Lexus CT 200h (2011)

The Lexus CT 200h marks the introduction of the first, and only, full hybrid vehicle to the core of the premium compact segment. Specifically designed and developed with the European market in mind, the new Lexus CT 200h’s size, packaging, full hybrid technology and ultra-low emissions perfectly meet the requirements of a young, highly discerning, environmentallyconscientious customer base. Yet it offers no compromise on the refinement and driving pleasure which hallmark the progressive luxury inherent in every Lexus.

The CT 200h’s Lexus Hybrid Drive system has been developed in accordance with an extremely rigorous set of development standards. These unique standards include more than 500 items that set strict guidelines for raising every aspect of the dynamic and environmental performance of the new full hybrid to unprecedented levels.

Commercially available for order from November 2010, the Lexus CT 200h will be priced to compete at the heart of the segment. Pricing is expected to begin from less than 30,000 Euros in France. Worldwide prices will vary due to specification differences and local market factors.

Interior

The visual impact of L-finesse is carried into the interior. Once again, a powerful simplicity of form harmonises with the hand crafted quality feel of even the smallest details to create a uniquely efficient, elegant and spacious cabin design.

The dashboard is divided into two distinct zones: an upper, Display Zone, with an 8?, LCD Multi display screen located at an ideal distance for ata glance viewing, and a lower, Operation Zone, which allows access to the uniquely designed shift lever and system controls such as the IF award winning Remote Touch.

This clear division of zones creates the Lexus CT 200h’s unique fusion of an airy, spacious cabin and a sporting cockpit which places the emphasis on a snug, highly focused driving environment. All functional driving components are consolidated in the driver’s seat surroundings, combining outstanding ergonomics with advanced Human/Machine Interface technologies.

Front seat occupants enjoy class-leading head clearance and shoulder room. The seats are available with 6 way manual or 8 way power adjustment, the latter incorporating a memory function, power lumbar support adjustment and seat heating as standard.

The Lexus CT 200h awards customers unprecedented customisation opportunities through the widest diversity of colour schemes yet offered in a Lexus model. The interior is available in a choice of Black, Ivory or Grey leather trim and upholstery, and five fabric finishes Black, Red, Blue, Ivory or Brown. These finishes are complimented by a choice of Storm Black, Brown Ash Burl Wood or Tropical Bamboo dashboard inserts.

Powertrain

The new Lexus CT 200h is a full hybrid capable of operating in petrol and electric modes alone, as well as a combination of both. Its Lexus Hybrid Drive powertrain delivers the performance benefits of a parallel hybrid combined with the energy saving benefits of a series hybrid.

The CT 200h’s Lexus Hybrid Drive features a unique energy management system which equips the new full hybrid with remarkably quiet operation, impressive, seamless acceleration and the performance customers expect from a premium compact segment vehicle.

Further enhancing the Lexus Hybrid Drive system’s outstanding environmental credentials, the Lexus CT 200h design incorporates numerous additional energy saving and environmentally conscientious measures. These include an energy saving air conditioning system incorporating an electric compressor, a humidity sensor with automatic air inlet mode control and pro active seat heaters; the comprehensive use of power saving LED lighting; a lightweight, energy efficient audio system amplifier and bamboo charcoal speakers; and the extensive use of bio-sourced materials.

Exterior

The front of the Lexus CT 200h is the new embodiment of L finesse, expressing the perfect balance of precision and power. The grille is pushed forward of the headlamps for greater visual integration with the bumper mid-section below. It incorporates a deeper, more sculpted interpretation of the L-finesse signature arrowhead motif. The upper and lower grilles combine to form a unique ‘spindle’ shape, bringing both bold simplicity and elegant dynamism to the very apex of the vehicle.

To enforce this resolute expression, the headlamps themselves focus on piercing, single halogen or optional twin LED low beam lamps. Newly developed, integral, arrowhead shaped daytime running lamps feature segment first, advanced LED headlight technology, making the Lexus CT 200h instantly recognisable at first glance.

In profile, the steeply raked windscreen, long flowing roofline and unique, Lexus slingshot window graphic combine to create an elegant and highly distinctive silhouette. New, compact and aerodynamic door mirrors with an integral, LED side turn signal lamp feature a two tone finish for a slimmer appearance. The long roof and sweeping character lines of the door form a tapered cabin shape which naturally curves in at the rear to follow the movement of air as it flows into the vehicle’s wake.

To the rear, a pronounced step in the tailgate section flows from the muscular rear wheel arch shoulders, emphasising the wraparound rear window design. Anchored by sweeping tail lamps incorporating a Lexusunique L shaped motif first introduced in the LS, this step combines with a broad rear bumper design to reinforce the new full hybrid’s wide, firmly planted stance.

The flow of air away from the rear of the CT 200h is carefully controlled through the finely honed trailing edge of the deep roof spoiler, aerodynamic fins at the corners of the rear windows and the sharp, near-vertical junction of rear wing and bumper. Careful aerodynamic detailing of the lower bumper and finned rear undercover smoothes airflow from beneath the car, further improving both vehicle stability and fuel consumption.