2012 Lexus CT 200h

The Lexus CT 200h was introduced late last year, so it’s only natural that for a 2012 model year updates have been kept to a minimum.

The 2012 Lexus CT 200h features a new Vehicle Proximity Notification System that helps alert pedestrians and cyclists of an oncoming vehicle under certain conditions by emitting a low audible warning sound.

In addition, its second model year, the Lexus CT 200h brings one new exterior color as Nebula Gray Pearl replaces Smoky Granite Mica.

Available in standard and Premium models, the 2012 Lexus CT 200h has a combined EPA-estimated fuel economy rating of 42 mpg, 43 mpg city and 40 mpg on the highway utilizing regular 87-octane gasoline. Moreover, the CT 200h can be operated in a switchable EV mode which generates zero emissions.

An optional F Sport Package, available only on the Premium version, takes inspiration from the Lexus F Sport Performance accessories, combining F Sport-tuned suspension and 17-inch wheels with high-gloss finish. Adding to the sporty feel are a front grille with mesh pattern, metal front scuff plates, perforated leather steering wheel, leather shift knob, aluminum sport pedals and metallic trim on the dash panel. Black NuLuxe trimmed seats or perforated black leather-trimmed seats are also available in the F Sport package.

The CT 200h’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 Ultra-low Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH) levels.

Utilizing the most recent generation hybrid system, the CT 200h takes advantage of Lexus’ continuous engineering advances to maximize fuel economy, minimize emissions and deliver driving pleasure. A highly efficient engine design, an exhaust heat recovery system, major efforts to reduce parasitic losses, an evaporative emissions system and driver-selectable driving modes all make notable contributions. Significant efforts were also made to minimize engine noise.

An Atkinson-cycle engine design was chosen for its high efficiency and compatibility with hybrid operation in the CT 200h. The twin-cam engine uses four valves per cylinder and Variable Valve Timing with Intelligence (VVT-i) on the intake side. The engine is undersquare, with an 3.17-inch bore diameter and 3.48-inch stroke, and has a relatively high compression ratio of 13.0:1. Peak output equals 98 horsepower and in combination with the hybrid drive motor, the CT 200h generates 134 total system horsepower. The CT 200h will accelerate seamlessly from 0-60 mph in 9.8 seconds.

One of the keys to lower fuel consumption involves heat. The CT employs an exhaust heat recovery system that captures the heat of spent exhaust gases to speed engine coolant warm-up and allow the hybrid system to stop the engine earlier and more often in the driving cycle when it’s not needed, for example in low power demand conditions in city driving.

For a fun-to-drive experience, the CT 200h also incorporates a drive-mode selector that allows the driver to toggle between four distinct modes: Normal, Sport, Eco or EV. Each mode changes the rate of throttle opening for a given throttle-pedal angle. Normal mode has an essentially linear throttle response that gives naturally progressive power. Sport mode can be selected when the driver wants a more dynamic experience. In Eco mode, air conditioning settings are adjusted and the throttle response is reduced relative to the pedal angle to emphasize fuel economy. Under certain circumstances, the EV mode can allow the vehicle to be driven short distances using only the electric motors.

Safety
As with every Lexus, the CT 200h’s body structure plays a key role in the fundamental safety characteristics of the CT 200h. To help protect the driver and passengers, the body is designed to be strong but strategically resilient to help absorb and distribute energy in the event of a crash. High strength steel components are carefully located in the body structure, doors and other areas to help ensure strength in key areas.

The CT 200h incorporates an advanced standard eight-airbag Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) with dual-stage airbags and knee airbags for driver and front passenger, side curtain airbags, and front seat-mounted side airbags to help protect passengers in certain types of severe frontal or side collisions.

Additionally, front and rear seats feature three-point, Emergency Locking Retractor (ELR) seatbelts. The driver, front passenger and rear outer seatbelts are also equipped with a pre-tensioner and force limiter function. The ELR is designed to lock up the seatbelt when excessive load is applied over a preset value. During a collision, the force limiter fractionally reduces seatbelt tension to lower occupant chest impact forces.

An optional Pre-Collision System (PCS) with Dynamic Radar Cruise Control can help reduce collision damage. Dynamic Radar Cruise Control uses millimeter-wave radar to measure and help maintain a pre-set distance from a vehicle traveling ahead. PCS is equipped with a front-mounted radar sensor that can detect certain obstacles in front of the car. The PCS computer helps determine whether a frontal collision is unavoidable using information from the radar sensor, vehicle speed, steering angle and yaw-rate inputs. In such a situation, PCS alerts the driver with audible and visual warnings, and preinitializes Brake Assist (BA) so that increased braking will be applied the instant the driver depresses the pedal. In addition, PCS will preemptively retract front seat belts.

Luxury Options
Several important elements inside the CT 200h transform the driving experience, making it easier and more relaxed while also helping to enhance the driver’s attention to the road ahead and minimize driver distraction.

The optional Navigation Package includes the HDD navigation system, back-up camera and voice command. It also features Bluetooth hands free phone, phone book download capabilities, and Lexus’ exclusive Remote Touch controller with user-adjustable haptic feedback. The state-of-the-art device incorporates numerous, highly sophisticated control systems. The controller, similar to a computer mouse, eliminates the need for touch screen controls, allowing the pop-up navigation system screen to be mounted further up the center stack and away from the driver. The driver benefits with a clear, highresolution screen, improved sight lines and reduced eye movement. These advances combined with the physical feedback provided by the controller make the system extremely easy to use.

For comfort and convenience, an optional Premium Audio Package which includes the Lexus premium audio system with 10 speakers and six-disc CD changer, Homelink and electrochromic rearview mirror with compass is available. An optional Leather Package includes perforated leather seats, driver memory, and rain sensing variable intermittent wipers. Other optional equipment includes: LED low beam headlights with dynamic auto-leveling with headlamp cleaners, Electrochromatic (autodimming) rearview mirror with backup camera and Pre-Collision System with Dynamic Radar Cruise Control.

The 2012 Lexus CT 200h also offers a telematics system, Lexus Enform with Safety Connect, available by subscription. Complimentary one-year trial subscriptions are included on all purchases of new Lexus vehicles equipped with these features. Safety Connect is standard on all vehicles while Lexus Enform with Safety Connect is on all vehicles equipped with the optional Navigation system. The Lexus Enform and the Safety Connect response centers operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—every day of the year.

Lexus Enform vehicles are factory ready for subscriptions to a variety of innovative SiriusXM services including NavTraffic, NavWeather, Sports, and Stocks. SiriusXM services offer complimentary 90-day trial subscriptions and require separate audio and data subscriptions.

The 2012 Lexus CT 200h comes with a 48-month/50,000-mile basic limited warranty with roadside assistance for 48 months/unlimited miles. Powertrain and restraint system coverage is provided for 72 months/70,000 miles. Corrosion perforation protection is covered for 72 months, regardless of mileage. The hybrid-related components, including the HV battery, battery-control module, hybrid control module and inverter with converter, are covered for eight years/100,000 miles.