Consumer Reviews Summary
2 of 2 (100%) customers said they would recommend this vehicle to a friend.
2012 Lexus CT 200h Overview
Introduced as “the darker side of green” in 2011 and now back for its second year, the 2012 Lexus CT 200h offers stellar gas mileage and promises of an engaged driving experience that will make you forget it’s a hybrid.
For 2012, the CT 200h adds a pair of new F-Sport packages (one is labeled “Special Edition”) that offer updated suspension tuning and several exterior upgrades like a mesh grille and large rear spoiler which give the hatchback a sportier, more aggressive look. The Special Edition package is limited to 900 cars and offers even more interior/exterior goodies to set it apart.
The CT 200h is Lexus’ entry level car (it has the lowest starting base price) and the “h” at the end of its name refers to its hybrid drivetrain which pairs a 1.8-liter four-cylinder with an electric motor for a combined output of 134-horsepower. A two-speed CVT is the only available transmission and the front-wheel drive CT 200h departs from other Lexus models by accepting regular gasoline. There’s not too much grunt under the hood of this luxury hatchback, but what makes it fun to drive is the tuning and suspension setup which makes it arguably the best pure driving model in Lexus’ lineup (IS-F and LFA aside).
Fuel economy is where the 2012 CT 200h really distinguishes itself from the rest of the luxury pack offering 43 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway. Drivers can also choose between four distinct driving modes (Normal, Eco, EV, and Sport) which alter how the car behaves depending on what you desire at that particular moment.
Inside, you get a typical Lexus cabin – quiet, luxurious, and understated. The CT 200h’s center console is eerily reminiscent of that in Prius, making a high divider between passenger and driver. Standard features include dual-zone automatic climate control, USB and auxiliary audio inputs, Bluetooth® connectivity, push-button start, and power driver’s seat. A moonroof, heated front seats, and a navigation system with backup camera are all optional.
Safety comes standard on the 2012 CT 200h, with a full suite of airbags (including front knee airbags), electronic stability and traction control, antilock brakes, and vehicle proximity notification sensors on every model.
The 2012 Lexus CT 200h is a weird combination of seeming contradictions: hot hatch, yet hybrid. Lexus comfort, yet a sporty driver. And somehow, this edgiest member of the stoic Lexus lineup wears these hats with ease.
2012 Lexus CT 200h Consumer Reviews
2 of 2 (100%) customers said they would recommend this vehicle to a friend.
Two Most Recent Reviews:
Close but no cigar
Reviewed by Bill in Tacoma in Tacoma, WA
April 23, 2012
I expected more for a Lexus, even a small one. I've found the seats are terribly uncomfortable after being on the road for a half hour. Not the sort of thing you notice on a test drive. The stereo system is pretty lame, and the controls are pretty cheap and low end for a Lexus. Miss the stereo mute button, having a button to open the tailgate remotely, side body moldings to protect from dings, a hidden radio antenna....my 10 year old Buick had all these. Minor, yes, but examples of non-luxury thinking that were left out. Yes the hybrid mileage is great; it's not the 42mpg advertised...but I can't complain at 37 compared to the 18 I got before. Overall I guess it's worth the tradeoffs...but it's sure not what I expected from a Lexus. Add this to the snooty 'we don't negotiate' attitude of the Lexus dealer and I probably won't buy another.
I would recommend this vehicle to a friend: YES
Great
Reviewed by Derby in 40245
January 09, 2012
Great purchase. Happy with the ct200h. Wish it was a red one instead of being grey. Would recommend.
I would recommend this vehicle to a friend: YES
Vehicle safety data is provided by IIHS, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, an independent, nonprofit, scientific, and educational organization dedicated to reducing deaths and injuries on the nation's highways.
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