TOKYO — Developed initially for Europe but aimed at global markets when it goes on sale in late 2010, the all-new Lexus CT 200h makes its official debut at the 2010 Geneva Auto Show.
An evolution of the Lexus LF-Ch concept from last fall's Frankfurt show, the CT 200h is a compact five-door with an ample wheelbase and roomy cabin that has been designed to woo younger buyers to the brand.
The full hybrid features a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine and permanent magnet synchronous motor, which drive the front wheels separately or in tandem through an electronic continuously variable automatic transmission. The CT 200h offers four selectable driving modes: Eco, Normal, Sport and pure EV.
Batteries are still nickel-metal hydride, an older technology that is rapidly being replaced by many competitors with lithium-ion and lithium-polymer.
The car is built on a new architecture that employs MacPherson struts in front and a combination of trailing arms and double wishbones in the rear. The CT 200h rides on 17-inch alloy wheels and tires and is fitted with LED headlamps.
The cockpit is trimmed in leather and soft-touch materials, with polished metallic accents and such features as an 8-inch LCD multi-display screen and remote-touch controls.
Inside Line says: A handsome design that should hold considerable appeal in many markets, including North America. — Paul Lienert, Correspondent
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infimini says:
04:15 PM, 04/02/2010
the front end already looks outdated
cino_iconic says:
08:59 PM, 03/31/2010
except*
cino_iconic says:
08:58 PM, 03/31/2010
@ aston_dbs " Corolla to IS?"
Man, what are you smoking? can you share?
IS has convertible, and sedan. It also has 2 engine choices 2.5L 204 hp and 3.5L 306. IS250 has AWd option or MT, but IS350 is AT RWD only.
Corolla, FWD sedan only, has 1.8L engine 132hp and 2.4L engine 158hp.
IS and Corolla has different dimensions, expect 1motor and 4 wheels.
fortstring says:
02:23 PM, 03/31/2010
Specs don't tell everything. Hopefully it drives well. It looks nice, though. If they add lithium polymer batteries to it, and increase the hp of the electric motor, then we'd have a winner.
to626n says:
12:56 AM, 03/24/2010
So many negative comments from people who have never driven this car let alone seen it in person. Sure Toyota is undergoing some major issues right now, but so has every other automaker that has been around as long as they have. They will get over it just like everyone else. As far as the CT200h, this is a great alternative to a 1 Series or A1. Especially when you consider it to be the only hybrid in its class. Price it well below the HS and Lexus will have another winner.
aston_dbs says:
10:00 AM, 03/01/2010
Yet another way for Lexus to ripoff money from (sucker) customers.
Made by cheaper materials, nickel AND dime every option, just slap the 'L' sign and then triple charge (sucker) customers (Camry to ES? Corolla to IS? Geez!)
and then, their cars are not that exciting to drive!!
Toyota has focused TOO MUCH in beating GM and become the #1 in the world that they forgot the rest... Finally greed corrupted them as well...
jm1212 says:
12:56 PM, 02/28/2010
looks like its just a Matrix with a Prius motor.
debbaranko says:
02:20 PM, 02/27/2010
I always wondered where all of theose extra 1993 Nissan sentra grills went. I, personally wouldnt step foot in a Toyota anymore with all of the recall coverups and lying in congress. Toyota cant buy enough Washington politicians to get me to consider anything with their nameplate on it. Of course, I see Lienert loves it. He is been drinking import kool-Aid for the last ten years
charlesb says:
08:32 AM, 02/27/2010
Personally, I like this a whole lot but the IS300 Sportcross couldn't be given away a few years back, does Lexus think a weak-soup hybrid powertrain is what held that car back from success? This thing has F-A-I-L written all over it.
juan_mx says:
11:25 AM, 02/26/2010
Since more cars are using the hidden rear door handles (in the C-pillar),
apparently Lexus decided not to keep that feature from the LF-Ch.