If you're looking for a fuel-efficient vehicle but can't live with the doorstop styling of the Toyota Prius, the CT200h could be the answer. The CT200h, which uses the same hybrid-powertrain technology as the Prius, provides outstanding fuel economy (16 km/l) and a more elegant and spacious cabin.
However, according to Fahmid Hossain, a user of this Lexus for the last two years said that the CT200h is a bit too slow, with a total of 134 hp available.
But it's known that the F Sport package's suspension and wheel modifications brighten up handling a touch, which makes the vehicle feel much sportier, unfortunately, however, this version is not available in Bangladesh.
Engine
The CT Hybrid's single engine option is a Prius-inspired 1.8-litre Atkinson cycle fuel combined with an electric motor. The total system output is 134bhp; unlike current Lexus vehicles such as the UX, the 2.0-litre hybrid system is not available.
It's the standard Lexus self-charging hybrid system, so unlike the Mercedes A 250 e or Volkswagen Golf GTE (its competitors in the international market), you can't plug it in to expand its range.
According to Fahmid Hossain, driving it around town is comfortable enough - the electric motor fills in the torque gaps, providing a respectable turn of speed off the line. Drive the CT 200h lightly, and you'll enjoy smooth, quiet progress thanks to a nearly seamless transition from gasoline to electric power and the signature CVT.
"The problems arise when you try to go faster. If you ask for acceleration, the petrol engine moos like a stuck cow, making overtakes or motorway slip roads a rowdy affair," Fahmid added.
Interior
It's rather a mixed bag. First, the good. Because this is a Lexus, every control, switch, and surface feels sturdy and long-lasting. The materials are of high quality, with plenty of leather, chrome, and soft-touch plastics.
The seats are likewise excellent, which is a trademark of Lexus, and audiophiles will appreciate the powerful Mark Levinson sound system on top-spec versions.
The build quality is flawless and the knobs and climate control interface are well-designed and intuitive, while the lower half of the immaturely polished console is less so.
The pop-up seat heater knobs, as well as the twin knobs for regulating the music system, are difficult to operate.
Worse, Lexus has opted to utilize a firmly sprung, cold metal knob for the driving mode selector - but how many fleet market drivers will be moving from Eco to Normal or Sport on a frequent basis anyway?
The infotainment controller, on the other hand, has to be the worst feature. It's the same floating mouse-style control that has thankfully been removed from the rest of the Lexus lineup - it's nearly impossible to use while driving and makes controlling the otherwise fully-featured infotainment system a chore.
Moving to the second row, I personally think Lexus has done a good job with maximizing its space. It does not feel cramped and big windows all around make the cabin brighter and less claustrophobic, something Toyota has been doing recently with its new cars, such as the CHR.
Unfortunately, the level of comfort is not exceptionally high when it comes to ride quality. Even though the basic 17-inch wheels are modest by current standards, the stiff springs and 1,400kg+ weight of the CT make you feel every bump in the road.
Verdict
The CT200h is a beautiful car overall, and anyone would agree with that. Though this Lexus has already had two facelifts since 2011, it has issues that more recent Lexuses don't, such as a clunky infotainment interface and a whining motor.
If Toyota reliability is important to you, the CT200h is priced between the UX, a truly respectable little crossover, and the Toyota Corolla, which is larger, nicer to drive, and comes with the option of a higher-powered 2.0-litre engine.
If you want to get a brand new model, the price will be somewhere between Tk45 and Tk55 lakh.
However, it's a Lexus at the end of the day. You could always get a used one for much less and it will still be worth it as these vehicles are truly reliable.
