LEXUS CT 200H LAUNCHED

Lexus South Africa has launched its latest all-new shape car in the form of the CT 200h, a hybrid hatch/ sportback model with ambitions of dethroning BMW’s 1 Series hatch and Audi’s A3 range. What makes it unique in the segment is that not only is it offered with a hybrid engine system, but that’s the only engine available.

Lexus and its parent Toyota are known as leaders in the development and sales of hybrid cars around the world. Both have a range that’s highly concentrated in this powertrain. Hybrids are basically cars that use small petrol engines and lots of electric batteries alternatively for their power. It can also run on battery power alone for short distances. As such, general fuel consumption is supposed to be lower than that of normal cars.

As a five-door hatch, the CT 200h combines practicality, with small doses of performance ambiance, a modern design and good fuel consumption. The petrol engine is a 1.8-litre VVT-I Atkinson cycle type with 73kW at 5200rpm and 142Nm between 2800 and 4400rpm. Total system performance is 100kW. Claimed average fuel usage is 4.1 litres per 100km and corresponding C02 emissions are 94 g/km.

The CT 200h comes with an F-Sport package (pictured above) with different 17-inch wheels, LED headlights, cruise control and others. Standard features in the CT 200h S include electric mirrors, USB connectivity with Bluetooth, keyless start, dual-zone climate control and heated seats among others. It also has 16-inch standard wheels.

Safety features include 8 airbags, ABS with EBD and Brake Assist is supported by Vehicle Stability Control and Traction Control.

While the CT 200h is available immediately from Lexus dealerships, it will also appear at the Lexus stand at the Johannesburg International Motor Show (JIMS) this October.

Lexus CT 200h Pricing

CT 200h S (R343 300)

CT 200h F-Sport (R398 500)