Lexus CT200h – Review

Lexus has strategically combated its brand view of catering to a particular lifestyle and has come out with new Lexus CT200h. The idea that Lexus, just like Mercedes-Benz, serves the more mature car buyers has been pushed aside with the arrival of sporty Lexus CT200h, which gives a much needed breath of fresh air. This car is sure to get Lexus more buyers from diverse market segments.

The CT200h is a full hybrid, which means it will run in three modes, electric, petrol, and electric and petrol combined. The exterior of the Lexus CT200h has been designed for the European market. The L-finesse design philosophy of Lexus is visible in the CT200h. Its distinctive sharp edges design sets it apart from other premier cars in the same segment. The interior has leather upholstery, and metal accents.

Unique deign of asymmetrical dashboard of Lexus CT 200h is taken from the LF-Ch concept Lexus. Expert designers have split the dashboard in which they have fixed the 8 inch LCD multi display screen in the upper portion and in the lower portion, they have fixed the operation zone which includes Remote Touch multi-function controller and shift lever.

In Normal mode, the car can operate on battery at the speed of 28 mph. The EV mode forces the car to rely only on battery power for 1.2-mile stretches. Switching the car to Eco dulls throttle response, and maximises the climate-control system to save more fuel. The Sport mode is the most exciting mode, in which it tightens up the steering, ups throttle aggressiveness, and lowers the stability-control threshold.

Despite its compact design, the CT200h is quite roomy inside. All the passengers will sit comfortably in the car. The boot is also quite spacious, and with the rear seats folded, it expands tremendously.

The CT200h has been built on a new platform, and has a double wishbone, and trailing arm rear suspension system. This is expected to make the ride more comfortable, and the CT200h should handle well on all road surfaces.

As a premier hatchback, and a full hybrid, the CT200h will create a niche in the family hatchback car market. Lexus will be targeting the younger generation with this car, which is why it has different drive modes. There are no fuel consumption or emission figures released yet for the CT200h. However, it is expected that this will be a fuel-efficient car, and will have very low emissions. In electric-only mode, the emissions will be zero. Therefore, the CT200h is expected to have emissions below 100g/km, which should make it free from road tax in the UK.

Lexus has excluded the rear wishbone suspension in the CT 200h and put a lightweight trailing arm.

Discover more about Lexus Hybrid Cars, visit the Lexus website for more information and to book a test drive.