For a long time there has been a buzz about hybrid technology in cars and its potential for delivering economical motoring. However, the excitement has been somewhat tempered by the fact that the only hybrid available to the public is the Prius, and then in limited numbers.

Now Toyota is stepping up to the plate with yet another hybrid, this time from their luxury Lexus stable. The CT 200h is a compact hatch and as such is clearly targeted at a younger market. The two other hybrid Lexus vehicles, the GS 450h luxury sedan and the RX450h SUV, are out of reach for most consumers. The CT200h, at a starting price of R343,000, brings hybrid motoring within reach to a much wider market.

Lexus claims its hybrid engines are different in that they deliver both economy AND performance, delivering a smoother and quieter ride, better performance, decreased emissions and improved fuel economy.

One of the ways it does this is through regenerative braking, controlled by a Power Control Unit, which manages the power generated by the braking system, which is stored in a nickel-metal hydride compact battery, designed to last as long as the car does. In this way, all energy generated in the driving cycle of acceleration and deceleration is harnessed and utilised, nothing is wasted.

The other advantage of the electric motor is that it reaches maximum torque instantly when the car is started, with almost no sound. 

The CT200h looks considerably more modern than the dated Prius, which has been around for some time. Much like the Prius, it promises very low fuel consumption – around 4 litres and 94grams of carbon per 100kms, which means you don’t have to pay any extra tax when you buy one. 

The CT200h features Lexus’ proven all-aluminium, 1.8-litre, quad-valve Atkinson cycle engine with a 13:1 compression ratio supported by a high-output electric motor. When the two engines work together, they produce a maximum output of around 100kW and a top speed of 180km/h and a 0 – 100km/h time of 9,8 seconds. So it’s no snarling dragster, but then it’s not meant to be. 

Not that you left entirely without the option to give it stick if you need to. The CT200h has four driving modes. ‘EV’ mode simply translates to ‘electric vehicle’ and uses only battery power (for two clicks); ‘normal’ uses petrol engine and battery selectively and intelligently for “quiet, smooth progress”; ECO optimises the use of the aircon and moderates acceleration.

Finally there’s Sport mode, which allows you to unleash your inner Vettel and get the most out of the finely tuned engine. Just don’t expect high revving engine and sweet exhaust notes, the Lexus is not about that. It’s targeted towards forward-thinking people who want to do their bit for the environment, while at the same time reducing the impact of sky high fuel prices on their bottom line. Cynics would argue that you can get fuel economy from any number of diesel powered vehicles currently on the market. However, the real beauty of the hybrid is that it reduces the carbon emissions, and thereby is a truly green motoring solution.
Two models to choose from

Both models of the CT 200h are immediately available in South Africa. The CT200h S has, among other features, a full leather interior, dual-zone aircon with heatable seats, power mirrors, keyless start, auto headlights with daytime running lights, USB connectivity and Bluetooth with voice command and 16” alloy wheel rims.

The car can also be ordered as an F-Sport, which comes with 17” alloy rims, LED headlights and a larger boot spoiler, sports seats - eight-way electrically adjustable with lumbar support - and cruise control. It also has performance shock-absorbers.

As an option, the F-Sport can be ordered with a ‘convenience package’ that includes an upgraded sound system with four extra speakers and an amplifier, ‘smart entry’, rain sensing windscreen wipers, a colour monitor with hard-disc navigation and voice command.

It also has a reversing camera with guideline parking – and a moon roof is an extra option.

The CT 200h earned a 5 star EuroNCAP rating, thanks to eight airbags, anti-lock brakes with electronic pressure distribution and emergency stopping assistance along with traction control, IsoFix child-seat anchors and child-locks on the rear doors.

The perfect choice for the young family who cares about the planet’s future!

LEXUS CT200h PRICES
CT 200h S - R343 300
CT 200h F-Sport - R398 500
CT 200h F-Sport 10SP HDD - R434 200