The F-Sport will only detract from the CT’s efficiency capabilities but it may create demand from someone interested in something far less fuel efficient?
Wayne Gerdes -
CleanMPG - Oct. 20, 2012
2013 Lexus CT 200h (much more expensive F-Sport shown) – $31,450 Canadian to start and a 51.1 mpgUS combined rating on the Transport Canada tests. Still the same as our 42 mpgUS combined here.
Following the US release, Lexus talks CT200h in Canada.
The CT 200h is a Yaris sized entry luxury vehicle with fuel efficient full hybrid technology and ultra-low emissions from a brand that is absolutely commitment to the highest quality while providing the latest in technology. And as of late, Lexus is offering a more fun-to-drive hybrid lineup including the CT, ESh and GSh.
Drivetrain
The CT 200h is powered by an advance Lexus Hybrid Drive system featuring the Prius hatches atkinsonized 1.8L I4 combined with the large electric drive motor (MG2) to generate a total system output of 134 horsepower. A second smaller motor (MG1) in the hybrid system serves as both engine starter and generator to charge the large NiMH battery. The hybrid system provides advanced hybrid-only functionality including regenerative braking and drive-mode select. The continuously variable transmission provides smooth acceleration and best of all, excellent fuel economy as stated above. Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i), two-way exhaust control, and other features maximize performance and efficiency further.
The CT 200h incorporates a drive-mode selector that allows the driver to toggle between four distinct modes: Normal, Sport, Eco or EV. Normal mode has an essentially linear throttle response that gives naturally progressive power. Sport mode can be selected when the driver wants a more dynamic throttle response. In Eco mode, air conditioning settings are adjusted and the throttle response is reduced relative to the pedal angle to emphasize fuel economy. Under certain circumstances, the EV mode can allow the vehicle to be driven short distances using only the electric motors.
For the 2013 model, the Canadian CT 200h’s now include a four-way power front passenger seat and a revised driver’s seat armrest.
Additionally, the CT 200h is being offered with four available options packages, including the performance-focused F SPORT Edition.
Safety
Every CT 200h features eight airbags (driver and front passenger, driver and front passenger knee, front seat mounted side, and front and rear side curtain), front seatbelt pre-tensioners and force limiters, anchor points for child seats, child protector rear door locks, a tire pressure monitoring system, and on-board first aid kit.
The Lexus CT 200h also features a suite of six active safety technologies: Antilock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist (BA), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBFD), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TC) and Smart Stop Technology (SST) work together to help drivers avoid potential accident situations.
Inside
The CT 200h includes a six-speaker audio system with USB audio input, Bluetooth capability, Integrated XM Satellite Radio, steering wheel audio system and Bluetooth controls, and unique bamboo-charcoal speakers; dual-zone automatic climate control with air conditioning; heated front seats; an eight-way power adjustable driver’s seat and – new for 2013 – a four-way power adjustable front passenger’s seat; a 60/40 split fold-down rear seat; NuLuxe seat coverings; power door locks with keyless entry and key lockout protection; the Lexus Smart Key system with Push Button Start; a driver-focused cockpit, featuring multi-information display, ECO indicator, tachometer, and more; cruise control; power windows with auto up/down function and window jam protection; an advanced, progressive interior design featuring three-spoke leather-wrapped steering wheel and metallic shift knob with leather accents; a tilting/telescoping steering column; retained accessory power; anti-theft system; dual, power adjustable heated mirrors with integrated signal lamps and puddle lamps; front windshield de-icer; rear spoiler; 16” aluminum alloy wheels with locks; fog lamps; LED daytime running lights; and even more.
Not your typical downtrodden Toyota interior in this Lexus
The Touring Package adds: 17” alloys with locks; power moon roof; and a storage compartment with 12-volt power for portable devices.
The Premium Package adds: 17” alloys with locks; power moon roof; a storage compartment with 12-volt power for portable devices; enhanced audio system with 10 speakers and six-disc CD changer; leather seat surfaces; the Lexus driver’s seat memory system with exterior mirrors linked to seat memory; auto-dimming side-view mirrors; an auto-dimming rear view mirror with integrated back-up camera; rain sensing wipers; and an integrated garage door opener.
The F SPORT Package adds: a unique 3-spoke F SPORT steering wheel; an enhanced suspension system with front and rear performance dampers; 17” F SPORT alloys with locks; F-Sport front bumper and grille, leather seats, rear spoiler and scuff plates; metal look interior trim; aluminum sport pedals with rubber inserts – all distinct for the F Sport Package; and a storage compartment with 12-volt power for portable devices.
The Technology Package adds: 17” alloys with locks; power moon roof; a storage compartment with 12-volt power for portable devices; enhanced audio system with 10 speakers and in-dash DVD system; a voice activated navigation system with integrated back-up camera; the Lexus Remote Touch controller; leather seat surfaces; the Lexus driver’s seat memory system with exterior mirrors linked to seat memory; auto-dimming, reverse auto-tilting side-view mirrors; an auto-dimming rear view mirror with integrated compass; rain sensing wipers; an integrated garage door opener; and LED headlamps with headlamp washers.
While small, it offers entry level luxury buyers a somewhat affordable and efficient form of transport.
Linear Mode
