Lexus CT200h - New hybrid compact cruiser from Lexus

The CT 200 hybrid is a premium compact car. That’s not too unusual. The thing that gets your attention, however, is that this is a hybrid vehicle. Recently, my wife. Judy and I were in New Orleans for the introduction of the all-new Lexus CT. Actually, the exact designation is the CT 200h, a premium compact hybrid car.

Lexus introduced their first luxury hybrid in 2005, and has never looked back. Lexus hybrid drive generates significantly less particulate emissions. The system operates seamlessly, switching between full battery operation or gasoline power. Toyota and Lexus have outstanding credentials and a proven record with their hybrid vehicles and this newest hybrid is no different.

Brian Bolain, National Manager of Lexus Marketing, explained that the new CT 200h represents key attributes that offer customers a great experience in the premium compact category. The group of automotive journalists had a briefing about the car, followed by a walk-around. Then, we paired off and followed one of several pre-determined driving routes. The routes took us through the French Quarter, down Bourbon Street, out the Interstate Highway, through some swamp area, by Lake Ponchatrain, and by the SuperDome.

The Lexus CT 200h drives and acts like a normal car. It looks good. It handles good. It has all the luxury and premium touches inside and out. But the major difference between it and a regular gasoline engine car is that it achieves a combined EPA mileage rating of 42 mpg. With careful driving, it is easy to go past that figure. Quite a few journalists were in the 50 and 60 mile-per-gallon range during our test drive.

The interior of the Lexus CT 200h is made of approximately 80% recycled materials. This car is meant to be environmentally friendly, not only with its hybrid engine, but with its use of “green” manufacturing items. The interior lighting and dashboard lighting can be personalized by the owner, including offering a tachometer for those who prefer having that gauge visible.

The CT 200h is somewhat like the best-selling Toyota Prius. It is small. It is fun to drive. It is economical. But the CT 200h goes much further. It is a luxury premium vehicle. The base platform is actually four inches shorter than the Prius. It features electric power steering, as do all Lexus hybrids..
Although it looks somewhat like a hatchback, the Lexus communication people refer to it as a five-door car. There is no trunk, but a large storage space behind the back seat. The rear “door” opens upwards and the entire interior is open, so would definitely call it a hatchback in spite of the Lexus PR statement to the contrary.

The Lexus CT 200h will not be available in the showrooms until Spring of 2011. It is expected to officially launch by March 1st and will be offered in 60 countries globally. The anticipated price will be in the $30 thousand to $31 thousand range, but pricing has not been announced. Panasonic is the builder of the hybrid batteries, as they are for all the Toyota and Lexus vehicles.

Bottom line – I like the new Lexus CT. It is not fully luxury, but it is very stylish and full of premium touches. For a small compact, it offers a very sporty driving experience that is also comfortable and relaxing.