Cool hybrid hatch could make waves

Overview

Lexus currently offers hybrid versions of its GS and LS sedans, and the RX sport/utility. The company also came out with a new standalone hybrid model for 2010, the HS 250h. Lexus is at it again, this time with its second dedicated hybrid, the CT 200h, a compact luxury five-door hatch. While the vehicle is designed to provide excellent efficiency and fuel economy, it is also intended to be sporty and fun.
It's powered by a version of Toyota's 1.8-liter Atkinson cycle inline-four gas engine with VVT-i. The hybrid system has two electric motors -- one is driven by the engine and can charge the battery pack or add power to the drive motor as needed; the other -- the drive motor -- powers the front wheels. The transmission is an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission. There are four driving modes: Normal, Eco, EV, and Sport. Sport mode is said by Lexus to provide more direct steering and throttle settings, and reportedly boosts drive voltage to the maximum level. Sport mode also reduces the intrusion of stability and traction controls.

The Range

Body styles: Four-door hatchback
Engines: 1.8L I-4
Transmissions: Continuously variable transmission (CVT)
Models: CT 200h

What's New

This is the first hatchback from Lexus, and the company's second standalone hybrid. Exterior and interior styling should appeal to younger buyers, or at least that's what Lexus is hoping will happen. The CT 200h hybrid can operate solely on electric power for up to a mile. There are four driving modes, ranging from frugal to fun.

Exterior

The styling of the CT 200h is sporty and youthful. Though not as wild as the LF-Ch concept on which it was based, there are still plenty of aggressive cues, like recessed foglights and a dual exhaust.

Interior

Layout is said to be driver-centric, with controls within easy reach of the driver. There are features such as a tiered instrument panel, the Lexus Remote Touch mouse-like control, and seats that are covered in leatherlike NuLuxe.

Performance & Handling

The CT 200h has been designed with a low center of gravity and low seating positions. That, plus the Sport driving mode, should make this more of a driver's car than most of the offerings in the Lexus lineup. Peak power output for the CT is 134-horsepower, the same as the Prius. The car also has front and rear body damping and a MacPherson strut front suspension and control arms in the rear.

Safety

Eight airbags are standard on the CT 200h: dual front, dual front knee, side curtain, and front-seat-mounted side. Also standard are anti-lock disc brakes with electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist, stability control, and traction control.

EPA Fuel Economy

Not yet rated

You'll Like

• Cool interior styling
• Hybrid frugality
• Sporty attitude

You Won't Like

• More conservative than concept
• How sporty is sport mode?
• Lexus badge may make it pricey

Sum Up

 Cool hybrid hatch could make waves

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• Nissan Leaf
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