Lexus CT 200H F Sport Edition (2014)

Test Drive Notes Library

Pros
This is a car for people who want the smug feeling that comes with driving a Prius, but want to be coddled in a little more luxury. It’s a good alternative to the Prius if you’re willing to give up some practicality, interior space, and ease of entry and exit.
We averaged 43-44 in combined highway and city driving.
The Lexus CT 200H is about the size of the smallest Prius, the Prius C, but quieter than a Prius C, thanks to very heavy insulation and padding.
Leather and other upscale interior materials give the CT 200H a luxurious feel. Our loaded CT 200H came with every amenity a luxury buyer could possibly want, too, including heated seats, telescoping steering wheel, heating side mirrors, navigation, and more.
There are knobs and buttons for commonly-used controls, such as radio tuning and volume, and climate controls. Everything else is operated through a touch screen.
The CT 200H has plenty of power, between the engine and the electric motor. When you need to stomp on the accelerator and pass someone, it gets loud, but the powertrain does the job nicely.
The transition between electric mode and gasoline engine is very nearly undetectable. It’s very smooth, especially at higher speeds.
The CT 200H is very stable on the highway, despite being a reasonably small car. It feels very planted and didn’t get buffeted around, like other small cars we’ve driven. Handling was predictable and confident, if not sporty or spectacular.
Overall, this is a nice, livable car. It’s not really a luxury car, due to its low ride height, tight interior, and small car ride. But it is comfortable and well appointed. If you want a small hybrid, but you don’t want to rough it, the CT 200H is a good choice.

Cons
It feels like an economy car that has been dressed up to feel like a luxury car. It does have a luxury car interior, but the ride and noise level don’t compare with other cars in the entry luxury segment. Including those made by Lexus.
Not a lot of room inside. Interior feels small.
Even with added sound insulations, it’s still not “Lexus Quiet” inside.
Low roof-line, limits ease of entry.
The front-end feels very heavy, which adds to the feeling that the CT 200H is based on an economy car. While handling is good, the ride is firm, and not luxurious.
Visibility out the back is really marginal, mitigated partly by an optional (and necessary) back-up camera.
Back seating space is tight. The seats themselves are comfortable, but knee room is an issue.
The CT 200H has only a marginal amount of cargo room. However, the rear seats fold down to increase capacity.
Loaded up, the tested CT 200H F Sport edition will cost you about $40,000. The base model starts at $32,945. The F Sport model adds a “sport tuned suspension,” a bunch of aesthetic upgrades, like a rear spoiler and black trim on the headliner.