2011 Lexus CT 200h

Lexus CT 200h

Lexus CT 200h, which is scheduled to hit dealer showrooms in late February, is a terrific upscale alternative to the Toyota (TM) Prius. This all-new model has two big selling points: A relatively low price—it's the least expensive model in Lexus' lineup, with a starting price of $29,995—and an average fuel economy rating of 42 miles per gallon.

The sporty, well-bolstered front seats are much more comfortable than front seats in the Prius. As in the Prius, the rear seats fold down to make a large hauling space.

The CT 200h's 42-mpg fuel economy rating (40 mpg on the highway, 43 in the city) lags the Prius' 50 mpg, but equals that of the Honda Insight and beats most other hybrids. As I engaged in about 225 miles of mixed driving in frigid winter weather, I averaged 37 mpg. The CT 200h has three driving modes: eco, normal, and sport.

The good: With its hybrid electric system, the 2011 Lexus CT 200h delivers excellent fuel economy. A sport suspension makes for good handling. The premium sound system creates high-quality audio.

The Bluetooth phone system is short on features.
The bottom line: Despite its sporty appearance, the 2011 Lexus CT 200h uses its hybrid power train for fuel economy, not speed. Lexus offers solid cabin tech that falls short of groundbreaking.
Ultimately, it favors fuel economy over raw power, getting an EPA-rated 43 mpg city and 40 mpg highway.

As a hatchback, the CT 200h shows plenty of internal versatility, with rear seats that fold down, allowing for plenty of cargo room. Thick rear pillars and a narrow strip of tinted back glass give it rally car style.

All-new for 2011, the Lexus CT200h adds another dedicated hybrid to the Lexus brand; however, unlike the HS250h this one emphasizes sporty looks and value.

Starting at $29,120, the 2011 Lexus CT200h comes into the lineup as Lexus’ entry-level model. While the Lexus CT200h may not be the sportiest compact luxury car available, it is the most fuel-efficient.

Lexus CT200h: The Details
The Lexus CT200h is new for the 2011 model year and will offer the amenities Lexus buyers expect. As more details become available about the 2011 Lexus CT200h, we will update this space.