2012 Lexus CT 200h Review by Cars.com Staff

2012 Lexus CT 200h

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2012 Lexus CT 200h

Starting MSRP $29,120–$31,750

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By Cars.com Staff

Cars.com National August 24, 2011

Vehicle Overview

The CT 200h is a five-seat four-door hatchback with a gas/electric drivetrain that powers the front wheels. Competitors include conventionally powered models like the Volvo C30 and Mini Cooper Clubman.


New for 2012

The CT 200h Premium is available with two new packages: the F-Sport Package and the F-Sport Special Edition. The F-Sport Package includes special suspension tuning, 17-inch wheels, a mesh grille, a larger rear spoiler, F-Sport badges, aluminum sport pedals, a leather-trimmed steering wheel and shift knob, and a black headliner. The F-Sport Special Edition includes the F-Sport Package's features but has different wheels, Ocean Blue NuLuxe leatherette-trimmed seats, and a TUMI duffle bag and backpack with F-Sport logos. Production of the F-Sport Special Edition is limited to 900 cars.

Exterior

Lexus says the CT 200h grew out of the recent LF-Ch concept car that was first seen at the Frankfurt auto show in 2009. The production version's resemblance is close to the concept — and from some angles, it's close to the Mazda3 hatchback. The wheels measure 17 inches in diameter. Exterior features include:

  • Available power moonroof
  • LED daytime running lights
  • LED taillights
  • Fog lights


Interior

The front sport bucket seats are separated by a wide center console that rises to meet the dashboard. The cabin features a synthetic material designed to feel like leather. Real leather upholstery is optional. Interior features include:

  • Dual-zone automatic air conditioning
  • Tilt/telescoping steering wheel with audio controls
  • Power driver's seat
  • CD stereo with MP3 jack and USB port
  • Bluetooth streaming audio
  • Optional navigation system with backup camera


Under the Hood

The CT 200h has a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that works with an electric motor/generator to make a combined 134 horsepower. Drivers can switch among four modes — Normal, Eco, EV (electric vehicle) and Sport — that are designed to alter the car's drivetrain performance. Eco mode also modifies the car's air conditioning for lower fuel use, while Sport quickens the car's steering. In a nod to the Sport mode's performance intentions, one of the gauges in the instrument cluster changes from a charge/assist meter to a tachometer when it's selected. Mechanical features include:

  • Front-wheel drive
  • Uses regular gas
  • Continuously variable automatic transmission
  • Four-wheel independent suspension


Safety

An optional Pre-Collision System cinches the front seat belts and readies the brake assist feature for more stopping power when it's determined a crash is imminent. Standard safety features include:

  • Antilock brakes
  • Side-impact airbags for the front seats
  • Side curtain airbags
  • Front knee airbags
  • Electronic stability system

Additional Reviews

Cars.com Expert Reviews

Kelsey MaysCars.com NationalOctober 15, 2011
Cars.com StaffCars.com NationalAugust 24, 2011

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