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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  CT 200h w/Nav (2014)---Fun to Drive--- - 2014 Lexus CT 200H
  By thorpaj - April 18 - 6:59 am

  A lot of small to mid-sized sedans (Buick-too tacky interior, Mercedes-gas mileage, Mini-Cooper- too small, Mazda3-good hatchback) were test driven. In the end, the interior styling, comfort, small size (for city parking) and gas mileage benefits swayed me to this vehicle. It is used for city driving and a very long weekly commute. As you can imagine, in the city I keep it in sport mode and on the highway it goes into fuel sipping mode. It is very comfortable on long drives and spirited in the city. Works perfect for my purposes. The difference between sport and fuel sipping mode is remarkable. Also, it doesnt feel "small" when sitting behind the wheel.

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  Great MPG - 2012 Lexus CT 200H
  By feng2 - March 31 - 12:23 am

  Due to my long distance commute, I perchased the CT200h. I used to drive my Porsche Cayenne S to work. The MPG was about 18 MPG on average. I had this CT200h for three weeks now. The MPG is 44.3 on average for about 500 miles. Today, I filled up the tank with the regular non ethanol added fuel. The MPG is 49.7 MPG with 35 mile on the freeway in the Sport mode and 5 miles in the Normal mode. I am sure the MPG will reach 50 MPG if I drive it in the Normal mode full time. In Chicago area, the fuel has 10% ethanol in it. I have to add the non ethanol fuel in Indiana where I work. The non ethanol fuel does increase the MPG by at least 15%. I will stick to the non ethanol fuel then.

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  Sometimes a car is better than you think its going to be - 2013 Lexus CT 200H
  By kofender - December 11 - 4:02 am

  Ive had my CT200h for 2 weeks now, and while I really liked the car when I bought it, it has turned out to be better than I expected. Lets start with gas mileage: Im getting 50 mpg (not 42). Its way comfy and easy to get in and out of. The acceleration is just fine (and I drive a lot on the highway). Its very solid and more fun to drive than I ever expected. Overall, this was a much better choice than some of the other hybrids I considered (I only drive hybrids; this is my third). And heck, theres snob appeal to driving a Lexus, too.

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  It grows on you... big time - 2014 Lexus CT 200H
  By gregb72 - October 16 - 2:37 am

  Ive never driven a hybrid before, but have owned a lexus before. In my previous 2008 IS250, if you touch the gas, it jumps. Quick off the line. But I also got 20 mpg. You dont buy a CT200h for power. This car eases into speed from a stop. Hence the excellent gas mileage. What no critic that Ive read has revealed or maybe didnt notice, is that once you get up to speed, even 30-40 mph, especially in "sport" mode, the car responds and accelerates SURPRISINGLY well. As well as my old 200 hp IS250. If I need to pass a car on the highway, and go from 50 to 65, this car moves well. It feels more like 200hp when youre accelerating at speed. Not to mention the comfort and handling. A+

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  Great Upscale Hybrid - 2012 Lexus CT 200H
  By blackmambo - October 15 - 2:19 am

  My wife and I were looking to get a more efficient vehicle since most of our driving is within 5 miles of our house. We quickly found out in our research that the CT 200h ticked every box on our list: gas mileage, looks, build quality, reliability, comfort, and gadgets. For around $36,000 fully loaded, its actually priced very reasonably considering its from a luxury brand. Most reviews knock the car for its performance, which is odd since this is a hybrid. I was actually surprised to find power more than adequate for going up hills and merging. Handling is where this car shines - steering is tight and the car is very fun to drive. Rear seats are a bit tight but they are comfortable.

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  Great Vehicle - 2011 Lexus CT 200H
  By carfan19 - August 1 - 12:39 pm

  The more I talk to folks, the more I realize some people dont know how to manage their expectations. Having said that, if youre looking for the traditional "Plush" Lexus ride this isnt the car for you. This is a Prius wrapped up in a really nice and sporty car like Lexus package. This combo gives you a good mix of fuel economy, sporty design and great build quality. Im really searching to find negatives about this car and the only one I can come up with is the lack of HomeLink, which is tied to the navigation package. For a Lexus this should be a standard feature, regardless of package. Other than that, I absolutely love this car.

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  If this one dies Ill buy another. - 2011 Lexus CT 200H
  By Reverend E - May 31 - 6:53 pm

  I drive between SF Bay Area and San Diego frequently. I average 43-44 mpg, the ride is comfortable and I am 63" 250 lbs. I do the drive with one stop for gas and a bite to eat. When I get to my destination Im actually able to get out and stretch and get on with what Im doing. My other vehicles I feel like Im climbing off of the rack. My CT is very quiet and comfortable for a small hatchback. The ONLY time I hear my engine winding up is when Im going over the grapevine with a car that has three and luggage or me and my rather heavy tools. Is the car fast? No but that doesnt matter to me, speed limit is 70 on the 5. Does it handle? Yes it does. Clover leafs, mountain roads it feels like my little CT is on rails. Reliable? You bet. I never get in my car and wonder, "is it going to start this time?". Drove across lower Canada without a care. Fill up, go. My wife loved my CT so much she ditched her Mercedes 350CLK and got one herself. Fuel costs and maintenance costs were killing her, she just had to promise we wouldnt be wearing matching track suits next. If your on the fence dont be, go buy your CT.

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  Lexus comfort and great mpg! - 2011 Lexus CT 200H
  By bcompton1 - May 20 - 9:25 pm

  This is truly a gas "sipper". On my first tank of gas I am averaging 44.1 mpg in mostly city driving. The car is typical Lexus as it is an extremely smooth and quiet ride. Contrary to some of the expert reviews, I find the interior features are conveniently placed and easy to use and the features of the navigation system are very hi tech with current weather, xm sports team features, stocks etc, but unlike my Acura TL, Lexus refuses to allow the driver or passenger to input destinations while the car is in motion. The hands free blue tooth for use of ipod or phone is seamless and the back up camera allows you to get within inches of an object. Overall Lexus did a great!

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  Lexus comfort and great mpg! - 2011 Lexus CT 200H
  By bcompton1 - May 20 - 9:22 pm

  This is truly a gas "sipper". On my first tank of gas I am averaging 44.1 mpg in mostly city driving. The car is typical Lexus as it is an extremely smooth and quiet ride. Contrary to some of the expert reviews, I find the interior features are conveniently placed and easy to use and the features of the navigation system are very hi tech with current weather, xm sports team features, stocks etc, but unlike my Acura TL, Lexus refuses to allow the driver or passenger to input destinations while the car is in motion. The hands free blue tooth for use of ipod or phone is seamless and the back up camera allows you to get within inches of an object. Overall Lexus did a great!

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  A white collar prius - 2017 Lexus CT 200H
  By Seth Stewart - January 12 - 2:58 pm

  I bought this car as a second owner with a very deep discount. It had 30,000 miles on it and was in excellent condition. I have the 2012 f sport. I chose it because I did my research. A large portion of taxi cab drivers in New York City drive the Toyota Prius. They can take a beating and are very reliable. They also get incredible gas mileage. But in my own opinion the prius is very ugly. Then steps in the Lexus ct200h; the priuss cousin that won prom king and took home the best looking girl on the cheer leading team. Dont get me wrong, there are some definite trade offs between the two. You have the same power train and reliability. You dont get the same gas mileage but it is still darn good. The acceleration isnt that good. But I can drive out windy country roads going 70mph driving with my pinky finger. It stays flat in turns with no body roll. The suspension is very stiff and sporty but comes with a draw back NEVER HIT POT HOLES. It will literally rattle your fillings out. You can feel every single nick, crack, chip, whatever i the road. It is the equivalent of wearing those silly shoes with the individual toes. My wife hates this and I love it. Oh I bought this car when I was single and didnt have any kids. I wouldnt recommend this for people who are planning on having kids. It is possible but car seats are very difficult to fit. I mean you cannot be a tall person and fit a childs car seat in the rear facing position. I like it because of the handling, the economy, the comfort, the reliability, the looks, and the ease of driving. It is stupid easy to operate, just dont curb those f sport rims. Oh and change your fluids like you care about you car. I changed the transmission fluid the instant I got the car. There is this misconception that people dont need to change their transmission fluid EVER. That advice is only for KIA drivers. Everybody acts like this car cant drive on the interstate. Dont listen to them. Ive gone across the country with the car full of adults. Just take it out of ECO mode so the car can breath a little. As far as space goes, my wife does caterings and uses my car, she lays the seats down and can do caterings for a 100 people or so. If acceleration is a big deal breaker go buy a Tesla. If you cant afford it do what I did.