This is the new CT 200h, Lexus’ first hatchback which also is “the first full hybrid vehicle to be launched in the premium compact segment”. Based on the LF-Ch concept, this car is meant to lower the entry point of Lexus ownership and attract younger customers to the brand. Production will start late this year.
Designed and developed with Europe in mind, this production-ready Geneva showstar sports much toned down styling from the gold coloured concept that was unveiled in Frankfurt last year. The CT 200h should be about the size of a Golf; its 2600 mm wheelbase is 20 mm longer than the VW’s. The marque’s L-finesse design philosophy and the need for maximum aerodynamic efficiency and minimum wind noise determined the final shape. There’s some interesting detailing going on, but as a whole it looks dull to these eyes; what do you think?
If the exterior design didn’t stick true to the concept, the cabin is downright disappointing after what was promised. It looks high quality, but what happened to the bit about attracting younger customers? Anyway, the driving position is set low, with a highly supportive driver’s seat, says its maker, while in Sport mode, the hybrid indicator in the binnacle functions as a tachometer and the ambient lighting turns from blue to red. Lexus’ mouse-like Remote Touch controller makes an appearance.
The hybrid system in the CT 200h combines a 1.8-litre VVT-i petrol engine with an electric motor. This Lexus is capable of running in fully electric, zero emissions EV mode for up to 2 km (only?) at speeds up to 45 km/h. Lexus says that the CT sits on a new platform with a dedicated double wishbone and trailing arm rear suspension system setup, which combines the ride comfort expected of a Lexus with superior driving involvement and handling agility.
To see what this car might have been, click here to see the LF-Ch. More pics of the CT 200h after the jump.
Danny Tan loves driving as much as he loves a certain herbal meat soup, and sweet engine music as much as drum beats. He has been in the auto industry since 2006, previously filling the pages of two motoring magazines before joining this website. Enjoys detailing the experience more than the technical details.
Gives the impression of an IS 250 with its boot squashed in.
nice. hope no more pedals & brakes problem
cantiknya…. caldina-ish shape… but totally different style. HOT Hybrid
interior is really good…the exterior is not bad too…hopefully no recalls
is it recall free?
Toyota?
No thanks… Im still scare with SAP syndrome.
I think it looks bland and constipated on the outside. In the inside, it's rather plain too. Not something to go gaga over.
Looks more Toyota than a Lexus. Nice interior though. VW Golf GTI is way cooler.
oooiiik… macam main computer plak… a mouse…hahaha…
looks like subaru impreza …
nice,but the front design is kinda getting old~
actually looks better than the 09 Impreza.
the dashboard is soo similar to bmw 120i design, even down to the screen and air vents…
not bad for a reskinned Prius. that Mode dial is ugly tho, copy Subaru's diff dial.
makes the whole lower console very messy with so many humps and knobs.
wonder y no mention of the CO2 figures? bet its not 99g/km like the prius. maybe 110-115 … extra weight from the complex double wishbone rear, plus all that insulation and comfort features.
yawn…zzz……
bloody damn ugly!
put in a good engine and beat the ugly impreza…
front accord back impreza
Looks like a deformed caldina.
where's the rear wiper??!!! I wont buy it if its not come with the wiper..
Design wise, I think this car will find it hard to lure European buyers.
agree w/ some here the rear macam the STI ver 10…
Frankly I never like any Lexus. This included, but the interior is nice.
Dashboard is very BMW
toyota camry estate…
I heard from inside this is from Toyota Caldina which will be EOL and start fresh with Lexus lines !
they should have stuck wif the concept version…this one looks "normal" and nothing to shout about
just my 2 cents
i mean of coz the finish product is a tonedown version of the concept but parts of the concept should have been maitained like the front and back bumpers…
This car is too luxury and not suitable for younger customer except for those born to be rich.