2016 Lexus CT 200h
What do you get when Lexus melds a sporty luxury compact with an environmentally conscientious attitude? The 2016 CT 200h. With an EPA-estimated 42 MPG combined fuel economy the CT 200h is one of six hybrid models Lexus offers for 2016. Lexus has been the hybrid luxury leader since it introduced the first luxury hybrid more than 10 years ago.
The CT 200h broke new ground for Lexus, introducing the brand to a younger generation of highly discerning customers. They, too, quickly discovered the refinement and driving pleasure that characterize the progressive luxury inherent in every Lexus.
A sporty chassis keeps the CT 200h connected to the road’s curves, and for 2016, the dashing look is enhanced with a chrome surround grille.
Drivers can also now opt in for additional peace of mind with Lexus Enform Remote and Lexus Enform Service Connect. Lexus Enform Remote (subscription required), allows the owner to remotely view and control certain vehicle features using a mobile app for iOS and Android devices. Key features include remote door lock/unlock; remote stop/start for the engine and climate control; vehicle finder, guest driver monitor and more. Lexus Enform Service Connect (subscription required) allows customers to remotely view information about certain aspects of their Lexus vehicle via the MyLexusandBeyond mobile application for iOS smartphone users or LexusDrivers.com. Information includes maintenance alerts, warning light notifications and a vehicle health report that includes email and push notifications for diagnostic information, required maintenance reminders, current vehicle alerts, service campaigns, and more.
What Makes It Go (On So Little Fuel)
There’s no magic needed to get sporty performance with EPA fuel economy estimates of 43 MPG city / 40 MPG highway / 42 MPG combined. It just takes the world’s deepest well of hybrid expertise and experience. In the CT 200h, that translates to a 1.8-liter in-line four-cylinder gas engine teamed to a 650 volt motor/generator for a combined output of 134 horsepower. A second motor in the hybrid system serves as both engine starter and generator to charge the hybrid battery pack.
The powertrain is mated to an Electronically Controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (E-CVT) that makes the best use of the instant torque of the electric motor and quickly finds the optimal gear ratio to enhance the driving experience.
It’s the unseen engineering details that really make a difference in the CT’s fuel efficiency. For example, an exhaust heat recovery system uses the heat of spent exhaust gases to speed engine coolant warm-up. That in turn allows the hybrid system to stop the engine earlier and more often in the driving cycle when it’s not needed, for example in low-power-demand city driving conditions.
Like other Lexus models, the CT 200h puts a wide range of vehicle control at the driver’s fingertips through the Lexus Drive Mode Select system. You can choose from four distinct modes: Normal, Sport, Eco or EV. Normal mode has an essentially linear throttle response that gives naturally progressive power. Sport mode yields a more responsive and dynamic driving experience.
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 CT 200h to be driven short distances using only the electric motors. It’s ideal for crawling through a crowded parking lot or garage when searching for a space, for example.
F SPORT: Look Sporty. Feel Sporty.
The F SPORT is hard to miss, thanks to its exclusive mesh version of the Lexus spindle grille, black contrast roof, rear spoiler with two large air ducts, 17-inch five-twin-spoke alloy wheels with two-tone graphite and machine finish and mesh and fog lamp inserts with black surrounds.
For even more head-turning power, the F SPORT offers two unique exterior colors: Ultra White and Ultrasonic Blue Mica. Another of the color choices, Redline, features a highly scratch resistant self-restoring coat.
It’s not all about great looks. The CT’s F SPORT-tuned suspension includes specially tuned dampers and springs to increase agility, making every drive feel its sportiest.
It Is A Lexus, After All
Compact, sporty and shockingly thrifty with fuel, the CT 200h is of course a pure Lexus. That means a considerably higher level of luxury than you’ll see in anything this size. Standard features include a 10-way power driver’s seat and dual-zone automatic climate control.
Available cabin choices like NuLuxe seating reflect the CT’s eco-conscious mission. NuLuxe seating material offers the elegant look and supple feel of leather. Yet, even compared to other synthetic leathers, NuLuxe weighs half as much, and its manufacturing process generates far fewer CO2 and VOC emissions. Perforated Flaxen leather is also available, accentuated by metallic interior trim that highlights the CT’s sporty nature.
Informative and Conversational
The available Display Audio/Navigation screen controls a multimedia system featuring complimentary HD Radio™, real-time traffic, and weather. Models equipped with the optional navigation system use Remote Touch Interface.
The cache radio feature will quickly endear itself. If you’re busy with something when a favorite song comes on the radio, such as paying a toll or waiting at a bank or coffee drive-through, cache radio will store it for up to 15-minutes and let you listen later. Or, tag it with iTunes® Tagging to download later.
The standard six-speaker audio system features the world's first automotive speakers constructed with sustainable bamboo and resin. You may hear voices with greater clarity than you have before. A 10-speaker system is available. Both systems, of course, live up to the brand’s reputation for stellar sound. The Display Audio and Navigation systems both employ Bluetooth® 3.0 and dual USB ports to ensure you can connect your music any way you like.
New for 2016
- Grille with chrome surround
- Optional moonroof
- Available Lexus Enform Remote for vehicles equipped with optional Lexus Display Audio or Navigation
- Available Lexus Service Connect
