Lexus CT 200h 2012

Here’s Lexus’s take on an upscale sporty hybrid.

It shares components with it’s less expensive cousin, the Toyota Prius. Lower the suspension and stance and you get a Prius on steroids.

Remember, this is a hybrid, so this car looks sportier than it drives. Just remind yourself that you are driving a cool looking car that averages 42 miles per gallon.

(Photo by MARK RALSTON/AFP/Getty Images)

Here’s what makes this CT 200h  tick. This is a 1.8-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine with a pair of electric motor/generators that make 134 horsepower. The tranmision is a CVT, continuisly variable.  The not so good news for driving enthusiasts is a zero to 60 time of 10.4 seconds, even pokier than the Prius.

The interior of the CT hybrid is understated compared to the rest of the hybrow Lexus stable. I really like the intuitive joy stick system on the Lexus. It’s intuitive and easy to use.  The rear camera is a good idea, because rear visibility is pretty sketchy. There are three driving modes. Normal, Eco and Sport. The left side of the dash morphes into a tachometer and the binnacle glows red when you switch to sport. Not to mention a change in throttle response and sharper steering.

This part of the interior looks dated.

Rear seat room was OK unless you’re hauling basketball players. The Lexus is a half a foot  shorter than a Prius, but it’s one inch widerThere’s enough room for golf clubs and groceries behind the rear seats.14.3 cubic feet to be exact.