun to drive - 2013 Lexus CT 200H
  By john684 - October 29 - 1:56 pm

  This car is actually very slow. But it feels really fast! Perhaps because it is low to the grown and the suspension and steering is sport tuned. It is a very fun car to drive. Handles well. Cargo space is extremly limited and the tech package is out of date.

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  Better than I expected - 2012 Lexus CT 200H
  By bob446 - August 10 - 10:51 pm

  I just retired, so I traded the LS460 for this economical hybrid. The adjustment hasnt been as difficult as I anticipated. The CT has sufficient power, many of the usual Lexus luxuries, and provides a warm feeling about saving the planet. I drive in the Normal mode, and after warm-up, frequently see the car running on only battery power when steadily cruising as fast as 40 mph. Although not as silent as an LS (but what is?), it is acceptably quiet except during hard acceleration.

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  good but - 2012 Lexus CT 200H
  By roberta22 - July 2 - 1:28 pm

  I love my Lexus. Have had it for almost 2 years and Im still getting good mileage. I also think its fun to drive and very easy on freeways with all the start and stop of urban driving. What I didnt think about when I purchased it (and should have) was how low to the ground it is. Easy for the driver to get in and out but almost always have to pull away from the curb to let a passenger in and out. Have been losing air pressure in my tires and now find out that its corrosion of the chrome wheels. So far two wheels have had to be resealed. Anybody else have this problem? Let me know...

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  Long waiting for part replacement - 2012 Lexus CT 200H
  By algebra1 - June 18 - 3:06 pm

  I bought this car in August 2011 waiting four months for its delivery. On Oct 29 my car was slightly hit from behind and required auto-body repair. It turns out that there is a long waiting time for part delivery. I was told that it will take three weeks at least. That implies that I will be without the car for at least one month taking into asccount the repair time. I wouldnt advise to buy CT200H unless Lexus will correct this unacceptable situation with part delivery.

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  Love this Car!! - 2012 Lexus CT 200H
  By viv86 - April 30 - 4:26 am

  I wanted a hybrid but resorted to looking at cars with better gas mileage until I saw this car in a commercial and then at an Auto Show. I am so glad I found this car! I am getting the same gas mileage as the estimates but am trending better than 43 mpg. Ive only had it for two weeks and the mpg is getting better as I continue to learn how to drive it. The trunk space the interior cabin are small but for someone who doesnt drive a lot of passengers around it is fine. The beauty of this car is that you can get more power just by turning a dial to "sport mode". When in that mode the pick up is noticeably quicker than when in "normal mode". I am very happy with this car!