The Lexus CT 200h is a premium compact hatchback that combines luxury, style, and performance with environmental friendliness. It is the first and only hybrid model in its class, offering a unique driving experience that is both smooth and responsive. The CT 200h is powered by a sophisticated hybrid system that consists of a 1.8-litre petrol engine and an electric motor, delivering a total output of 134 hp and 153 lb-ft of torque. The engine and the motor work together seamlessly, switching between electric and petrol modes or using both at the same time, depending on the driving conditions and the driver’s preferences. The CT 200h also features an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (eCVT) that ensures optimal efficiency and performance.
What are the benefits of the hybrid system?
The hybrid system of the CT 200h offers several advantages over conventional petrol or diesel engines. Some of the benefits are:
- Lower fuel consumption and emissions: The CT 200h has an impressive fuel economy of 42 mpg combined, 43 mpg city, and 40 mpg highway, according to the EPA ratings. It also emits only 4.2 tons of CO2 per year, which is significantly lower than the average for compact cars. The CT 200h is certified as a Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (SULEV) by the California Air Resources Board (CARB) and meets the Euro 6 emission standards in Europe.
- Quieter and smoother ride: The CT 200h operates in electric mode at low speeds and when starting, which reduces noise and vibration. The engine and the motor are also well insulated and balanced, resulting in a refined and comfortable ride. The CT 200h also has a sound generator that produces a pleasant and sporty sound when accelerating, enhancing the driving pleasure.
- More responsive and agile handling: The CT 200h has a low center of gravity and a rigid body structure, which improve its stability and cornering. The hybrid system also provides instant torque and acceleration, making the CT 200h more responsive and agile. The CT 200h also has four driving modes: Normal, Eco, Sport, and EV, which allow the driver to adjust the performance and efficiency of the hybrid system according to their preferences and needs.
How does the hybrid system work?
The hybrid system of the CT 200h is composed of three main components: the petrol engine, the electric motor, and the battery. The petrol engine is a 1.8-litre four-cylinder engine that uses the Atkinson cycle and the Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) technology to optimize its efficiency and power. The engine produces 98 hp and 105 lb-ft of torque. The electric motor is a 60 kW AC synchronous motor that generates 80 hp and 153 lb-ft of torque. The battery is a 1.3 kWh nickel-metal hydride (Ni-MH) battery that stores the excess energy from the engine and the regenerative braking system and supplies it to the motor when needed.
The hybrid system works by using a power control unit (PCU) that manages the flow of energy between the engine, the motor, and the battery. The PCU also controls the eCVT, which transfers the power to the front wheels. The hybrid system operates in three modes: electric mode, petrol mode, and hybrid mode. In electric mode, the CT 200h runs solely on the electric motor, using the energy from the battery. This mode is ideal for low-speed driving and short distances, as it consumes no fuel and produces no emissions. In petrol mode, the CT 200h runs solely on the petrol engine, using the fuel from the tank. This mode is used when the battery is low or when more power is needed, such as on highways or hills. In hybrid mode, the CT 200h runs on both the engine and the motor, using the most efficient combination of the two sources. This mode is used for most driving situations, as it balances the performance and efficiency of the hybrid system.
The hybrid system also has a regenerative braking system that converts the kinetic energy of the braking into electrical energy and stores it in the battery. This reduces the wear and tear of the brakes and increases the fuel efficiency of the CT 200h.
Engine Characteristics
The following table summarizes the main characteristics of the engine of the CT 200h:
| Engine Type | Gas/Electric I-4 | | Engine Displacement | 1.8 L/110 | | Fuel System | Sequential MPI | | Maximum Horsepower | 134 @ 5200 rpm (combined system output) | | Maximum Torque | 153 @ 0 rpm (electric motor) | | Cooling System Capacity | NA |
FAQ
How long does the battery last?
The battery of the CT 200h is designed to last for the lifetime of the vehicle, as it is constantly recharged by the engine and the regenerative braking system. However, the battery performance may degrade over time and depend on various factors, such as the driving habits, the climate, and the maintenance. The battery warranty covers 8 years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first.
How much does the CT 200h cost?
The CT 200h has a starting price of $32,245 for the base model and $40,475 for the fully loaded model, according to the official Lexus website. The price may vary depending on the options, the taxes, and the fees.
How safe is the CT 200h?
The CT 200h is equipped with various safety features and systems, such as 10 airbags, anti-lock brakes, traction control, stability control, brake assist, smart stop technology, pre-collision system, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitor, rear cross traffic alert, and a backup camera. The CT 200h also has a high-strength steel body and a crumple zone that absorb the impact of a collision and protect the occupants. The CT 200h received a 5-star overall rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and a Top Safety Pick+ award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) in 2017 .
How reliable is the CT 200h?
The CT 200h is built with high-quality materials and components, and undergoes rigorous testing and inspection before delivery. The CT 200h also benefits from the proven reliability and durability of the Toyota hybrid system, which has been used in millions of vehicles worldwide. The CT 200h has a low maintenance cost, as it requires less frequent oil changes and brake replacements than conventional vehicles. The CT 200h also has a comprehensive warranty that covers 4 years or 50,000 miles for the basic coverage, 6 years or 70,000 miles for the powertrain coverage, and 8 years or 100,000 miles for the hybrid system coverage.
