2016 Lexus CT 200h - Review

As the smallest, least expensive model in the brand's lineup, the 2016 Lexus CT 200h is meant to lure in new and younger buyers who are considering a Lexus for the first time. That pool spans a range of ages and statuses, from traditional luxury buyers who've decided they can downsize to Prius buyers seeking a little more luxe. But with a base price in the mid-thirties, albeit decently equipped for that money, it may still be out of reach for debt-burdened recent graduates.

The compact five-door hatchback comes only as a hybrid, making it essentially the sole luxury hybrid hatchback on the market--at least until Audi launches its delayed A3 Sportback e-tron plug-in hybrid. Now in its sixth model year, the CT is coasting toward replacement by an all-new version next year or the year after, with an expanded lineup that may include a four-door sedan as well.

For 2016, there are only minor feature updates, following a refresh of the front styling for 2014 that added the so-called spindle grille common to all new Lexus models. Otherwise, the 2016 CT 200h is the same slab-sided hatchback it's always been, with a low, somewhat aggressive shape that ends its long, flat roof with a spoiler that extends the line even further, broken only by a sharkfin aerial for the telematics system. Standard 17-inch alloy wheels and the right amount of chrome make it sparkle and set it apart from drab economy cars of the same size and body style. The sole appearance tweak for 2016 is a chrome surround for the grille.

The CT may be more of a two-person compact than a four-person hatchback. It's roomy in front, with generous headroom, but seat room is acceptable but hardly expansive in the rear. Both lower and shorter than the Toyota Prius, the car gives the driver a low seating position with legs more extended than in more upright designs.

Luxury is conveyed by the design of a wide center console that drops down from a broad, horizontal instrument panel. It houses enough controls, switches, knobs, and displays to indicate that this is a luxury car with features galore. Childless couples who decide the CT offers a more enjoyable experience than the distinctive, numb driving experience of a Prius will appreciate the flat-folding rear seat back, but it's compromised by the high load floor, with the hybrid system's battery pack located underneath. There's only really enough height for grocery bags before the view rearward through the slit-like tailgate window starts to be impeded by whatever you put in the load bay.

The Lexus CT has had the same powertrain since launch, and it remains unchanged. A 98-horsepower, 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine is paired with Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive system--effectively a Prius powertrain in a smaller but much more refined vehicle. A pair of motor-generators can power the car alone at low speeds, add torque to supplement the engine output, and act as generators to recharge the nickel-metal-hydride battery pack under the rear load deck on engine overrun and during regenerative braking.

The car really shines on gas mileage, though, which is what Toyota's hybrids are all about. No other luxury compact comes close to its EPA combined rating of 42 mpg. Other cars are creeping up slowly--the new Mazda 3 approaches that number, without resorting to a hybrid drivetrain--but for now, the CT remains the king of the compact luxury hill. We managed a real-world 40 mpg in mixed use that included some quite spirited driving. Ignore the CT's Eco gauge, get used to its loud engine roar when it's revved, and your driving will be surprisingly fun--and the gas mileage will still be at the top of the charts.

Behind the wheel, the little CT is meant to be much more sporty than a Prius. Its Sport driving mode not only remaps the electronic responses to acceleration and braking, it also converts the power gauge into a tachometer with red lighting around its edges--a neat and unexpected effect. But while the CT responds well and is adequately agile, its numb electric power steering--a chronic Toyota weak spot--means it's nowhere near competitive in driving feel with similar compact luxury cars from the likes of Audi or BMW.

For 2016, the Lexus CT has a lengthy list of features--many standard, many more optional--that now includes an optional moonroof, new this year. Last year, the CT gained an updated Lexus Enform infotainment system and the addition of Siri Eyes-Free Mode as well. All CTs come with keyless ignition, Bluetooth hands-free pairing for voice and audio streaming, iPod control, SiriusXM satellite radio, and the Lexus Safety Connect system.

Rain-sensing windshield wipers, LED headlamps and fog lamps, and the Lexus Enform navigation and real-time information system are just a few of the many options available. And Lexus dealers offer a further list of items under the F-Sport label that can further upgrade the car's appearance and improve roadholding and handling.

The Lexus CT is likable and fun to drive, and it's backstopped by a long list of standard and available features--along with the cosseting of a far more attentive and personalized dealership experience than those found at some of Toyota's higher-volume dealers.

With increasing competition in the small luxury segment--in particular the Mercedes-Benz CLA and the all-new Audi A3 sedan--it looks like Lexus was prescient in launching the CT in 2011. Now Mercedes has added a compact crossover, the GLA, to the four-door CLA sedan, and Audi has just launched its Q3 crossover as well. When the next CT arrives, we'd suggest it's not impossible that it would gain not only a four-door sedan to supplement the original hatchback, but also a crossover smaller than the NX it has launched last year.

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