2016 Lexus CT: The Luxury Prius

In an impressive and admirable plan to build a platform for a car that fits into our mainstream world in a way that makes it one of the most fuel efficient hybrids ever Toyota built the Prius. To make this platform one that would be attractive to those who wanted a luxury model to drive instead of the Prius they took the same car and turned it into a luxury model. As we scoffed at the idea the Lexus CT 200h has become one of the most popular hybrid luxury cars on the market today to give us a car we want to enjoy, even if it shares a platform with a Prius.

Not often do we look at a hatchback and expect it to have a luxury name attached to it, but the CT 200h is just such a car. There is very little of this car that will make you think of its platform mate, instead you will enjoy the sharp creases and beautiful LED headlights that make the exterior of the CT. Up front we have the signature spindle grill that offers an aggressive and intimidating look to the car that is awesome at performance and gives the car a wonderful appearance that will have many admirers as you pass by in your new CT.

On the inside the size is cozy but elegant. You won’t forget your driving a hatchback, but that won’t matter when you enjoy the smooth finishes and fine detail that went into creating the perfect place to drive from. With some bolstering of the seats you can have the support you want for the aggressive driving, which you will certainly want to do in this car as it asks you to let it loose. There is a large display with bright gauges and seats that are covered in simulated leather that is lighter than real leather. The CT offers an eco-friendly feel with the bamboo speaker frames and floor mats and interior trim that is made from at least thirty percent plant based materials.

This car has a leg up on every other car to start with for two reasons. First this is a car that has less waste than most others and uses some materials that are either recycled or made from plants to reduce the carbon footprint of the car. The second is the fact this is the most affordable way you can get into a Lexus. For 2016 there isn’t a lot of new stuff. It does have a revamped grill with a chrome surround, an optional moonroof to make it a bit more enticing.

While this looks like a car that is a bit aggressive it’s a smooth ride and a great drive but its better suited for a country cruise than it is for a quick run around the block. You will enjoy the fact the ride is easy to enjoy and offers you a smooth drive even though it’s not quick and sporty on the road. This is a hybrid luxury car that lets you sit back, relax and enjoy the ride of a luxury suspension and steering system that makes for a great way to get where you need to go.

As I mentioned, this is the most affordable way to get into a Lexus and enjoy the luxury; how does a starting price of $32,000 grab you? This is before any options are added, but his is car that can barely reach the $40,000 mark even after adding all the features and options you want to have on this amazing vehicle. When was the last time you saw a luxury car of any ilk for this price. The CT is a great way to go when you want a luxury model at the affordable price that fits in your budget.

The powertrain used in the CT 200h is a 1.8-liter inline four-cylinder engine with an AC 650-volt permanent magnet motor. You will have 98 horsepower from the engine alone and 80 horsepower for the electric motor to give you a combined output of 134 horsepower and 105 lb.-ft. of torque. This powertrain brings you a fuel mileage of 43 city/40 hwy to make this one of the best city cars with the right features for you.

Speaking of features, this is a car that comes with a great menu of items, as all Lexus models tend to do. This car comes standard with keyless entry, dual zone climate control, a ten way power driver’s seat, a six-speaker audio system, and a leather wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, Bluetooth interface and Sirius XM satellite radio. The Premium model adds heated front seats, rain sensing windshield wipers and a moonroof as standard features for this upgraded model, giving you a car that is well worth the money.

As for the options, the CT 200h shows up with a Seat Comfort package that adds heated seats and a power passenger seat, the F Sport package gives you an upgraded suspension and brings in some exterior features you will enjoy. The Navigation Package lets you know where you are going by using voice command and an HDD tilt screen navigation system that adds a rearview camera. Other extras include the Remote Touch controller, the Lexus Enform emergency notification system, leather upholstery, auto dimming mirrors, a memory driver’s seat, the dynamic cruise control system, and a pre collision warning system.

This is a car that brings in selectable driving modes, which are often left out of cars of this type, but you can enjoy Eco, Sport or Normal modes to have the right throttle response for your driving enjoyment. Another feature that makes a huge difference in this car is the Display Audio Remote Touch system which uses a mouse-like interface controller that is called Remote Touch to make it easier for you to use the system. The Lexus CT 200h is a hybrid luxury car you want to drive and as the most affordable way to drive a Lexus this is the car that should capture your attention and make you want to drive it away from the dealer lot today.