The Lexus CT 200h is a sporty five-door hatchback that shares much of its mechanics with the Toyota Prius. Lexus gives the CT 200 aggressive styling, a sportier suspension and a more robust version of the Toyota's 1.8-liter gasoline/hybrid electric motor powertrain.
The CT's interior offers upscale fabrics, better sound deadening and more features than its corporate cousin. Of course, these upgrades add weight to the CT 200h, which is why fuel economy figures fall short of what the Prius achieves.
What's New for 2014
As with the rest of the Lexus lineup, the CT 200h maintains a cohesive brand identity with the signature spindle grille design. This year's model also has new 17-inch wheels, revised rear styling and a solid-black roof panel in F-Sport trim. A new, thinner fixed navigation and display audio screen graces the dash while rain-sensing wipers are added to the Premium package.
Choosing Your Lexus CT 200h
Among other luxury touches expected in a Lexus, the CT 200h comes with keyless entry, dual-zone climate control, a 10-way power driver's seat, a six-speaker audio system, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, Bluetooth interface and a SiriusXM satellite radio.
Opting for the Premium package adds heated front seats, rain-sensing wipers and a moon roof. A Luxury package and Navigation package are also available.
An F Sport model increases performance with sport-tuned suspension, but it shares the same 1.8-liter hybrid motor at the regular CT 200h, and the zero-to-60 mph dash will still take a leisurely 10 seconds.
Combined output from the gas-electric engine is 134 horsepower and 105 pound-feet of torque. As noted, the luxury-oriented Lexus can't match the lighter Prius's EPA numbers—expect 43 mpg and 40 mpg highway.
Choosing your Lexus CT 200h >>
Make the ride as entertaining as possible—the F Sport variant adds a lot of fun for a relatively small fee.