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The 40 mpg Cars of 2013

2013 Lexus CT

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Overview

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2013 Lexus CT Review

By KBB.com Editors

KBB Expert Rating: 6.9

The 2013 Lexus CT 200h is a tidy, upscale sports hatchback that shares key underpinnings and systems with the Toyota Prius, including the 1.8-liter engine and hybrid electric drive architecture. It makes an intriguing bundle: modest acceleration, yes, but willing road manners, sophisticated styling, a luxurious interior and a prestigious badge, together with great fuel efficiency. The compromise does have its costs. Extra weight means the CT's mileage ratings fall well short of the Prius', and road noise and ride quality are not up to the standards of other Lexus models. But it's still a unique and satisfying blend of qualities that sets the CT 200h apart from Audi's A3 and BMW's 1 Series.

You'll Like This Car If...

If you want a well-equipped small hatchback with sporty handling and the best fuel economy wearing a Lexus badge, the 5-door 2013 CT 200h is the one.

You May Not Like This Car If...

The CT 200h may not speak to you if you expect a luxury-brand entry, even one that saves the planet, to be quiet, smooth-riding, powerful and roomy.

KBB Expert Ratings

Overall Rating

6.9
Driving Dynamics

6.1
Comfort & Convenience

6.9
Design: Interior & Exterior

7.1
Value

7.1
Safety

7.8

How It Ranks

#3

out of 6

MPG

#5

out of 6

Horsepower

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Consumer Rating

9.3 out of 10

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consumer ratings

What's New for 2013

The 2013 CT 200h is little changed. Silver Lining Metallic and Ultra White paint colors are added, the navigation system has some updates, and Park Assist and a Seat Comfort package (heated front seats and power adjustment added for the front passenger) are now available as stand-alone options.

Driving the CT

Driving Impressions Let's be honest: compared to the similarly sized and priced Audi A3, the Lexus CT 200h feels down on power. But it looks fast. And indeed, it can be fun...

to toss around over a winding back road, especially with the Sport drive mode engaged. This setting sharpens steering and throttle response compared to the softer Normal setting and the extra-lazy Eco mode. Suspension feels nicely calibrated for a sporty hatch. If some people think road isolation is not what it should be in a car wearing the Lexus badge, they will really be startled by the optional F Sport Package, which fits the CT 200h with stiffer springs, dampers and anti-roll bars. Predictably, the hatchback blends internal combustion and electric propulsion as seamlessly as a Prius does. And the pictogram that shows how the gasoline and electric systems are collaborating is an immense source of driver entertainment.

Favorite Features

SELECTABLE DRIVING MODES
Lexus CT 200h drivers can choose between the Normal mode, an Eco mode that slows throttle response to save gasoline, the EV setting that allows electric-only propulsion for short distances, and a Sport setting that maximizes engine revs, quickens steering and throttle response and increases battery power.

NAVIGATION WITH REMOTE TOUCH CONTROLLER
This mouse-like device with haptic feedback just forward of the shifter gives the driver full control over the infotainment system with his or her arm resting comfortably on the center console.

2013 Lexus CT Details

2013 Lexus CT Dashboard, center console, gear shifter view photo

Interior

Though snug, the CT 200h cabin does not scrimp on materials or features. The form-fitting front bucket seats are generously bolstered for lateral support. Attractive and brightly lit gauges are complemented by a prominent 8-inch LCD multifunction display and sensuously curved, billet-like console shifter. Beyond the sporty, the CT 200h gains green cred with standard simulated leather that's 60 percent lighter than real hides, speaker frames made from bamboo, and floor mats and other interior trim made from 30-percent plant-based materials.

Exterior

Far from being an old man's gray Lexus sedan, the 2013 CT 200h looks like a hot hatch with class. It may be a hybrid with Prius internals, but the image it projects, from its jutting, low-slung nose and arrowhead LED running lamps to its muscular wheel arches, steeply raked roofline and deep rear spoiler, is one of sporty sophistication. The 17-inch tires and wheels look a little small but larger ones might hurt the car's excellent fuel economy. The CT 200h doesn't look out of place next to an Audi A3, BMW 1 Series or Mazda Mazda3 5-door.

Notable Equipment

Standard Equipment

Among other Lexus luxury touches, the base model comes with keyless entry, dual-zone A/C, a 10-way power driver's seat, a 6-speaker audio system, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, Bluetooth interface and SiriusXM satellite radio. Opting for the Premium model adds heated front seats and a moonroof. There is no base cruise-control system, just the expensive dynamic system sold as an option.

Optional Equipment

The comprehensive CT 200h Navigation Package adds a rearview camera, voice-command HDD tilt-screen nav system with remote controller, Lexus Enform emergency notification system, NavTraffic and other features. A well kitted-out CT 200h will also have the Leather Package, which besides real leather upholstery also includes rain-sensing wipers, electrochromic mirrors and memory driver's seat. The optional dynamic cruise control is combined with a Pre-Collision System that warns of an impending crash. Also available is an F-Sport Package that adds an even sportier suspension, high-gloss wheels, a mesh grille and larger rear spoiler, and further interior leather trim and metallic accents.

Under the Hood

By employing the Prius' renowned 98-hp 1.8-liter Atkinson-cycle 4-cylinder engine and 80-hp electric drive motor, the Lexus CT 200h runs way ahead of the pack on fuel economy – 43 mpg in the EPA city cycle is eye-opening. But the 10-second 0-60 mph acceleration performance that feels so socially responsible in a Prius is a bit of a letdown in a sporty luxury-brand car that looks like it should run with Audis and BMWs.

1.8-liter inline-4/AC 650-volt permanent-magnet motor
98 horsepower @ 5,500 rpm (gasoline engine)/80 horsepower (electric motor)/134 horsepower (combined)
105 lb-ft of torque @ 4,000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 43/40 mpg

Pricing Notes

As the Lexus brand's most affordable 2013 model, the base CT 200h retails for about $30,000 while the CT 200h Premium sells for just over $32,000. Well-equipped models with options like navigation, leather, premium audio and dynamic cruise control can exceed $40,000. The Lexus CT 200h hatchback is comparably priced to the Audi A3. Check the Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price to see what consumers in your area are paying for the CT 200h. Based on the reliability history of Lexus models and the Prius architecture, the CT 200h should perform well above average when it comes to resale value. Kelley Blue Book estimates that the 2013 CT 200h will retain about half of its value (over $15,000) after three years of ownership. One value alternative is the Mazda Mazda3 5-door, which offers a lot of the same sporty style and sharp handling, plus much better acceleration for $10,000 less, but the Mazda lacks the CT 200h's excellent fuel economy and premium badge.

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2013 Lexus CT Consumer Reviews

Overall Rating

9.3

Out of 10

Based on 21 Ratings for the 2011 - 2013 models.

Review this car

Value

9.0/10

Quality

9.5/10
Reliability

9.7/10

Performance

9.0/10
Comfort

9.3/10

Styling

9.2/10

Looks sporty but it is really thrifty

By Essayons (VA) on Saturday, March 16, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 1,600

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 8/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 9/10
Styling: 9/10
Comfort: 9/10

Pros: "seats, ride, headlights, mpg"

Cons: "the phone holder"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 9

"Owned a 2006 Prius with 145k. Loved it and I was going to get another Prius. Test drove the ct200 and that was all she wrote. It is a luxurious prius that looks sporty (daughter really likes the look). I have been getting 45mpg so far and I think as I get better at driving it I will get close to 50mpg. The seats are very comfortable with good side support. Really happy with this car."

4 people out of 4 found this review helpful

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Fun, fun, fun

By prosperity (International) on Sunday, January 06, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 9,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 9/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 9/10
Performance: 9/10
Styling: 9/10
Comfort: 9/10

Pros: "A good car in every way, and economical and fun."

Cons: "Ummmmmmm ..."

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"My partner bought a CT and I stopped using my car, so I traded it in for a second CT. I like the features, comfort, quiet, handling and ... economy. It's rated high on the safety scale and when you need it, Lexus service is great. Most of all I enjoy driving this car. Every time I'm behind the wheel I find it fun to drive. I've had a few cars in my time including Mercedes and other Lexus, but I think this car is becoming my all time favourite. I love it!"

11 people out of 11 found this review helpful

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Love our CT200H

By mbgh1111 (TX) on Monday, December 31, 2012

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 27,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 9/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 9/10

Pros: "It's a pleasure to drive. I always feel safe."

Cons: "Needs little more room between front & back seat"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"Love our CT200H. We do some long-distance driving and almost always get between 42.5 and 46.0 MPG. Average fill up for us is 7 gallons. This car is extremely comfortable for front seat passengers. Could use a little more foot room in back seat but not a problem for us. Road handling is great. Love the fact that this car is small enough to fit in between concrete road barriers with room to spare and there is no problem in keeping up with heavy traffic. Easily goes 70 mph speed limit and still have pick-up. We are already planning to buy another CT once my husband retires. Best car we've ever had and a pleasure to make long trips in."

6 people out of 6 found this review helpful

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SUPER ECO-FRIENDLY & FUN+luxury

By Keven (VA) on Tuesday, December 04, 2012

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 20,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "Stylish/fun/Eco-friendly/$saving/Sustainable"

Cons: "A bit small for tall people, Can use more HP"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"Looking for a FUN/LUXURY/RELIABLE/ECO-FRIENDLY/SUSTAINABLE/STYLISH car?? you have already found it. Bought my car in march 2011 and so far 0 problem 0 disappointment but so much joy and proud of being a CT200h owner. Besides it's great performance and look this car is by far THE MOST ECO_FRIENDLY/GREEN car i have seen and driven. car is made of materials that 90% of it can be recycle!!! exp: speakers are made of bamboo!! and Nuluxe seats weights half as much as leather and its manufacturing process generates 65% fewer CO2 emission than traditional synthetic leather and no VOCs. "according to Lexus CT200h car brochure" I am getting up to 50 mpg in city. YOU CAN'T GO WRONG WITH THIS CAR. It satisfies your sporty needs with out getting you in trouble and saves you enough money to pay your other bills"

6 people out of 6 found this review helpful

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Great luxury and vehicle for the price

By Carson (CA) on Saturday, August 25, 2012

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 1,500

10 9.0

overall rating 9 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 9/10
Value: 9/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 8/10
Styling: 8/10
Comfort: 10/10

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 8

"This is my third hybrid, having previously owned a Camry Hybrid, then Prius IV (2010). It definitely doesn't have the zip of the Camry, and is actually a little less zippy than the Prius in "speed" mode....but does quite alright by me. In "sport" mode, gives an added kick....though it could be more. My only other complaint is that it's a bit snug (I'm a hefty guy) and has less storage capacity than the Prius....but I wanted something that felt substantial. The Prius always felt like driving a plastic car....and boy did it rattle and get blown all over the road. The CT200 is ultra posh and comfortable, definitely a luxury car feel for a small compact car. The safety features are awesome, the tech is great (don't mind the sound system, that others say is too outdated), the steering is very responsive....I just love this car! Only wish they had more colors. Would have loved to get the yellow one, but there are very few made, and I didn't think anyone would want a yellow Lexus on trade-in. But, to not offer a blue or green is ridiculous. The blue is only for the F-sport. So, regular buyers get grey, silver, white, black and red."

9 people out of 9 found this review helpful

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worth every buck so far

By bear (MI) on Monday, June 25, 2012

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 11,000

10 9.0

overall rating 9 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 9/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 9/10
Quality: 8/10
Performance: 7/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 8/10

Pros: "fuel economy"

Cons: "be careful about blind spots, slow pickup"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 9

"I was looking for hybrid vehicle for some time, browsing on line found ct 200h, it was love at first site. I drop 2 kids off to school they are 5.8 and 5.7 I'm 6, they sit in back seat they have not really complained about room however. Only problem I feel is restricted head room, as I feel my head is touching or very close to roof, a inch higher roof would be ideal. Cargo space is enough for 1 week of perishable grocery but not enough space for big boxes or trip to sams club. Ride is comfortable if driver seat can be power raise to highest point. Pickup is slow, sport mode is helpful. Fuel economy is better then excellent, in dry clear weather can get up to 47 mpg, in heavy rain mid to high 30's mpg, I have not done fuel estimation in snow yet. Overall I'm happy with purchase, excellent for work commute"

15 people out of 15 found this review helpful

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