2013 Guangzhou Auto Show: 2014 Lexus CT200h
While other automotive sites are patting themselves on the back for their comprehensive blanket coverage of the Los Angeles and Tokyo Auto Show, the TTAC Staff robot has been burning the midnight oil to bring you news from the third major auto show being held this week, Auto Guangzhou, held in China’s third largest city. While not yet at the rank of LA and Tokyo, the Guangzhou show is major enough that Lexus decided to debut the new Lexus CT200h, the first major update to Toyota’s luxury version of the Prius hybrid since the CT200h was introduced in 2010. It gets cosmetic changes, being the last Lexus model to get the corporate “spindle” grille, as well as better structural rigidity, suspension refinements, better aero and improved NVH levels. Despite the sportier look, the CT200h continues with the same 134 horsepower 1.8 liter version of Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive system, driving the car through a continuously variable transmission. Lexus estimates EPA gas mileage of 43/40 mpg city/highway and 42 mpg combined. Lexus is offering the CT200h in red for the first time, and you can also opt for a two-tone finish with a contrasting black roof.
Inside, Lexus says there are better materials and more features that are standard equipment, a new 4.2″ TFT screen in the instrument panel, as well as improved safety features and nannies. For the first time you’ll be able to deactivate traction control and if that’s not sporting enough for you, Lexus again offers the CT200h in an F Sport package, which comes with unique bumpers, 17 inch 10 spoke aluminum rims and more exterior and interior trim options.
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The Ford C-Max gets compared mostly to the Toyota Prius, but it is actually shaped more like the CT-200H. The C-Max is a little bigger and a lot more roomy. The C-Max has 54 more horsepower than the Lexus but gets roughly the same MPG. The high-end C-Max SEL has similar interior appointments the Lexus and a similar level of high-tech equipment. The C-Max SEL is 4,000 to $6,000 cheaper.
CT is now Lexus Prius? When it came out, HS was Lexus Prius. CT is Lexus Prius C at best.