2011 Lexus CT 200h — Autoblog "At the end of the day, the CT is more entertaining to drive than most other hybrids (save much costlier models like the Infiniti M35h and Porsche Panamera), but it isn't as engaging as some less expensive hatchbacks offering similar space – the aforementioned Mazda3 and Ford's 2012 Focus come to mind. The CT 200h's trump card is its handsome 43 miles per gallon city/40 highway EPA rating, figures that are easy to replicate if you don't cane it around in Sport mode all day. Yes, Mazda's new SkyActiv 3 promises the big four-oh and the Blue Oval can be had with a special high-mpg model that manages the same, but neither will touch the CT for urban economy, and the Lex has nicer materials inside."
For me 0-60 is the least fun aspect of a car anymore. I live in such an urban environment that it is very rare to accelerate from 0-60 anyways. I would rather a car that can handle 35mph tight turns...now that is fun and easy to replicate almost anywhere.
Recently drove a CT200h for my normal commute to compare it to my '10 Prius. I was most surprised that in ECO mode, it actually does decelerate noticeably faster in a glide than the Prius. Don't know why I was surprised, as I'm sure it's due to the poorer aerodynamics and stickier tires. But nonetheless I did enjoy it. The pedal positions are almost the same as in the Prius; in other words, if you're the sort who pushes the pedal in a little bit when coasting to eliminate that bit of regen-induced drag, you'll find that pushing the pedal in the exact same distance will have the exact same effect. It took a little fiddling to get to a point where I could see the SOC and instant mileage at the same time; had to put the energy monitor on the nav screen. Also I was a little disappointed by the seats; they don't go back as far as in the Prius. (I have long legs.) In the slow, downhill-heavy drive to work, I often average 65-70mpg over 58 miles, and in the CT I got a very respectable 65.3 on the same stretch. Heading back the other way I average 58-64mpg in the Prius; I'm curious to see how the CT handles things.
I'm just impressed you were able to finagle a lengthy test drive. Impressive numbers though. Too bad it appears to be nearly impossible to actually buy one right now. If you see a fully loaded model (PCS, LEDs) for sale out there, let me know! While you are at it, make sure it's red with black interior!
For the record, I switched cars with someone else, that's how I got the CT for a day. And I can't take too much credit for the fuel numbers... driving 35mph on the freeway, largely downhill is a pretty good way to get good gas mileage.
What did you think of the ride compared to your Prius? Did you have a chance to run it over some rough pavement? Seemed a lot better to me, with less vibration and less jarring effects, though still with some amount of bumpiness due to firmness of low profile tires. (just not as intrusive). My short test rides were not really adequate to decide if it was as much better as it seemed on first impression.
Didn't think THIS article in the Orange County Register today (heavily advertised by Ford ... the big ad this day was for their Land Barge - SUV Explodeition) actually deserved its own thread, so I just stuck it here to show how OC Register's car guy doesn't find the CT200h making sense: Another head-scratching hybrid | car, lexus, prius - Cars - The Orange County Register I guess the author feels there's a way to combine all elements of large and small, fuel thrifty and wastefull into a single ride. Good luck with that Mr. Degen. .
Yeah, I'm also not inclined to post a new thread for every review. They all say something like the following, though some are more positive than others: "Nice try, but why would anyone buy a hybrid that is smaller and slower than the Prius, and not all that luxurious by high end Lexus standards (i.e., firm or bumpy ride)". To which I say, by comparison to Prius, the seating, ride and handling are much better. Is it worth an extra $5K? I'm not quite sure, but lucky for me they continue to be in short supply, and I would really like my next car to be a plug-in. I'll be interested to see how fast they come out with the CT300 (bigger gas engine) and CT400 (plug-in?). All that said, here are the CNET, NYtimes, Forbes and MotorTrend reviews: 2011 Lexus CT 200h Review - Watch CNET's Video Review http://www.nytimes.com/2011/06/05/automobiles/autoreviews/05WHEEL.html?_r=1 Best-looking hybrid is a Lexus - Forbes.com 2011 Lexus CT 200h First Test - Motor Trend
I was watching video from YouTube that showed the CT having a pull off traction battery connector. Pull the orange handle and the traction battery becomes disconnected. Does the Prius Gen 3 have this? Supposedly this was for safety in case of an accident.
FYI, I was originally on the market for the Prius.After many test drives even some 45+ miles,I just couldnt get comfortable driving it. I choose to buy the CT200H instead cause of the better seating. The extra money spent was well worth it IMHO.Great looks and seating much more comfortable
