2013 Lexus CT 200h Compact Hybrid – Their Best Bet?
Since its very inception, Lexus cars have been a hallmark of luxury and superior technology. However, being a division of the Toyota empire, which has always been inclined towards fuel efficiency and going green, Lexus took up hybrid technology in a big way, rather early as compared to other luxury automobile brands. It has numerous hybrid models of different market classes to its name. The question is, which on-road model can be touted as best?
The answer to this question can be the cause of much debate amongst both users and experts, for quite possibly, it can never be an objective response. However, if one was to use the very rudimentary and simplistic approach of assessing fuel efficiency, the 2013 Lexus CT 200h is the latest, on-road model that would emerge victorious. This is because, not unlike the super-fuel-efficient Toyota Prius, this Lexus model uses a 98 horsepower, 1.8-liter, four-cylinder engine, alongside a pair of nickel-metal-hydride-battery-powered electric motor generators. Functioning as per the Hybrid Synergy Drive System, the CT 200h’s technological preeminence cannot be questioned. The EPA rates of the 2013 Lexus CT 200h are a testament to the same; it offers a mileage of 43 mpg in the City, 40 mpg on the Highway and a combined average of 42 mpg. These figures are certainly very impressive and only add to the multifarious unique features that this Lexus model boasts of.
Reviewers have often asserted that in terms of its exterior design, the 2013 Lexus CT 200h is not exceptional. It has a low, flat roof, aggressive mien and distinctively chunky form. However, the interiors of the car, more than makes up for the unimpressive outside. A think center console with a multiple controls, couples with a low-strung instrument panel placed horizontally across from door-to-door offers easy access to all the luxury fittings within. The seats are comfortable and the backseat can be folded to increase cargo-space. The features’ list is a long one; pandering to the luxuriant expectations of Lexus-lovers, the car’s interiors can be customized with numerous add-ons to make the ride all the more smooth.
Though the car in question happens to be in its third model year, it is the 2013 release that marked the beginning of sales of the F-Sport line of the model. The F-Sport version is meant to provide a sportier drive by means of a suspension upgrade, different wheels and a bolder front-grille. Even though the 2013 Lexus CT 200h may not have created much buzz on account of new additions, it certainly did grab attention on account of the new F-Sport version.
It is evident from the above that in terms of performance, the 2013 CT 200h model is superior to other Lexus hybrid models such as the 2013 ES 300h, 2013 GS 450h and 2013 RX 450h. These models, however, promise larger vehicles with way more spacious interiors. One may then conclude, that amongst all of Lexus’ on-road hybrids, the 2013 CT 200h offers highest fuel efficiency, and even though not optimally luxurious, this model caters to a niche consumer-base of those looking for a luxury compact hybrid hatchback.