Lexus CT200H: Sporty, environment-friendly
The CT200H premium hybrid demonstrates the brand’s focus towards unparalleled quality, sophistication and technology
MUSCAT: As the world is quickly discovering newer means to depend less on the environment while realising their means, many auto manufacturers too are toeing the line to introduce vehicles that are environment-friendly.
Lexus was the only luxury automotive brand to have first created this segment of vehicles with the launch of the CT200h a few years back. And even though this vehicle has largely become a shinning example of Lexus’ commitment to the environment, it surprisingly does not compromise on the power and excitement it has built to reward you with.
The CT200h premium hybrid demonstrates the brand’s focus towards unparalleled quality, so- phistication and technology. All the while being distinctively responsible towards the environment. The CT200h’s Lexus hybrid drive features a unique energy management system paired with a four-cylinder gas engine. Through the application of brand-specific engineering solutions and software tuning, Lexus engineers focused on enhancing both the environmental and driving performance of the full hybrid series/ parallel system, as well as its ultralow noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) levels.
Utilising the most recent generation hybrid system, the CT200h takes advantage of Lexus’ continuous engineering advances to maximise fuel economy, minimise emissions and deliver driving pleasure.
Using a two-motor hybrid system, the CT200h uses an 80 horsepower drive motor that combines with the gas engine. A second motor in the hybrid system serves as both engine starter and generator to charge the hybrid battery pack.
For a fun-to-drive experience, the CT200h also incorporates a drive-mode selector that allows the driver to toggle between four distinct modes: Normal, Sport, Eco or EV.
Setting a new benchmark in premium compact segment ride comfort and handling, the Lexus CT200h features a unique suspension design which combines a MacPherson strut front system with a fully independent doublewishbone rear suspension. The compact double-wishbone rear suspension design uses lowmount coil springs that help improve cargo space. As in the front suspension, rebound springs are used to aid both handling and ride, while all mountings and bush- ings are optimised to help provide an excellent combination of ride, handling and low noise.
The CT200h employs Lexus’ experience with Electric Power Steering (EPS). Its energy saving and lightweight design characteristics make it ideally suited for use in conjunction with the Lexus Hybrid Drive powertrain. The vehicle-speed sensitive steering has been optimised to provide ideal steering feel at any speed. Inertia compensation control, friction feedback and recovery control assist in tailoring the steering feel and effort. The EPS system also helps improve fuel economy by reducing parasitic losses.
The CT200h incorporates an advanced standard eight-air bag Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) with dual-stage air bags and knee air bags for driver and front passenger, side curtain air bags, and front seat-mounted side air bags to help protect passengers in certain types of severe frontal or side collisions.
Lexus’ latest adaptation of the Lfinesse philosophy is carried into the interior of the CT200h. A powerful simplicity of form harmonises with the hand-crafted quality feel of even the smallest details to create a uniquely efficient, elegant and spacious cabin design. Encouraged by innovation, the process to create a Lexus vehicle is unique within the automotive industry.