American customers don’t seem to be quite ready to adopt a hatchback car instead of the traditional saloon. Total sales of the three aforementioned models only amount to under 2,000 units in October, so Lexus can expect an uphill battle trying to sell the CT 200h.
However, the company is confident the CT will sell well, thanks to its green credentials and its sporty driving feel. The car should appeal both to drivers who want fuel economy and a bit of driving pleasure, combined with a bit of Lexus luxury. The CT’s 1.8-liter four-cylinder Prius-derived engine develops just 98 hp and is aided by the addition of another 36 hp from the electric motors that are powered by 28 NiMH batteries.
According to wardauto, Lexus is targeting 30- to 40 year-old customers with an annual income of around $100,000 (EUR75,00). Some 50 to 60 percent are expected to be men, with three-quarters of those new to the brand.
When the CT 200h reaches US consumers on March 1st next year, it will become the fifth Lexus hybrid offered in the U.S., following the RX 400h/450h cross/utility vehicles, the GS 460h and LS 600h upper-middle and large sedans and the HS 250h. The hybrid is estimated to achieve 43/40 mpg (5.5-5.9 L/100 km) city/highway in normal driving mode.
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