Its compact frame, sporty looks, and exceptional fuel economy are among the standout features of the 2017 Lexus CT200h, the smallest of five Lexus hybrid models. The front-wheel drive CT is mechanically similar to the previous-generation Toyota Prius, but this four-door hatchback wears its Lexus badge well.
Offering room for up to five, the 2017 Lexus CT200h is powered by a 1.8-liter, four-cylinder engine, and two electric motors. Power is sent to the front wheels by a continuously variable automatic transmission. This model is available in two trims: CT and CT F Sport, the latter brings in a sporty exterior package and a sport-tuned suspension.
Now in its eighth and likely final year, the first-generation 2017 Lexus CT returns unchanged …show more content…
The differences between the two models become immediately apparent, as the Lexus is shorter and sits closer to the ground.
From the front, the CT wears a Lexus fascia, dominated by an hourglass grille and amplified by flared headlamps and distinctive pockets housing the fog lamps. Sharp cut lines cross the hood. Body sculpting along the sides, a rising belt line and a long roofline ending in a liftgate spoiler contribute to this hybrid’s sporty flair. From the rear, a notched liftgate, flared combination lamps, and a diffuser-like layout is …show more content…
The fold-flat rear seat extends that storage area, however.
Performance — 6
The Lexus hybrid system is big on fuel efficiency, but not so much is it about power. Off-the-mark acceleration is tepid and the engine is loud during hard acceleration — highway speeds are reached at a leisurely pace. The hatchback’s passing power is laudable as it provides more than sufficient kick to move past that slow moving semi in the right line.
All models come with drive mode control with a normal default setting. Eco, EV and Sport modes are available, the latter adjusts throttle response times and provides a more “weighty” feel when turning the steering wheel. Choose the F Sport edition and the driving dynamics improve measurably, providing superior handling especially on twisty roads.
The CT hybrid makes an EPA-estimated 43/40 mpg city/highway. Our test model averaged 39.5 mpg after one week of mostly highway
Offering room for up to five, the 2017 Lexus CT200h is powered by a 1.8-liter, four-cylinder engine, and two electric motors. Power is sent to the front wheels by a continuously variable automatic transmission. This model is available in two trims: CT and CT F Sport, the latter brings in a sporty exterior package and a sport-tuned suspension.
Now in its eighth and likely final year, the first-generation 2017 Lexus CT returns unchanged …show more content…
The differences between the two models become immediately apparent, as the Lexus is shorter and sits closer to the ground.
From the front, the CT wears a Lexus fascia, dominated by an hourglass grille and amplified by flared headlamps and distinctive pockets housing the fog lamps. Sharp cut lines cross the hood. Body sculpting along the sides, a rising belt line and a long roofline ending in a liftgate spoiler contribute to this hybrid’s sporty flair. From the rear, a notched liftgate, flared combination lamps, and a diffuser-like layout is …show more content…
The fold-flat rear seat extends that storage area, however.
Performance — 6
The Lexus hybrid system is big on fuel efficiency, but not so much is it about power. Off-the-mark acceleration is tepid and the engine is loud during hard acceleration — highway speeds are reached at a leisurely pace. The hatchback’s passing power is laudable as it provides more than sufficient kick to move past that slow moving semi in the right line.
All models come with drive mode control with a normal default setting. Eco, EV and Sport modes are available, the latter adjusts throttle response times and provides a more “weighty” feel when turning the steering wheel. Choose the F Sport edition and the driving dynamics improve measurably, providing superior handling especially on twisty roads.
The CT hybrid makes an EPA-estimated 43/40 mpg city/highway. Our test model averaged 39.5 mpg after one week of mostly highway