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 is close to perfect - 2011 Lexus CT 200H
By ellah - December 31 - 11:53 amI was looking for a sporty car that was also comfortable, and got good gas mileage and fun to drive. CT 200h fits the bill. Not only are the seats very comfortable, but the controls for the navigation system, etc. are perfectly laid out such that your arm is just naturally in the spot to reach all the controls. Genius layout! Getting 41.5 mpg! The car gets a bit pricey when you add all the options including leather but Im very happy with it and plan to keep it 5 yrs or so. The only improvements I could make would be to add more cargo space inside (glove box, center console and doors) as well as rear. Unless the back seats are down, it basically just holds groceries. Even so I would buy it!
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Loving My 2011 Lexus CT200H ~! - 2011 Lexus CT 200H
By lexusluvmomma - December 11 - 2:50 pmPurchased a black one (only Black or yellow left... yellow either love or not and I am a... not). Was wanting a Hybrid for a while. Was a Lexus owner already and I needed more space than my IS250 but not neccessarily as much as the RX.This was the perfect combination of the two. Good use of the space with the folding down back row of seats and access through the hatchback... and hey it is a Lexus whats not to love? :0)
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Great hybrid - dont expect "sportcar" performance - 2011 Lexus CT 200H
By jcpharm - October 14 - 3:10 pmi bought this car because i wanted fuel efficiency first and foremost but wanted as sporty a driving-dynamic as was possible - this car delivers.
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Another Hit From Lexus - 2012 Lexus CT 200H
By mike995134 - September 15 - 5:37 amWOW-WOW-WOW ... what an amazing car!!! Its not at all sluggish as has been written by some. Of course it doesnt do 0-60 in 4 seconds ... but we have not had any problems merging onto the freeway or climbing up hills. The Normal Mode is fine for this, but for a little extra oomph, just kick it over to Sport Mode and this thing moves. The ergonomics are great. We traded an Infiniti EX35 for the CT, so it is a tad smaller ... but no worries, we can still carry people, our pets and haul other stuff as needed without any problems. And of course, we absolutely love the fuel economy too. 42+ mpg is the norm for our combined city-freeway driving thus far. How awesome is that!!!
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48 MPG ! - 2012 Lexus CT 200H
By striker6 - September 7 - 4:05 amThe main reason I purchased it was my total disgust with supporting corporate gasholes at over $4gl. Yes,I am actually averaging 48 mpg! If you arent ...change your driving habits. It wont win any 1/4 mile drag races, but where in this overly congested country can you go more than a 1/4 mile most of the time without stopping for a red light. I traded a high performance sport coupe that I was only using 25% of its power less than 50% of the time...wheres the logic in that ??!! This car rides just as well, and I really dont miss taking off ramps at 90mph ! Its extremely comfortable, very stylish (gotten many compliments), and of course, Lexus quality. Best bang for my $ in many years !!!
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Just what I expected, and then some - 2011 Lexus CT 200H
By patentcad1 - August 4 - 12:38 amHow youll like a CT depends on your expectations. The car LOOKS fast. Like an Audi A3 or Mazdaspeed 3 5-door. But we all know (or you should know) its really a Prius thats fun to drive, thats what I expected. I got more than that, a world class compact luxury sport wagon thats a blast to drive, Lexus quality/class (and comfort within its stiff chassis limitations) and 40+ mpg. My friggin motorcycle has a hard time getting 40+ mpg. The car is a blast, has enough cargo room for my needs (I regularly carry a couple of bicycles + gear to rides & races). The technology works, its surprisingly fast in Sport mode. And a bit of a head-turner too. Love the car. A winner for Lexus.
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54 mpg!?!? - 2012 Lexus CT 200H
By ernbon - May 26 - 3:11 pmMy wife got this car (2012 model) two weeks ago as a birthday present. She just came home from a luncheon and advised me that she is now getting 54 MPG! After telling her she was crazy, I went down to the garage and checked for myself. Remarkable. She is very satisfied with the car so far.
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F-Sport not comfortable - 2012 Lexus CT 200H
By scott261 - April 21 - 3:26 amI want to begin my review by saying the ct200h f sport is a good car, but it is not comfortable, especially if you drive long distances. Stay away from the F-sport. The bucket seat design offers no support, despite the built in lumbar support. And once I highlighted the problem I have had very poor support from Lexus themselves, giving me contradicting information. I have had a physio and an occupational health advisor state the seat is causing my back problems, and had no prior problems with Audi, bmw, Ford or Peugeot. All cars I drove long distance. I had no problems with the seat of the regular ct200h, Im curious to know if anyone else has had problems with the f-sport??
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Love This Car-Done With Big SUVs - 2011 Lexus CT 200H
By bondguy1 - November 25 - 10:28 amI was coming out of a Buick Enclave lease getting 17 MPG--so, going into the Lexus CT200h basically almost tripled my gas mileage. I am still on my first tank of gas and am averaging about 47 MPG (heard that gets better once its broken in). This car is not the cushy Lexus style ride youd get if you were in an ES350 or LS460...you feel the road and you sit real low to the road---but hey, its more like a sportscar feeling without the sportscar speed. Handling is awesome..hang turns like you are driving on rails. Love this car even if it wasnt a hybrid but the fact that it is just makes it that much better. Again, love driving this car.
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LOVE This Car - 2011 Lexus CT 200H
By chuckwes - October 10 - 2:49 pmThis car is amazing. I saw it at the auto-show in Denver in the Spring and was impressed by its appearance and price. Being it is a Hybrid and I see how most people drive the Prius needless to say I was speculative about it. That was until I test drove it. It had me at hello. I came out of a 2010 Mazda 3 so Im used to bit of a rough ride. This car is a little bumpy but nothing like I was used to. It has get up and go like you wouldnt believe. The driver seat has great adjustments. The customization for different bells and whistles are easy. The sound quality in the stereo is very good (I had Bose in the Mazda 3 so Im having a bit of withdrawal on the bass). Being able to switc
