Getting straight to the point, the CT 200h is powered by the Lexus Hybrid Drive technology, being capable of running on its petrol engine or electric motor alone, or with both working in combination.
The system comprises an Atkinson cycle 1.8-litre VVT-i petrol engine and a powerful electric motor that in combination deliver 134bhp, together with a 202V battery and a power control unit. The system is driven through an electronic continuously variable transmission (E-CVT). The engine is Euro V compliant.
As we previously reported, the car has been engineered to perform in two different driving “moods”, Relaxing or Dynamic, supported by four selectable driving modes: NORMAL, EV, ECO and SPORT, thanks to a bespoke suspension design.
Overall the car measures 4,320mm long, 1,765mm wide and 1,440mm high, with a 2,600mm wheelbase. Lexus engineers also worked on the vehicle’s aerodynamic features, making it achieve the lowest coefficient of drag in the small luxury car class – Cd 0.28.
Safety wise, Lexus says the CT 200h is designed to meet the five-star Euro NCAP independent crash test standard for all-round protection of occupants and pedestrians. The car can be specified with the company’s Pre-Crash Safety system (PCS), with Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)., which is a first for the C-segment.
Standard active safety features include ABS with Brake Assist, Traction Control (TRC) and Vehicle Stability Control (VSC). Eight airbags are fitted, including knee airbags for driver and front passenger. All five seats feature seatbelts with emergency locking retractors, with the front and outer rear seat belts additionally equipped with pretensioners and force limiters.
The 2010 Paris Auto Show marks the official market launch of the new CT 200h, with pricing details to be released in mid-October.
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