The Lexus CT 200h is a pretty amazing vehicle. It’s a hybrid that doesn’t look or act much like a hybrid.
It achieves 42 mpg combined fuel economy while turning heads with its new F Sport package as the luxury sports car flashes by. With this car, Lexus introduced the brand to a new generation of car lovers who not only want to save gas, but also protect the environment and enjoy luxury touches in their practical vehicle while not giving up on performance.
The test car, a 2014 CT 200h has a sporty new front-end design with spindle grille, LED daytime running lights (optional LED headlamps and fog lamps), new front and rear bumpers, revised fog lamp surround, reflectors and diffuser, and a large rear spoiler plus a shark fin antenna.
My bright redline-colored test model was even flashier with its added option of the F Sport package that boasts the F Sport-tuned suspension and two-tone graphite machined finish for the 17-inch wheels; the fog lamp surround is a mesh design; the spindle grille has mesh inserts and unique metal front scuff plates; plus there’s a unique spoiler with cut outs and a solid black roof to distinguish this bad boy of the line from tamer models. It also has a perforated leather steering wheel with F Sport badge and shift knob and perforated black leather-trimmed seats.
While the manufacturer’s suggested retail price for the CT 200h is $32,050, added options including the F Sport package, brought the total price for the test model (with $910 destination charges) to $41,540. But many of the younger demography Lexus is trying to appeal to with this new kind of hybrid will probably not mind at all if they are paying a premium for more fun at the wheel.
The CT 200h runs on a 1.8 L 4-cylinder engine with an electric motor (operated through an electronic continuously variable transmission—CVT) for a combined output of 134 horsepower, which makes for a responsive performance.
This also means it’s more fun to drive than traditional hybrids. There’s a second motor that doubles as the engine starter and generator to charge the battery.
There are four driving choices with the CT 200h, including the EV mode where the car has zero tailpipe emissions; this is perfect for short distances.
Other choices include the fallback position or Normal, Sport, and Eco modes. Normal mode is the standard for a mix of performance and efficiency, while Sport mode offers faster response and a tighter steering feel. Those who want to see the most efficient fuel consumption, of course, will like Eco mode.
Inside the CT 200h, the bolstered front seats, wide-grip steering wheel, and triple-dial instrument gauge panel make the driver feel like the pilot of a small aircraft. Ten-way power seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, Bluetooth®, Smart Access with push-button start/stop and a premium audio system with USB/iPod® connection are all standard.
Standard safety technology includes eight airbags and an optional pre-collision system is also available.
With an optional navigation package the CT 200h offers Lexus Enform® and the App Suite. Just pair your smartphone via Bluetooth wireless or USB so it provides access to a free Lexus App Suite. These voice-enabled apps let you search the Internet through Bing™, make restaurant reservations through OpenTable®, use Internet radio for options like Pandora, or check into Facebook.
The best news about the Lexus CT 200h, though, is the fact that the car gets 40 mpg on the highway and 43 in town, for a combined average of 42 mpg.
Lexus is a pioneer in the luxury hybrid industry, introducing the first luxury hybrid over a decade ago. For 2015, they will offer six hybrid models including an even sportier CT 200h, which will be arriving at dealers later this fall.
Jo Ann Holt is a long time journalist based in Dallas, Texas. She covers the automotive industry, entertainment, and travel for several publications. She is vice president of communications for the Texas Auto Writers Association.
