The CT 200h Hybrid is actually Lexus’ second attempt at entering the compact personal luxury hybird segment, the first being the now departed HS 250h Hybrid. Ignore the powertrain for a minute and it is easy to see that Lexus has the Audi A3 square in their sights in terms of ride, handling and interior accomodations. However, and here we go again, the Prius powertrain under the hood is an instant buzz kill. But if you desire good handling and effiecent motoring is your primary requirement, the CT 200h is for you. Click play to let us explain. Read more…
This week we get a ride in the Lexus CT 200h Hybrid. That’s a bit of a mouthful, but not as bad as the HS 250h Hybrid, which thankfully departs the Lexus lineup this year. The CT is actually a size smaller than the HS, or even the Prius, from which this little hatch steals its powertrain. Unfortunately, for as nimble as they’ve made the CT the hybrid/CVT pairing lets it fall flat on its face when the go pedal is depressed. A good number of hybrid fans out there won’t care, but this little Lexus is aimed square at the premium hatch segment of the market with its spry handling. A performance enhancing hybrid system would be better suited to this car’s willing chassis. And before we get a bunch of, “you don’t know what you are talking about this is a Toyota hybrid and it is suppose to be like this” comments we suggest you actually take this little bugger out for a jaunt on a twisty piece of tarmac with the drive selector spun to “Sport”. You’ll agree, the only thing missing is horsepower.
