When Toyota first introduced the hybrid concept in its Prius model some 20 years ago, it was a practical car for the fuel conscious.
Now hybrid technology is appearing in a wide range of vehicles not only for its fuel saving but in some instances to use the electric motors for improved acceleration.
The Lexus CT 200 h is a hybrid and there are three model ranges - the luxury, the sport and the sports luxury.
I drove the Sport model. It is not that sporty but an interesting car none the less.
To tell us more about it I have on the line Brent Davison from the Newcastle Herald and the Illawarra Mercury.
Interview Notes
• It is the only small car in the Lexus fleet
• 1.8-litre engine producing 73kW of power plus the electric motor
• There are three different types of settings – eco, normal and sport – changes the throttle, gearbox and steering.
• Continuously variable transmission.
• Rated at 4.1L/100km with carbon dioxide emissions of just 95g/km. We were getting around 5.1 with some city and country driving
• Reversing camera, cruise control, keyless ignition, dual-zone climate control are standard
• Ride is quite firm
• It is the third bestselling car for Lexus
Price
• Luxury $39,990
• Sport $48,990
• Sports Luxury $56,990
The mid-range model comes at a $2000 discount to the version it replaces.
