2015 Lexus CT 200h

NEW FOR 2015:

- No major changes for 2015

Following a modest revision last year, the CT 200h carries over with no major changes. The compact hatchback holds a unique position in the marketplace as the only luxury hybrid hatchback. Its powertrain, a 1.8-litre gasoline-electric hybrid, is shared in common with the Toyota Prius. As you’d expect, it delivers Prius-like fuel economy – and Prius-like acceleration.

But unlike the Prius, the CT200h is quieter and more refined. Last year’s updates brought increased sound insulation to reduce cabin noise, as well as new front and tail-end styling. Re-tuned suspension setups and additional structural body welds also improved the car’s ride and handling – which is decidedly un-Prius like, especially when equipped with the optional F Sport package. For 2015 Lexus has consolidated the exterior paint colour scheme to five shades: white, black, gray, silver, and red, with the F Sport gaining exclusive blue and white colours. All F Sports also get a black painted roof. All CTs come with a self-healing clearcoat to minimize the appearance of hairline scratches.

As before, the CT comes in a single trim line with four available option packages, although there are some minor tweaks to equipment levels.

Features on the CT 200h include 16-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone automatic climate control, tilt and telescopic leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, Lexus Display Audio system that includes CD/MP3 stereo with auxiliary input and USB port, six speakers, Bluetooth connectivity, XM satellite radio, eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, four-way power-adjustable front passenger’s seat, heated synthetic leather seats, auto up/down windows, Eco indicator, multi-information display, cargo mat and cover, keyless entry with pushbutton start, all-season floor mats, variable intermittent wipers, wiper de-icer, intermittent rear washer/wiper, heated mirrors with integrated turn signals and puddle lamps, fog lamps, LED daytime running lights, front knee airbags, cruise control, and tire pressure monitoring system.

The Touring Package adds 17-inch alloy wheels, power sunroof, LED headlights and fog lights, and a storage compartment with 12-volt power outlet.

The Premium Package includes the equipment in the Touring package and adds a 10-speaker audio system with 7-inch display and audio controller, backup camera, leather seats, driver’s side memory seat and mirrors, garage door opener, rain-sensing wipers. The storage compartment with 12-volt power outlet is deleted.

For 2015 the Technology Package has been aptly renamed the Navigation Package. Content-wise, it goes unchanged, and includes a single-disc DVD player and navigation.

Previously, the F Sport package built on the Premium package, but for 2015 it is now the range-topper. The F Sport Package includes the equipment in the Navigation package and adds 17-inch F Sport alloy wheels, F Sport grille, F Sport rear spoiler, F Sport leather seats and steering wheel, F Sport scuff plates and pedals, F Sport performance dampers.