Reviewed by: Susan Frissell

Although some have named Lexus CT 200H a “good value,” we’re not sure we are in agreement. At $30,000 it may be; at a total vehicle price of $38,000, it wouldn’t make our list. A premium-compact vehicle, the 200h gets notice due to its high fuel economy ratings, sports handling and pricing. It’s also been called “Best in Segment” with a driver-friendly cabin and superb ergonomics.

The ride in the Lexus CT 200h is smooth, yet bottoms out when navigating rough roads. Seating is comfortable and body-fitting. The driver’s seat is a 10-way multi-adjustable power seat so drivers of all sizes and shapes will most likely find a comfortable driving position. Our test 200H came equipped with a Premium sound system, a package price at $1,100 and including 10 speakers, and in-dash 6-disc CD changer. Also included in the sound system package are auto-dimming electrochromic rearview mirror and Lexus Homelink Universal Transreceiver.

The other options on our test 200H were LED headlamps with auto leveling and headlamp washer combination ($1, 215), Leather package (perforated leather seats with driver seat memory, rain-sensing intermittent wipers with mist cycle, auto-dimming outer mirrors with memory ($1,330), Navigation system (HDD Navigation System Backup Monitor, Lexus Enform with Destination Assist and eDestination with 1-yr trial subscription; Lexus Insider, Voice Command, XM NavTraffic, XM NavWeather, and XM Sports & Stocks (90-day trial) at $2,445, and Cargo net ($75), and illuminated door sills ($299). Quite a few expensive options that take this little Hybrid Lexus to hovering just under $40,000.

Safety equipment on the 200H abounds, as expected. ABS, with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist, Vehicle Stability Control, Traction Control (TRAC), and Electronic Throttle-Control System (ETCS); Smart Stop Technology, Curtain airbags, supplemental restraint system, passenger knee airbags, front side impact airbags, side curtain airbags, supplemental restraint system and Safety Connect with Automatic collision notification, stolen vehicle location, emergency assist button (SOS),and enhanced roadside assistance (1-yr. trial), and LED running lights.

Some of the standard equipment on the 200H includes carpeted floor mats, Lexus personalized settings, Tunneau cover, XM Satellite radio, USB input/Miniplug auxiliary input for MP3 player, tilt/telescoping steering column, 4-Mode drive mode select, SmartAccess with Push-Button Start/stop, and of course, our least favorite feature: the audio controls on the steering wheel.

SPECS
MSRP: 30,900; total vehicle price $38,239; destination $875
Engine: 1.8-liter in-line 4-cyl DOHC w/VVT-4, Electric Drive Motor with Lexus Hybrid Drive, 134 hp., 153 lb.ft. torque
Transmission: ECVT (Electronically-Controlled Continuously Variable Transmission
Style: Hatchback, seats five
Weight: 3,146 lbs.
Wheelbase: 102.4 in.
Length: 170.1 in.
Width: 69.5 in.
Height: 56.7 in.
Tires: 215/45R17
Wheels: 17-inch aluminum alloy
Fuel Economy: 43/40 mpg.
Warranty: 4 yr./50,000-mile Basic; free maintenance; 6 yr./99,9999-mile Rust; 4 yr./99,9999-mile Roadside Assistance; 6 yr./70,000-mile Drivetrain.